NewzIntel.com

Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting with newly-elected Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Home Minister, Shri Ashish Sood, Commissioner of Police, Delhi and senior officials on Law and Order and coordination, in New Delhi today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting with newly-elected Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Home Minister, Shri Ashish Sood, Commissioner of Police, Delhi and senior officials on Law and Order and coordination, in New Delhi today

    Home Minister said, the double engine government of Delhi will work with double speed for a developed and safe Delhi, as per the expectations of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

    Strict action should be taken against the entire network that helps Bangladeshi and Rohingya intruders enter the country, get their documents made and facilitate their stay here

    The issue of illegal intruders is also related to national security and it should be dealt with strictly and they should be identified and deported

    Strict action should be taken against police stations and sub-divisions which consistently perform poorly

    Union Home Minister said, it should be the priority of Delhi Police to eliminate interstate gangs in Delhi with a ruthless approach

    Work with top to bottom and bottom to top approach in narcotics cases and dismantle its entire network

    Home Minister directed that permission of Delhi Police will not be required in matters related to construction in Delhi

    For quick disposal of 2020 Delhi riots cases, the Delhi government should appoint special prosecutors so that these cases can be disposed of soon

    Delhi Police should start the process of recruitment for additional posts soon

    Union Home Minister said, DCP-level officers should go to police stations and organize public hearing camps and solve the problems of the public

    New security committees should be formed in JJ clusters for the safety of women and children

    Delhi Police should identify the places where there is daily traffic jam and Delhi Police Commissioner and Chief Secretary should meet and find a quick solution to this, so that the public can get relief

    Delhi Government should prepare a ‘Monsoon Action Plan’ to deal with water-logging by identifying the places where water-logging occurs

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 7:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on Delhi’s law and order situation in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta in New Delhi today. Home Minister of Delhi Government Shri Ashish Sood, Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan, Director of Intelligence Bureau, Chief Secretary of Delhi, Delhi Police Commissioner, and several senior officials of Union Home Ministry, Delhi Government and Delhi Police, were present.

    During the review meeting, several measures and suggestions to strengthen safety of women, children and senior citizens and improve law and order in the national capital and controlling crime were discussed in detail. While reviewing the performance of Delhi Police, Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that the Delhi Police has done good work in maintaining the law and order in Delhi. Home Minister expressed hope that the double engine government of Delhi will work with double speed for a developed and safe Delhi, as per the expectations of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation directed Delhi police that strict action should be taken against the entire network that helps Bangladeshi and Rohingya intruders enter the country, get their documents made and facilitate their stay here. He said that the issue of illegal intruders is also related to national security and it should be dealt with strictly and they should be identified and deported.

    Shri Amit Shah emphasized that strict action should be taken against police stations and sub-divisions which fail to perform. He said that it is very important to know the level of satisfaction of the people about various other activities of Delhi police through third party surveys, like lost and found, police clearance certificate, character verification, traffic management, safety of senior citizens and Himmat App. The review by third party will help improve the efficiency of these initiatives.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that it should be the priority of Delhi Police to eliminate interstate gangs in Delhi with a ruthless approach. Home Minister said that DCP-level officers should go to police stations and organize public hearing camps and solve the problems of the public. Shri Shah said that all ACPs should monitor of serious cases themselves in police stations under them. He said that for the next one year, Delhi Police should run a special drive against crimes at an interval of every three months and later on it should be run every one and a half months.

    Union Home Minister said that there is a need to work with a ‘top to bottom’ and ‘bottom to top’ approach in dealing with narcotics cases and dismantle its entire network. He directed that permission of Delhi Police will not be required in matters related to construction in Delhi. He directed that 25 security committees should be formed, on a pilot basis, in JJ clusters and after seeing their results and efficacy the initiative may then be taken forward.

    Union Home Minister asked the Delhi Government to prepare a ‘Monsoon Action Plan’ to deal with water-logging by identifying the places where water-logging occurs.

    Shri Amit Shah directed that to prevent traffic jams caused by broken down buses, DTC should deploy QRTs and coordinate with other departments to seek immediate help and reduce the response time in removing the obstruction to the traffic.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that efforts should be made to make Mandoli and Tihar jails of Delhi as model jails. He asked Delhi Police to start the process of recruitment for additional posts soon. He said that for quick disposal of 2020 Delhi riots cases, the Delhi government should appoint special prosecutors so that these cases can be disposed of soon.

    Shri Amit Shah said that only with mutual cooperation between Delhi Police and Delhi Government the country’s capital can be made an ideal capital. He suggested working towards joint efforts on traffic management, strengthening the infrastructure of law enforcement, women and child empowerment, mutual cooperation between civic departments, curbing corruption, community policing, maintenance and integration of CCTV cameras, etc.

    ***

    RK/VV/RR

    (Release ID: 2107051) Visitor Counter : 12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Former PM of Australia Anthony John Abbott visits NAFED Millet Experience Centre at Dilli Haat New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Former PM of Australia Anthony John Abbott visits NAFED Millet Experience Centre at Dilli Haat New Delhi

    Anthony John Abbott appreciates India’s leadership in reviving traditional grains and promoting their global consumption

    Former PM describes Indian millets as “Super food for a Super Country”

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Former Prime Minister of Australia Shri Anthony John Abbott visited the NAFED Millet Experience Centre at Dilli Haat, New Delhi today to explore India’s initiatives in promoting Shree Anna (millets) as a sustainable and nutritious food source. During the visit, Anthony John Abbott was introduced to a diverse range of Ready to Cook (RTC) and Ready to Eat (RTE) products made from different types of millets as well as millet staples like grains, flours, sprouted flours and more. He interacted with Shri Chandrajit Chatterjee, Additional Managing Director NAFED, Shri Amit Goel, General Manager NAFED, Shri Ranjan Kumar, Manager NAFED and Ms. Pallavi Upadhyaya, Coordinator Millet Experience Center and learned about India’s commitment to millet production, its impact on climate-resilient agriculture, and the role of Shree Anna in ensuring food security, better nutrition and a sustainable food ecosystem.

    At the Millet Experience Centre, Anthony John Abbott also experienced millet-based culinary innovations such as Millet Papdi Chaat, Millet Pasta in Mixed Sauce, Ragi Ghee Roast Masala Dosa, Ragi Cake etc. showcasing the versatility of these grains that can be incorporated into everyday diets while maintaining high nutritional value.

    Anthony John Abbott appreciated India’s leadership in reviving traditional grains and promoting their global consumption. He hoped that similar programme for Millets related awareness can also be explored in Australia due to its property of being environment friendly and healthy. He emphasized that millets are the ‘super food for a super country’.

    Millets, often referred to as “super grains”, have gained global recognition for their high fiber, protein, and micronutrient content, making them an essential component of a balanced diet. The Millet Experience Centre stands as a testament to India’s dedication to promoting millets as a climate-smart and health-friendly food choice.

    The visit highlights the increasing global interest in millets as a sustainable crop and reinforces the significance of traditional food systems in ensuring a healthier future.

    *****

    MG/RN/KSR

    (Release ID: 2107043) Visitor Counter : 75

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI responds to the DoT’s back-reference in respect of the TRAI’s recommendations dated 18.09.2024 on ‘the Framework for Service Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’.

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:36PM by PIB Delhi

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today issued its response to the back-reference received from Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in respect of TRAI’s recommendations dated 18.09.2024 on ‘the Framework for Service Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’.

    Earlier, DoT through a reference dated 21.06.2024, under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997, requested TRAI to provide recommendations on terms and conditions, including fees or charges, for authorisation to provide telecommunication services as per the provisions of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. After a detailed consultation with stakeholders, TRAI provided its recommendations on ‘the Framework for Service Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’ dated 18.09.2024 to DoT.

    In this regard, DoT, through a back-reference dated 14.01.2025, informed TRAI that the recommendations of TRAI on ‘the Framework for Service Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023′ have been considered by the Government. DoT through the back-reference, shared its prima facie views in respect of each recommendation. Further, DoT, through the back-reference, requested TRAI to provide its reconsidered recommendations, in accordance with the provisions of Section 11(1) of the TRAI Act 1997, on the recommendations, in respect of which, the Government has reached a prima-facie conclusion that the recommendations may not be accepted or may need modification.

    After examining the prima facie views of DoT, TRAI has finalized its response to the back-reference. TRAI’s response to the back-reference has been placed on the TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in).

    For any clarification or information, Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum and Licensing), TRAI may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907758.

    *****

    Samrat/Dheeraj/Allen

    (Release ID: 2107031) Visitor Counter : 79

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement: Second Meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council, New Delhi (February 28, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The second meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) took place in New Delhi on 28 February 2025. It was co-chaired on the Indian side by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar; Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal; and Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw. Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Ms. Henna Virkkunen, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency Mr. Maros Šefčovič and Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ms Ekaterina Zaharieva co-chaired on the EU side.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had established the India-EU TTC in April 2022 as a key bilateral platform to address challenges at the confluence of trade, trusted technology and security. India and the European Union, as two large and vibrant democracies with open market economies, shared values and pluralistic societies, are natural partners in a multipolar world.

    The deepening of bilateral relations and the growing strategic convergence between the EU and India respond to the shifting dynamics of the global geopolitical landscape and a common interest in promoting global stability, economic security, and sustainable and inclusive growth. In that respect, both sides emphasized again the importance of the rules-based international order and the full respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, transparency, and peaceful resolution of disputes. The TTC reflects a shared acknowledgement between the EU and India of the increasingly critical links between trade and technology, the potential of cooperation on these issues to enhance the economies of both partners, and the need to work together on the related security challenges. Both sides note the potential of their partnership to increase resilience, strengthen connectivity and drive forward the development of green and clean technologies.

    The first meeting of the India-EU TTC was held in Brussels on 16 May 2023. The TTC Ministerial Meeting provided political guidance for the way forward. Subsequently on 24 November 2023, a stock-taking meeting in virtual mode reviewed the progress made by the three TTC working groups.

    Working Group 1 on Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance, and Digital Connectivity

    India and the European Union reaffirmed the importance of deepening their digital cooperation in line with their shared values through the Working Group 1 on Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance, and Digital Connectivity. Both sides committed to leverage their respective strengths to accelerate a human-centric digital transformation and the development of advanced and trustworthy digital technologies such as AI, semiconductors, High-Performance Computing and 6G, which will benefit both economies and societies. Both sides committed to work jointly to strengthen EU-India research and innovation for this purpose to further enhance competitiveness, while increasing their economic security. Both sides committed to promoting global connectivity in a cyber-secure digital ecosystem.

    Recognizing the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for the development of open and inclusive digital economies and digital societies, India and the European Union agreed to collaborate on working towards interoperability of their respective DPIs that respect human rights and protect personal data, privacy, and intellectual property rights. Both sides further committed to jointly promote DPIs solutions to third countries and further emphasized the need of mutual recognition of e-signatures to enhance cross-border digital transactions and foster mutual economic growth.

    Both sides emphasized their commitment to further strengthen the resilience of semiconductor supply chains and promote collaboration in the field of semiconductors. To that end, they agreed to explore joint R&D in the field of chip design, heterogeneous integration, sustainable semiconductor technologies, technology development for advanced processes for process design kit (PDK), among others. Both sides shall promote the strengthening of the EU and Indian semiconductor ecosystems to enhance technological capabilities and ensure supply chain resilience by developing sustainable, secure and diversified semiconductor production capacities. Furthermore, they committed to developing a dedicated programme that will facilitate talent exchanges and foster semiconductor skills among students and young professionals.

    The two sides reiterated their commitment to safe, secure, trustworthy, human-centric, sustainable and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) and to promote this vision on the international level. In addition, with a view to ensuring continued and impactful cooperation on AI, the European AI Office and India AI Mission agreed to deepen cooperation, encouraging an ecosystem of innovation and fostering information exchange on common open research questions for developing trustworthy AI. They also agreed to enhance cooperation on large language models, and to harness the potential of AI for human development and common good, including through joint projects such as developing tools and frameworks for ethical and responsible AI. These will build on the progress made under R&D collaboration on high-performance computing applications in the areas of natural hazards, climate change, and bioinformatics.

    India and the EU welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Bharat 6G Alliance and the EU 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association for aligning research and development priorities and creating secured and trusted telecommunications and resilient supply chains. Both sides will also enhance cooperation on IT and telecoms standardisation with a particular focus on promoting interoperable global standards.

    Furthermore, the two sides agreed to work towards bridging the digital skills gap, explore mutual recognition of certifications, and promote legal pathways of skilled professionals and exchange of talent.

    Both sides agreed to collaborate on the implementation of the Global Digital Compact, agreed by consensus at the UN General Assembly in September 2024, as a key instrument for delivering on their shared objectives. They noted the need to ensure that the forthcoming World Summit on Information Society +20 maintains global support for and enhances the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance.

    Working Group 2 on Clean and Green Technologies

    India and the European Union recalled the importance of the priority workstreams identified under Working Group 2 on Clean and Green Technologies for achieving net zero emissions by 2070 and 2050 for India and the European Union, respectively. Achieving these targets will require significant investment in new clean technologies and standards. An emphasis on research and innovation (R&I) will foster technological collaboration and exchange of best practices between the EU and India. In parallel, supporting technological innovations for market uptake will enhance access to the respective markets by Indian and EU enterprises and facilitate wide adoption of innovative technologies. This opens perspectives for cooperation between Indian and EU incubators, SMEs and start-ups and building human resource capability and capacity in such technologies.

    In this regard, both sides agreed on joint research cooperation through exceptional coordinated calls on recycling of batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), marine plastic litter, and waste-to-hydrogen. The estimated total joint budget will be about EUR 60 million from the Horizon Europe programme and from matching Indian contributions. On recycling of batteries for EVs, the focus will be on battery circularity through different kinds of flexible/low cost/easy to recycle batteries. In marine plastic litter, the focus will be on developing technologies for detection, measurement and analysis of aquatic litter and for mitigation of the cumulative impact of pollution on the marine environment. On waste-to-hydrogen, the focus will be on developing technologies with greater efficiency to produce hydrogen from biogenic wastes.

    The two sides recalled the importance of the substantive exchanges between experts in the identified areas of cooperation as the basis for future action. Indian experts have participated in a training and mutual learning exercise on EV interoperability and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) at the Joint Research Centre (JRC) E-Mobility Lab in Ispra, Italy in January 2024. Furthermore, a joint hybrid workshop on EV Charging Technologies (Standardisation and Testing) was organised at the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Pune, India and online, to deepen the EU-Indian dialogue and the industry’s engagement in charging infrastructure standardisation processes with India. The two sides also concluded a Matchmaking Event to identify, support and organise exchanges between Indian and EU startups in technology for recycling of batteries for EVs. Experts also jointly discussed assessment and monitoring tools for marine plastic litter. Finally, an “Ideathon” fostering EU-India collaboration to co-create practical solutions involving all stakeholders for addressing marine plastic pollution effectively is in preparation.

    Both sides agreed to explore cooperation on harmonising standards for EV charging infrastructure, including cooperative, pre-normative research for harmonised testing solutions and knowledge exchange in the domain of e-mobility. They also agreed to explore how to enhance collaboration in the field of hydrogen-related safety standards, the science of standards as well as the market uptake of wastewater treatment technologies as outcomes of previous jointly conducted research projects.

    Working Group 3 on Trade, Investment and Resilient Value Chains

    India and the European Union noted productive discussions under Working Group 3 on Trade, Investment and Resilient Value Chains with a view to building a closer economic partnership between India and the European Union. In an increasingly challenging geopolitical context, both sides committed to work together for creating wealth and shared prosperity. The work under Working Group 3 complements the ongoing negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), an Investment Protection Agreement (IPA) and a Geographical Indications Agreement which are proceeding on separate tracks.

    Both sides committed to fostering resilient and future-ready value chains by prioritizing transparency, predictability, diversification, security and sustainability. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress made on Agri-food, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and Clean Technologies sectors and agreed on work plans in these three fields with the aim of promoting value chains that can withstand global challenges.

    In agriculture, India and the EU intend to collaborate on contingency planning for food security and welcomed common efforts on shared research and innovations needs regarding climate-resilient practices, crop diversification and infrastructure improvements as promoted for cooperation through the G20 framework. In the pharmaceutical sector, both sides aim to enhance transparency and security in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) supply chains by mapping vulnerabilities, promoting sustainable manufacturing, and establishing early warning systems to prevent disruptions. Clean technology cooperation centers on strengthening supply chains for solar energy, offshore wind, and clean hydrogen by exchanging information on sectoral capabilities and investment incentives and Research, Development and Innovation priorities as well as on methodologies to assess vulnerabilities, discussing approaches to minimize trade barriers and exploring possible synergies of the supply chains. Across these sectors, India and the EU are working to foster investment, exchange best practices, and mitigate risks through regular dialogues, research collaborations, and business-to-business engagements, ensuring supply chain resilience and sustainable economic growth.

    Both sides acknowledged that relevant priority market access issues are being addressed through cooperation within the TTC framework. The EU side appreciated the Indian initiatives to approve the marketing of several EU plant products while the Indian side appreciated the listing of a number of Indian aquaculture establishments and taking up the issue of equivalence for agricultural organic products. Both sides agreed to pursue their efforts on these topics, under the TTC review mechanism, and to continue their engagement on remaining issues flagged by each other.

    The two sides noted the exchanges regarding best practices in the screening of Foreign Direct Investments, which is an area of growing importance to foster economic security.

    India and the EU strengthened their commitment towards the multilateral trading system as an anchor in the current challenging geopolitical context. At the same time, they recognized the need to bring necessary reform to the WTO so that it is able to address efficiently and effectively issues of interest to Members. Both sides also recognized the importance of a functioning dispute settlement system. For this purpose, they agreed to deepen their dialogue and engagement to help the WTO deliver concrete outcomes, including at MC14.

    Both sides have held in-depth discussions on trade and decarbonization through several bilateral channels and have engaged jointly with stakeholders, especially on the implementation of the EU’s carbon border mechanism (CBAM). Both sides discussed the challenges arising out of CBAM implementation, in particular for the small and medium enterprises and agreed to continue addressing them.

    The co-chairs reaffirmed their commitment to expanding and deepening their engagement under the TTC and to working together to fulfill the goals laid out in this successful second meeting of the TTC. They agreed to meet again for the third meeting of TTC within one year from now.

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2107026) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Mines Awards Letter of Intent to JNPA for Construction Sand Block in the Offshore Area

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:18PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Mines & Coal, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, and Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis handed over the Letter of Intent (LoI) for grant of Composite licence in respect of offshore Blocks of construction sand to Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Ports Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai today. The construction sand from the offshore mineral block, located off the coast of Maharashtra, will be used for the reclamation and development of the Greenfield Port at Vadhavan, Palghar, Maharashtra by JNPA. The offshore sand block is located off the Daman coast about 50 km from the proposed Vadhavan Port site at a depth varying from 20 m. to 25 m.

    The offshore construction sand block will meet the requirement of reclamation of about 200 million cubic metres of sand for the development of an all-weather Greenfield Major Port at Vadhavan in the State of Maharashtra. The Vadhavan Port is being developed at a total cost of Rs. 76,220 Cr and will create a cumulative capacity of 298 million metric tons per annum, including 23.2 million TEUs (Twenty Foot Equivalent Units) of container handling capacity, and will comprise 9 container terminals, each of 1000 meters length, 4 multipurpose berths etc. JNPA, as one of India’s leading port authorities, has played a pivotal role in driving the nation’s trade and logistics ecosystem

    This is the first time a mineral block is being allocated for exploration and production of minerals in the offshore areas of India. The Parliament amended the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development & Regulation) Act, 2002, in August, 2023 which, inter alia, introduced provision of reservation of mineral blocks to the Government, Government companies or Corporations for the purposes of the Central Government.

    At the request of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), the Ministry of Mines reserved the offshore area for the purpose of Central Government under the amended Act vide notification dated 21.12.2023. Today’s grant of Letter of Intent will allow the JNPA to obtain clearances for grant of composite licence in respect of the offshore block.

    The identification of the offshore block was made after due consultation with the concerned Ministries and Departments, ensuring a holistic and well-coordinated approach towards offshore mineral development. The Letter of Intent awarded to JNPA today is a testament to these reforms, reinforcing commitment to responsible, efficient, and globally competitive offshore mineral development.

    The allocation of the block will significantly reduce land-based dependence of construction sand for development and port operations of JNPA. This project is expected to generate employment, boost local industries, and support the government’s vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    JNPA will be adopting state-of-the-art dredging technology to ensure minimal disruption to marine biodiversity and adhere to the highest environmental standards. JNPA is expected to adhere to Harit Sagar Guidelines and Maritime India Vision 2030, ensuring responsible extraction, land reclamation, and long-term ecological balance with its future-ready, sustainable port.

    This initiative reflects government’s unwavering commitment to economic growth that is both inclusive and environmentally sustainable. This milestone reflects government’s proactive approach in unlocking the vast potential of maritime economy and India’s vast offshore resources.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

    (Release ID: 2107022) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “TDB-DST supports M/s APChemi Pvt. Ltd., Navi Mumbai to Advance Plastic Circularity with Indigenous Pyrolysis Oil Purification Technology”

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The Technology Development Board (TDB) has signed an agreement with M/s APChemi Pvt. Ltd., Navi Mumbai, for their project titled “Production and Commercialization of Purified Pyrolysis Oil to Enable Downstream Production of Circular Plastics and Sustainable Chemicals.” Under this agreement, TDB has sanctioned financial assistance, reaffirming its commitment to fostering indigenous technological advancements in sustainability.

    (Pic- Sh. R.K.Pathak, Secretary (TDB) exchanging agreement with Mr. Suhas Dixit, CEO, M/s APChemi Pvt. Ltd. along with other officials from TDB & AlChemi Pvt. Ltd.)

    APChemi, a pioneer in plastic and biomass pyrolysis with 12 patents (including five granted), has developed a transformative technology that converts non-recyclable, end-of-life plastic waste into high-value, refinery-grade pyrolysis oil. Their patented PUREMAX™ technology offers an innovative and cost-effective method for purifying pyrolysis oil, making it suitable for producing PUROIL™, a feedstock validated by leading global petrochemical and FMCG companies for food-grade circular plastics.

    With the global plastic waste crisis escalating—where less than 10% of the 350 million metric tonnes generated annually is effectively recycled—this project is poised to accelerate plastic circularity by processing 1.2 to 6 kilotonnes of waste per year. Additionally, it is expected to generate approximately 100 jobs while significantly curbing plastic pollution and lowering carbon emissions associated with incineration and landfilling.

    One of the key strengths of this technology lies in its capability to process complex multi-layer packaging waste containing PET and PVC, with an impurity removal efficiency of up to 99.7% for chlorine. This breakthrough has already garnered interest from eight global corporations, including Shell, BASF, Unilever, and PepsiCo, which have issued Letters of Intent for integrating PUROIL™ into their supply chains to advance circularity in plastics.

    Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, emphasized the project’s alignment with national priorities, stating, “APChemi’s innovative approach exemplifies the kind of indigenous solutions that TDB is dedicated to supporting—technologies that not only address pressing environmental challenges but also strengthen domestic capabilities and create economic opportunities. This initiative will significantly contribute to establishing a sustainable and self-reliant circular economy for plastics in India, reducing reliance on imported crude oil and fostering employment generation.”

    Mr. Suhas Dixit, CEO, APChemi, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “The partnership with TDB marks a significant milestone in our mission to turn the plastic waste crisis into an economic opportunity while restoring environmental balance. Our technology bridges a crucial gap in plastic circularity by eliminating corrosives and catalyst poisons from pyrolysis oil, enabling the production of high-value circular plastics from waste that would otherwise contribute to pollution.”

    ****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2107018) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leaders’ Statement: Visit of Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and EU College of Commissioners to India (February 27-28, 2025)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President of the European Commission Ms. Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that the EU-India Strategic Partnership has delivered strong benefits for their peoples and for the larger global good. They committed to raise this partnership to a higher-level, building upon 20 years of India-EU Strategic Partnership and over 30 years of India-EC Cooperation Agreement.

    President von der Leyen was on her landmark official visit as she led the European Union College of Commissioners to India on 27-28 February 2025. This is the first visit of the College of Commissioners outside the European continent since the start of their new mandate and also the first such visit in the history of India-EU bilateral ties.

    As the two largest democracies and open market economies with diverse pluralistic societies, India and EU underscored their commitment and shared interest in shaping a resilient multipolar global order that underpins peace and stability, economic growth and sustainable development.

    The leaders agreed that shared values and principles including democracy, rule of law, and the rules-based international order in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter make India and the EU like-minded and trusted partners. The India-EU Strategic partnership is needed now, more than ever, to jointly address global issues, foster stability, and promote mutual prosperity.

    In this context, they stressed the importance of intensifying cooperation between India and Europe in trade and de-risking of supply chains, investment, emerging critical technologies, innovation, talent, digital and green industrial transition, space and geospatial sectors, defence and people-to-people contacts. They also highlighted the need to cooperate on tackling common global challenges, including climate change, the governance of Artificial Intelligence, development finance, and terrorism in an interdependent world.

    The two leaders welcomed the progress made by the second ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) that took place during the visit in fostering deeper collaboration and strategic co-ordination at the intersection of trade, trusted technology, and green transition.

    They also welcomed the specific outcomes emerging from deliberations conducted between the EU College of Commissioners and their Indian counterpart Ministers.

    The leaders committed to as follows:

    i. Task their respective negotiating teams to pursue negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, and mutually beneficial FTA with the aim of concluding them within the course of the year, recognizing the centrality and importance of growing India EU trade and economic relations. The leaders asked the officials to work as trusted partners to enhance market access and remove trade barriers. They also tasked them to advance negotiations on an Agreement on Investment Protection and an Agreement on Geographical Indications.

    ii. Direct the India-EU Trade and Technology Council to further deepen its engagement to shape outcome-oriented cooperation in areas of economic security and supply chain resilience, market access and barriers to trade, strengthening of semiconductor ecosystems, trustworthy and sustainable Artificial Intelligence, high-performance computing, 6G, Digital Public Infrastructure, joint research and innovation for green and clean energy technologies with a focus on trusted partnerships and industry linkages across these sectors, including the recycling of batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), marine plastic litter, and waste to green/renewable hydrogen. In this context, they welcomed the progress in the implementation of MoU on semiconductors for boosting the semiconductor supply chains, leveraging complementary strengths, facilitating talent exchanges and fostering semiconductor skills among students and young professionals; as well as the signing of MoU between Bharat 6G alliance and the EU 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association for creating secured and trusted telecommunications and resilient supply chains.

    iii. Further expand and deepen cooperation under India-EU partnerships in areas of connectivity, clean energy and climate, water, smart and sustainable urbanization, and disaster management as well as work to intensify cooperation in specific areas such as clean hydrogen, offshore wind, solar energy, sustainable urban mobility, aviation, and railways. In this context, they welcomed the agreement on holding an India-EU Green Hydrogen Forum and the India-EU Business Summit on Offshore Wind Energy.

    iv. Develop new specific areas of co-operation identified during the bilateral discussions between the EU Commissioners and Indian Ministers to be reflected in the future joint Strategic Agenda to drive mutual progress.

    v. Undertake concrete steps for the realization of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) announced during the G20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, deepen their cooperation in the framework of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT 2.0), and Global Biofuels Alliance.

    vi. Strengthen people-to-people ties especially in the areas of higher education, research, tourism, culture, sports, and between their youths, and create an enabling environment for enhancing such exchanges. Also to promote legal, safe and orderly migration in areas of skilled workforce and professionals in view of India’s growing human capital and taking into account EU member states’ demographic profile and labour market needs.

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promote a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific built on international law and mutual respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes underpinned by effective regional institutions. India welcomed the EU joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Both sides also committed to explore trilateral co-operation including in Africa and the Indo-Pacific.

    The two leaders expressed satisfaction at growing cooperation in the defence and security domain, including joint exercises and collaboration between Indian Navy and EU Maritime security entities. The EU side welcomed India’s interest in joining the projects under the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) as well as to engage in negotiations for a Security of Information Agreement (SoIA). The leaders also committed to explore a security and defence partnership. They reiterated their commitment to international peace and security, including maritime security by tackling traditional and non-traditional threats to safeguard trade & sea lanes of communication. They emphasised the need to deepen collaboration in counter terrorism and to strengthen international cooperation to combat terrorism, including cross-border terrorism and terrorism financing in a comprehensive and sustained manner.

    The two leaders also discussed key international and regional issues, including on the situation in the Middle-East and the war in Ukraine. They expressed support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on respect for international law, principles of the UN charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty. They also reiterated their commitment to the vision of the two-State solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders, consistent with international law.

    The Leaders recognized the productive and forward-looking nature of the discussions and agreed on the following concrete steps:

    (i) Expedite the conclusion of the FTA by the end of the year.

    (ii) Further focused discussions on defence industry and policy to explore opportunities from new initiatives and programmes.

    (iii) A review meeting with partners to take stock on the IMEC initiative.

    (iv) Engage on maritime domain awareness with a view to promoting shared assessment, coordination and interoperability.

    (v) Convene the next meeting of the TTC at an early date to deepen cooperation in semiconductors and other critical technologies.

    (vi) Enhance the dialogue on clean and green energy between governments and industry, with a focus on green hydrogen.

    (vii) Strengthening collaboration in the Indo-Pacific including through trilateral cooperation projects.

    (viii) Strengthen cooperation on Disaster Management through the development of appropriate arrangements including on policy and technical level engagement for preparedness, response capacities and coordination.

    Both leaders expressed confidence that this momentous visit will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further expand and deepen the India-EU Strategic Partnership. They looked forward to the next India EU Summit being organized in India at the earliest mutually convenient time and to the adoption of a new joint Strategic Agenda on that occasion. President von der Leyen thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm hospitality.

    *****

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2107015) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Voice from the South: Dr. Anna Julia Cooper

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    “No profounder duty confronts a state than the necessity of constructing sane and serviceable citizens out of the material of childhood. No higher privilege awaits the individual in this land of opportunity than the privilege of contributing to such an end.”

    Dr. Anna Julia Cooper wrote these words ca. 1930 in her essay, “Educational Programs”. (Cooper, Portable, 190.)  Her life as a civil rights activist, essayist, an educator, an intellectual, and a philosopher on society and the law is an extraordinary catalog of outstanding achievements.

    Born in 1858 into slavery to Hannah Stanley Haywood in Raleigh, North Carolina, Anna Julia Haywood was freed in 1863, following the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. She enrolled in Saint Augustine Normal School and Collegiate Institute as a student, a school established by the Freedman’s Bureau, and began tutoring there at age 10 to help with her tuition. She married fellow student George A.C. Cooper when she graduated from high school. He died two years later, and she enrolled in Oberlin College in 1881, which she attended on scholarship. While there, she asked to attend the “gentlemen’s courses” which included higher mathematics, Latin, and Greek. (Cooper, Portable, xxiii.) She graduated from Oberlin with a B.A. in mathematics in 1884, and an M.A. in mathematics  in 1887.

    Mrs. A.J. Cooper. Photo by C.M. Bell, Washington, D.C. [between 1901 and 1903] Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division. http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/bellcm.15413/

    Cooper started teaching math and science at the M Street School, in Washington, D.C., after earning her M.A. from Oberlin. The school “provided a rigorous curriculum that surpassed the offerings of many white schools.” M Street offered a curriculum with academic, scientific, technical, and business tracks. Cooper published her book, A Voice from the South to a positive critical response. As the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy notes of the essay “Woman vs. the Indian”, “Cooper… calls for the natural inherent rights of all people, or ‘the rights of humanity’ but also specifying groups typically denied these rights such as Blacks, women, Indians (or Native Americans), and the poor.” This comment on her philosophy of inherent rights applies not only to the essay, but to much of the book. Her thoughts and essays on society’s influence on the law, racial prejudice, feminism and education were followed by her more famous peers such as W.E.B. Du Bois, whom she corresponded with often.

    She traveled to conferences and cultural exchange programs, traveled to Nassau and throughout Europe, and spoke at the Pan-African Conference in London in 1900, where she was a member of the Executive Committee (Cooper, Portable, xl.) She was promoted to principal of the M Street School in 1901. While directing the school as the principal, she made academic and vocational tracks available to all students. However, she focused on strengthening the school’s curriculum on academics, “an approach often associated with Du Bois’s educational philosophy rather than Booker T. Washington’s emphasis on vocational training.” As principal, she made successful efforts to get students admitted to Brown, Mt. Holyoke, Harvard, Yale, and other Ivy League schools when the students passed entrance examinations.  She was removed from her position as principal by the head of the school board, who disapproved of her focus of the school curriculum on academics, despite community support for her to stay. She moved to teach at the Jefferson Institute in Missouri for a brief period while pursuing legal action for a return to her position at M Street and back pay. Her commitment to equal education predated Brown v. Board of Education.

    Eventually, Cooper returned to M Street School in 1910 to teach Latin, and continued her own studies, while adopting the five grandchildren of her brother. She published her translation of Le Pèlerinage de Charlemagne in 1917. At the age of 66, she completed and defended her doctoral thesis, L’Attitude de la France à l’Egard l’Esclavage Pendant la Révolution at the Sorbonne; she was the first African-American woman to graduate from the school.

    Dr. Cooper returned to teaching at M Street School until 1930 when she retired. She became the president of Frelinghuysen University, the only other higher education facility for African Americans in D.C. at the time. When the school had insufficient funds to stay in operation, she ran it from her own home, while continuing to write and publish essays in The Crisis and the Washington Tribune.

    She worked and advocated throughout her career for equal rights in education and society for women and African Americans until her death at 105. Like some other civil rights activists we have featured in the blog in the past, she was not a lawyer, but her philosophical writing and educational work created changes in civil rights; the Library’s unique collections of her work allow readers to discover more. Her writing is printed in the U.S. passport, “The cause of freedom is not the cause of a race or a sect, a party or a class – it is the cause of humankind, the very birthright of humanity.”

    Sources

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Transient Man Sentenced to Life Plus 10 Years After Murder Conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – A transient man was found guilty in October 2024 of First Degree Murder in Indian Country, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Brandishing and Discharging a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country.

    Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Cameron Lynn, 34, to life imprisonment for first-degree murder, plus 120 months for discharging a weapon during a crime of violence. Lynn’s remaining counts of assault were sentenced concurrently as 120 months for each count.

    “Cameron Lynn maliciously took the life of Alcides Monroig and assaulted another,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “This life sentence, plus an additional ten years, will ensure Lynn is no longer a danger to anyone in the Northern District. This sentence would not be possible without the hard work of the detectives, agents, and prosecutors.”

    According to evidence presented at trial, on February 24, 2024, Tulsa Police officers were dispatched around midnight to a call where someone was shot. The caller was in a heavily wooded area near railroad tracks, flagged down officers and led them to the encampment. Officers found two victims in their tents that were shot. Medical personnel arrived on the scene and rendered aid to both victims. One victim was shot in the abdomen and transported to a local hospital. The other victim, Alcides Monroig, died at the scene.

    The caller and surviving victim told officers that they were asleep when Lynn approached their encampment. They explained that Lynn started going through their belongings, stating he was trying to find his stuff. They told officers they shined a flashlight, trying to see Lynn, and asked him to leave. Lynn refused and shot several times at both tents before fleeing.

    Several witnesses testified that they saw Lynn heading towards the encampment. After they heard several shots fired, Lynn ran toward the witnesses, telling them that they needed to leave the area and that he shot in self-defense.

    Lynn is a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The Tulsa Police Department and FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and Stephen Flynn prosecuted.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect Louisiana Rice from India, China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), John Boozman (R-AR), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) introduced the Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act to protect the Louisiana rice industry against dumping of cheap produce into U.S. markets from India and China. 
    “Louisianans want to eat rice grown in their backyard, not from the other side of the world,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The rice industry is critical to Louisiana’s economy. We must level the playing field for our rice farmers.”  
    “As a strong advocate for our agriculture industry and the ability of American producers to compete fairly on the global stage, I will remain steadfast in fighting those nations that undermine our farmers. When countries blatantly violate their WTO commitments, they must be held accountable. Giving the USDA a bigger role in trade disputes is a crucial step to safeguard a key sector of Mississippi’s and our nation’s economy. I am proud to once again support it,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. 
    “American rice and wheat farmers continue to be targeted by India’s egregious over-subsidization, and there are countless other examples. This legislation will give us the tools needed to address unfair practices and market manipulation by our trading partners to level the playing field and maintain a competitive advantage in the global marketplace,” said Senator Boozman. 
    “In Iowa, trade directly impacts the everyday lives of our hardworking farmers and is critical to the success of our entire state. Breaking down the bureaucratic barriers between the USDA and USTR will help ensure Iowa farmers are on a level playing field when engaging with global markets,” said Senator Ernst. 
    “America’s ag industry can out-compete anyone in the world—as long as the rules are fair. But right now, our farmers, ranchers, and fishermen are suffering because of foreign countries violating their trade obligations. We must level the playing field to bolster our domestic ag industry. I’m proud to join Senator Cassidy’s efforts to eliminate barriers to our agriculture exports and will keep working to remove red tape for those in our ag industry,” said Senator Tuberville.
    The Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act establishes a joint task force on agricultural trade enforcement led by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). The task force will more proactively monitor upcoming Indian and Chinese industrial subsidies, rather than waiting to react after subsidies are in place. The bill will also require the task force to report recommendations to Congress to deal with unfair subsidies they identify.
    Background
    Earlier this month, Cassidy asked U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer if he would commit to putting tariffs on shrimp coming from other countries that use illegal antibiotics and forced labor during Greer’s confirmation hearing. Greer replied that USTR would consider tariffs if an investigation found that unfair trade practices were not remedied.
    Last year, Cassidy worked to secure $27,152,411.00 for Louisiana fisheries, shrimpers, and fishing communities affected by natural disasters between 2017 and 2022.
    In April 2024, Cassidy advocated for Louisiana shrimpers and rice producers at a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing with former U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. He pressed her on progress USTR is making to prevent shrimp dumping from Asia. Cassidy also highlighted a whistleblower report on the safety of shrimp imported from India.
    In 2023, Cassidy also introduced the India Shrimp Tariff Act to raise U.S. tariffs to be equivalent to subsidies received by the Indian shrimp farming industry. India is the world’s top shrimp exporter, accounting for roughly 40 percent of U.S. shrimp imports, largely due to massive state subsidies. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Blasts Trump Admin for Lawlessly Cancelling Lifesaving USAID, State Programs Important to America’s National Interests

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Murray: “The Trump administration has chosen to spit in the face of the law and Congress—expressing total disdain for a court order mandating that they release the foreign aid funding they had illegally withheld.”
    Murray: “If Ebola, Marburg, or any other infectious disease makes it to our shores, it will be thanks to Elon and Trump—two billionaires without a clue who are positively smug about their own ignorance.”
    ***VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, took to the Senate floor to speak out about the Trump administration’s decision on Wednesday to illegally terminate 90% of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and 60% of State Department programs.
    Senator Murray has been sounding the alarms about the Trump administration flagrantly violating the law to block enacted funding across government, dismantle long-established agencies like USAID, and recklessly fire federal workers en masse. Earlier this week, she blasted the Trump for permanently eliminating 1,600 USAID employees positions in violation of the law.
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:
    “M. President, I come to the floor today to make a simple point: the law cannot be in the eye of the beholder.
    “The law is the law—but yet again, we are seeing the Trump administration break the law. 
    “Many of us have been closely following the Trump administration’s illegal freeze of congressionally appropriated funding, including of foreign aid—not just from the State Department, but also from USAID, the African Development Foundation, Inter-American Foundation, and other independent agencies.
    “Each of these agencies’ existence as an independent entity has long been enshrined in statute, and reaffirmed by bipartisan majorities in both chambers year-after-year in annual appropriations.
    “Our appropriations law also explicitly requires the administration to notify and consult with Congress before undertaking any efforts to reorganize, realign, or downsize foreign affairs agencies—as the sweeping reductions in force issued last week and many other brazen actions we’ve seen clearly seek to do.
    “The Administration’s actions—including firing the USAID Inspector General and the State IG—will make waste and fraud more likely and will prevent even foreign assistance programs allegedly supported by the administration from being effectively implemented and will also effectively block hundreds of millions of dollars for other programs enacted into law by bipartisan majorities.
    “Needless to say, the Trump administration has not consulted or notified Congress about these changes—that is in violation of the law.
    “But this week they took a further step. The Trump administration has chosen to spit in the face of the law and Congress—expressing total disdain for a court order mandating that they release the foreign aid funding they had illegally withheld.
    “When finally told they must comply, Secretary Rubio personally approved the termination of 90% of USAID programs, and 60% of State Department programs—virtually overnight.
    “They terminated more than $58 billion in multi-year programs, and have told us they have no intention of utilizing those funds.
    “The termination of those awards is absolutely not what Congress intended. Congress appropriated the funding, on a bipartisan basis, with the express intent to see those dollars spent.
    “This is not trivial stuff. We are talking about resources that often mean the difference between life and death. Resources that are imperative, not just because they are lifesaving but because they are an investment in our own national security—and U.S. businesses.
    “Let’s take Ebola for example: USAID helps other countries around the world respond to and contain Ebola outbreaks. That’s pretty darn important because there is no known cure for Ebola.
    “Thanks to the good work of USAID—along with our international partners, often supported by USAID awards—we have never had an Ebola outbreak here at home.
    “Yesterday, at President Trump’s cabinet meeting, Elon Musk even admitted that, ‘yes we want to fight Ebola’—of course, then he said, they accidentally cut USAID’s Ebola prevention efforts, but that it had been ‘restored’ with no ‘interruption.’
    “Yet we know for a fact that is a lie. U.S.-based companies implementing these programs received termination notices yesterday.
    “Any basic accounting of USAID’s capacity to stop outbreaks abroad shows quite plainly that any disease prevention efforts supported by the U.S. at this point are merely symbolic.
    “You cannot break the foundation of public health systems overseas and expect that it won’t have a damaging impact here at home. This makes America less safe.
    “If Ebola, Marburg, or any other infectious disease makes it to our shores, it will be thanks to Elon and Trump—two billionaires without a clue who are positively smug about their own ignorance. 
    “But it’s not just our infectious disease response that has now been gutted. Everything from resources to help prevent kids from getting malaria to aid for refugees in war torn places like Syria where it is directly in our national security interest to foster stability.
    “And it’s not just resources for far-away places—this will hit home in blue and red states. U.S. universities in my home state, in Indiana, in Florida, in Texas, and other states have had their partnerships terminated.
    “American students from across our country that are now participating in exchange programs overseas are impacted by this.
    “To put it into perspective for my colleagues: 5,800 of 6,300 USAID grants and contracts are being terminated—that’s nine out of ten—and that’s not to mention 4,100 of 6,800 State Department grants and contracts.
    “And the only detail we have is from NGOs, faith-based organizations, and U.S. contractors sending these termination notices to our committee.
    “We do not have one shred of detail from the State Department. Not one shred. The scale is staggering—and it shows you that this administration’s scheme is to bulldoze right through restraining orders and court orders so that by the time the law catches up to them, the damage will have been done.
    “Compliance is easy at that point. What’s left to fix once you’ve burned everything to the ground?
    “This administration knows full well they are breaking the law. They are showing us all in plain view that their goal is to do irreparable damage—as much as possible, as fast as possible.
    “Well, I am sounding the alarm because this illegal power grab is in direct violation of congressional intent and appropriations law.
    “The Supreme Court should act with haste to bring this administration to account and ensure that money Congress appropriated gets to where it was intended.
    “Whether it’s President Trump, or Elon Musk, or the Secretary of State calling the shots, Congress has no visibility into DOGE’s actions, frustrating our ability to write funding bills when government funding runs out in weeks. 
    “By ignoring the law and congressional intent, the administration has created chaos, they have eroded trust in the United States, and made way for Russia and China to take advantage of this leadership vacuum.
    “No one should fall for this thin veneer about ‘efficiency’ while the Administration racks up legal fees, overdue payments to contractors, pays people not to work, and forces a global recall of staff.
    “We have a process to avoid this kind of chaos. The President submits his or her budget request to Congress. Congress holds hearings publicly, and writes and passes bills that become law. 
    “We have explicit notification and consultation requirements for foreign assistance funding for a reason.
    “M. President—do I need to march down to the National Archives? Do I need to make sure we still have a Constitution?
    “Do I need to check whether the laws we passed are still there? Or did they start running them through a shredder? Because as blatant and persistent as it has been, no one—no one—should expect this kind of lawlessness to fade away.
    “I cast my votes and speak on this floor as a voice for the people of the state I represent, Washington state. I was not elected to let the President or some unaccountable billionaire decide how their tax dollars get spent.
    “Every Senator here should speak loudly with one unified voice: Congress holds the power of the purse, and no President can unilaterally abolish an entire agency or ignore our appropriations laws.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and the Malagasy Red Cross join forces to strengthen rapid cyclone response capacities in Madagascar

    Source: World Food Programme

    ANTANANARIVO – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Malagasy Red Cross have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen their capacity to plan for, prepare and respond to cyclones and floods in Madagascar.

    Madagascar’s geographical location in the southwest Indian Ocean makes it one of the countries in the world, most vulnerable to extreme weather events. To address these challenges, it is crucial to put in place anticipatory measures and rapid response strategies to mitigate the impact of tropical storms and cyclones. 

    WFP’s partnership with the Madagascar Red Cross ensures an integrated package of activities to anticipate, prepare for and respond to violent and destructive storms: 

    • Anticipatory actions: distribution of food before the cyclone makes landfall
    • Pre-positioning of food stocks in cyclone/flood-prone areas for rapid response
    • Emergency response within 72 hours of a cyclone: distribution of hot meals or high-energy biscuits
    • Three-month post-cyclone assistance to address immediate and critical needs  

    “The choice of the Malagasy Red Cross as a strategic partner is justified by its network of volunteers working close to the communities in regions prone to natural hazards, enabling the organisation to play a key role in the rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance to affected populations,” said WFP Representative and acting Country Director in Madagascar Mamadou Mbaye. “The partnership complements WFP’s technical and operational expertise in food security, logistics and humanitarian assistance.”

    This integrated approach to emergency anticipation, preparedness and response covers six cyclone and flood prone regions of Madagascar: Sava, Diana, Sofia, Ambatosoa, Analanjirofo and Atsinanana.

    #                #                #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on:

    Twitter @wfp_media; @PAM_Madagascar 

    Facebook: Programme Alimentaire Mondial Madagascar 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How to make a political Oscars speech that doesn’t flop – according to rhetorical theory

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Tom F. Wright, Reader in Rhetoric, University of Sussex

    So, it’s happened. You’re on stage, Oscar statue in hand, facing Hollywood’s finest and millions of viewers. You could keep it simple – thank your agent, your co-stars, your dog. Or you could use this moment to say something that matters.

    That’s exactly what Jane Fonda just did at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild Awards, urging the audience “to resist successfully what is coming at us” as Elon Musk’s Doge holds a chainsaw to the US federal government. From the cold war to civil rights to Trump 2.0, award ceremonies have always been stages for activism.

    Some of these political speeches have been electrifying. Some have flopped. Some have been drowned out by the orchestra before they even got started. If you’re going to make a political speech at the Oscars, you’d better do it right.

    Thankfully, Kenneth Burke — one of the 20th century’s most influential rhetorical scholars — offers a road map. His theories on identification, dramatism and symbolic action explain why some speeches resonate while others fall flat.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    1. Know your two (very different) audiences

    Burke argued in the 1950s that rhetoric isn’t just about persuasion – it’s about identification. A speaker is most persuasive when they convince their audience that they share the same values and concerns. If people feel you’re “one of them”, they’re more likely to listen.

    The Oscars create a unique rhetorical challenge. Inside LA’s Dolby Theatre, you might be surrounded by like-minded pampered progressives. But beyond that room, millions of viewers at home may be far less receptive.

    Michael Moore’s infamous acceptance speech in 2003.

    Director Michael Moore learned this the hard way in 2003 when, after winning best documentary for his film Bowling for Columbine, he stormed the stage and declared: “Shame on you, Mr Bush! Shame on you!” The result? A mix of cheers and boos. And days of being pilloried on cable news. Instead of drawing people in, Moore’s approach alienated half his audience.

    Compare this with Meryl Streep’s speech at the 2017 Golden Globes when collecting her lifetime achievement award. She also criticised her president but framed it differently: “Disrespect invites disrespect. Violence incites violence. When the powerful use their position to bully others, we all lose.”

    She didn’t need to utter Donald Trump’s name. And because she framed her speech as a universal concern, rather than a partisan attack, it resonated beyond the room.

    2. Put yourself in the story

    Burke’s second idea is that all communication is “dramatic” – a performance shaped by setting, characters and conflict. In a political speech, the most compelling “character” is often you, the speaker.

    Audiences don’t just respond to abstract arguments. They connect with people who embody the very struggle they’re speaking about.

    Lily Gladstone accepting the Golden Globe for best actress in 2024.

    Lily Gladstone’s 2024 Golden Globes speech worked this way. When she won best actress for Killers of the Flower Moon, she didn’t start with industry statistics or broad calls for change. Instead, she spoke in Blackfeet, honouring her Indigenous roots: “I just spoke a bit of Blackfeet language, a beautiful community – the nation that raised me.”

    That one sentence transformed her win into a moment of cultural recognition, making her speech as much an act of representation as a speech about representation.

    3. Frame your argument wisely

    If you want your audience to engage, you must frame your message in a way that pulls them in. Whereas a speech that just states a problem can feel like noise, one that connects the issue to a larger story can be powerful.

    This is where Burke’s idea of symbolic action comes in. He defined it as “the making or construction of social reality through symbols that foster identification”. Put another way: words don’t just describe reality, they shape it.

    Oprah Winfrey’s speech from the 2018 Golden Globes.

    Take Oprah Winfrey’s 2018 Golden Globes speech picking up the Cecil B. DeMille award. Instead of simply condemning sexism in Hollywood, she tied it to a broader historical movement, from civil rights to #MeToo: “For too long, women have not been heard or believed if they dared to speak their truth to the power [of] those men. But their time is up. Their time is up!”

    Winfrey wasn’t just talking about change – she was creating it in real time, rallying the room behind a clear, urgent message. That’s the difference between listing a problem and delivering a message that sticks.

    4. Turn your speech into an act of protest

    While framing helps persuade an audience, some moments go further, becoming acts of defiance themselves. This is when a speech moves beyond words into symbolic action.

    Let’s take perhaps the most famous protest in Oscars history. In 1973, Marlon Brando refused to pick up his best actor statue – sending in his place Sacheen Littlefeather, who explained she was there as a protest for Hollywood’s treatment of Native American people.

    Sacheen Littlefeather refuses to accept the best actor Oscar on behalf of Marlon Brando.

    “He very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award,” she told the audience. “And the reasons for this being are the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry … and on television in movie reruns, and also with recent happenings at Wounded Knee.”

    In under a minute, she transformed what could have been a quiet refusal into a national reckoning. The audience’s reaction – some cheering, some booing – only made it clearer. This wasn’t just a speech, it was a moment.

    A speech that merely describes a problem may be forgotten, but one that transforms the moment itself? That’s the stuff of history.

    5. Expect a backlash, and decide if you care

    No matter how well you craft your speech, someone is going to be angry. Burke’s final idea for helping us understand this is the “scapegoat mechanism”, by which one figure is cast as the discordant element that must be removed to restore unity.

    If you make a political speech at the Oscars, it could be you. Vanessa Redgrave learned this in 1978: after winning best supporting actress for her role in Julia, she defended her pro-Palestine activism against attacks from the Jewish Defence League, who she called a “bunch of Zionist hoodlums”. The reaction was instant – cheers mixed with boos.

    Vanessa Redgrave accepts the Oscar for supporting actress in 1978.

    Later that night, screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky publicly rebuked her, saying: “A simple ‘thank you’ would have sufficed.” The backlash hurt Redgrave’s career, but she stood by her words.

    If you’re going to say something political, be prepared to own it. And make sure you beat the orchestra.

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

    – ref. How to make a political Oscars speech that doesn’t flop – according to rhetorical theory – https://theconversation.com/how-to-make-a-political-oscars-speech-that-doesnt-flop-according-to-rhetorical-theory-250949

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Hallador Energy Company Schedules Fourth Quarter & Full Year 2024 Conference Call for March 17, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. ET

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TERRE HAUTE, Ind., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hallador Energy Company (Nasdaq: HNRG) (“Hallador” or the “Company”), will host a conference call on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024. The Company’s results will be reported in a press release prior to the call.

    Hallador’s management will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer period. Interested parties may submit questions prior to the call by emailing the Company’s investor relations team, Elevate IR, at HNRG@elevate-ir.com.

    Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
    Time: 5:30 p.m. Eastern time
    Dial-in registration link: here
    Live webcast registration link: here

    The conference call will also be broadcast live and available for replay in the investor relations section of the Company’s website at www.halladorenergy.com.

    About Hallador Energy Company

    Hallador Energy Company (Nasdaq: HNRG) is a vertically-integrated Independent Power Producer (IPP) based in Terre Haute, Indiana. The Company has two core businesses: Hallador Power Company, LLC, which produces electricity and capacity at its one-Gigawatt (GW) Merom Generating Station, and Sunrise Coal, LLC, which produces and supplies fuel to the Merom Generating Station and other companies. To learn more about Hallador, visit the Company’s website at www.halladorenergy.com.

    Company Contact

    Marjorie Hargrave
    Chief Financial Officer
    (303) 917-0777
    MHargrave@halladorenergy.com

    Investor Relations Contact

    Sean Mansouri, CFA
    Elevate IR
    (720) 330-2829
    HNRG@elevate-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Failure to consult Indigenous Peoples on future pandemics will further harm children’s education

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The failure of governments around the world to consult Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 school closures and other emergency pandemic responses violated their rights, as children continue to feel the effects five years after the first global lockdown, Amnesty International said in a new report today.

    Indigenous leaders interviewed by Amnesty International for its report What If Indigenous Consent Is Not Respected?, testified to sharp and sustained increases in post-pandemic absenteeism and school dropout rates, of more than 80 per cent in some cases, among Indigenous children in more than 10 countries. Indigenous leaders and activists also voiced concerns that the often discriminatory, desultory or non-existent response by authorities to the educational needs of Indigenous children during the pandemic worsened long-standing inequities faced by Indigenous communities – with Indigenous girls and children with disabilities particularly disadvantaged. Going forward, the organization is calling for Indigenous Peoples to be consulted during future pandemics.  

    The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic.

    Chris Chapman, Amnesty’s researcher on Indigenous rights

    “The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic, which had an enduring and damaging impact on their rights and prospects,” said Chris Chapman, Amnesty International’s Researcher on Indigenous Rights.

    “They said that remote learning solutions were often unavailable to Indigenous children. Those in rural areas, where Indigenous communities often lacked devices, internet connections, electricity and the technological knowledge or capacity to participate in virtual classes or remote learning, were worst affected.”

    When lower-tech solutions such as printed materials were distributed to other groups, Indigenous communities in several different countries said they were passed over, ignored, or asked to pay for them.

    Indigenous campaigner Sylvia Kokunda said: “For the most part these materials were distributed by the local government, since it can be easier for the village chairperson to identify the people in this community. However, local officials would not give the materials to these Batwa people, they would give only to their people.”

    Radio or television-based educational broadcasting during the pandemic was often unavailable in Indigenous languages. An Ogiek activist said that although Sogoot FM 97.1, an Ogiek language radio station, was used to reach the community to inform them about Covid-19 and its impacts, it was not used for school coursework.  

    The report is based on data and more than 80 interviews or collected responses that Amnesty International gathered to explore how Indigenous students around the world were impacted by pandemic-related school closures, including in Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Russia, Taiwan and Uganda. There are 476 million Indigenous people worldwide in more than 90 countries, belonging to 5,000 different Indigenous groups and speaking more than 4,000 languages.

    Technology, discrimination and dropout rates

    Where Indigenous families had limited access to technology for remote learning during the pandemic, boys were often prioritized.

    According to Indigenous women activists from Nepal,“If some families have a mobile, then only one or two will use it. And if there are more children in the house, one has to sacrifice their education. When it comes to the sacrifice, the girls are sacrificed more.”

    Even if Indigenous students had devices capable of being used for remote learning, their families were sometimes unable to afford sufficient data. In addition, remote teaching was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    Children with learning difficulties or disabilities which required specialist teaching, for instance through use of sign language or braille, were often excluded, including among Indigenous communities.

    Interviewees in many states said there was often little or no government monitoring, or consideration of the effectiveness of alternative learning initiatives for Indigenous communities. Information on how to access education when schools closed – and they stayed shut for more than 18 months in some countries – was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    “Boys who had begun working as motorcycle taxi drivers to earn money for their families also dropped out.

    Indigenous activist from Kenya

    Students with little or no access to education during the pandemic often worked instead, and never returned to schools when they reopened. Those who did return when schools reopened, often found that they had fallen behind their classmates. If they were unwilling to retake a year, or could not be supported financially, they too dropped out.

    In Kenya, the majority of dropouts of Ogiek students were girls, especially girls who got pregnant during Covid-19 or were subjected to early marriage. However, it affected boys too. An Indigenous activist from Kenya said: “Boys between the ages of 12 and 18 who had begun working in jobs such as motorcycle taxi drivers or farm workers to earn money for themselves and their families also dropped out.”

    Some schools across many states never reopened, further reducing access to education for Indigenous children, Indigenous activists reported.

    Asked to reply to Amnesty’s findings, the Mexican government stated that it responded to the “unprecedented challenge of Covid-19″ by working with Indigenous schools and teachers to roll out a set of measures including distributing materials in five Indigenous languages, sometimes in printed formats where access to internet or devices was restricted, developing new digital educational materials, and capacity-building for schools and parents to use digital platforms.

    Recommendations

    “Significantly more resources are now required to safeguard, restore and improve the educational opportunities and rights of Indigenous communities,” Chris Chapman said.

    “States must work with Indigenous communities to immediately restore and enhance the right to education for all Indigenous children including a focus on re-enrolling Indigenous girls, and Indigenous students with disabilities.”  

    Alongside the report, Amnesty International has shared a guide for researchers who wish to investigate the extent to which the human right to participate effectively in decision-making has been violated, especially when it comes to Indigenous communities.  

    “Governments must consult with Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 response measures and other pandemic and emergency response measures, otherwise they risk violating their right to consultation, and their right to give or withhold their consent to decisions affecting them. Our study highlights the risks of failing to take into account the realities, cultures and rights of Indigenous Peoples,” said Chris Chapman.

    “While our report sets out the devastating impact of this lack of inclusion, it’s hoped that Amnesty’s guide will ensure Indigenous people are included in discussions that affect them in the future. Every child has the right to free, high-quality primary education. States must therefore ensure that no child is left behind.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Design is key to India’s legacy and future development: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Design is key to India’s legacy and future development: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    National Institute of Design celebrates 44th Convocation Ceremony, 430 students awarded degrees

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 11:52AM by PIB Delhi

    Design is not only about aesthetics, it is an innovation that has its impact on India’s legacy and will play a role in the country’s development. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal during his address at the 44th Convocation Ceremony of National Institute of Design (NID) on Thursday, February 27, 2025. He further noted that the fresh graduates will act as a bridge between the legacy and the future of this country.

    President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Shri Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Minister of State Commerce and Industries Shri Jitin Prasada and Governing Council Members also graced the event. 

    Highlighting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call for ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’ for the world, Minister Goyal noted that the fresh graduates will make it a reality. He stressed that these graduates as problem solvers, innovators and designers will be working for the world. “You will be the architect of the world, the world is waiting for you”, he said. 

    Emphasising on the growing importance of design across sectors from space to semiconductors, Shri Goyal pointed out that the first stage of the Chandrayaan space mission was the satellite’s design that led to its success. He asserted that India’s design capabilities will be on display in audio-visual technologies to gaming, sustainability, toys and more.   

    Possibilities in design are endless. We have to create new ideas, innovation on a large scale catering to 140 crore people of the country. Inclusive growth and development is our country’s will and strength. Create, disrupt and leave a mark in the world with your capabilities, the  Minister said. 

    The 44th Convocation Ceremony saw 430 students from various disciplines being awarded degrees from the National Institute of Design.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2106818) Visitor Counter : 103

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM greets everyone on occasion of National Science Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 10:00AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi greeted everyone today on the occasion of National Science Day. He wrote in a post on X:

    “Greetings on National Science Day to those passionate about science, particularly our young innovators. Let’s keep popularising science and innovation and leveraging science to build a Viksit Bharat. 

    During this month’s #MannKiBaat, had talked about ‘One Day as a Scientist’…where the youth take part in some or the other scientific activity.”

    ****

    MJPS/SR/SKS

    (Release ID: 2106799) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on IIFL Samasta Finance Limited

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 24, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹33.10 lakh (Rupees Thirty Three Lakh Ten Thousand only) on IIFL Samasta Finance Limited (the company) for non-compliance with certain provisions of the ‘Non-Banking Financial Company – Systemically Important Non-Deposit taking Company and Deposit taking Company (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2016‘ and ‘Reserve Bank of India (Know Your Customer (KYC)) Directions, 2016‘ issued by RBI. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under clause (b) of sub-section (1) of Section 58G read with clause (aa) of sub-section (5) of Section 58B of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

    The statutory inspection of the company was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions.

    After considering the company’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the company were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    1. The company charged interest on loans for a period prior to the date of actual disbursement of loan / issuance of cheque to certain borrowers in contravention of RBI directions on ‘Fair Practices Code’;

    2. The company failed to classify certain loan accounts with overdues of 90 days or more as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs);

    3. It classified certain loan accounts which were NPA as ‘standard asset’ without realisation of entire arrears of interest and principal amount due; and

    4. It allotted multiple customer identification codes to certain individual customers instead of a Unique Customer Identification Code (UCIC) to each individual customer.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2281

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Opening Address by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Plenary Session with the President of the European Commission (February 28, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellencies,

    I warmly welcome you all to India. The engagement of the EU College of Commissioners with a single country on such a broad scale is unprecedented.

    It’s the first time that so many of my ministers have collected together for any bilateral discussions. I remember how you said that India and the EU are natural partners at the Raisina Dialogue in 2022. And that strengthening and energizing ties with India, will be a priority for the EU in the coming decade.

    And now, you’re visiting India at the very beginning of your new term.This is a milestone moment for India and the EU.

    Excellencies,

    The world is currently undergoing unprecedented change. AI and emerging technologies are leading to socio-economic transformations.

    Geo-economic and political circumstances are rapidly evolving. And old equations are breaking down. In times like these, the partnership between India and the EU becomes even more important.

    A shared belief in democratic values, strategic autonomy, and rule-based global order unite India and the EU.Both countries are mega diverse market economies. In a sense, we are natural strategic partners.

    Excellencies,

    India and the EU have completed twenty years of strategic partnership. And with your visit, we are laying the foundation for the next decade.

    In this context, the remarkable commitment shown by both parties is commendable. About twenty ministerial level meetings have taken place in the last two days.

    The Trade and Technology Council meeting was also successfully organised this morning. Both teams will present a report on the ideas generated and the progress made.

    Excellencies,

    I would like to identify some priority areas of cooperation.

    The first is Trade and Investment. It is crucial to conclude a mutually beneficial FTA and Investment Protection Agreement as soon as possible.

    The second is strengthening the Supply Chain Resilience. Our capabilities can complement each other in sectors such as Electronics, Semiconductors, Telecom, Engineering, Defence, and Pharma.This will strengthen diversification and de-risking, and will aid in the creation of a secure, reliable and trusted supply and value chain.

    The third is Connectivity. The IMEC Corridor launched during the G20 Summit is a transformational initiative. Both the teams must continue working on it with strong commitment.

    The fourth is Technology and Innovation. To realise our shared vision of tech sovereignty, we must continue to make swift progress ahead. In areas such as DPI, AI, Quantum Computing, Space and 6G, both parties must work together to connect our industries, innovators, and young talents.

    The fifth is Climate Action and Green Energy Innovation. India and the EU have prioritised the Green transition. Through cooperation in sustainable urbanization, water, and clean energy, we can become drivers of global green growth.

    The sixth is Defence. We can fulfil each others’ needs through co-development and co-production. We must work to prioritise each other in export control laws.

    The seventh is Security. There is a need for greater cooperation on challenges arising from terrorism, extremism, maritime security, cyber security and space security.

    The eighth is People-to-People Ties. It should be a priority for both parties to make Migration, Mobility, Schengen Visas and EU Blue Cards simple and smooth. This stands to fulfil the needs of the EU. And India’s young workforce shall be able to make an even greater contribution to Europe’s growth and prosperity.

    Excellencies,

    For the next India-EU Summit, we must move forward with ambition, action and commitment.

    In today’s AI era, the future shall belong to those who demonstrate vision and speed.

    Excellency, I now invite you to share your thoughts.

    *****

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2106997) Visitor Counter : 84

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    Source: Government of India

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    UPI transactions in month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore, marking the highest number recorded in any month

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 11:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Prof. Carlos Montes, who is on a tour to India for attending and speaking at the NXT event at the Bharat Mandapam tomorrow, was briefed about the working and achievements of UPI system, today.

    Prof. Carlos leads the Innovation Hub for Prosperity at the Cambridge University Business School.

    A presentation on UPI was given by the DFS and NPCI Team to Prof. Carlos Montes about the functioning,  success and trends of UPI in India. In the briefing, senior officers  from the Department of Financial Services (DFS),  M/o Finance including Shri  Sudhir Shyam    (Economic Adviser) and Shri  Jignesh Solanki (Director)  were present among  others.

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries, said Professor Carlos Montes, Lead Innovation Hub, University of Cambridge Business School 

    For the first time, UPI transactions in the month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore marking the highest number recorded in any month.

    After the demonstration, Prof. Montes said that he was glad to see the success of the UPI payment system. The growth of UPI shows that the government is making sure that the technology that they develop is user friendly for citizens, and that there is a regular and constant innovation in the same which explains the high adoption rate of UPI in India, Prof. Montes added. He further said that it  also has potential for other countries to learn from the experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries.

    For FY 2023-24, the digital payments landscape has demonstrated remarkable expansion. UPI remains the cornerstone of India’s digital payment ecosystem contributing to 80% of the retail payments across the country. The total transaction volume exceeded 131 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎200 lakh crore for the FY 2023-24. Its ease of use, combined with a growing network of participating banks and fintech platforms, has made UPI the preferred mode of real-time payments for millions of users across the country.

    As of Jan, 2025, 80+ UPI Apps , 641 banks  are currently live on UPI ecosystem. In FY 24-25 (till Jan, 2025), the P2M transactions contribute 62.35% and P2P transactions contribute 37.65% of the overall UPI volume. The contribution of P2M transactions reached 62.35% in Jan, 2025 where 86% of these transactions are upto a value of INR 500. This indicates the trust that UPI enjoys among citizens for making low value payments.

    UPI: Transactions (by Volume in mn) for Jan’2025

     

     

    UPI Global Expansion:

    Shri Sudhir Shyam, Economic Adviser at Department of Financial Services (DFS) said that India’s digital payments revolution is extending beyond its borders. UPI is rapidly expanding globally, enabling seamless cross-border transactions for Indians traveling abroad. Currently, UPI is live in over 7 countries, including key markets such as [UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius], allowing Indians to make payments internationally. This expansion will further bolster remittance flows, improve financial inclusion, and elevate India’s stature in the global financial landscape.

    Sh. Sundar also said that some other countries have also shown interest in UPI.

    Demonstration of UPI

    Sh. Jignesh Solanki added that while volume of total online transactions have increased massively over the years, the share is taken by UPI mainly due to ease and low cost of the transactions. Government is focussed on bringing new innovations that will help UPI expand in uncovered areas as well.

    The session ended with a small demonstration of working of UPI to the delegation as well.

    ******

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2106794) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Strengthening India-EU Cooperation: WCD Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi Meets European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness & Crisis Management, Ms.Hadja Lahbib

    Source: Government of India

    Strengthening India-EU Cooperation: WCD Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi Meets European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness & Crisis Management, Ms.Hadja Lahbib

    Meeting marked a significant step towards reinforcing India-EU ties in promoting policies for women empowerment and collaborative efforts for the welfare of women and children

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 10:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, met with Ms. Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, today at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. The meeting was part of the high-level visit of the President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, who is accompanied by the College of Commissioners, comprising 26 Ministers, during their visit to India from 27th to 28th February 2025.

    During their discussions, Union  Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi and Commissioner Ms. Hadja Lahbib explored avenues to strengthen India-EU collaboration in the areas of women’s empowerment, and child welfare. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering inclusive policies that enhance the well-being of women and children, particularly those from vulnerable and marginalized communities.

    Smt. Annpurna Devi highlighted key initiatives of the Government of India, including Mission Shakti, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and various other schemes & programs aimed at financial and digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and increasing women’s participation in decision-making and leadership roles. She emphasized India’s unwavering commitment to building a safe and inclusive society where women and children can thrive.

    Ms. Hadja Lahbib commended India’s progress in women empowerment and reiterated the European Union’s commitment to strengthening partnerships in this domain. She underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges related to women empowerment and crisis response.

    The meeting marked a significant step towards reinforcing India-EU ties in promoting policies for women empowerment and collaborative efforts for the welfare of women and children.

    Union  Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi also emphasized that India, under the visionary leadership of  Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is advancing with the vision of Women-Led Development to realize the goal of Viksit Bharat.

    ****

    SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2106793) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cyclone Flurry in the Southern Hemisphere

    Source: NASA

    Two different oceans were crowded with tropical cyclones in late February 2025. In the South Pacific, three storms were active at one point—an occurrence that is rare but not unheard of. Simultaneously, a trio of cyclones roiled in the neighboring Indian Ocean.
    Five tropical cyclones are visible in this false-color image, acquired on February 26 by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) sensor on the NOAA-20 satellite. The image depicts infrared signals known as brightness temperature, which are useful for distinguishing cooler cloud structures (white and purple) from the warmer surface below (yellow and orange). The day before this image was acquired, a sixth storm, Tropical Cyclone Rae, was weakening east of the area shown here after bringing heavy rain to Fiji.
    Cyclones Alfred and Seru lurked alongside Rae in the South Pacific. Seru lingered offshore of Australia, reaching Category 1 strength on the Saffir-Simpson wind scale for a short time. Alfred was also forecast to stay offshore, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, but was expected to bring hazardous coastal conditions to southern Queensland. The storm was at Category 2 strength on the day of this image but would intensify to Category 4 on February 27.
    Off Western Australia, Tropical Cyclone Bianca was on the tail end of its journey, having weakened to tropical storm status on February 26. The previous day, it had intensified to Category 3 but stayed far enough from land that mainland Australia and island communities were not expected to feel its effects.
    Bianca’s Indian Ocean cohabitants, Honde and Garance, posed more hazards to land. The island nation of Mauritius, east of Madagascar, shut down its airport on February 26 as Garance approached, according to news reports. The storm would strengthen from Category 2 that day to Category 3 the next, with wind speeds of 190 kilometers (120 miles) per hour. Meanwhile, Honde skirted south of Madagascar as a Category 1 storm. Heavy rain, strong winds, and storm surge were forecast for central and southern Madagascar, Mauritius, and Réunion island.
    Meteorologists noted that warm sea surface temperatures and weak wind shear conditions may have contributed to the proliferation of storms. A marine heat wave has lingered off of Western Australia since September 2024, and anomalously high sea surface temperatures warmed in the area in late February 2025. For the South Pacific, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology had predicted a higher-than-average likelihood of severe tropical cyclones this season due to expected warm ocean temperatures. Tropical cyclone season generally runs from November through April in the Southern Hemisphere.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using MODIS and VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS). Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prof. Brian Greene renowned American Physicist and Professor of Mathematics & Physics, Columbia University visits IIT Delhi and interacts with students

    Source: Government of India

    Prof. Brian Greene  renowned American Physicist and Professor of Mathematics & Physics, Columbia University visits IIT Delhi and interacts with students

    Rapid advancements in scientific innovation will position India as a global leader in S&T – Prof. Brian Greene

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Prof. Brian Greene, renowned Theoretical Physicist, Author, and Professor of Mathematics & Physics, Columbia University, visited Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi today and interacted with the students. Director of IIT Delhi, Dr. Rangan Banerjee, faculty and students were present at the event. Prof. Greene also visited the Research & Innovation Park of the Institute and appreciated the facilities.

    While interacting with the students, Prof. Greene expressed his gratitude for the wonderful visit and the engaging discussions with both the faculty and students. He appreciated their energy, creativity, and zeal for innovation. He also emphasized that their keen interest in scientific and technological development is highly significant, as it will pave the way for a better future.

    Acknowledging India’s rapid advancements in scientific innovation, Prof. Greene expressed his hope that this progress would position the country as a global leader in science and technology. He praised IIT as a world-class institute, highlighting the remarkable faculty dedicated to nurturing some of India’s greatest minds.

    During the session, students posed intriguing questions, including where, in his opinion, subjects such as physics and mathematics diverge and converge, as well as inquiries about string theory. In response, he elaborated on his work related to the mathematics of string theory.

    Prof. Greene visited the Research & Innovation Park of IIT Delhi. The establishment was inaugurated by President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu during the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Institute. It focuses on innovation and product development where IIT Delhi, industry, entrepreneurs and government agencies interact and enable creation of advanced technological solutions. The Park works towards accelerating research translation, providing avenues for IIT Delhi students and faculty to interact more closely with industry and bring to market technological breakthroughs through incubation, amplifying technological and societal impact of R&D, and galvanizing entrepreneurial aspirations. It has facilities including labs for start-ups, board rooms, conference hall, meeting and training rooms, etc.

    *****

    MV/AK

    MOE/DoHE/28 February 2025/2

    (Release ID: 2106995) Visitor Counter : 9

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Some due to ignorance, label our spirituality as superstition-VP

    Source: Government of India

    Vice President’s Secretariat

    Some due to ignorance, label our spirituality as superstition-VP

    This is the land of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee….fortunate that the festering wound he saw, is no longer present in our Constitution-VP

    In our culture, we have endured cruelty, invasions…When Nalanda was set on fire, just imagine what was destroyed!- VP

    About 1200-1300 years ago..our cultural and religious centers were destroyed; despite everything India’s culture could not be eradicated, it is still alive today-VP

    The answer to everything today can be found in Sanatan; Sanatan stands for inclusivity-VP

     Sanatan does not believe in subjugation, if you surrender to Sanatan, you are not a captive, you become a free person, a free soul-VP

    Greatest adornment for any country is not its wealth, but its culture-VP

    Religion cannot be seen in a narrow, conservative manner; religion cannot be assessed within limited boundaries-VP

    VP addresses the Closing Ceremony of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gaudiya Mission’s founder Acharya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that some due to ignorance are labelling our sacred elements like spirituality as superstition. Underlining that Sanatan stands for inclusivity, Shri Dhnakhar stated, “ Some people, due to ignorance or blindly pursuing the meaning of things, wrongly label our sacred elements, spirituality, as superstition.”

    “The answer to everything today can be found in Sanatan. What Sanatan teaches is essential for the system of today, no matter where in the world it is. Sanatan stands for inclusivity, Sanatan stands for universal goodness, Sanatan stands for the supremacy of the soul. Sanatan does not believe in subjugation. If you surrender to Sanatan, you are not a captive, you become a free person, a free soul”, he further stated.

    “Religion cannot be seen in a narrow, conservative manner. Religion cannot be assessed within limited boundaries. We must understand the true meaning of religion, and only then will we realize that we all need to resolve to make India ‘Vishwa Guru’ once again. And India becoming the ‘Vishwa Guru is the greatest auspicious message for the world”, he added.

    Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gaudiya Mission’s founder Acharya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad, Shri Dhnakhar said, “ In our culture, we have endured cruelty, invasions, and barbarism……What kind of barbarity, extremity, and reckless destruction of our religious places, our cultural symbols! When Nalanda was set on fire, just imagine what was destroyed! How many floors did Nalanda have, how many lakhs of books were there, and they were not just for India, but for the entire world. The progress of technology today has some connection to the knowledge stored in our treasure of wisdom”.

    In his address he further stated, “This is the land of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, who never compromised on nationalism. And what a huge sacrifice it was! Today, we are in a fortunate time, that the concerns Shyama Prasad Mukherjee had, his thoughts, his commitment to nationalism, and the festering wound he saw, is no longer present in our Constitution”.

    Emphasising on the significance of culture and the need to preserve the cultural aspects of society, Shri Dhankhar underlined, “Today, we need our children to have an awareness of our culture. It is a positive sign that many programs are being conducted in this direction, but if there is one greatest adornment for any country, it is not its wealth, but its culture. Once the culture is disrupted, the decline cannot be stopped. Cultural aspects, all elements related to culture, their preservation, sustenance, and protection are crucial because they define India”.

    “There was a time….when people from around the world came searching for knowledge, for light. Our institutions were of great repute, but at some point, we strayed from the path. Foreign invasions happened, this was about 1200-1300 years ago. A cruel act occurred, a thunderbolt, a violent blow struck, and our cultural and religious centers were destroyed. We had the occasion to witness barbarity in extremity. It’s unimaginable what was done. And see, despite everything that happened over 1000 years, India’s culture could not be eradicated. It is still alive today”, he added.

    Referring to India as the cultural centre of the world, the Vice-President highlighted, “ India is the cultural centre of the world and Kolkata is one of the epicentres of culture ! The challenges the world faces today are frightening. They compel us to think….We talk about climate change, but the greatest crisis today lies in the human mind. Humanity is restless. Even though we are materially rich, powerful, capable of demonstrating strength, something is still missing. And when people feel this lack, they see only one North Star—India.”

    Shri C.V. Ananda Bose, Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal,  Shri Suresh Gopi, Minister of State for Tourism, Srimad Bhakti Sundar Sanyasi Goswami Maharaj, President & Acharya, Gaudiya Mission and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2106991)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visits DRDO’s Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited DRDO’s Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex,  the nerve centre for design and development of indigenous missile systems, in Hyderabad, Telangana on February 28, 2025. He was briefed about the missile technologies and related programmes being carried out by Research Centre Imarat (RCI). Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat and senior scientists & officials of RCI were present on the occasion.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also felicitated the team of the Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile project, successful flight-trials of which took place in November 2024. The successful testing positioned India among the select group of nations with hypersonic missile capabilities.

    Interacting with the scientists, Raksha Mantri commended them for their unparalleled contribution to India’s defence capabilities and exuded confidence that, with concerted efforts, India will find itself among the top-three economies by 2027. He called upon them to continue factoring-in the rapidly-evolving technological transformation into their projects while working with dedication and honesty.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also paid glowing tributes to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on the occasion. He stated that the former President’s contributions to science & technology, missile development in particular, can never be forgotten.

    In his address, the DRDO Chairman reiterated the organisation’s commitment towards developing critical technologies and ensuring that India becomes ‘Aatmanirbhar’ as well as a technology leader. “DRDO will strive to realise Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision that defence systems are made in India and made for the world,” he said.

    *****

    SR/Savvy/KB

    (Release ID: 2106988) Visitor Counter : 79

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Battle of Bands Global

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Battle of Bands Global

    Where Cultures Collide, Music Unites

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Following the immense success of The Battle of the Bands, WAVES is now proudly presenting the Battle of the Bands Global. This exciting new initiative is designed to attract a broader audience and introduce younger generations to the rich beauty and diversity of music. As part of WAVES Season One’s Create in India Challenge, in collaboration with Prasar Bharti and SAREGAMA, the event provides an incredible platform for participating bands to showcase their talent.

    The World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in its first edition is a unique hub and spoke platform poised for the convergence of the entire Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector. The event is a premier global event that aims to bring the focus of the global M&E industry to India and connect it with the Indian M&E sector along with its talent.

    The summit will take place from May 1-4, 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens in Mumbai. With a focus on four key pillars—Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR, Digital Media & Innovation, and Films-WAVES will bring together leaders, creators and technologists to showcase the future of India’s entertainment industry.

    The Battle of Bands Global stands as the first pillar of WAVES, focusing on Broadcasting and Infotainment. This international competition is designed to push the limits of creativity and music, while promoting a sense of community, innovation and growth within the industry.

    Eligibility Criteria

    To participate in the Battle of Bands Global, please ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria and submission guidelines:

    Participation Process

    To participate, bands (maximum 5 members, including a vocalist) must submit an original audio-visual performance, showcasing their own music, via the official Doordarshan website. The performance must not feature any existing songs or compositions.

    1. Video Submission:
    • Bands must submit a video (max 2 minutes, 300MB, MP4 format) original piece of music that blends modern and traditional folk elements.
    • Upload via the official Doordarshan website under the “Waves India” section, selecting “Battle of Bands” and following the registration instructions.
    1. Registration:
    • Fill out the registration form with details like Band Name, City, Contact Info, Band Members, Social Media Links and Performance Link.
    1. Terms:
    • The first valid video submitted is considered for selection.
    • Videos must adhere to the guidelines; non-compliance will lead to disqualification.
    • By submitting information, participants waive privacy rights for promotional use.

     Challenge Details

    After a thorough selection process, the top 13 international bands will join the challenge, which will be broadcast from March 15th to 20th and conclude before April 30th, 2025. Throughout the event, the top 5 international bands will be selected based on their performances and event will be:

    • Produced by: SAREGAMA
    • Directed by: Veteran show director Shruti Anindita Vermaa
    • Hosted by: Talented Kettan Singh
    • Judges: Renowned artists Raja Hasan & Shraddha Pandit
    • Mentors: Esteemed Indian mentors including Tonny Kakkar, Shruti Pathak, Radhika Chopra, Amitabh Vermaa, and more, bringing international expertise.

    Conclusion

    The Battle of Bands Global offers a unique platform for diverse musical talent and international collaboration. The selected top 5 global bands will perform alongside the top 5 Indian bands on the prestigious WAVES stage, showcasing the best of both global and Indian music. This initiative aims to elevate the global music scene while celebrating India’s rich musical traditions.

     

    Reference

    1. https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia/status/1854483072172822893
    2. https://www.saregama.com/battleofbands
    3. https://prasarbharati.gov.in/battle-of-bands/
    4. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2102856#:~:text=Battle%20of%20bands%20International%20aims,to%20audiences%20around%20the%20globe.
    5. https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=152045&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=2

    Click here to download PDF

    ******

    Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2106966) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDEX OF EIGHT CORE INDUSTRIES (BASE: 2011-12=100) FOR JANUARY, 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The combined Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) increased by 4.6per cent (provisional) in January, 2025 as compared to the Index in January, 2024. The production of Cement, Refinery Products, Coal, Steel, Fertilizers and Electricity recorded positive growth in January, 2025. The details of annual indices, monthly indices and growth rates are provided at Annex I and Annex II.

    The ICI measures the combined and individual performance of production of eight core industries viz. Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement and Electricity. The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27 percent of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

    The final growth rate of Index of Eight Core Industries for October 2024 increased by3.8per cent. The cumulative growth rate of ICI during April to January, 2024-25is4.4 percent (provisional) as compared to the corresponding period of last year.

    The summary of the Index of Eight Core Industries is given below:

    Coal – Coal production (weight: 10.33 per cent) increased by 4.6 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 6.0 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Crude Oil – Crude Oil production (weight: 8.98 per cent) declined by 1.1 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index declined by 2.0 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Natural Gas – Natural Gas production (weight: 6.88 per cent) declined by 1.5 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 0.5per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Petroleum Refinery Products – Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04 per cent) increased by 8.3 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 3.3 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Fertilizers – Fertilizer production (weight: 2.63 per cent) increased by 3.0 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 1.7 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Steel – Steel production (weight: 17.92 per cent) increased by 3.7 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 5.9 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Cement – Cement production (weight: 5.37 per cent) increased by 14.5 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 4.6 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

    Electricity – Electricity generation (weight: 19.85 per cent) increased by 1.3 per cent in January, 2025 over January, 2024. Its cumulative index increased by 5.0 per cent during April to January, 2024-25 over corresponding period of the previous year.

     

    Note 1: Data for November, 2024, December, 2024 and January, 2025are provisional. Index numbers of Core Industries are revised / finalized as per updated data from source agencies.

    Note 2: Since April 2014, Electricity generation data from Renewable sources are also included.

    Note 3: The industry-wise weights indicated above are individual industry weights derived from IIP and blown up on pro rata basis to a combined weight of ICI equal to 100.

    Note 4: Since March 2019, a new steel product called Hot Rolled Pickled and Oiled (HRPO) under the item ‘Cold Rolled (CR) coils’ within the production of finished steel has also been included.

    Note 5: Release of the index for February, 2025 will be on Friday28thMarch, 2025.

    Annex I

    Performance of Eight Core Industries

    Yearly Index & Growth Rate

    Base Year: 2011-12=100

    Index

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Index

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    2012-13

    103.2

    99.4

    85.6

    107.2

    96.7

    107.9

    107.5

    104.0

    103.8

    2013-14

    104.2

    99.2

    74.5

    108.6

    98.1

    115.8

    111.5

    110.3

    106.5

    2014-15

    112.6

    98.4

    70.5

    108.8

    99.4

    121.7

    118.1

    126.6

    111.7

    2015-16

    118.0

    97.0

    67.2

    114.1

    106.4

    120.2

    123.5

    133.8

    115.1

    2016-17

    121.8

    94.5

    66.5

    119.7

    106.6

    133.1

    122.0

    141.6

    120.5

    2017-18

    124.9

    93.7

    68.4

    125.2

    106.6

    140.5

    129.7

    149.2

    125.7

    2018-19

    134.1

    89.8

    69.0

    129.1

    107.0

    147.7

    147.0

    156.9

    131.2

    2019-20

    133.6

    84.5

    65.1

    129.4

    109.8

    152.6

    145.7

    158.4

    131.6

    2020-21

    131.1

    80.1

    59.8

    114.9

    111.6

    139.4

    130.0

    157.6

    123.2

    2021-22

    142.3

    77.9

    71.3

    125.1

    112.4

    163.0

    156.9

    170.1

    136.1

    2022-23

    163.5

    76.6

    72.4

    131.2

    125.1

    178.1

    170.6

    185.2

    146.7

    2023-24

    182.7

    77.1

    76.8

    135.9

    129.8

    200.4

    185.7

    198.3

    157.8

    Apr-Jan 2023-24

    172.4

    77.3

    76.8

    135.1

    132.8

    198.3

    181.5

    198.8

    156.1

    Apr-Jan2024-25*

    182.8

    75.7

    77.2

    139.5

    135.1

    209.9

    189.8

    208.8

    162.9

    *Provisional

     

    Growth Rates (on Y-o-Y basis in per cent)

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Growth

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    2012-13

    3.2

    -0.6

    -14.4

    7.2

    -3.3

    7.9

    7.5

    4.0

    3.8

    2013-14

    1.0

    -0.2

    -12.9

    1.4

    1.5

    7.3

    3.7

    6.1

    2.6

    2014-15

    8.0

    -0.9

    -5.3

    0.2

    1.3

    5.1

    5.9

    14.8

    4.9

    2015-16

    4.8

    -1.4

    -4.7

    4.9

    7.0

    -1.3

    4.6

    5.7

    3.0

    2016-17

    3.2

    -2.5

    -1.0

    4.9

    0.2

    10.7

    -1.2

    5.8

    4.8

    2017-18

    2.6

    -0.9

    2.9

    4.6

    0.03

    5.6

    6.3

    5.3

    4.3

    2018-19

    7.4

    -4.1

    0.8

    3.1

    0.3

    5.1

    13.3

    5.2

    4.4

    2019-20

    -0.4

    -5.9

    -5.6

    0.2

    2.7

    3.4

    -0.9

    0.9

    0.4

    2020-21

    -1.9

    -5.2

    -8.2

    -11.2

    1.7

    -8.7

    -10.8

    -0.5

    -6.4

    2021-22

    8.5

    -2.6

    19.2

    8.9

    0.7

    16.9

    20.8

    8.0

    10.4

    2022-23

    14.8

    -1.7

    1.6

    4.8

    11.3

    9.3

    8.7

    8.9

    7.8

    2023-24

    11.8

    0.6

    6.1

    3.6

    3.7

    12.5

    8.9

    7.1

    7.6

    Apr-Jan 2023-24

    12.3

    -0.2

    5.6

    3.9

    5.5

    13.5

    8.8

    6.9

    7.8

    Apr-Jan2024-25*

    6.0

    -2.0

    0.5

    3.3

    1.7

    5.9

    4.6

    5.0

    4.4

    *Provisional.

       Y-o-Y is calculated over the corresponding financial year of previous year

     

    Annex II

    Performance of Eight Core Industries

    Monthly Index & Growth Rate

    Base Year: 2011-12=100

    Index

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Index

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    Jan-24

    219.6

    78.8

    79.3

    135.9

    135.0

    217.8

    192.2

    197.2

    165.4

    Feb-24

    212.1

    73.5

    74.5

    132.5

    113.3

    202.9

    194.3

    187.2

    157.7

    Mar-24

    256.0

    78.9

    79.3

    147.0

    116.6

    219.8

    219.4

    204.2

    175.0

    Apr-24

    173.3

    76.3

    74.8

    137.9

    117.8

    210.0

    192.3

    212.0

    161.7

    May-24

    184.7

    77.9

    78.7

    141.8

    135.9

    209.7

    190.6

    229.3

    168.2

    Jun-24

    186.4

    74.4

    75.8

    134.1

    134.0

    204.0

    198.5

    222.8

    163.7

    Jul-24

    163.0

    76.6

    78.0

    143.3

    138.8

    205.1

    174.6

    220.2

    162.8

    Aug-24

    138.2

    75.7

    77.4

    134.0

    137.5

    206.6

    177.4

    212.3

    156.3

    Sep-24

    151.8

    72.0

    75.8

    134.1

    134.8

    202.0

    178.8

    206.9

    155.4

    Oct-24

    186.0

    74.6

    79.3

    135.5

    136.9

    212.9

    187.2

    207.8

    162.4

    Nov-24*

    199.6

    73.9

    75.7

    138.4

    136.2

    201.0

    177.6

    184.1

    157.0

    Dec-24*

    215.1

    77.9

    78.1

    149.1

    139.8

    221.7

    200.8

    192.8

    168.9

    Jan-25*

    229.8

    77.9

    78.1

    147.2

    139.0

    225.8

    220.0

    199.8

    173.0

    *Provisional

     

    Growth Rates (on Y-o-Y basis in per cent)

    Sector

    Coal

    Crude Oil

    Natural Gas

    Refinery Products

    Fertilizers

    Steel

    Cement

    Electricity

    Overall Growth

    Weight

    10.33

    8.98

    6.88

    28.04

    2.63

    17.92

    5.37

    19.85

    100.00

    Jan-24

    10.6

    0.6

    5.5

    -4.3

    -0.6

    9.2

    4.1

    5.7

    4.2

    Feb-24

    11.6

    7.9

    11.2

    2.6

    -9.5

    9.4

    7.8

    7.6

    7.1

    Mar-24

    8.7

    2.1

    6.3

    1.6

    -1.3

    7.5

    10.6

    8.6

    6.3

    Apr-24

    7.5

    1.7

    8.6

    3.9

    -0.8

    9.8

    0.2

    10.2

    6.9

    May-24

    10.2

    -1.1

    7.5

    0.5

    -1.7

    8.9

    -0.6

    13.7

    6.9

    Jun-24

    14.8

    -2.6

    3.3

    -1.5

    2.4

    6.3

    1.8

    8.6

    5.0

    Jul-24

    6.8

    -2.9

    -1.3

    6.6

    5.3

    7.0

    5.1

    7.9

    6.3

    Aug-24

    -8.1

    -3.4

    -3.6

    -1.0

    3.2

    4.1

    -2.5

    -3.7

    -1.5

    Sep-24

    2.6

    -3.9

    -1.3

    5.8

    1.9

    1.8

    7.6

    0.5

    2.4

    Oct-24

    7.8

    -4.8

    -1.2

    5.2

    0.4

    5.7

    3.1

    2.0

    3.8

    Nov-24*

    7.5

    -2.1

    -1.9

    2.9

    2.0

    4.4

    13.5

    4.4

    4.4

    Dec-24*

    5.3

    0.6

    -1.8

    2.8

    1.7

    7.3

    4.6

    6.2

    4.8

    Jan-25*

    4.6

    -1.1

    -1.5

    8.3

    3.0

    3.7

    14.5

    1.3

    4.6

    *Provisional.

    Y-o-Y is calculated over the corresponding financial year of previous year

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2106953) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Women Entrepreneurship Platform – NITI Aayog State Workshop on Enabling Women-Led Development through Entrepreneurship: A Remarkable Success in Mizoram

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 4:52PM by PIB Delhi

     

    Under its State Support Mission, NITI Aayog held the Third State Workshop on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship. The workshop, organized in collaboration with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and the Government of Mizoram, took place at Mizoram University, Aizawl, on 27 February 2025. The event focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in the north-eastern region and was attended by representatives from all eight north-eastern states.

    The Chief Guest, Chief Minister of Mizoram, Shri Lalduhoma, speaking at the inaugural session said, “Women entrepreneurs in Mizoram have demonstrated remarkable potential and resilience, yet challenges like access to capital and markets persist. Through initiatives like the Mizoram Bana Kaih Handholding Scheme, we are shifting from a welfare-driven approach to an empowerment-based model—where individuals are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to the state’s progress. I encourage more women to step forward, as their innovation and determination will define the future of Mizoram. The government stands with them in this journey towards economic and social transformation.” He urged the participants to register on the WEP platform (www.wep.gov.in) and get benefits from all the programs that were launched.

    Shri Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of Labour, Employment Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Department (LESDE), Government of Mizoram said that the launch of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) State Chapter in Mizoram marks a transformative step in empowering our women entrepreneurs. This initiative would be ensuring that our women entrepreneurs truly benefit from it, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and self-reliance in the state

    Dr. Vinod K Paul, Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog, addressed the gathering with a vision for Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing the role of women entrepreneurs in shaping India’s economic future. He underscored the importance of localizing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in the North-east. He mentioned, “By combining the visionary initiatives of the state government with the support of WEP, we are creating a sustainable and inclusive environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive, scale their businesses, and contribute to India’s economic transformation.”

    Shri Khilli Ram Meena, Chief Secretary, Government of Mizoram, highlighted the government’s initiatives in fostering women’s entrepreneurship, stressing the importance of financial access, skill development, digital literacy, and mentorship.

    Ms. Anna Roy, Principal Economic Advisor, NITI Aayog, and Mission Director, WEP, stated:

    “The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) is a catalyst for change, bringing together government, private sector, and civil society to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. By addressing critical needs such as access to finance, markets, skilling, and mentorship, WEP empowers women entrepreneurs to scale their businesses and contribute to economic growth.”

    Key Highlights of the Workshop:

    1. WEP Mizoram State Chapter

    The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) launched its Mizoram State Chapter, making it the first in Northeast India. This initiative aims to strengthen regional support for women entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship, and business opportunities.

    1. New Shop ATR Launch in Northeast

    As part of WEP’s Award to Reward (ATR) initiative, the New Shop ATR program was launched to support women entrepreneurs in the retail sector. ATR has already impacted 750+ women across nine cohorts, addressing their business needs and rewarding exceptional performances. The New Shop Award to Reward (ATR) program was launched to support women entrepreneurs in the retail sector. Ten selected participants will receive intensive training, mentorship, and financial assistance, with two outstanding performers being rewarded.

    1. Awards to Women Entrepreneurs – Project Maitri

    As part of the Award to Reward initiative, outstanding women homestay entrepreneurs from Northeast India were honored under Project Maitri. The winners include Monika Devi (Eco Heritage Villa), Lopamudra Bharali (Jazzabor with Private Kitchen), and Barsha Sharma (Nolina Boutique Homestay). This program, launched in Arunachal Pradesh, provided intensive training to help women scale their tourism ventures.

    1. WEP App – Beta Version

    The beta version of the WEP App was launched to digitize entrepreneurial support for women. The app will provide easy access to mentorship, funding, resources, and networking opportunities, fostering a stronger ecosystem for women-led businesses.

    1. Panel Discussions and Workshops – Covering topics such as government policies, financial access, and fostering young women entrepreneurs. The workshop witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 500 participants, including women entrepreneurs, college students, local self-help groups, government officials, industry leaders, incubators, financial institutions, and philanthropic foundations. Engaging sessions provided valuable insights and knowledge to strengthen women entrepreneurs’ journeys, while a tech experience center curated by the SELCO Foundation showcased innovative sustainable technology solutions by women entrepreneurs in the North East along with other exhibitions organised by DONeR, ADP and Government of Mizoram.

    The success of the workshop reaffirms WEP’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive, resilient, and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for women across India, especially in the North-East.

    ****

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2106956) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Giloy Takes the Global Stage: Research Publications Soar Over 300% in a Decade

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Giloy Takes the Global Stage: Research Publications Soar Over 300% in a Decade

    New Studies Reveal Promising Role of Giloy in Immunity & Clinical Research

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 4:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The data from PubMed, a globally recognised database for biomedical and life sciences research, reveals a staggering 376.5% increase in the number of research publications around Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) over the past decade, highlighting a growing global interest in the plant’s therapeutic potential. On searching the database for studies on ‘guduchi or tinospora cordifolia or amrita’, the results show 243 studies published in 2014. In contrast, in 2024, the number rose to 913, i.e. 376.5% increase.

    Image: Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Guduchi or Giloy, familiar as Amrita in Sanskrit, which translates to the ‘herb of immortality’, because of its abundant beneficial properties

    Post-COVID Boom in Giloy Research

    Notably, Guduchi is a popular herb known as Giloy and has been used in therapeutics for a long time in Ayush systems. While scientists have long been intrigued by Giloy’s medicinal properties, the years following the COVID-19 pandemic saw a major spike in research as experts explored natural immunity boosters and holistic healthcare solutions. Emerging studies reinforce its immune-modulatory, antiviral, and adaptogenic properties, making it a subject of keen interest among global researchers and healthcare practitioners.

    While highlighting the efforts of the Ministry to boost scientific research in Ayush, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, stated, “Scientific validation of Ayush formulations, herbs, etc., including medicinal plants like Giloy, is a top priority for the Ministry. We are committed to strengthening research collaborations, funding scientific studies, and promoting evidence-based integration of Ayurveda with mainstream healthcare to benefit global health.”

    Emphasizing the importance of scientific research and publication, Director General, CCRAS, Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya stated, “Research on medicinal plants is vital for bridging traditional wisdom with modern science. Scientific publications serve as a foundation for evidence-based validation, enhancing global acceptance and integrating Ayurveda into mainstream healthcare.”

    What Makes Giloy So Special?

     

    The increasing number of clinical studies and laboratory research suggests that Giloy may have a significant role in cancer therapy, autoimmune disease management, and even inflammatory disorders.

    Dr Galib, Associate Professor at the All-India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, explains, “Scientific exploration of Giloy is gaining momentum, with increasing studies showcasing its medicinal potential. Recent research highlights its bioactive compounds and therapeutic benefits, including immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. This growing interest positions Giloy as a promising candidate for future clinical applications in various medical fields.”

    Giloy & Scientific Research: Some Latest Findings

    Among the many recent studies that have particularly piqued scientific curiosity:

    February 2025: A study by Harsha Vaghasia (University School of Sciences, Gujarat University) and the team, published in PubMed, investigated the role of Giloy extracts in HPV-positive cervical cancer treatment. The findings highlight Giloy’s potential immunomodulatory benefits, paving the way for safer, more effective cancer therapies combined with conventional treatments.

    January 2025: Researchers from Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, led by Ankita Das Sheth, explored Giloy’s effectiveness in managing Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis (IGM), a benign yet challenging breast disorder often mistaken for cancer. The study reported that Giloy-based phytopharmaceutical drugs provided a safe, steroid-free treatment alternative, offering a cost-effective and efficient option to avoid aggressive surgeries.

    Ayush Ministry’s Proactive Support to Scholars with Technical Dossier

    Recognising the increasing scientific interest in Giloy, the Ministry of Ayush has taken a proactive step by launching a technical dossier on the herb. This one-of-a-kind resource combines scientific research, therapeutic applications, and key insights to promote evidence-based practices in traditional medicine.

    By integrating traditional Ayurveda wisdom with modern research, this initiative aims to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and the public, reinforcing India’s leadership in holistic wellness and integrative medicine.

    With scientific studies continuing to validate the medicinal properties of Giloy, experts believe this Ayurvedic marvel is on its way to becoming a mainstream integrative healthcare solution. As the world looks toward natural, plant-based therapies, India’s centuries-old herbal wisdom may hold the key to safer, more effective treatments for some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2106960) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Holistic Health and Nutrition Champion Luke Coutinho’s Visits Anganwadi Centers in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Holistic Health and Nutrition Champion Luke Coutinho’s Visits Anganwadi Centers in New Delhi

    Implementation of Poshan Abhiyaan and Government’s commitment to tackling malnutrition through Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 witnessed during visit

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 2:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Renowned holistic health coach and co-founder of Luke Coutinho Holistic Healing Systems, Mr. Luke Coutinho, visited Anganwadi Centre in Kusumpur Pahari ICDS Project AWC 55 & 59in R K Puram, New Delhi today to witness first-hand the implementation of Poshan Abhiyaan.

    The visit aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to tackling malnutrition through Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 (Mission Poshan 2.0) in which social behavioural change and community participation is a major component.

     

    During his visit, Mr. Coutinho interacted with Anganwadi workers who are key stakeholders engaged in strengthening nutrition and early childhood education in the community. He also interacted with the children at the Anganwadi Centre and motivated all towards good nutrition and healthy lifestyle practices.

     

    He saw how the real-time tracking of nutritional services is being done through the ‘Poshan Tracker’ application, an advanced IT governance tool that monitors the infrastructure and service delivery at Anganwadi Centres. This tool, available in 24 languages, has facilitated near real-time data collection and targeted interventions, ensuring improved service efficiency for beneficiaries.

     

    Praising Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s, anti obesity campaign and clarion call for reduction of edible oil for cooking, Mr Luke talked about awareness and community mobilisation being done by MoWCD through annual Jan Andolan events i.e. Poshan Maah and Poshan Pakhwada under Poshan Abhiyaan.

    He emphasised on involvement of males in the family for good nutrition. He also praised Ministry’s initiatives of use of millet in Supplementary Nutrition Program and use of technology for real-time tracking of nutritional services through the ‘Poshan Tracker’ application under Saksham Anganwadi and Mission Poshan 2.0.

      

     

    The Joint Secretary, Ministry of WCD mentioned that for ensuing 7 th Poshan Pakhwada 2025 from 18 th March to 2 nd April 2025, emphasis has been given on Healthy lifestyle to address Obesity in Children besides Focus on first 1000 days of life, Popularisation of Beneficiary Module and Management of malnutrition through implementation of CMAM Module.

    To encourage adoption of locally available food in the daily diet, Mr. Luke Coutinho planted Curry leave sapling.

    The Joint Secretary, Minisyry of WCD presented a copy of ‘Poshan Utsav Book’, conceptualized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development and curated by the Deendayal Research Institute (DRI). It serves as a comprehensive repository for appreciation of the rich culinary heritage and nutritional diversity of the country.

    This visit by Mr. Coutinho is expected to create greater awareness about the importance of holistic nutrition and early childhood education, reinforcing the collective mission of achieving a healthier and better-nourished India.

     **** 

    SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2106898) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –