NewzIntel.com

Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STEEL EXPORTS AND TARIFF

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The total quantity and value of finished steel exported from India to the USA in the last five years, year-wise is given below:-

    Finished Steel Export to USA

    Year

    Quantity

    (in ‘000 tonnes)

    Value

    (in Rs. Crores)

    2019-20

    51

    571

    2020-21

    27

    435

    2021-22

    214

    2,621

    2022-23

    165

    3,177

    2023-24

    95

    1,924

    Source: Joint Plant Committee (JPC)

    Steel is deregulated sector and its import & export are determined by demand and supply, dynamics of market forces. The Government acts as a facilitator by creating a conducive environment for the development of steel sector in the country.

    United States imposed additional tariff of 25% on Steel under Section 232 of Trade Expansion Act, 1962 in March, 2018 on a global basis. The GovernmentofIndia continues to engage with the Government of United States to achieve enhancement and broadening of bilateral trade ties in a mutually beneficial and fair manner. Both nations released a joint statement on February 13, 2025, reaffirming their commitment to deepening economic ties. Under the ambitious “Mission 500”, both countries aim to more than double US-India trade to USD 500 billion by 2030 to be achieved by deepening the trade relationship across multiple sectors including steel.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EV CHARGING STATIONS UNDER FAME

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Details of Electric Vehicle Public Charging Stations (EVPCS) installed under FAME-II scheme is provided at Annexure. 

    Rs.633.44crore have been utilized out of Rs.839 crore allocated under the scheme.  The details of year-wise funds released /utilised during the last five years is as under:

    Rs. crore

    FY

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    Total Exp.

    Grants released for EVPCS to OMCs

    0

    21.99

    0

    560

    51.45

    633.44

     

    Ministry of Power, “Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024” dated 17thSeptember, 2024, encourage charging during solar hours through concessional tariffs, integration of renewable energy in bus depots & promotion of solar carport etc. These guidelines emphasize the role of public-private partnerships in expanding the EV charging infrastructure. Setting up EV charging station has been designated as de-licensed activity, simplifying the process for businesses. To make the land available at affordable rates, it has been suggested that public land be made available to Government or Public entities on a revenue-sharing model at Rs. 1 per kWh. For private entities, the land may be made available through a competitive bidding process at a floor price of Rs. 1 per kWh. Additionally, public tenders involving government land for the establishment of BSS have been suggested to be kept technology agnostic. State Governments have been advised to permit round-the-clock operations of BSS.

    No. of EVPCS installed under FAME by three Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Other Public Sector Entities (PSEs)

     

    State/UT

    No. of Chargers installed under FAME as on 01.03.2025 by OMCs

    Number of chargers installed As on 03.02.2025 by other entities

    State Total

    Tamil Nadu

    654

    18

    672

    Andhra Pradesh

    507

    –

    507

    Maharashtra

    495

    20

    515

    Gujarat

    468

    52

    520

    Karnataka

    466

    3

    469

    Rajasthan

    461

    10

    471

    Uttar Pradesh

    403

    8

    411

    West Bengal

    346

    4

    350

    Punjab

    301

    –

    301

    Telangana

    272

    –

    272

    Bihar

    248

    –

    248

    Kerala

    242

    30

    272

    Madhya Pradesh

    240

    5

    245

    Jharkhand

    144

    –

    144

    Odisha

    124

    –

    124

    Assam

    108

    –

    108

    Delhi

    59

    25

    84

    Uttrakhand

    46

    –

    46

    Jammu & Kashmir

    39

    –

    39

    Haryana

    36

    2

    38

    Himachal Pradesh

    36

    7

    43

    Chhattisgarh

    34

    –

    34

    Meghalaya

    23

    –

    23

    Goa

    15

    –

    15

    Manipur

    12

    –

    12

    Nagaland

    10

    –

    10

    Dadar & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu

    6

    –

    6

    Pondicherry

    6

    –

    6

    Ladakh

    4

    –

    4

    Mizoram

    4

    –

    4

    Arunachal Pradesh

    3

    –

    3

    Tripura

    3

    –

    3

    Andaman & Nicobar

    1

    –

    1

    Sikkim

    1

    –

    1

    Chandigarh

    –

    25

    25

    Meghalaya

    –

    1

    1

    Total

    5,817

    210

    6,027

     

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI: Horizon Bancorp, Inc. Announces Conference Call to Review First Quarter Results on April 24

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MICHIGAN CITY, Ind., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) – Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (“Horizon” or the “Company”) will host a conference call at 7:30 a.m. CT on Thursday, April 24, 2025 to review its first quarter 2025 financial results.

    The Company’s first quarter 2025 news release will be published after markets close on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. It will be available at investor.horizonbank.com.

    Participants may access the live conference call on April 24, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. CT (8:30 a.m. ET) by dialing 833-974-2379 from the United States, 866-450-4696 from Canada, or 412-317-5772 from international locations and requesting the “Horizon Bancorp Call.” Please dial in approximately 10 minutes prior to the call.

    A telephone replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the conference call through May 2, 2025. The telephone replay may be accessed by dialing 877-344-7529 from the United States, 855-669-9658 from Canada, or 412-317-0088 from other international locations and entering the access code 6313653.

    About Horizon Bancorp, Inc.

    Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) is the $7.8 billion-asset commercial bank holding company for Horizon Bank, which serves customers across diverse and economically attractive Midwestern markets through convenient digital and virtual tools, as well as its Indiana and Michigan branches. Horizon’s retail offerings include prime residential and other secured consumer lending to in-market customers, as well as a range of personal banking and wealth management solutions. Horizon also provides a comprehensive array of in-market business banking and treasury management services, as well as equipment financing solutions for customers regionally and nationally, with commercial lending representing over half of total loans. More information on Horizon, headquartered in Northwest Indiana’s Michigan City, is available at horizonbank.com and investor.horizonbank.com.

    Contact: Mark E. Secor
      Chief Administration Officer
    Phone: 219-873-2611

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSIR Submits Annual Accounts for FY 2024–25 to CAG on Day One of the Financial Year

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has reached a significant milestone in financial management and institutional efficiency by submitting its Annual Accounts for the Financial Year 2024–25 to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India on April 1, 2025. This submission has been accomplished three months ahead of the statutory deadline of June 30, 2025.

    This early submission reflects CSIR’s continued commitment to sound financial governance, administrative transparency, and process efficiency. It is the result of coordinated efforts across CSIR Headquarters and its 38 constituent laboratories and institutions located across the country.

    The Integrated Finance Division Team presenting the Balance Sheet and Annual Accounts to DG, CSIR

    Shri Chetan Prakash Jain, JS&FA, CSIR lead IFD team submitting the Annual Accounts for the Financial Year 2024–25 to the CAG

    A key enabler of this achievement has been the successful implementation of the Accounts Management System (AMS) software, developed entirely in-house. The system was conceptualized and developed by a team of CSIR officers comprising Shri S.P. Singh, Senior Deputy Financial Adviser; Shri Arvind Khanna, Financial and Accounts Officer; and Ms. Akansha Trehan, Technical Officer. The software has enabled streamlined, real-time financial consolidation and has brought greater accuracy and timeliness in the preparation of accounts across the CSIR system.

    The initiative was undertaken under the guidance of Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR, and was steered under the financial leadership of Shri Chetan Prakash Jain, Joint Secretary and Financial Adviser, CSIR/DSIR.

    By completing the process of annual financial closure and submission on the very first day of the new financial year, CSIR demonstrates the viability of achieving high standards in public financial reporting. This development serves as a benchmark for other scientific and public sector organizations striving to enhance financial discipline and administrative performance.

    CSIR remains committed to further strengthening its systems and practices in alignment with the principles of good governance.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, where rural economy will have an important contribution in making India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027

    Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, with vast experience in PACS and market committee, President of the District Cooperative Bank and Director of the State Cooperative Bank

    Cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years and in view of this, the initiative to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been taken

    An institutionalised system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion and Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been established for the same purpose

    Under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector

    In 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today

    Bye-laws of PACS were amended to make them and multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and UTs

    Today, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs running PM Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra

    Only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous

    National Cooperative Policy is being formulated under leadership of PM Modi and guidance of Union Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah and it is our resolve to announce this policy

    This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha. After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025.

    Replying to the discussion, Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has resolved to make India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027, where rural economy will have an important contribution. He said that today more than 50 percent of the country’s population is associated with the agriculture sector. There are about 8 lakh cooperatives in the country with over 30 crore members. Shri Mohol said that one person from every farmer family is associated with the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that in 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today. Earlier, the work related to cooperatives of the whole country was being handled by a joint secretary-level officer, but Prime Minister Modi ji established an independent Ministry of Cooperation for the welfare of farmers. He said that taking a visionary decision, PM Modi ji formed the Ministry of Cooperation for the development and expansion of cooperative societies like Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Dairy, Sugar Mills, Cooperative Bank, Textile Mills across the country and strengthen the cooperative movement.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that it is a matter of pride for all of us that Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, who worked in the PACS and market committee of the village, as the President of the District Cooperative Bank, also as the Director of the State Cooperative Bank and who has made a great contribution and has vast experience in the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector. These include the first step of strengthening the PACS. He said that PACS is the most important link in the cooperative sector, so the bye-laws of PACS were amended and PACS were made multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and union territories.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today in the country, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Many PACSs are also running petrol pumps. He said that only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that to strengthen cooperative sector in the states, computerization of about 66 thousand PACS is being done by the Union Ministry of Cooperation, on which the Government of India is spending Rs 2516 crore. He said that the government is trying to make every village of the country prosperous through cooperation. For this, the Ministry has set a target of creating 2 lakh PACSs, out of which 14 thousand PACSs have already been created. Shri Mohol said that in the next five years, the number of PACSs in the country will increase to 3 lakh.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that while forming PACSs, we have kept in mind the social structure of the country and decided to give representation to all sections of the society including women in cooperatives. He said that under the new bye-laws, the government has made it mandatory to have members of SC, ST category and a woman member in the Board of Directors of PACS. Through this, we are working to provide social justice in the cooperative sector. Shri Mohol said that a National Cooperative Database has been created by taking all the states together. Now, information about all cooperatives can be obtained with one click.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that the National Cooperative Policy of the country is also being formulated under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah. It is our resolve to announce this policy in the next few days. He said that for the first time in 2023, under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah ji, three new cooperative societies – Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL), National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) and National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) – were established at the national level to provide facilities to the farmers of the country from seed to market. 34 thousand cooperative institutions have been made members by these three societies. This will increase the income of farmers.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that the Ministry of Cooperation has created the world’s largest food storage scheme for farmers. The work of food storage scheme has started through PACSs. This will reduce transportation costs, protect the crop and farmers will get storage facilities at a place near them and they will also get financial benefits. He said that in 2013-14, only Rs 5300 crore was given to the cooperative institutions of the country through National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), which the Modi government increased to Rs 1 lakh 28 thousand crores. This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that an institutional system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion. The university has been established for this purpose. He said that many cooperatives have challenges like lack of efficiency, irregularities in management and limited use of technical resources, which affect their performance. Through this university, the scope and effectiveness of the cooperative sector will definitely increase, which will also create new opportunities for self-employment and innovation.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today there is a need for proper training for efficiency and discipline at all levels, from the secretary of PACS to the MD of Apex Bank. According to an estimate, the cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years. In view of this need, the initiative to establish a university has been taken. He said that at present the system of teaching and training in the cooperative sector is not adequate and it is also scattered. Keeping this in mind, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home and Cooperative Minister Shri Amit Shah, it was decided to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University. This university will fulfill the need of trained human resources in the cooperative sector and develop cooperative spirit in the youth of the country and inspire them to make a career in this field.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF CHILE

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF CHILE

    CHILE IS AN IMPORTANT PARTNER OF INDIA IN THE LATIN AMERICA REGION: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu received H.E. Mr Gabriel Boric Font, President of the Republic of Chile at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (April 1, 2025). She also hosted a banquet in his honour.

    Welcoming President Boric on his first visit to India, the President said that his political journey, from student politics to the post of President, is an inspiration for young leaders across the world.

    The President said that this visit is an important milestone in India-Chile relations, as it is taking place at a time when we are completing 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations.

    The President said that Chile is an important partner of India in the Latin America region.  The political and economic priorities of India and Chile complement each other. She stated that there are many opportunities to increase cooperation between the two countries in trade and investment, technology and cultural exchange.

    The President was happy to note that trade between India and Chile has increased in recent years, and many Indian companies have invested in Chile in various sectors. She said that there is potential for enhancing cooperation in these areas.

    The President appreciated the important contribution of the Indian community in Chile, who are helping to popularize Indian cuisine, Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile, and strengthening our people to people linkages.

    The two leaders agreed that there is a huge opportunity to further the strong relations between the two countries, and this visit will add a new chapter in the India-Chile relationship.   

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister hosts the President of Chile H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister hosts the President of Chile H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi

    Both leaders agreed to begin discussions on Comprehensive Partnership Agreement

    India and Chile to strengthen ties in sectors such as minerals, energy, Space, Defence, Agriculture

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:33PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi warmly welcomed the President of Chile H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi today, marking a significant milestone in the India-Chile partnership. Shri Modi expressed delight in hosting President Boric, emphasizing Chile’s importance as a key ally in Latin America.

    During their discussions, both leaders agreed to initiate talks for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, aiming to expand economic linkages between the two nations. They identified and discussed critical sectors such as minerals, energy, defence, space, and agriculture as areas with immense potential for collaboration.

    Healthcare emerged as a promising avenue for closer ties, with the rising popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile serving as a testament to the cultural exchange between the two countries. The leaders also underscored the importance of deepening cultural and educational connections through student exchange programs and other initiatives.

    In a thread post on X, he wrote:

    “India welcomes a special friend!

    It is a delight to host President Gabriel Boric Font in Delhi. Chile is an important friend of ours in Latin America. Our talks today will add significant impetus to the India-Chile bilateral friendship.

    @GabrielBoric”

    “We are keen to expand economic linkages with Chile. In this regard, President Gabriel Boric Font and I agreed that discussions should begin for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. We also discussed sectors like critical minerals, energy, defence, space and agriculture, where closer ties are achievable.”

    “Healthcare in particular has great potential to bring India and Chile even closer. The rising popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile is gladdening. Equally crucial is the deepening of cultural linkages between our nations through cultural and student exchange programmes.”

     

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah terms the passing of the ‘Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025’ by the Rajya Sabha under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, as a historic day for the cooperative sector of the country

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah terms the passing of the ‘Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025’ by the Rajya Sabha under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, as a historic day for the cooperative sector of the country

    Union Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah expresses gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on the passing of the bill by the Parliament

    This bill will bring the triveni of cooperation, innovation and employment in the country

    Now cooperative education will become an integral part of Indian education and curriculum and through this university, trained youth from all over the country will make the cooperative sector more comprehensive, well-organized and modern-age friendly

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:37PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah terms the passing of the ‘Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025’ by the Rajya Sabha under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, as a historic day for the cooperative sector of the country.

    In a post on X platform, Shri Amit Shah expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on the passing of the bill by the Parliament, on behalf of brothers-sisters associated with the cooperative sector. He said that this bill will bring the triveni of cooperation, innovation and employment in the country. Shri Shah said that now, cooperative education will become an integral part of Indian education and curriculum and through this university, trained youth from all over the country will make the cooperative sector more comprehensive, well-organized and modern-age friendly.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Achieves Historic Milestone in Renewable Energy Capacity Addition in FY 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    India Achieves Historic Milestone in Renewable Energy Capacity Addition in FY 2024-25

    25 GW of Renewable Energy Added in FY 2024-25, Marking a 35% Increase Over Previous Year

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) achieved historic milestone in the renewable energy sector for the financial year 2024-25. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the country has added an unprecedented 25 GW of renewable energy capacity, marking an increase of nearly 35% over the previous year’s addition of 18.57 GW.

    Solar Sector Drives Renewable Surge

    India’s solar power sector led the renewable energy growth, with capacity additions soaring from 15 GW in FY24 to nearly 21 GW in FY25, a remarkable 38% increase. The country also achieved the significant milestone of surpassing 100 GW of installed solar capacity this year.

    Domestic Solar Manufacturing Scales New Heights

    In a strong push towards Atmanirbharta, India’s solar module manufacturing capacity nearly doubled from 38 GW in March 2024 to 74 GW in March 2025, while solar PV cell manufacturing capacity tripled from 9 GW to 25 GW. Additionally, the country’s first ingot-wafer manufacturing facility (2 GW) commenced production in FY25. Under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules, investments worth ₹41,000 crore have been made, generating direct employment for approximately 11,650 people.

    PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Sees Widespread Impact

    The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana witnessed impressive progress, benefiting over 11.01 lakh households by March 31, 2025. Under the scheme, ₹5,437.20 crore has been disbursed as Central Financial Assistance to 6.98 lakh beneficiaries, significantly promoting the adoption of rooftop solar.

    Green Hydrogen Sector Gains Momentum

    India’s Green Hydrogen sector also saw significant developments. Incentives worth ₹2,220 crore were awarded for 1,500 MW per annum of electrolyser manufacturing, while an additional ₹2,239 crore was allocated for 4,50,000 tons-per-annum (TPA) of Green Hydrogen production. Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, seven pilot projects were funded with ₹454 crore for decarbonizing the steel sector. Additionally, five pilot projects in the transport sector, with ₹208 crore in funding, will introduce 37 hydrogen-fueled vehicles and nine hydrogen refueling stations.

    Record Progress Under PM-KUSUM Scheme

    The PM KUSUM Scheme witnessed record progress. In Component B, 4.4 lakh pumps were installed in FY25, a 4.2-fold increase over the previous year. In Component C, 2.6 lakh pumps were solarized, 25 times more than in FY24. The total number of solar pumps installed/solarized under the scheme has now exceeded 10 lakh. Financial expenditure for PM-KUSUM surged to ₹2,680 crore, a 268% increase from the previous year.

    The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) continues to play a crucial role in financing clean energy projects. In FY25, IREDA recorded a 27% increase in loan sanctions, reaching ₹47,453 crore, while loan disbursements rose by 20% to ₹30,168 crore.

    Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri Prahlad Joshi, said, “India may have already become or will soon become the third-largest renewable energy capacity holder in the world. This milestone is a testament to Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a sustainable and self-reliant energy future.”

    These remarkable achievements reaffirm India’s commitment to its clean energy transition and its leadership in the global renewable energy sector.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Building Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    Building Bharat

    Powering Infrastructure Through Make in India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    India’s infrastructure landscape is undergoing a monumental shift, driven by the Make in India initiative as a catalyst for growth and development. Recognising that world-class infrastructure is the backbone of economic progress, the government has launched a series of transformative projects to strengthen transportation, logistics, and urban facilities. The Bharatmala Pariyojana is enhancing road connectivity with expressways and economic corridors, while the Sagarmala Programme is revolutionising port-led development. The Smart Cities Mission is reimagining urban centres with modern amenities and digital integration, and PM Gati Shakti is streamlining multimodal connectivity for seamless movement of goods and people. These initiatives are laying the foundation for a more efficient, interconnected, and sustainable India.

    The scale of this ambition is matched by remarkable achievements that showcase India’s engineering prowess and determination. Iconic projects like the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel, and the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, stand as testaments to the nation’s capabilities. Meanwhile, the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, and the Zojila Tunnel, Asia’s longest, highlight India’s commitment to blending innovation with resilience. The expansion of dedicated freight corridors, modern airports, and renewable energy grids further reinforces the nation’s commitment to building a resilient and future-ready economy. By aligning infrastructure growth with industrial expansion, the Make in India initiative is not just transforming physical landscapes but also unlocking new opportunities for investment, employment, and innovation.

    Economic Acceleration

    India’s economic acceleration is being driven by strategic infrastructure initiatives, with Make in India at the core of strengthening domestic manufacturing and industrial growth. The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) is creating world-class manufacturing hubs, while PM Gati Shakti enhances multimodal connectivity through data-driven planning. These initiatives are fostering seamless logistics, boosting competitiveness, and positioning India as a global economic powerhouse.

    National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP)

    The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) is a transformative initiative launched to develop world-class industrial infrastructure and promote planned urbanisation across India. By integrating smart technologies and multi-modal connectivity, the programme aims to create globally competitive manufacturing hubs while fostering economic growth and employment opportunities. These industrial corridors are being developed in collaboration with State Governments to ensure efficient planning and execution.

    Key developments:

     

    • In August 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved 12 new industrial areas across 10 states under NICDP with an investment of ₹28,602 crore.

     

    • These industrial nodes, planned along six major corridors, will strengthen India’s manufacturing ecosystem and boost its global competitiveness.

     

    PM Gati Shakti

    Launched in 2021, PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multimodal Connectivity strengthens the vision of Make in India by ensuring world-class infrastructure to support manufacturing and economic growth. This digital platform enhances coordination across 16 ministries, including Railways and Roadways, integrating geospatial mapping and data-driven decision-making to optimise logistics and reduce project delays. By streamlining connectivity, it bolsters industrial corridors, facilitates efficient supply chains, and attracts investments in key sectors. All projects exceeding ₹500 crore are assessed by the Network Planning Group (NPG) to ensure seamless execution.

    As of March 13, 2025, 115 National Highway and road projects covering approximately 13,500 km, with an investment of ₹6.38 lakh crore, have been evaluated under the initiative, leading to more efficient infrastructure development.

    Road and Maritime Connectivity

    Strengthening India’s road and maritime infrastructure is central to the Make in India vision, ensuring seamless connectivity for industries and boosting economic growth. Strategic initiatives like Bharatmala and Sagarmala are enhancing freight movement, improving logistics efficiency, and modernising transport networks to support India’s manufacturing and trade ambitions.

    Bharatmala Pariyojana

    Bharatmala Pariyojana is advancing India’s infrastructure by addressing critical gaps through the development of economic corridors, expressways, and connectivity roads. Aligned with the Make in India vision, the programme focuses on improving logistics efficiency, fostering industrial growth with enhanced connectivity to key hubs, and ensuring safer, more reliable transportation networks. This initiative not only boosts economic growth but also supports indigenous manufacturing and infrastructure development, making India more self-reliant in its transportation and logistics sector. Since its approval in 2017, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • As on February 28, 2025, 26,425 km of projects awarded under the planned 34,800 km, with 19,826 km already constructed. The total Expenditure incurred under Bharatmala Pariyojana amounts to Rs. 4,92,562 crore.

     

    • Till February 2025, 6,669 km of high-speed greenfield corridors awarded, of which 4,610 km have been completed.

     

    National Highway Network

    India’s National Highway network has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, driven by higher budget allocations and accelerated construction. The network has expanded from 91,287 km in 2014 to 1,46,145 km in 2024, marking a 60% increase. This expansion has significantly improved connectivity, reduced travel time, and boosted economic activities across the country.

     

     

    Sagarmala

    Launched in 2015, the Sagarmala Programme aligns with India’s Make in India vision by focusing on port-led development to harness the potential of the country’s extensive coastline and navigable waterways. The programme aims to enhance India’s manufacturing and export capabilities by reducing logistics costs for both domestic and international trade. It focuses on improving port infrastructure, connectivity, and the creation of coastal economic zones, which support the growth of the manufacturing sector. Additionally, initiatives like Ro-Pax ferry services, cruise terminals, and skill development for coastal communities contribute to the development of a self-reliant maritime ecosystem, further supporting India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub.

     

    Since its approval, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • As of March 19, 2025, 839 projects worth ₹5.79 lakh crores identified under Sagarmala, with 272 projects completed, investing ₹1.41 lakh crore.

     

    • Enhanced port connectivity and coastal infrastructure to strengthen maritime trade efficiency.

    Rail Infrastructure

    India’s rail infrastructure has seen significant advancements, strengthening connectivity, security, and urban mobility. Flagship initiatives such as Vande Bharat trains and metro rail expansion are enhancing passenger experience, modernising transit hubs, and ensuring seamless travel. With a strong push under Make in India vision, the railway network’s expansion, underscores the commitment to inclusive growth and efficient transportation.

    Vande Bharat Trains

    Launched in 2019, Vande Bharat trains exemplify the Make in India vision, showcasing the nation’s engineering capabilities in railway modernisation. As the first-ever indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed trains, they feature modern coaches, advanced safety features, and enhanced passenger amenities. Equipped with automatic plug doors, ergonomic reclining seats, and individual mobile charging sockets, these trains ensure a premium travel experience. Operating on medium and short-distance routes, they improve connectivity while significantly reducing travel time.

    Indian Railways is also set to transform long-distance travel with the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set. The first 16-car set, manufactured by Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, completed successful trials on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route on 15th January 2025, covering 540 kilometers. Following its completion on 17th December 2024, the train was tested in the Kota division at speeds of 180 km per hour, ensuring comfort and high performance for long-distance journeys.

    Since its introduction, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • 136 Vande Bharat trains are running across India as of March 18, 2025, offering world-class travel experiences.

     

    • Varied operational schedules include 122 services running six days a week, 2 services four days a week, 8 tri-weekly, and 4 weekly services.

     

    Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

    The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a long-term initiative to modernise railway stations across India, enhancing passenger amenities, multimodal connectivity, and overall infrastructure. With a focus on continuous development, the scheme aims to transform stations into modern transit hubs. As of March 12, 2025, 1,337 stations have been identified for upgradation, ensuring improved accessibility, better facilities, and a seamless travel experience.

    Metro Rail Expansion

    India’s Metro Rail system has been instrumental in transforming urban transportation, offering a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional commuting methods. The network’s expansion gained momentum with increased government focus, ensuring seamless connectivity in major cities. Since 2014, metro systems have rapidly grown, alleviating congestion and enhancing urban mobility. Notably, BEML Limited, a ‘Schedule A’ Company under the Ministry of Defence, has played a key role in manufacturing metro coaches. As of May 2024, BEML has supplied over 2,000 metro coaches to various metro corporations, including those in Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Mumbai.

    In addition to metro networks, India has also made significant strides with the introduction of the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). The Namo Bharat trains operating on the Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor are a prime example of India’s commitment to modernising mass transit systems, offering faster and more efficient travel across regions.

    Since its launch, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • The metro network has expanded from 248 km in 2014 to 1,011 km by March 2025, covering over 20 cities.

     

    • India’s first Namo Bharat train, operating on the Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor, enhances regional connectivity with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

    Civil Aviation

    India’s aviation sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, driven by rising demand and proactive government policies aimed at strengthening air connectivity. This rapid expansion has positioned India as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally. The government’s focus on regional connectivity and infrastructure development has ensured improved accessibility, fostering economic growth and mobility across the country.

     

    Since its push for expansion, the sector has achieved notable milestones:

    • The number of operational airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 159 by March 2025, enhancing regional connectivity.

     

    • On November 17, 2024, domestic air passenger traffic surpassed 5 lakh in a single day, setting a new record.

     

    • The number of Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) grew from 29 in June 2016 to 38 with 57 bases by December 2024, strengthening pilot training capacity.

     

    Conclusion

    India’s infrastructure and construction sectors have been pivotal in driving the Make in India initiative, creating the backbone for industrial growth and economic expansion. Landmark projects in road, rail, maritime, aviation, and urban development have not only improved connectivity and logistics but also enhanced the quality of life across rural and urban areas. The expansion of national highways, metro networks, and modern rail services, alongside transformative schemes like PM Gati Shakti and Smart Cities Mission, underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable growth. With continued investments in infrastructure and technological innovation, India is poised to unlock new opportunities for industries, boost employment, and accelerate economic progress, solidifying its position as a global manufacturing and logistics hub.

    Make in India (Infrastructure)/ Explainer/ 06

    References:

    Kinldy find the pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Saurabh Kalia

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has successfully achieved sales of more than one million of EVs in this Financial Year 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    This achievement marks a significant stride towards cleaner, greener, and more sustainable mobility, aligning with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Net Zero by 2070 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

    India’s e-mobility sector is gaining momentum, driven by government initiatives, technological advancements, and environmental concerns.

    Overall, India’s e-mobility sector is poised for significant growth, driven by supportive policies. The growth story of electric mobility is visible by numbers below:

    In the Financial Year 2024-25, a total of 11,49,334 electric two-wheelers (e-2W) were sold, reflecting a 21% increase compared to 9,48,561 units sold in FY 2023-24. Similarly, the sales of electric three-wheelers e-3W (L5) reached 1,59,235 units in FY 2024-25, marking a 57% growth over the 1,01,581 units sold in the previous financial year.

    The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has notified ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ on 29.09.2024 to provide impetus to the green mobility & development of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing eco-system in the country. The scheme has an outlay of Rs.10,900 crore over a period of two years upto 31.03.2026. The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024 implemented by MHI for the period of six months from 01.04.2024 to 30.09.2024, is subsumed in PM E-DRIVE scheme.

    Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme in FY 2024-25, 10,10,101 nos of e-2W, 1,22,982 nos of e-3W(L5) have been registered in VAHAN portal. Sales of more than one million of EVs have taken place in this FY 2024-25.

    Union Minister for Heavy Industries & Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, lauded this achievement and stated:

    “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi avaru, India is driving the global transition to sustainable mobility. The achievement of over 1 million EVs sales is a testament to the success of MHI’s flagship schemes, including FAME, EMPS, and PM E-DRIVE. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant India.”

    The PM E-DRIVE Scheme, spearheaded by MHI, has played a pivotal role in accelerating electric vehicle adoption by offering financial incentives, promoting indigenous manufacturing, and strengthening the EV ecosystem. The scheme’s impact Data till 31st March 2025 is reflected in the following key environmental benefits:

    • Fuel saving per day: 8,55,723 litres
    • Total fuel saved: 15,77,33,334 litres
    • CO2 reduction per day: 12,48,100 kg
    • Total CO2 reduction: 23,01,73,978 kg

    This initiative by the Government of India is set to address critical challenges related to environmental pollution and fuel security while advancing sustainable transportation solutions. Through the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting infrastructure, the scheme is expected to catalyse significant investment in the EV sector and its supply chain. Furthermore, it will generate substantial employment opportunities across the value chain, including jobs in manufacturing and charging infrastructure setup. Overall, this scheme represents a crucial step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for transportation in India.

    The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Auto Scheme is transforming India’s automotive sector by driving sustainable and advanced manufacturing. Under this initiative, 18 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have applied, playing a crucial role in accelerating the electric mobility revolution and strengthening the nation’s journey towards a self-reliant and future-ready automotive ecosystem.

    *********

    TPJ/NJ

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Threads of Progress

    Source: Government of India

    Threads of Progress

    How Make in India is Shaping the Future of Textiles and Apparel Industry

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, has played a crucial role in positioning India as a global textile manufacturing and export hub. The textile and apparel industry is one of the largest contributors to India’s economy, providing employment to millions and generating substantial foreign exchange earnings. With strong policy support, infrastructure development, and a skilled workforce, India has emerged as a preferred investment destination in the global textile sector.

     

    Overview of India’s Textile Industry

    The textile and apparel industry contributes 2.3% to our GDP, 13% to industrial production, and 12% to exports. India exported textile items worth US$ 34.4 billion in 2023-24, with apparel constituting 42% of the export basket, followed by raw materials/semi-finished materials at 34% and finished non-apparel goods at 30%. It is also the second largest employment generators, after agriculture, with over 45 million people employed directly, including many women and the rural population. As further evidence of the inclusive nature of this industry, nearly 80% of its capacity is spread across Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) clusters in the country.

    The sector also has perfect alignment with the Government’s overall objectives of Make in India, Skill India, Women’s Empowerment, Rural Youth Employment and inclusive growth. The industry produces about 22,000 million pieces of garments per year, with the market size projected to reach US$ 350 billion by 2030, from the current $174 billion.

    Recently, the Ministry of Textiles reported a 7% increase in textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, from April to December 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. In line with the growth roadmap, the Indian textile market currently ranks fifth globally, and the government is actively working to accelerate this growth to a rate of 15-20% over the next five years.

     

    Impact of ‘Make in India’ on the Textile Industry

    The Make in India initiative has catalyzed textile manufacturing and exports through key policy interventions, enhanced infrastructure, and incentives. In the Union Budget 2024-25, to promote domestic textile production, two more types of shuttle-less looms are added to fully exempted textile machinery by the government. The government has introduced multiple schemes to enhance textile production, boost investments, and promote exports, including:

    1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles
    • Objective: To increase manufacturing in man-made fibre (MMF) and technical textiles.
    • Budget: ₹10,683 crore.
    • Incentives: Financial incentives for large-scale textile manufacturers.

     

    1. PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) Parks
    • Objective: To develop world-class industrial infrastructure for textile manufacturing.
    • Focus: On developing integrated large scale and modern industrial infrastructure facility for total value-chain of the textile industry like spinning, weaving, processing, garmenting, textile manufacturing, processing & textile machinery industry.
    • Budget: ₹4,445 crore for a period 2021-22 to 2027-28.
    • Key Benefits: Reduced logistics costs, increased FDI, and better competitiveness in global markets.
    • Current Status: A total of 7 Parks established in states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

     

    1. Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)
    • Objective: To incentivise credit flow for benchmark credit linked technology upgradation in this MSME driven Textile Industry for supporting capital investment.
    • Budget: ₹17,822 crore.
    • Incentives: Capital subsidies for technology upgradation.

     

    1. Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector)
    • Objective: To provide skill training to workers in the textile industry, in partnership with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
    • Budget Allocation: An amount of ₹115 crores was sanctioned during the FY 2023-24, out of which ₹114.99 crores (99.9%) were disbursed.
    • Current Status: As of March 27, 2025, more than 4.78 lakh users have been registered on the Samarth portal. As on March 19, 2025, a total of 3.82 lakh beneficiaries have been trained (passed) and 2.97 lakh beneficiaries (77.74%) have been placed.

     

    1. Textile Cluster Development Scheme (TCDS)
    • Objective: To create an integrated workspace and linkages-based ecosystem for existing as well as potential textile units/clusters to make them operationally and financially viable.
    • Benefits: Cluster development model of TCDS will bring benefits of critical mass for customization of interventions, economies of scale in operation, competitiveness in manufacturing, cost efficient, better access to technology and information, etc.
    • Budget: ₹853 crore.
    • Current Status: As of March 18, 2025, about 1.22 lakh employment opportunities have been generated under the scheme. During 2024-25, ₹34.48 crore have been released.

     

    1. National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)
    • Objective: To boost Technical Textiles in the country.
    • Target Years: 2020-21 to 2025-26
    • Budget: ₹1480 crore
    • Focus: The Mission focuses on (i) research, innovation and development, (ii) promotion and market development (iii) education and skilling and (iv) export promotion in technical textiles to position country as global leader in technical textiles.
    • Current Status: As on January 1, 2025, 168 projects of value ₹509 crores (approx.) have been approved in the category of Specialty fibres and Technical Textiles.

     

    Union Budget Allocations for Ministry of Textiles

    The Union Budget announced an outlay of ₹5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for 2025-26. This is an increase of 19% over budget estimates of 2024-25 (Rs. 4417.03 crore).

     

    Key Highlights

    • Cotton Mission: A five-year plan to improve cotton productivity, especially extra-long staple varieties, with science and technology support.
    • Tax Exemptions on Looms: Duty removed on select shuttle-less looms to reduce costs and modernize weaving.
    • Customs Duty on Knitted Fabrics: Increased from “10% or 20%” to “20% or ₹115 per kg, whichever is higher” to curb cheap imports.
    • Handicraft Exports: Time for export extended from six months to one year, with more items eligible for duty-free input imports.
    • MSME Boost: Focus on exports, credit enhancement, and policies like the National Manufacturing Mission, Export Promotion Mission, Bharat Trade Net, and Fund of Funds to promote employment and entrepreneurship.

     

    These measures aim to boost domestic manufacturing, support MSMEs, modernize the textile sector, and enhance India’s global competitiveness.

     

    Export Growth and Market Expansion

    India is the 6th largest exporter of Textiles & Apparel in the world. The share of textile and apparel (T&A) including handicrafts in India’s total exports stands at a significant 8.21% in 2023-24. India has a share of 3.91% of the global trade in textiles and apparel. Major textile and apparel export destinations for India are USA and EU and with around 47% share in total textile and apparel exports.  The textile and apparel sector has witnessed significant export growth due to government incentives and trade agreements.

    The government has taken several steps to enhance exports in textiles and apparels, including:

    • Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL): On 7th March 2019, Government approved Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) Scheme to rebate all embedded State and Central taxes/levies on export of Apparel/Garments and Made-ups to provide support and enhance competitiveness of these sectors.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles: Under this scheme, as per the Quarterly Review Reports (QRRs) released on 31.03.2024, the turnover achieved was Rs. 1,355 crore including export of Rs.166 crore.
    • Free Trade Agreements: India has so far signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) including recently concluded agreement with United Arab Emirates (UAE), Australia and TEPA (Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement) with EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway & Liechtenstein. India has 6 Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various trading partners. India is presently engaged in FTA negotiations with some of its trading partners notable among these FTAs are India-UK Free Trade Agreement, India- EU Free Trade Agreement, and India-Oman FTA.
    • Quality Control Orders: The Ministry has actively taken up notification of standards for textile products in co-ordination with Bureau of Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are issued to regulate quality and curb sub-standard imports.
    • Textile Advisory Group on Man-Made Fibre (MMF): The Ministry has constituted a “Textile Advisory Group on Man-made Fibre (MMF)” comprising stakeholders of the country’s entire Man-Made Fibre (MMF) including viscose to deliberate and make recommendations on the issues and concerns of the sector.
    • Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs): There are eleven Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs) representing various segments of the textiles & apparel value chain from Fibre to finished goods as well as traditional sectors like handloom, handicrafts and carpets.  These Councils work in close cooperation with the Ministry of Textiles and other Ministries to promote the growth and export of their respective sectors in global markets. 

     

    FDI in Textile and Apparel Industry

     

     

    Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plays a role in the Indian textile and apparel sector. From January 2000 to March 2024, the textile sector received US$ 4,472.79 million (₹28,304.10 crore) in FDI equity. FDI in textile sector over the years can be traced in the graph below:

    BHARAT TEX 2024

    Bharat Tex 2024, a global textile expo was successfully organized during February 26 to February 29, 2024 by the consortium of 11 Textiles Export Promotion Councils with the support of Ministry of Textiles. Built on the twin pillars of trade and investment and with an overarching focus on sustainability, the 4-day event attracted besides policymakers and global CEOs, 3,500 Exhibitors, 3,000 Buyers from 111 Countries and over one lakh trade visitors. An exhibition spread across nearly 2 million sq ft of area and encompassing the entire textile value chain, including an artistically curated story of textiles- Vastra Katha were the highlights of the event. The event was hosted simultaneously at two state of the art venues in Delhi – Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi with both venues fully subscribed.

    This global scale conference with 70 sessions and 112 international speakers saw engaging discussions on key textile issues of the day including Textile Mega Trends, Sustainability, resilient global supply chains and Manufacturing 4.0.

     

    BHARAT TEX 2025

    Bharat Tex 2025, India’s largest global textile event, was successfully organized from February 14 to 17, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event spanned 2.2 million square feet and featured over 5,000 exhibitors, providing a comprehensive showcase of India’s textile ecosystem. More than 1,20,000 trade visitors, from 120+ countries including global CEOs, policymakers, and industry leaders, attended the event.

    Bharat Tex 2025 served as a platform to accelerate the government’s “Farm to Fibre, Fabric, Fashion, and Foreign Markets” vision. India’s textile exports have already reached ₹3 lakh crore, and the goal is to triple this to ₹9 lakh crore by 2030 by strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding global reach. The event demonstrated India’s leadership in the textile sector and its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration.

     

    Innovation in Textile Sector

    As far as innovation in textiles sector is concerned, Ministry of Textiles has conducted an Innovation Challenges in collaboration with Startup India & DPIIT. In this challenge, 9 winners were recognised and awarded, while incubation opportunities were presented to 6 awardees under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). Apart from this, 3 separate innovations challenges were conducted by nature fibre boards on their respective problem statements i.e. 

    • NJB Technological Innovation Grand Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of 125 applicants.
    • CSB Start-up Grand Challenge in which 4 winners were recognised and awarded out of             58 applicants.
    • CWDB Wool Innovation Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of     24 applicants.
    • 17 of the total above-mentioned winners are directly engaging in activities such as textile waste recycling, biobased fibres or sustainable garment production. 

     

    Cotton Industry in India

    Cotton is a vital commercial crop in India, contributing about 24% to global cotton production and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of farmers and workers. It plays a crucial role in India’s foreign exchange earnings through exports of raw cotton, intermediate products, and finished goods. India holds the largest cotton acreage in the world.

    • Acreage and Yield: India has the largest cotton acreage globally; ranks 36th in productivity.
    • Production and Consumption: India is the 2nd largest producer and consumer of cotton in the world.
    • Cotton Species: India grows all four species of cotton: G. Arboreum, G. Herbaceum (Asian cotton), G. Barbadense (Egyptian cotton) and G. Hirsutum (American Upland cotton).
    • Major Growing Zones: Cotton is primarily grown in the Northern, Central, and Southern zones of India.

     

    Production and Consumption of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Year

    Production

    Consumption

    2021-22

    311.17

    322.41

    2022-23

    336.60

    313.63

    2023-24 (P)

    325.22

    323.00

     

    Import and Export of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Season

    Import (in lakh bales)

    Export (in lakh bales)

    2021-22

    21.13

    42.25

    2022-23

    14.60

    15.89

    2023-24*

    6.73

    26.24

    * Position up to 30.06.2024

     

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) Operations to ensure remunerative prices to cotton farmers.
    • “Cott-Ally” mobile app for cotton farmers.
    • Aadhar-based farmer registration for MSP benefits.
    • E-auction for transparent sale of cotton stock.
    • QR code using Block Chain Technology for traceability of cotton.
    • Kasturi Cotton Bharat programme for branding Indian Cotton.

     

    Silk Industry in India

    Silk is an insect fibre known for its lustre, drape, and strength. It is called the “Queen of Textiles” worldwide. India has a long history with silk and is the second largest producer and the largest consumer of silk in the world. India is unique in producing all four commercial varieties of silk: Mulberry, Tropical & Oak Tasar, Muga, and Eri. The Indian sericulture industry is important because it provides a lot of employment, requires low capital, and gives good income to silk growers. India produced 38,913 MT of silk, making it the second largest producer globally, after China.

     

    Years

    Mulberry

    Tasar

    Eri

    Muga

    Total

    2004-05

    14,620

    322

    1,448

    110

    16,500

    2014-15

    21,390

    2,434

    4,726

    158

    28,708

    2020-21

    23,896

    2,689

    6,946

    239

    33,770

    2021-22

    25,818

    1,466

    7,364

    255

    34,903

    2022-23

    27,654

    1,318

    7,349

    261

    36,582

    2023-24

    29,892

    1,586

    7,183

    252

    38,913

    2024-25 (April-September)

    14,233

    106

    3,924

    92

    18,355

    Source: Central Silk Board, Bengaluru

     

    The Indian government supports the silk industry through various initiatives and schemes:

    • The Central Silk Board (CSB) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Textiles that was established in 1948 to develop the silk industry.
    • The Ministry of Textiles is implementing the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) under the Silk Samagra Scheme.
    • In 2023-24, the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, allocated ₹25 crore for the implementation of the SCSP for sericulture. The entire funds allocated under SCSP were fully utilized/released for implementation of beneficiary-oriented components.
    • The government is also working on research and development in the silk sector to improve productivity and quality. This includes promoting soil testing, organic farming, and the use of silkworm by-products. They are also upgrading reeling technology and promoting indigenous automatic reeling machines to boost the Make in India program.
    • The industry also focuses on product design development and diversification to promote Indian silks and help manufacturers and exporters create innovative designs and fabrics.

     

    Jute Industry in India

    The jute industry is a major player in India’s economy, particularly in the eastern regions like West Bengal. It’s a vital source of employment, providing livelihoods for workers in organized mills and diversified units, and supporting numerous farm families. The Indian government actively supports the jute sector through various initiatives aimed at improving productivity, ensuring fair prices for farmers, and promoting the use of jute products.

    • The jute industry provides direct employment to 4 lakh workers in organized mills and diversified units, including the tertiary sector and allied activities.
    • It supports the livelihood of 40 lakh farm families.
    • As per the Office of Jute Commissioner, there are 116 composite jute mills.
    • West Bengal has the highest number of jute mills (86).
    • Government of India provides support to the jute growers through MSP operations by the Jute Corporation of India and also through direct purchase of jute sacking.
    • Average land area under raw jute & mesta cultivation is 799 thousand hectares (average of last four years).
    • Average production of raw jute & mesta is 10,990 thousand bales (average of last four years).
    • Average export of jute goods is 133 thousand MT per annum with a value of Rs. 21,150 million per annum (average of last four years).
    • Jute – ICARE has been launched for improving fibre quality and productivity, reducing the cost of jute production, and increasing the income of jute farmers.
    • The schemes for the promotion of the jute sector are primarily implemented by the National Jute Board.

     

    Conclusion

    The Make in India initiative has significantly enhanced India’s position in global textile manufacturing and exports through targeted policies, infrastructure development, and investment promotion. With sustained efforts, India is poised to become a global textile leader, driving economic growth and employment generation.

     

    References

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/textile-data

    https://jutecomm.gov.in/FAQ.html

    https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/textiles-apparel

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2089306

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098352

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2099411

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2114277

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2104423

    https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Indian%20Jute%20At%20a%20Glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Note%20on%20Cotton%20Sector_0.pdf

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU4118_0othg1.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS245_n0CCI6.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2877_YZdL4e.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2873_sOQ5IE.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS110_T8V4VD.pdf?source=pqals

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20at%20a%20glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Table-2%20Raw%20Silk%20Production%20Statistics.pdf

    https://texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/MOT%20Annual%20Report%20English%20%2807.11.2024%29.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20%28Finacial%20year%20wise%29.pdf

    https://ddnews.gov.in/en/india-sets-new-record-with-7-rise-in-textile-exports-government-implements-multiple-schemes-to-boost-sector/

    Threads of Progress

    ***

    Make in India (T&A) | Explainer | 05

    Santosh Kumar | Sheetal Angral | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2117470) Visitor Counter : 183

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM lauds remarkable growth of India’s renewable energy sector

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today lauded the growth of India’s renewable energy sector as remarkable and a commitment of our people towards sustainability.

    Responding to a post by Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi on X, he stated:

    “A great development, illustrating the commitment of our people towards sustainability!”

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117466) Visitor Counter : 366

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM commends GeM for ensuring a boost in livelihoods, driving grassroots employment and economic growth across India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today commended Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal for ensuring a boost in livelihoods, driving grassroots employment and economic growth across India.

    Responding to a post by Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal on X, he stated:

    “Commendable feat, ensuring a boost in livelihoods, driving grassroots employment and economic growth across India.”

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117464) Visitor Counter : 282

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM hails India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in defence manufacturing

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:35PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today hailed India’s journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in defence manufacturing

    Responding to a post by Union Minister Shri Rajnath Singh on X, he stated:

    “This is indeed a proud milestone in our journey towards self-reliance and global leadership in defence manufacturing!”

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117459) Visitor Counter : 228

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25

    A Year of Historic Achievements and Transformation

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a key subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has delivered an extraordinary performance in FY 2024-25, achieving unprecedented milestones in coal production, financial success, sustainability, and social responsibility. With record-breaking operational feats, cutting-edge digital innovations, and a bold commitment to clean energy and community welfare, BCCL reaffirms its key position in India’s coal sector.

                                       

    Unmatched Production and Operational Excellence 

    BCCL has rewritten its history with highest-ever coal production in the 4th quarter (11.44 million tonnes) and March 2025 (4.33 million tonnes) since inception. The company also recorded its highest-ever overburden removal (181.30 million cubic meters) and second-highest annual coal production (40.50 million tonnes), despite facing the heaviest rainfall in 50 years (1747 mm). Offtake reached a second-highest-ever 38.25 million tonnes, bolstered by a 6% growth in rail dispatch, even with high coal stocks at powerhouses. Underground coal production surged by an impressive 49% over last year, while 16 new hired patches were identified this year with a capacity of 13.30 million tonnes annually, out of which 7.0 million tonnes were awarded. For the first time, coal production under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) mode commenced at NTST-Kujama, Lodna Area, in April 2024. Additionally, grade confirmation through third-party sampling stood at 94%, exceeding the Ministry of Coal’s 90% guideline.

    Financial Achievements

    BCCL paid its maiden dividend of ₹ 44.43 crore to CIL on August 5, 2024. This milestone follows BCCL’s achievement of clearing its accumulated losses. The company achieved its highest-ever scrap sale of ₹ 18.01 crore. BCCL secured an income tax refund of ₹ 104 crores (₹ 63.87 crore principal, and ₹ 40.12 crore interest), and the company also paid the highest income tax of ₹406.00 crores in the last 10 years. BCCL also exceeded its CAPEX target for the fourth consecutive year, achieving ₹ 1,100 crore against ₹ 1,000 crore. At the same time, GeM procurement soared to ₹ 4,155.83 crore (136% of the ₹ 3,060 crore target), including ₹ 68.06 crore for heavy machinery and ₹ 120.47 crore for IT initiatives.

    Washery Innovation and Monetization 

    BCCL’s washeries set new records. Raw coal feed reached 56 lakh tonnes (highest in 25 years, up 15%), and washed coal supply to the steel sector peaked at 17.02 lakh tonnes (highest in 20 years, up 16%). By-product disposal excelled with washery rejects at 8.67 lakh tonnes (up 77%) and washed power coal at 28.95 lakh tonnes (up 5%). Pioneering India’s first ever coal washery monetization, BCCL leased old & idle Dugdha Washery (2.0 MTPA) for ₹ 762 crore over 25 years. Also, RFP issued for monetization of Sudamdih Washery (1.6 MTPA) on March 28, 2025.

    Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency 

    One of the leading CIL subsidiaries, BCCL, implemented the SAP BG module, saving ₹ 86 lakh in upkeep allowances. Its in-house team developed ground-breaking ERP solutions, including the BPCL DDUs interface, alerts for sensitive posts and long absences, quarter management, integrated HEMM maintenance reports, and equipment transfer tracking. The Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC) enhances e-security and surveillance, while automated road weighbridges with RFID-based boom barriers streamline operations. Digital pension claims processing achieved 99% PF claim settlements, boosting transparency.

    Sustainability and Net Zero Commitment 

    BCCL advanced its Net Zero goals with 4.088 MWp of rooftop solar power commissioned, work orders for 25 MW at Bhojudih and 20 MW at Dugdha washeries, and a tender for 2 MW more in Central Township. Energy efficiency measures include 100% LED lighting, energy-efficient ACs, 762 super fans, 45 efficient motors, and autotimer switches across its areas. The company strategically moved towards electric vehicles in its official transportation fleet, supported by an EV charging station at Koyla Bhawan, resulting in fuel saving of approximately 2.50 lacs per month as the running cost is less than ₹ 1/Km. In Coal Bed Methane (CBM), Jharia Block-I is under exploration with 5 core holes drilled, while Jharia Block-II’s feasibility report was approved.

    Environmental and Infrastructure Initiatives 

    BCCL planted 22 hectares over the degraded land and established two new eco-parks at Akashkinari (4.5 Ha) and Moonidih (0.9 Ha), adding 4 mechanical sweepers and 16 fog cannons to its fleet during the year. Infrastructure highlights include 21.69 MGD water supply via filter plants, and 8 km of PQC roads completed with 14 km under construction. Two bridges over Katri and Khudia rivers, upgrades to Nehru Complex, Jubilee Hall, and community halls, and hospital enhancements (including a new OPD at Central Hospital Dhanbad) underscore BCCL’s civil achievements.

    Land and Mine Re-Operationalization 

    BCCL paid ₹ 24.80 crore for government land transfers, acquired 14.23 acres of tenancy land for ₹ 25.86 crore, and provided employment to 6 individuals. It shifted 170 encroachers, vacated 2.245 acres, and uploaded 16,381.09 Ha of land data to the PM GatiShakti portal. For discontinued mines, BCCL signed an agreement for Amalabad Colliery to reopen with 6.2 MT production target over 25 years, with a lucrative 4.1% revenue sharing. Mining plans for 3 discontinued mines (ASGKCC, Madhuband & PB project) also approved, driving growth and development.

    Empowering People and Communities 

    BCCL’s CSR expenditure reached ₹ 21.89 crore (117% of the ₹ 18.76 crore target), training of 200 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in petrochemical engineering (100% placement offered), 75 rural youth at MSME Tool Room, CTTC Kolkata with 100% placement offered, 150 in medical equipment, and 60 in fashion design (42 placed). BCCL installed smart classes & ICT labs in 79 schools in Dhanbad district (₹ 10.69 crore) and piloted STEM education in 5 schools. Welfare efforts included ₹ 66.98 lakh in fee reimbursements, ₹ 9.34 lakh in scholarships for 91 wards, and a harassment-free workplace for women. Medical upgrades featured a new DNB course, ICU expansion (8 to 16 beds), and a modular kitchen. BCCL recruited 77 Jr. Overmen and provided compassionate employment to 564 dependents during the year.

    A Vision for the Future 

    FY 2024-25 marks a transformative year for BCCL, blending record production, financial strength, and sustainable innovation. BCCL is committed to performing as a key player in effectively meeting India’s energy demands while building a brighter, greener future. With the installation of two heavy crushers (750 TPH each) in its Lodna Area, BCCL further strengthens the modern coal processing while corroborating its emphasis on better customer satisfaction and services. 

    BCCL’s stellar performance positions it as a vital player in the coal sector with a commitment to solidifying India’s energy and industry needs with sustainable growth.

     

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    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117548) Visitor Counter : 112

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister condoles the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat

    PM announces ex-gratia from PMNRF

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle in post on X said:

    “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.

    An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi”

     

     

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    MJPS/SR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FM launches “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” Portal

    Source: Government of India

    FM launches “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” Portal

    Portal developed by NITI in collaboration with NCAER

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:14PM by PIB Delhi

    Finance Minister Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman launched the “NITI NCAER States Economic Forum” portal today in New Delhi. The portal has been developed by NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), which is a comprehensive repository of data on social, economic and fiscal parameters, research reports, papers, and expert commentary on State Finances for a period of about 30 years (i.e 1990-91 to 2022-23). 

    In her keynote address, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman stated that NITI NCAER States Economic Forum will be beneficial in the availability of authentic data. She observed that the portal will help States to make more meaningful interventions, raising revenues, managing debts and learning from peer experiences. She emphasised the importance of balance in public finances between revenue generation without burdening the people. She said that this forum is a much-needed step in present times which will help in greater engagement with States. 

    Director General of National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), Dr. Poonam Gupta while making a presentation on the portal highlighted the diverse nature of fiscal path of the States. She underlined the need for a portal which has comprehensive data of all States, thereby, providing an opportunity to appreciate the position of other States while making informed policy decisions. 

    CEO, NITI Aayog, Shri BVR Subrahamanyam, in his remarks, emphasised that this forum will not only provide information for public knowledge but will also create awareness and fiscal learning across States. He further opined that this forum will play a pivotal role in human service and a permanent asset for the nation as a whole.

    NITI Aayog, Vice Chairman, Suman K Bery, observed that the NITI NCAER State Economic Forum is a key step in data-driven research, especially on public finances.

     

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    MJPS/SR

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and Chile Strengthen Mining Sector Cooperation at Industry Round Table

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

    India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table today witnessed significant discussions aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations in the mining sector. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Coal & Mines, India, led a high-level Indian delegation comprising Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, senior officials from the Ministry, and CMDs/CEOs from leading Indian companies such as Coal India Limited (CIL), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), Hindalco, Vedanta, Adani, JSW, and JSPL. The Chilean delegation was led by H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile.

    In his address, Shri G. Kishan Reddy emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Chile in copper, lithium, and other critical minerals, highlighting the growing importance of these minerals in India’s industrial growth and sustainable energy transition.

    H.E. Aurora Williams, Minister of Mines, Chile, spoke about Chile’s leadership in the global mining sector, particularly in copper and lithium, and expressed enthusiasm for expanding collaboration with India to meet both nations’ mineral needs and support the transition to greener technologies.

    The round table organised by the International Copper Association, India focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in various key areas of the mining sector, including mineral exploration, sustainable mining practices, and value-added mineral processing. Discussions also revolved around renewing the existing India-Chile MoU on Geology and Mineral Resources, ensuring a more robust and future-ready framework for collaboration in the critical minerals domain.

    As India’s demand for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and rare earth elements continues to grow, the round table highlighted the strategic importance of these minerals for sectors like electric mobility, renewable energy, and electronics manufacturing. With this collaboration, both nations are aiming to unlock new opportunities for joint ventures, long-term supply agreements, and cross-border investments.

    Chile, being a global leader in copper and lithium production, offers significant opportunities for Indian companies looking to secure access to these minerals through Greenfield and Brownfield mining projects. The discussions also emphasized the potential for technology transfer, best practices in sustainable mining, and strengthening the global mineral supply chain.

    This renewed cooperation not only promises to enhance economic ties between India and Chile but also aims to build a resilient and sustainable mining supply chain that supports both nations’ long-term energy and economic goals. The India-Chile Mining Industry Round Table is a crucial step in fostering mutual growth, technological exchange, and a more sustainable mining future.

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    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117527) Visitor Counter : 41

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Translation of Press Statement by Prime Minister during Joint Press Statement with President of Chile

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellency, President Boric,

    Delegates from both the countries,

    Friends from the media,

    Namaskar! Hola!

    This is President Boric’s first visit to India. His strong sense of friendship toward India and his commitment to strengthen our relations is truly amazing. For this, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to him, and warmly welcome him and his distinguished delegation.

    Friends,

    Chile is a valued friend and partner country for India in Latin America. In our discussions today, we identified several new initiatives to further strengthen our cooperation in the coming decade.

    We welcome the expansion of mutual trade and investment and we agree that there is untapped potential for further collaboration. Today, we have instructed our teams to initiate discussions on a mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

    Partnerships in the field of Critical Minerals will be emphasized. Efforts will be made to establish resilient supply and value chains. In agriculture, we will collaborate to enhance food security by leveraging each other’s strengths.

    India is ready to share its positive experience with Chile in the areas of Digital Public Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Railways, Space and more.

    We see Chile as the gateway to Antarctica. We welcome today’s agreement on the Letter of Intent to strengthen cooperation in this vital region.

    India has been a trusted partner in supporting Chile’s health security, and we have agreed to further strengthen this collaboration. It is a matter of joy that the people of Chile have adopted Yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle. The declaration of November 4 as National Yoga Day in Chile is truly inspiring. We also explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Chile.

    Increasing cooperation in the field of defence is a symbol of our deep mutual trust. In this area, we will move forward to create defence industrial manufacturing and supply chains as per each other’s needs. We will increase cooperation between the agencies of both the countries to face common challenges like organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

    Globally, India and Chile agree that all tensions and disputes should be resolved through dialogue. We are unanimous in saying that to face global challenges, reform of the United Nations Security Council and other institutions is necessary. Together we will continue to contribute to global peace and stability.

    Friends,

    Even though India and Chile are at different ends of the world map, separated by vast oceans, we still share some unique natural similarities.

    The Himalayas of India and the Andes mountains of Chile have shaped the way of life in both countries for thousands of years. The waves of the Indian Ocean flow in India with the same energy with which the waves of the Pacific Ocean touch the shores of Chile. Both the countries are not only connected by nature, but our cultures have also been close to each other, embracing this diversity.

    The great Chilean poet and Nobel Laureate “Gabriela Mistral” found inspiration in the ideas of Rabindranath Tagore and Aurobindo Ghosh. Similarly, Chilean literature has been appreciated in India too. The growing interest among the Chilean people towards Indian films, cuisine, and classical dances is a living example of our cultural ties.

    Today, around four thousand people of Indian origin, who consider Chile their home, are the custodians of our shared heritage. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Boric and his government for their care and support.

    We welcome the consensus reached today on the cultural exchange program between the two countries. We also discussed simplification of the visa process between the two countries. We will continue to work towards increasing student exchanges between India and Chile.

    Excellency,

    Your visit has brought new energy and enthusiasm in our relations. This energy will give new impetus and direction to our bilateral relations as well as to our cooperation in the entire Latin American region.

    I wish you a pleasant journey and stay in India.

    Thank you very much!

    Gracias!

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department to Surge Resources to Indian Country to Investigate Unresolved Violent Crimes

    Source: US State of California

    Operation Not Forgotten Will Surge 60 FBI Personnel to 10 FBI Field Offices to Support Investigations of Indian Country Violent Crimes

    The Justice Department today announced that it will surge FBI assets across the country to address unresolved violent crimes in Indian Country, including crimes relating to missing and murdered indigenous persons.

    FBI will send 60 personnel, rotating in 90-day temporary duty assignments over a six-month period. This operation is the longest and most intense national deployment of FBI resources to address Indian Country crime to date. FBI personnel will support field offices in Albuquerque; Denver; Detroit; Jackson, Miss.; Minneapolis; Oklahoma City; Phoenix; Portland, Oreg.; Seattle; and Salt Lake City. The FBI will work in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal law enforcement agencies across jurisdictions.

    FBI personnel will be assisted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, and they will use the latest forensic evidence processing tools to solve cases and hold perpetrators accountable. U.S. Attorney’s Offices will aggressively prosecute case referrals.

    “Crime rates in American Indian and Alaska Native communities are unacceptably high,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “By surging FBI resources and collaborating closely with U.S. Attorneys and Tribal law enforcement to prosecute cases, the Department of Justice will help deliver the accountability that these communities deserve.”

    “The FBI will manhunt violent criminals on all lands – and Operation Not Forgotten ensures a surge in resources to locate violent offenders on tribal lands and find those who have gone missing,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.

    Indian Country faces persistent levels of crime and victimization. At the beginning of Fiscal Year 2025, FBI’s Indian Country program had approximately 4,300 open investigations, including over 900 death investigations, 1,000 child abuse investigations, and more than 500 domestic violence and adult sexual abuse investigations.

    Operation Not Forgotten renews efforts begun during President Trump’s first term under E.O. 13898, Establishing the Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. This is the third deployment under Operation Not Forgotten, which has provided investigative support to over 500 cases in the past two years. Combined, these operations resulted in the recovery of 10 child victims, 52 arrests, and 25 indictments or judicial complaints.

    Operation Not Forgotten also expands upon the resources deployed in recent years to address cases of missing and murdered indigenous people. The effort will be supported by the Department’s MMIP Regional Outreach Program, which places attorneys and coordinators in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the United States to help prevent and respond to cases of missing or murdered indigenous people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department to Surge Resources to Indian Country to Investigate Unresolved Violent Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General 2

    Operation Not Forgotten Will Surge 60 FBI Personnel to 10 FBI Field Offices to Support Investigations of Indian Country Violent Crimes

    The Justice Department today announced that it will surge FBI assets across the country to address unresolved violent crimes in Indian Country, including crimes relating to missing and murdered indigenous persons.

    FBI will send 60 personnel, rotating in 90-day temporary duty assignments over a six-month period. This operation is the longest and most intense national deployment of FBI resources to address Indian Country crime to date. FBI personnel will support field offices in Albuquerque; Denver; Detroit; Jackson, Miss.; Minneapolis; Oklahoma City; Phoenix; Portland, Oreg.; Seattle; and Salt Lake City. The FBI will work in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal law enforcement agencies across jurisdictions.

    FBI personnel will be assisted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit, and they will use the latest forensic evidence processing tools to solve cases and hold perpetrators accountable. U.S. Attorney’s Offices will aggressively prosecute case referrals.

    “Crime rates in American Indian and Alaska Native communities are unacceptably high,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “By surging FBI resources and collaborating closely with U.S. Attorneys and Tribal law enforcement to prosecute cases, the Department of Justice will help deliver the accountability that these communities deserve.”

    “The FBI will manhunt violent criminals on all lands – and Operation Not Forgotten ensures a surge in resources to locate violent offenders on tribal lands and find those who have gone missing,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.

    Indian Country faces persistent levels of crime and victimization. At the beginning of Fiscal Year 2025, FBI’s Indian Country program had approximately 4,300 open investigations, including over 900 death investigations, 1,000 child abuse investigations, and more than 500 domestic violence and adult sexual abuse investigations.

    Operation Not Forgotten renews efforts begun during President Trump’s first term under E.O. 13898, Establishing the Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives. This is the third deployment under Operation Not Forgotten, which has provided investigative support to over 500 cases in the past two years. Combined, these operations resulted in the recovery of 10 child victims, 52 arrests, and 25 indictments or judicial complaints.

    Operation Not Forgotten also expands upon the resources deployed in recent years to address cases of missing and murdered indigenous people. The effort will be supported by the Department’s MMIP Regional Outreach Program, which places attorneys and coordinators in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the United States to help prevent and respond to cases of missing or murdered indigenous people.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Business Ethics Expert to Discuss Evolving Role of Religion, Ethics, and the Workplace

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    It was, perhaps, the most talked-about wedding cake in the history of marriage ceremonies.

    In 2012, Masterpiece Cakeshop in Lakewood, Colo., refused to make a custom wedding cake for the marriage of a same-sex couple. The bakery owner objected, saying that the ceremony conflicted with his religious beliefs.

    Although the Colorado Civil Rights Commission found the bakery had discriminated against the couple, the U.S. Supreme Court later overturned that decision in 2018. The ruling said the Commission failed to maintain religious neutrality, sidestepping questions about anti-discrimination laws and human rights.

    “The case arose when two populations wanted vastly different outcomes,’’ said professor Eric D. Yordy of the W.A. Franke College of Business at Northern Arizona University. “The LGBTQ community was unhappy that the bakery told the couple to find a cake somewhere else. And others felt that the bakery shouldn’t be forced to do something that conflicted with the owner’s religion.’’

    Social Media Has Put Religious Conflict in the Spotlight

    Yordy will be the guest presenter at the School of Business’ Equity Now Speaker Series at 6 p.m. April 16. His presentation, which will be virtual, is open to students, faculty, alumni and friends of the university. To register for the program, please visit the Equity Now Website

    Despite being a nation that embraces religious freedom, the parameters are still evolving.

    “We are a country founded on religious freedom, but this issue is what are the boundaries of religious freedom and how do they impact business?,’’ he said.

    The cake dispute is just one of many.

    Hobby Lobby, the 1,000-store arts and crafts retailer, was founded on evangelical Protestant beliefs. It found itself in the crosshairs of law and religion when it denied employees access to contraceptives and the morning-after pill. The company argued that the First Amendment to the Constitution and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act serve to protect its religious beliefs. The Supreme Court ruled in the company’s favor.

    What might have once been an internal conflict to resolve, today frequently leads to publicity and public outcry.

    “With the way the world is now and so much that has happened in the last 20 years with social media, company decisionmakers need to be much more careful about what they’re doing,’’ Yordy said. “They can be crucified by social media. Now more than ever, consequences are bigger. Twenty years ago, most people wouldn’t have known about these disagreements.’’

    Professor Designed Ethical Model

    Yordy is a professor of business covering business law and ethics at Northern Arizona University and he has served in a variety of executive roles there, including as associate dean. He is also the founding director of the college’s Institute for Public and Professional Ethics in Leadership, an interdisciplinary initiative to increase ethics work both on campus and in the community.
    Yordy and a colleague devised the ethics COVER model, a framework for ethical decision-making that helps users identify and analyze decisions with ethical ramifications by incorporating managerial decision-making and philosophical approaches. It address values, outcomes, and legal requirements.

    He has authored or co-authored numerous case studies using the COVER model and other decision-making tools on topics as far ranging as the ethics of reverse mortgages, conflicts of interest, censorship in mobile application development, and the marketing of sugary cereal to children.

    “We were seeing a lot of arguments that asked, ‘If everyone else is doing it, is it a bad decision?’ he said. “Well, yes, if you polluted something, even ‘just a little bit,’ it is still unethically sound. One of the questions we pose is: ‘If people heard about what you’re doing, would it influence who they think you are?’ ’’

    The Equity Now Speaker Series is produced by the UConn School of Business in coordination with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia tech, Indiana University and Temple University. This is the final installment of five programs during the 2024-25 academic year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DRI Relays Inc. to Pay $15.7M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Involving the Sale of Non-Military Grade Parts to Department of Defense

    Source: US State of California

    DRI Relays Inc. (DRI), a subsidiary of TE Connectivity Corporation (TEC), has agreed to pay $15.7 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by supplying military parts that did not meet military specifications, the Justice Department announced today.

    TEC acquired DRI in October 2020. DRI manufactures electrical relays and sockets for numerous military platforms and has manufacturing locations in Long Island, New York, and Bangalore, India. In January 2011, TEC disclosed to the Department of Defense that DRI had not conducted certain required tests on MIL-PRF-83536 relays and MIL-DTL-12883 sockets, and cooperated with the government’s investigation. The United States subsequently alleged that between 2015 and 2021, under various Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and subcontracts, DRI invoiced for military grade electrical relays and sockets when it knew those parts had not met the testing requirements to be deemed military grade.  

    “It is essential to the safety and operational readiness of our military that contractors comply with applicable military specifications,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable those who knowingly supply equipment to the U.S. military that fails to meet their contract obligations.”

    “Maintaining the integrity of the U.S. Department of Defense supply chain is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” said Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its suppliers to adhere to contract specifications and perform required testing on products sold to the U.S. military. We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of contractors failing to meet testing protocols and disclose product deficiencies.”

    “This settlement demonstrates the resolve of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID) and our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the equipment and materiel procured or used by the United States Army,” said Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly of the Department of the Army CID Fraud Field Office. “Failures to adhere to established standards when providing military parts can place our Soldiers at significant risk and adversely impact the Army’s warfighting capabilities.”

    This matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Art J. Coulter of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section. DCIS, Army CID, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency assisted in this investigation.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DRI Relays Inc. to Pay $15.7M to Settle False Claims Act Allegations Involving the Sale of Non-Military Grade Parts to Department of Defense

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    DRI Relays Inc. (DRI), a subsidiary of TE Connectivity Corporation (TEC), has agreed to pay $15.7 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by supplying military parts that did not meet military specifications, the Justice Department announced today.

    TEC acquired DRI in October 2020. DRI manufactures electrical relays and sockets for numerous military platforms and has manufacturing locations in Long Island, New York, and Bangalore, India. In January 2011, TEC disclosed to the Department of Defense that DRI had not conducted certain required tests on MIL-PRF-83536 relays and MIL-DTL-12883 sockets, and cooperated with the government’s investigation. The United States subsequently alleged that between 2015 and 2021, under various Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and subcontracts, DRI invoiced for military grade electrical relays and sockets when it knew those parts had not met the testing requirements to be deemed military grade.  

    “It is essential to the safety and operational readiness of our military that contractors comply with applicable military specifications,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to hold accountable those who knowingly supply equipment to the U.S. military that fails to meet their contract obligations.”

    “Maintaining the integrity of the U.S. Department of Defense supply chain is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” said Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its suppliers to adhere to contract specifications and perform required testing on products sold to the U.S. military. We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of contractors failing to meet testing protocols and disclose product deficiencies.”

    “This settlement demonstrates the resolve of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID) and our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the equipment and materiel procured or used by the United States Army,” said Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly of the Department of the Army CID Fraud Field Office. “Failures to adhere to established standards when providing military parts can place our Soldiers at significant risk and adversely impact the Army’s warfighting capabilities.”

    This matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Art J. Coulter of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section. DCIS, Army CID, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency assisted in this investigation.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson asks Trump administration to close loophole allowing drug traffickers to flood US with fentanylRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a coalition of 25 state attorneys general asking the Trump administration to close a loophole used by adversaries and drug traffickers to flood deadly fentanyl into the United States. In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem and Acting Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Pete Flores, the attorneys general call for greater scrutiny of an import pilot program called Entry Type 86, which allows small packages to enter the U.S. with minimal customs screening. 

    “Fentanyl is killing our family members, friends, and neighbors, and we can’t afford to leave the door open for drug traffickers to exploit weak spots in our system,” said Attorney General Wilson. “The Entry Type 86 program has become a Trojan horse, allowing deadly drugs to flood into our communities with minimal oversight. I’m proud to stand with my fellow attorneys general and President Trump’s administration to demand immediate action to close this loophole and protect American lives. South Carolina will not sit back while drug cartels poison our families.” 

    In just a 10-year period, imports under the Entry Type 86 program skyrocketed from 153 million packages in 2015 to over 1.2 billion in 2024. Any surge of this magnitude requires further study because of serious concerns about the amount of fentanyl and other deadly drugs that could be coming into the country. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid narcotic up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. As little as two milligrams of fentanyl – smaller than the tip of a pencil – can be lethal.  

    In addition, some shippers use the Entry Type 86 program to dodge regulations and avoid paying required duties, raising concerns about security risks, illegal trade, and weaknesses in our supply chain.  

    Attorney General Wilson joined Kentucky, which led the letter, alongside attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming. 

    You can read the letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Attorney general’s statement on Sikh Heritage Month

    Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement in celebration of Sikh Heritage Month: 

    “April marks Sikh Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history of Sikhism.

    “The values of Sikhism echo perfectly those that Canadians and British Columbians hold dear, from the belief that all people are created equal to understanding the importance of serving one’s community. These are the beliefs that the first Sikh migrants to B.C. in the early 1900s brought with them, and they are what have defined the contributions that Sikhs have made to this province.

    “Today, nearly 300,000 Sikhs call British Columbia home, making it one of the largest Sikh populations outside of Punjab, India. Even in the face of exclusionary policies and systemic racism, Sikhs have shown resilience and have built thriving communities. They are staunch advocates for justice, compassion and inclusivity, especially in times of crisis. From health care and agriculture to business and politics, today, Sikhs are leaders in all areas of our society.

    “The challenges faced by Sikhs in B.C. have changed over the years. Some of the most pressing concerns right now are anti-immigration sentiment, negative stereotyping associated with religious symbols and systemic barriers to accessing services. Our government is committed to fighting back, through investment in community-led initiatives and implementing legislation like the Anti-Racism Act.

    “The best way we can eradicate hate and bigotry is by learning about each other’s cultures, highlighting our similarities and celebrating our differences. This Sikh Heritage Month, I encourage all British Columbians to explore the festivities in your communities and learn about Sikh culture and traditions.

    “Happy Sikh Heritage Month!”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Maris-Tech Enters Into Distribution Agreement with Thrikasa Technologies to Expand Presence in India

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Thrikasa Technologies will serve as key local distributor, strengthening Maris-Tech’s reach in the Indian defense markets

    Rehovot, Israel, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Maris-Tech Ltd. (Nasdaq: MTEK, MTEKW) (“Maris-Tech” or the “Company”), a global leader in video and artificial intelligence (“AI”)-based edge computing technology, today announced that it has entered into a new distribution agreement with Thrikasa Technologies (“Thrikasa”), a veteran Indian supplier of computing solutions for rugged environments. Pursuant to the agreement, Thrikasa will serve as a key distribution partner for Maris-Tech’s solutions across India.

    With its headquarters in Hyderabad, Thrikasa brings deep experience in delivering advanced technology to defense, aerospace, and critical infrastructure clients across the region. The collaboration will include joint marketing, exhibition participation and coordinated sales efforts, which Maris-Tech expects will allow it to better serve Indian customers with localized expertise and support.

    “We are excited to announce this agreement with Thrikasa, a highly respected participant in India’s defense technology ecosystem,” said Israel Bar, Chief Executive Officer of Maris-Tech. “We believe that Thrikasa’s technical knowledge and trusted relationships make them an ideal collaborator, as we continue to establish our presence in India and bring our advanced edge computing and AI video solutions to the Indian market.”

    About Maris-Tech Ltd.

    Maris-Tech is a global leader in video and AI-based edge computing technology, pioneering intelligent video transmission solutions that conquer complex encoding-decoding challenges. Our miniature, lightweight, and low-power products deliver high-performance capabilities, including raw data processing, seamless transfer, advanced image processing, and AI-driven analytics. Founded by Israeli technology sector veterans, Maris-Tech serves leading manufacturers worldwide in defense, aerospace, Intelligence gathering, homeland security (HLS), and communication industries. We’re pushing the boundaries of video transmission and edge computing, driving innovation in mission-critical applications across commercial and defense sectors.

    For more information, visit https://www.maris-tech.com/

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect”,” “may”, “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it is discussing: the anticipated benefits of the distribution agreement between the Company and Thrikasa and the Company’s expansion of its advanced edge computing and AI video solutions  in the Indian market. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: its ability to raise capital through the issuance of additional securities; its planned level of revenues and capital expenditures; belief that our existing cash and cash equivalents, as of December 31, 2024, will be sufficient to fund our operations through the next twelve months; its ability to market and sell our products; its plans to continue to invest in research and development to develop technology for both existing and new products; its plans to collaborate, or statements regarding the ongoing collaborations, with partner companies; its ability to maintain our relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and other partners; its ability to maintain or protect the validity of our intellectual property; its ability to retain key executive members; its ability to internally develop and protect new inventions and intellectual property; its ability to expose and educate the industry about the use of our products; its expectations regarding our tax classifications; its qualification as an emerging growth company or a foreign private issuer; interpretations of current laws and the passages of future laws; general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates including those related to recent unrest and actual or potential armed conflict in Israel and other parts of the Middle East, such as the multi-front war Israel is facing; and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations:

    Nir Bussy, CFO
    Tel: +972-72-2424022
    Nir@maris-tech.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 10 More MLSs deploy Restb.ai advanced AI features

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Restb.ai, the real estate industry’s leader in AI-powered computer vision technology, continues its rapid expansion by serving 10 additional Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) throughout the US. With these new integrations, over 45,000 thousand more real estate professionals will gain access to AI-driven tools that enhance property listings, streamline compliance, and improve the home search experience. Restb.ai technology reaches more than 800,000 agents and brokers across North America.

    “These MLSs are embracing artificial intelligence to deliver real, tangible value to their members,” said Dominik Pogorzelski, President, MLS at Restb.ai. “By deploying AI-powered solutions, they are reducing manual work for agents and ensuring more complete, accurate, and searchable property listings – benefits that directly impact both agents and consumers.”

    MLSs that are bringing for the first time advanced Restb.ai technology to their members/subscribers include:

    Mid-America Regional Information Systems, Inc. (MARIS)
    Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Mid-America Regional Information Systems (MARIS) is a regional MLS in the heart of the Midwest with a mission of providing an orderly marketplace of cooperation and compensation for participants through a common database of real estate information. Established in 1995, MARIS supports over 15,000 subscribers in 14 Associations covering 67 counties.

    MIBOR Broker Listing Cooperative®
    The MIBOR Broker Listing Cooperative® (BLC) is the engine that powers the local real estate market. By providing best-in-class listing services to members in 17 counties throughout central Indiana, the BLC empowers REALTORS® to facilitate transactions with timely, accurate, and reliable listing information, which creates an efficient marketplace. Owned by the MIBOR REALTOR® Association, founded in 1912, MIBOR proudly represents more than 10,000 real estate professionals in central Indiana.

    All Jersey MLS (formerly CJMLS)
    ALL JERSEY MLS, formerly known as Central Jersey MLS, is New Jersey’s most comprehensive real estate resource, with statewide listing services covering the entire state of New Jersey. All Jersey MLS provides premier business solutions to appraisal and real estate professionals statewide.

    Maine Listings
    Maine Listings, a subsidiary of the Maine Association of REALTORS®, is the state’s official Multiple Listing Service, providing over 6,900 real estate professionals with comprehensive property data, compliance tools, and advanced listing solutions to enhance accuracy and market transparency.

    Montana Regional MLS
    Montana Regional MLS serves real estate professionals covering Central and Western Montana from the Rocky Mountains to the Idaho state line. With the most up-to-date, accurate, and complete information on real estate for sale in Montana, the Montana Regional MLS is REALTOR® owned.

    Capital Area Technology & REALTOR®Services (CATRS – Tallahassee Board of REALTORS®)
    CATRS is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Tallahassee Board of REALTORS®. It serves real estate professionals in the state’s capital and surrounding area by providing resources and opportunities to support their success.

    Bryan-College Station Multiple Listing Service
    The Bryan-College Station MLS, wholly owned by the Bryan-College Station Regional Association of REALTORS®, serves as the primary MLS for the region with approximately 1,800 subscribers and over 3,000 listings on the market.

    Vail Multi-List Service (VMLS)
    The Vail Multi-List Service serves real estate professionals throughout Colorado’s entire Vail Valley market. VMLS is recognized as the most accurate source for local real estate data and market analysis tools and provides relevant technology and accurate accessible data to its members.

    St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS®
    Founded in 1964, the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS® is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, whose core purpose is to help its members become more profitable and successful. The association provides its members access to a wide range of value-added offers as well as significant savings on products and services they use daily.

    Longview Area Association of REALTORS®
    The Longview Area Association of REALTORS® (LAAR) has been a cornerstone of professionalism and integrity in the East Texas real estate industry since its formation. LAAR is committed to supporting its members with cutting-edge tools, expert guidance, and strong advocacy for private property rights.

    “MLSs adopting AI aren’t just improving efficiency. They’re setting the foundation to power future real estate technology,” said Nathan Brannen, Chief Product Officer at Restb.ai. “This expansion is another step toward a smarter, more streamlined industry where AI helps agents focus on what they do best: serving home buyers and sellers.”

    More information about Restb.ai MLS software solutions is here – restb.ai/customers/MLS.

    About Restb.ai
    Restb.ai, the leader in AI-powered computer vision for real estate, provides image recognition and data enrichment solutions for many of the industry’s top brands and leading innovators. Its advanced AI-powered technology automatically analyzes property imagery to unlock visual insights at scale that empower real estate companies with relevant and actionable property intelligence. Its proprietary artificial intelligence technology transforms property imagery into actionable insights, helping clients unlock new value from visual data and providing deep insight into each of the 1 million property photos uploaded daily.

    For more information on Restb.ai, visit its website. For Restb.ai-related media inquiries, please contact Maya Makarem at contact@restb.ai or maya@restb.ai or Kevin Hawkins at 1-206-866-1220 or kevin@wavgroup.com.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b657c390-46bc-4a81-8845-a02d7a1223d2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e24dad74-069d-4ae1-9c37-7f3d5b486563

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Myanmar earthquake latest: entire communities flattened, aid teams say

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Humanitarian Aid

    As the death toll continues to rise in Myanmar after last Friday’s earthquake tragedy, UN humanitarians have been rushing to support severely deprived and traumatized victims, warning that the window for lifesaving response is closing.

    Speaking to journalists from Yangon on Tuesday, Julia Rees, Deputy Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in the country described seeing massive needs rising by the hour, after a 7.7 magnitude quake.

    “Entire communities have been flattened,” she said, with children and families sleeping out in the open with no homes to return to.

    “I met children who were in shock after witnessing their homes collapsed or the death of a family member… some have been separated from their parents and others are unaccounted for,” she explained.

    Some 72 hours after the quake rocked Mandalay and Sagaing regions as well as Nay Pyi Taw and southern Shan state, the death toll has risen to around 2,000, according to the country’s military junta, with hundreds unaccounted for and thousands injured.

    “The window for lifesaving response is closing,” Ms. Rees said, while across the affected areas, families face acute shortages of clean water, food and medical supplies. But conditions remain extremely challenging as aid teams are working “without electricity or sanitation, sleeping outside, like the communities we serve”.

    International response

    The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that local search and rescue teams, supported by international rescue units from a number of countries including China, India, Russia, Thailand and Bangladesh, have been “intensifying their efforts” particularly in central Myanmar, which has continued to experience aftershocks.

    The UN’s top humanitarian official on the ground, Marcoluigi Corsi, freshly back from a visit to the country’s capital Nay Pyi Taw said that as the critical window for finding survivors under the rubble was narrowing, conditions in the affected areas continued to deteriorate.

    “You have no electricity, you have no running water,” he said, while people were battling the summer heat. “Often there are aftershocks and people are scared to go inside their homes,” he added.

    Hospitals overwhelmed

    Dr. Fernando Thushara, the representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Myanmar, said that in Nay Pyi Taw, he saw hospitals “overwhelmed with patients”.

    “The medical supplies were running dry. There were electricity disruptions in some hospitals… and shortages of running water,” he said, adding that in some cases power generators were not working and hospitals were short on fuel.

    Dr. Thushara warned that a lack of fresh water and sanitation could fuel outbreaks of infectious diseases “unless we control them very quickly”.

    He recalled that a few months back, several townships in Mandalay had been affected by cholera. About 800 cases of the water-borne disease had been reported until February across nine states and regions in Myanmar, while other infectious diseases such as dengue, hepatitis, malaria may spread further.

    The dire health situation is not the only crisis confronting the people of  Myanmar. UN refugee agency (UNHCR) spokesperson Babar Baloch stressed that the country is “reeling” from four years of conflict sparked by a military coup in 2021, while the UN’s Mr. Corsi said that in the past few years it has suffered a cyclone and massive flooding.

    Mr. Baloch spoke of a “double tragedy” for the people of Myanmar, highlighting the fact that even before the devastating earthquake hit, all the affected areas already hosted 1.6 million displaced people.

    Mr. Corsi stressed that the disaster-affected communities’ resilience is now highly compromised. Close to 20 million people across the country were already in need of humanitarian assistance before the earthquake hit and over 15 million were going hungry. Over three months into the year, the UN’s $1.1 billion humanitarian appeal for Myanmar remains only five per cent funded. “This is time…for the world to step up and support the people of Myanmar,” he concluded.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –