Category: India

MIL-OSI Security: Tulsan Sentenced for Two Counts of Robbery

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Melik Deshawn Davis, 34, for two counts of Robbery in Indian Country. Judge Arias-Marxuach ordered Davis to 76 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,500 in restitution.

In September 2023, Tulsa Police officers were dispatched to an auto repair shop where the employees were robbed. Upon arrival, officers found two victims who described being held at gunpoint, pistol-whipped, and robbed.

The investigation revealed that Davis was dropped off at the auto repair shop. The vehicle was seen on video surveillance and FLOCK cameras fleeing the area. When law enforcement spoke with Davis, he admitted to robbing the victims.

Davis is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn prosecuted the case.

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 –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI: A dual challenge for the battery industry: ramping up production while innovating game-changing chemistries for the future
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press contact:
Florence Lièvre 
Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 71 
Email: florence.lievre@capgemini.com

A dual challenge for the battery industry: ramping up production while innovating game-changing chemistries for the future
- Battery innovation is fueling industry transformation, but overcoming current production ramp-up challenges will be crucial for European and US manufacturers
- Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate due to their proven performance, scalability, and well-established supply chain, while next-generation batteries are gaining traction
- 76% of manufacturers will need to upgrade or build new production lines to support the future generation of battery cells
Paris, February 27, 2025 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s report ‘The battery revolution: Shaping tomorrow’s mobility and energy’, published today, shows that batteries are transforming existing industries and enabling the emergence of new business models. However, despite the surging demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and energy-storage solutions, the future of batteries depends on overcoming a series of complex challenges across the entire value chain, from securing sustainable raw materials and optimizing manufacturing processes to advancing recycling capabilities.

According to the new report, the battery industry is reaching an inflection point, driven on the one hand by the need for higher energy density, faster charging times, improved safety, greater sustainability, and, on the other, the need for manufacturers to reduce costs.

While batteries are playing a critical role in decarbonizing carbon-intensive mobility and driving the renewable energy transition¹, the industry is facing series of challenges that have wide ranging implications for scaling production, gigafactory industrialization and ramp-up, economic viability, and supply chain constraints.

Battery technology is constantly evolving to improve performance and reduce costs
While almost all (98%) battery manufacturers surveyed produce lithium-ion batteries (using liquid electrolyte), the industry is actively exploring alternative chemistries to support electric mobility and accelerate energy storage. Amongst them, solid-state batteries (using solid electrolyte), represent a major shift in battery technology, primarily for EVs. They answer the need for improved performance owing to their potentially higher energy densities, faster charging times, and improved safety compared with traditional lithium-ion batteries.

“Innovation is driving a sustainable and competitive battery industry, with advancements in technologies and alternative chemistries improving performance and longevity. At this transformative time, while European and North American manufacturers are navigating production ramp-ups and exploring next generation of batteries, a solid and scalable digital foundation will be crucial for the industry’s future,” said Pierre Bagnon, Global Head of Intelligent Industry Accelerator at Capgemini. “Data and digital technologies can enhance the entire battery value chain, optimizing lifecycle management from quality control to waste management and recycling. Equally, collaboration within an innovation ecosystem that brings together all players and regulators is vital to continue the industry’s journey towards a battery-driven sustainable future.”

Advances will enable new business models but not without challenges
According to the survey, batteries are enabling new business models in the mobility industry to make EVs accessible to a broader range of consumers: a majority (around 64%) of mobility players are exploring battery swapping; nearly two-thirds of automotive organizations are considering battery-leasing and over half Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model that allows EV owners to lease or rent their batteries, rather than buy them. However, the success of these business models depends heavily on the implementation of standards, battery performance notably regarding longevity, adequate infrastructure, and economies of scale.

In the energy and utilities sector, two in five organizations say they are integrating batteries with renewable energy systems to optimize energy storage and usage, with most of them (69%) currently offering or planning to offer BaaS solutions. However, key challenges remain; while a battery is considered an expensive asset, the electricity it stores is relatively cheap. Furthermore, most organizations emphasize the lack of robust grid infrastructure and advanced control systems (65%); the need for multiple battery types to facilitate both short-term and long-term storage solutions (61%) and for open performance standards to ensure reliability and transparency (59%).

Beyond the automotive and energy sectors, multiple industries are rapidly integrating batteries into their operations: three in five of the organizations surveyed stated that battery innovation will impact fleet operators and heavy transportation in the next 5-10 years. Disruptions are also expected in aviation and shipping. Innovations in these industries include battery-powered eVTOLs (Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing), heavy-duty vehicles, and electric ships on short sea routes.

Overcoming production ramp-up challenges with scalable digital foundations
The battery industry is facing a number of complex and pressing challenges. Over half of battery manufacturers cite time required to build and ramp up gigafactories and difficulties in securing a stable supply chain for battery components and materials (respectively 59% and 53%). Uncertainty, around economic viability and profitability, appears as a key concern to scaling production.

The scarcity of experienced talent also represents a significant challenge for the battery industry, with 60% of organizations facing skills shortages in both battery technology and manufacturing. Expertise gaps extend beyond specialized skills and encompass data scientists and manufacturing engineers who can analyze and correlate production data with battery performance, enabling process optimization and defect reduction.

While batteries are key to decarbonizing carbon-intensive mobility and driving the renewable energy transition, only one in three battery manufacturers surveyed have taken meaningful steps toward establishing a sustainable circular economy.

A majority (67%) of respondents acknowledge that data and digital technologies are crucial to the industry’s future. However, digitalization among battery manufacturers is currently low, at just 17% and data usage remains minimal in sustainability-related fields. In Europe, a Digital ‘battery passport’², setting high environmental standards for battery production and recycling, will enable suppliers and OEMs to make informed decisions by considering the complete lifecycle of battery manufacturing.

To read the full report: LINK

Report Methodology
The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed 750 senior executives from large battery, automotive, and energy and utilities organizations across 15 countries in North America, Europe, and APAC. The survey findings are complemented by in-depth discussions with 22 experts from battery, automotive, and energy and utilities sectors. The organizations surveyed are significant players in their respective segments, including battery manufacturers with annual revenue exceeding $50 million; energy and utilities firms with revenues over $1 billion (except those from Sweden and Norway, whose revenue exceeds $500 million); and automotive manufacturers with revenue above $1 billion (excluding two- and three- wheeler original equipment manufacturers [OEMs] with revenue over $300 million). The global survey was conducted in September-October 2024.

About Capgemini
Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

About the Capgemini Research Institute
The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first.

Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

¹ According to IEA, batteries account for 90% of the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario (NZE Scenario), with 60% of CO2 emissions reductions to be made in the energy sector by 2030 associated with batteries – Source: IEA, “Batteries and secure energy transitions,” April 2024.
² From February 2027, EVs sold within the EU must be equipped with ‘battery passports’ that provide detailed information on battery composition, including sources of key materials, carbon footprint, and recycled content.

Attachments
- Infographic-Future-Of-Batteries_Report
- 2025_02_27_ Capgemini_Press Release_Future of Batteries report
The MIL Network –
February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Delegation Reintroduce Slate of Tribal Water Rights Settlements Legislation

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), and Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) are reintroducing a slate of Tribal water rights settlement bills they are pushing to pass in this Congress.
The full slate of Tribal water rights settlements legislation includes:
The Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Rights Settlements Act;
The Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act;
The Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act; and
The Navajo Nation Rio San José Water Rights Settlement Act.
Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments;
The Technical Corrections to the Northwestern New Mexico Rural Water Projects Act, Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act, and Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act;
“I’m proud to introduce these bills to finally unlock critical water infrastructure funding from these water rights settlements and ensure Tribes have the resources to use the water they own,” said Heinrich. “These settlements are supported by all parties involved, including Tribal and non-Tribal communities. Congress should pass these urgently needed bills to help communities manage their precious and limited water resources.”
“Water rights are part of the federal trust responsibility for our Tribal communities,” said Luján, a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee. “I’m proud to reintroduce legislation to allow our Tribal communities to promote water security and complete much-needed water infrastructure projects. I’m especially proud to reintroduce my legislation to amend the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, ensuring it has the resources and time needed to deliver clean drinking water to communities in northwestern New Mexico. These pieces of legislation will help fulfill our trust responsibility and promote water security for Tribes and Pueblos, as well as non-Tribal users, in New Mexico.”
“This legislation upholds our trust responsibility to Tribes and helps bring certainty to disputes about water across the Southwest. The settlements included in these bills secure clean, reliable water for Navajo Nation, Jicarilla Apache Nation, 11 pueblos, and the rural communities that are their neighbors across New Mexico,” said Leger Fernández. “It is with great expectation that I reintroduce this legislation which reflects decades of negotiation and collaboration. We must pass these bills so the scarce water resources our communities need to thrive for generations to come are available to all.”
“In New Mexico, we know water is life,” said Stansbury. “That’s why these Tribal Water Settlement bills are so important. These pieces of legislation will give water rights back to our Tribes and Pueblos, ensuring the federal government upholds our Trust and Treaty Responsibilities. Indigenous people have been stewards of the land and water since time immemorial, and now is the time for them to lead these efforts.”
“I will always stand with our Tribal communities in Congress,” said Vasquez. “These water rights settlements are a crucial step in fulfilling our delegation’s commitment to ensuring every New Mexican has access to safe, reliable water. By providing our Tribes and Pueblos with the resources they need, we are investing in vital water infrastructure that will serve generations to come.”
The Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Rights Settlements Act is led by Heinrich and Leger Fernández. Luján, Stansbury, and Vasquez are original cosponsors. The bill would implement two fund-based water settlements: one between the Pueblos of Jemez and Zia, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties; and another between the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties. The settlements are strongly supported by all parties involved.
Heinrich and Leger Fernández previously introduced this legislation in March 2023. The bill received a hearing and was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in December 2023. The House version of this bill received a legislative hearing in the House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee in July 2024.
Read the full bill text here.
The Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act is also led by Heinrich and Leger Fernández. Luján and Stansbury are original cosponsors. The bill establishes a trust fund to implement the negotiated settlement between the United States, the State of New Mexico, the City of Española, the Asociación de Acéquias Norteñas de Rio Arriba, El Rito Ditch Asociación, La Asociación de las Acéquias del Rio Tusas, Vallecitos y Ojo Caliente, the Rio de Chama Acéquia Association, and Ohkay Owingeh to settle the Pueblo’s water claims in the Rio Chama Basin. The funding will be used for Ohkay Owingeh’s development of water resources to ensure the Pueblo has appropriate water infrastructure to use the water that they have claim to in the basin.
Heinrich and Leger Fernández initially introduced the bill in June 2024. The bill then received a key hearing before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in July 2024.
Read the full bill text here.
The Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act is led by Heinrich and Vasquez. Luján, Stansbury, and Leger Fernández are original cosponsors. The bill authorizes $685 million to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the federal government, State of New Mexico and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage, and domestic and other uses.
Heinrich and Vasquez initially introduced the bill in July 2024. The bill received a key hearing before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in September 2024.
Read the full bill text here.
The Navajo Nation Rio San José Water Rights Settlement Act is led by Heinrich and Leger Fernández. Luján, Stansbury, and Vasquez are original cosponsors. This bill would approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation as well as participating non-Tribal parties in the Rio San José watershed.
Heinrich and Leger Fernández initially introduced this bill in September 2024. The bill then received a key hearing before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee that same month.
Read the full bill text here.
The Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments is led by Luján and Leger Fernández. Heinrich and Stansbury are original cosponsors. The bill amends the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project to ensure it has the resources and time needed to reach completion to deliver drinking water to northwestern New Mexico communities.
The Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project was first authorized as part of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which settled the Navajo Nation’s water rights in the San Juan Basin of New Mexico and funded the design and construction of the waterline to reach an estimated 250,000 people by the year 2040. Upon completion, the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project will provide a long-term, sustainable water supply from the San Juan River to roughly 43 Chapters on the eastern Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and the City of Gallup, which currently rely on a rapidly depleting groundwater supply of poor quality.
Luján, Leger Fernández, and Heinrich initially introduced the bill in June 2023. The bill was passed out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in November 2023.
Read the full bill text here.
The Technical Corrections to the Northwestern New Mexico Rural Water Projects Act, Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act, and Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act is led by Luján and Leger Fernández. Heinrich and Stansbury are original cosponsors. This bill authorizes the appropriation of $6.3 million for the Navajo Nation Water Resources Development Fund; $7.8 million for the Taos Pueblo Water Development Fund; and $4.3 million for the Aamodt Settlement Pueblos’ Fund, which covers Nambé, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, and Tesuque Pueblos. It will support water resources development projects for the Tribes.
Luján and Leger Fernández initially introduced this bill in December 2023.
Read the full bill text here.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Leger Fernández, Heinrich, Curtis Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Fund and Complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and John Curtis (R-Utah) introduced the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act of 2025. The bipartisan legislation amends the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project to ensure it has the resources and time needed to reach completion to deliver drinking water to northwestern New Mexico communities. The House companion legislation was introduced by U.S. Representative Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) and is co-sponsored by U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.).

The Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project was first authorized as part of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which settled the Navajo Nation’s water rights in the San Juan Basin of New Mexico and funded the design and construction of the waterline to reach an estimated 250,000 people by the year 2040. Upon completion, the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project will provide a long-term, sustainable water supply from the San Juan River to roughly 43 Chapters on the eastern Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and the City of Gallup, which currently rely on a rapidly depleting groundwater supply of poor quality. Full project completion is planned for 2029. When complete, it will include approximately 300 miles of pipeline, two water treatment plants, 19 pumping plants and multiple water storage tanks.

“Ensuring that the Navajo Nation, City of Gallup, and Jicarilla Apache Nation have access to safe, clean, and reliable drinking water is vital for the health and well-being of rural and Tribal communities,” said Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “The Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project will help provide a reliable, sustainable surface water supply to improve the public health and economic opportunities for the region. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation to move this critical project forward and reduce the financial burden on Tribal and local governments. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this much-needed legislation to help meet the water needs in the San Juan Basin for years to come.”

“Since I was elected to Congress, I have prioritized funding for the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project so we can provide clean, reliable, and affordable water to the Navajo people and surrounding communities in New Mexico. We secured $615 million in funding to move the project forward,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “The Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act builds upon this work. We won’t stop until this project is completed because in New Mexico, we know that water sustains us. Sabemos que Agua Es Vida.”

“Communities in northwest New Mexico, the Navajo Nation, and the Jicarilla Apache Nation deserve water security and clean drinking water. Our legislation achieves this by funding the completion of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project to deliver clean, reliable water to 43 Tribal communities and the City of Gallup. I call on the Senate to quickly take up this legislation and ensure the project can be completed,” said Senator Heinrich.

“Water is the lifeblood of the West, and Utahns know that securing a reliable water supply is essential for our communities, our economy, and our way of life,” said Senator Curtis. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation to help ensure the Navajo Nation in Utah have the water they need to thrive.”

The amending legislation makes several important changes:
- Increases the project funding authorization to match updated construction costs;
- Extends the project timeline beyond 2025 to 2029 to provide additional time for completion;
- Establishes trust funds for operations and maintenance costs for the Navajo Nation and the Jicarilla Apache Nation once construction is complete; and
- Allows the project to expand its service area to reach Navajo communities without running water.
The Navajo Nation, Jicarilla Apache Nation, State of New Mexico, and the City of Gallup support the legislation.

Senators Luján and Heinrich and Congresswoman Leger Fernández have long supported efforts to fund and complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

Senator Luján and Congresswoman Leger Fernández secured $137 million for the project through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law toward the total authorized project cost. In August 2024, Senator Luján and the N.M. Delegation welcomed a $267 million Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project contract to design and build the San Juan Lateral Water Treatment Plant in northwest New Mexico. The plant is the largest and most important feature of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

In January 2025, Senators Luján and Heinrich, and Congresswoman Leger Fernández announced $120 million for Fiscal Year 2025 for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project using funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Reclamation Water Settlements Fund. The original version of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act was passed out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in November 2023. However, new legislation is required to authorize additional time and resources to complete the project and for its long-term, sustainable operations and maintenance.

Additionally, the N.M. Delegation recently reintroduced a slate of Tribal water rights settlement bills they are pushing to pass in this Congress.

For more information about the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, click here.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Sex Offender Sentenced to More than 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

CAPE GIRARDEAU – U.S. District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. on Tuesday sentenced a registered sex offender caught with child sexual abuse material to 130 months in prison.

Thomas O. Stroud Jr., 43, of Wappapello, in Wayne County, Missouri, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau in November to possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, Stroud has a prior federal conviction for possessing child pornography in 2009. Following his release from federal prison, Stroud was required to register as a sex offender. He was also placed on a 40-year term of supervised release. In March 2024, while Stroud was serving his term of supervised release, Stroud’s probation officer discovered that he had been using a cell phone to communicate with someone in Indiana. During the communications, Stroud obtained several images of child pornography.

After serving his 130-month sentence, Stroud will once again be placed on supervised release.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Probation Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Koester prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ANNVILLE – Governor Shapiro to Swear-in John R. Pippy as 55th Adjutant General of PA

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

February 28, 2025 – Annville, PA

ADVISORY – ANNVILLE – Governor Shapiro to Swear-in John R. Pippy as 55th Adjutant General of PA

John. R. Pippy will be sworn in as the 55th adjutant general of Pennsylvania and promoted to Major General. Pippy was unanimously confirmed as adjutant general by the Pennsylvania Senate on Feb. 4, 2025.

In this capacity, Pippy assumes command of the Pennsylvania National Guard, the third largest in the country, and is head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The DMVA provides programs and services to nearly 700,000 veterans, the fifth largest veteran population in the country.

NOTE: This event is available by stream to the general public at https://pacast.com/live/dmva. Media is invited to attend in person.

WHO:
Governor Josh Shapiro
Adjutant General John R. Pippy

WHEN:
Friday, February 28; 10:15 AM

WHERE:
Bldg. 8-80, Bearty Ave., Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA

DIRECTIONS AND DETAILS FOR ACCESS:

All visitors must enter through the main gate. All other entrances and exits to Fort Indiantown Gap are permanently closed.

Take I-81 North and get off at exit 85B Indiantown Gap. This will put you on 934 North to the main gate. You must show a state- or federally-issued identification card to enter the installation.
Continue through the access point to the first light, and take a right onto Service Rd. Next, take a right onto Bearty Ave. Then turn right on Bellamy Ave. to Bldg. 8-80. More information here: https://www.ftig.ng.mil/Gate-Construction/.

MEDIA CONTACT: Angela Watson: Watsona@pa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: India: 2024 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for India

Source: International Monetary Fund

International Monetary Fund. Asia and Pacific Dept “India: 2024 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for India”, IMF Staff Country Reports 2025, 054 (2025), accessed February 27, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229002899.002

MIL OSI Economics –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2024 Article IV Consultation with India

Source: International Monetary Fund

February 27, 2025

Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation^[1] with India.

Despite recent moderation, India’s economic growth has remained robust, with GDP growth of 6 percent y/y in the first half of 2024/25. Inflation has broadly declined within the tolerance band, though food price fluctuations have created some volatility. The financial sector has remained resilient, with non-performing loans at multi-year lows. Fiscal consolidation has continued, and the current account deficit has remained well contained, supported by strong growth in service exports.

Real GDP is expected to grow at 6.5 percent in 2024/25 and 2025/26, supported by robust growth in private consumption on the back of sustained macroeconomic and financial stability. Headline inflation is expected to converge to target as food price shocks wane. The current account is expected to widen somewhat but remain moderate at -1.3 percent of GDP in 2025/26. Looking ahead, India’s financial sector health, strengthened corporate balance sheets, and strong foundation in digital public infrastructure underscore India’s potential for sustained medium-term growth and continued social welfare gains.

Risks to the economic outlook are tilted to the downside. Deepening geoeconomic fragmentation could affect external demand, while deepening regional conflicts could result in oil price volatility, weighing on India’s fiscal position. Domestically, the recovery in private consumption and investment may be weaker than expected if real incomes do not recover sufficiently. Weather shocks could adversely impact agricultural output, lifting food prices and weighing on the recovery in rural consumption. On the upside, deeper implementation of structural reforms could boost private investment and employment, raising potential growth.

Executive Board Assessment^[2]

Executive Directors commended the authorities’ prudent macroeconomic policies and reforms, which have contributed to making India’s economy resilient and once again the fastest growing major economy. Directors stressed that in the face of headwinds from geoeconomic fragmentation and slower domestic demand, continued appropriate policies remain essential to maintain macroeconomic stability. India’s strong economic performance provides an opportunity to advance critical and challenging structural reforms to realize India’s ambition of becoming an advanced economy by 2047.

Directors commended the authorities’ commitment to fiscal prudence and welcomed the adoption of a debt target as the medium-term fiscal anchor, which has enhanced transparency and accountability. Given significant development and social needs, Directors recommended continued, well-calibrated fiscal consolidation over the medium term to rebuild buffers, ease debt service, and reduce debt. They suggested a greater focus on domestic revenue mobilization, which together with current expenditure rationalization, such as better targeting of subsidies, can create space for growth-enhancing expenditure on infrastructure and health. Notwithstanding fiscal disparities across states, Directors also broadly agreed that a more holistic fiscal framework that includes state and central government, as well as a more detailed fiscal deficit path with sufficient flexibility, could be used as an operational guide.

Directors welcomed the Reserve Bank of India’s well-calibrated monetary policy with inflation remaining within the target band. They noted that opportunities could arise to gradually lower the policy rate further, and stressed that monetary policy should remain data-dependent and well communicated. Directors recommended greater exchange rate flexibility as the first line of defense in absorbing external shocks, with foreign exchange interventions limited to addressing disorderly market conditions. A few Directors also saw the need for foreign exchange interventions in other cases noting limitations in the current global financial safety net.

Directors welcomed the 2024 Financial System Stability Assessment, which points to the overall resilience of India’s financial system, and encouraged the authorities to use the current favorable environment to further strengthen financial resilience. Noting pockets of vulnerability from the interconnectedness among nonbank financial institutions, banks, and markets, as well as from concentrated exposures to the power and infrastructure sectors, Directors recommended further aligning India’s framework of financial sector regulation, supervision, resolution, and safety net with international standards. A number of Directors also suggested greater flexibility in priority sector lending. Directors encouraged the authorities to further improve the AML/CFT framework.

Directors emphasized that comprehensive structural reforms are crucial to create high-quality jobs, invigorate investment, and unleash higher potential growth. Efforts should focus on implementing labor market reforms, strengthening human capital, and supporting greater participation of women in the labor force. Boosting private investment and FDI is also vital and will require stable policy frameworks, greater ease of doing business, governance reforms, and increased trade integration which should include both tariff and nontariff reduction measures with all parties involved. In this context, Directors welcomed India’s recent tariff reductions, noting that these can enhance competitiveness and foster India’s role in global value chains. Directors commended India’s significant progress in emission intensity reduction and renewable energy deployment and agreed that a balanced climate policy framework, alongside greater access to concessional financing and technology, would be key to achieving net zero emissions by 2070. Directors also welcomed the ongoing capacity development provided to further upgrade the quality, availability, and timeliness of India’s macroeconomic and financial statistics.

Table 1. India: Selected Social and Economic Indicators, 2020/21-2025/26 1/
	2020/21	2021/22	2022/23	2023/24	2024/25	2025/26
				Est.	Projections

Growth (in percent)
Real GDP (at market prices)	-5.8	9.7	7.0	8.2	6.5	6.5
Prices (percent change, period average)
Consumer prices – Combined	6.2	5.5	6.7	5.4	4.8	4.3
Saving and investment (percent of GDP)
Gross saving 2/	29.8	30.9	31.0	32.6	32.7	32.2
Gross investment 2/	28.9	32.1	33.0	33.3	33.6	33.5
Fiscal position (percent of GDP) 3/
Central government overall balance	-8.5	-6.7	-6.6	-5.6	-4.8	-4.5
General government overall balance	-12.9	-9.4	-9.0	-8.1	-7.4	-7.0
General government debt 4/	88.4	83.5	82.0	82.7	82.7	81.4
Cyclically adjusted balance (% of potential GDP)	-7.6	-7.7	-8.4	-8.2	-7.4	-7.1
Cyclically adjusted primary balance (% of potential GDP)	-2.5	-2.6	-3.3	-2.8	-2.0	-1.6
Money and credit (y/y percent change, end-period)
Broad money	12.2	8.8	9.0	11.1	10.0	10.9
Domestic Credit	9.5	9.0	13.1	12.0	11.2	11.9
Financial indicators (percent, end-period)
91-day treasury bill yield (end-period)	3.3	3.8	6.7	7.0	…	…
10-year government bond yield (end-period)	6.3	6.9	7.3	7.1	…	…
Stock market (y/y percent change, end-period)	68.0	18.3	0.7	24.9	…	…
External trade (on balance of payments basis)
Merchandise exports (in billions of U.S. dollars)	296.3	429.2	456.1	441.4	443.3	458.7
(Annual percent change)	-7.5	44.8	6.3	-3.2	0.4	3.5
Merchandise imports (in billions of U.S. dollars)	398.5	618.6	721.4	686.3	728.8	768.6
(Annual percent change)	-16.6	55.3	16.6	-4.9	6.2	5.5
Terms of trade (G&S, annual percent change)	2.0	-8.7	-2.7	3.2	-1.3	0.2
Balance of payments (in billions of U.S. dollars)
Current account balance	24.0	-38.7	-67.0	-26.0	-34.7	-53.8
(In percent of GDP)	0.9	-1.2	-2.0	-0.7	-0.9	-1.3
Foreign direct investment, net (“-” signifies inflow)	-44.0	-38.6	-28.0	-10.1	1.9	-6.4
Portfolio investment, net (equity and debt, “-” = inflow)	-36.1	16.8	5.2	-44.1	-4.6	-20.4
Overall balance (“+” signifies balance of payments surplus)	87.3	47.5	-9.1	63.7	2.8	25.0
External indicators
Gross reserves (in billions of U.S. dollars, end-period)	577.0	607.3	578.4	646.4	649.2	674.2
(In months of next year’s imports (goods and services))	9.0	8.1	8.0	8.3	7.9	7.8
External debt (in billions of U.S. dollars, end-period)	573.7	619.1	624.1	668.9	726.5	787.3
External debt (percent of GDP, end-period)	21.4	19.5	18.6	18.7	18.9	18.6
Of which: Short-term debt	9.5	8.5	8.2	8.1	8.3	8.1
Ratio of gross reserves to short-term debt (end-period)	2.3	2.3	2.1	2.2	2.0	1.9
Real effective exchange rate (annual avg. percent change)	-0.8	0.3	-0.3	0.3	…	…
Memorandum item (in percent of GDP)
Fiscal balance under authorities’ definition	-9.2	-6.7	-6.5	-5.6	-4.8	-4.4
Sources: Data provided by the Indian authorities; Haver Analytics; CEIC Data Company Ltd; Bloomberg L.P.; World Bank, World Development Indicators; and IMF staff estimates and projections. 1/ Data are for April–March fiscal years. 2/ Differs from official data, calculated with gross investment and current account. Gross investment includes errors and omissions. 3/ Divestment and license auction proceeds treated as below-the-line financing. 4/ Includes combined domestic liabilities of the center and the states, and external debt at year-end exchange rates.

[1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

[2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summings up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

MIL OSI Economics –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2024 Article IV Consultation with India

Source: IMF – News in Russian

February 27, 2025

Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation^[1] with India.

Executive Board Assessment^[2]

Table 1. India: Selected Social and Economic Indicators, 2020/21-2025/26 1/
	2020/21	2021/22	2022/23	2023/24	2024/25	2025/26
				Est.	Projections

Growth (in percent)
Real GDP (at market prices)	-5.8	9.7	7.0	8.2	6.5	6.5
Prices (percent change, period average)
Consumer prices – Combined	6.2	5.5	6.7	5.4	4.8	4.3
Saving and investment (percent of GDP)
Gross saving 2/	29.8	30.9	31.0	32.6	32.7	32.2
Gross investment 2/	28.9	32.1	33.0	33.3	33.6	33.5
Fiscal position (percent of GDP) 3/
Central government overall balance	-8.5	-6.7	-6.6	-5.6	-4.8	-4.5
General government overall balance	-12.9	-9.4	-9.0	-8.1	-7.4	-7.0
General government debt 4/	88.4	83.5	82.0	82.7	82.7	81.4
Cyclically adjusted balance (% of potential GDP)	-7.6	-7.7	-8.4	-8.2	-7.4	-7.1
Cyclically adjusted primary balance (% of potential GDP)	-2.5	-2.6	-3.3	-2.8	-2.0	-1.6
Money and credit (y/y percent change, end-period)
Broad money	12.2	8.8	9.0	11.1	10.0	10.9
Domestic Credit	9.5	9.0	13.1	12.0	11.2	11.9
Financial indicators (percent, end-period)
91-day treasury bill yield (end-period)	3.3	3.8	6.7	7.0	…	…
10-year government bond yield (end-period)	6.3	6.9	7.3	7.1	…	…
Stock market (y/y percent change, end-period)	68.0	18.3	0.7	24.9	…	…
External trade (on balance of payments basis)
Merchandise exports (in billions of U.S. dollars)	296.3	429.2	456.1	441.4	443.3	458.7
(Annual percent change)	-7.5	44.8	6.3	-3.2	0.4	3.5
Merchandise imports (in billions of U.S. dollars)	398.5	618.6	721.4	686.3	728.8	768.6
(Annual percent change)	-16.6	55.3	16.6	-4.9	6.2	5.5
Terms of trade (G&S, annual percent change)	2.0	-8.7	-2.7	3.2	-1.3	0.2
Balance of payments (in billions of U.S. dollars)
Current account balance	24.0	-38.7	-67.0	-26.0	-34.7	-53.8
(In percent of GDP)	0.9	-1.2	-2.0	-0.7	-0.9	-1.3
Foreign direct investment, net (“-” signifies inflow)	-44.0	-38.6	-28.0	-10.1	1.9	-6.4
Portfolio investment, net (equity and debt, “-” = inflow)	-36.1	16.8	5.2	-44.1	-4.6	-20.4
Overall balance (“+” signifies balance of payments surplus)	87.3	47.5	-9.1	63.7	2.8	25.0
External indicators
Gross reserves (in billions of U.S. dollars, end-period)	577.0	607.3	578.4	646.4	649.2	674.2
(In months of next year’s imports (goods and services))	9.0	8.1	8.0	8.3	7.9	7.8
External debt (in billions of U.S. dollars, end-period)	573.7	619.1	624.1	668.9	726.5	787.3
External debt (percent of GDP, end-period)	21.4	19.5	18.6	18.7	18.9	18.6
Of which: Short-term debt	9.5	8.5	8.2	8.1	8.3	8.1
Ratio of gross reserves to short-term debt (end-period)	2.3	2.3	2.1	2.2	2.0	1.9
Real effective exchange rate (annual avg. percent change)	-0.8	0.3	-0.3	0.3	…	…
Memorandum item (in percent of GDP)
Fiscal balance under authorities’ definition	-9.2	-6.7	-6.5	-5.6	-4.8	-4.4
Sources: Data provided by the Indian authorities; Haver Analytics; CEIC Data Company Ltd; Bloomberg L.P.; World Bank, World Development Indicators; and IMF staff estimates and projections. 1/ Data are for April–March fiscal years. 2/ Differs from official data, calculated with gross investment and current account. Gross investment includes errors and omissions. 3/ Divestment and license auction proceeds treated as below-the-line financing. 4/ Includes combined domestic liabilities of the center and the states, and external debt at year-end exchange rates.

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/26/pr25045-india-imf-executive-board-concludes-2024-article-iv-consultation-with-india

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: BRICS Financial Track: First Meeting in 2025 Held

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Central Bank of Russia –

Deputy central bank governors and finance ministers of the BRICS countries in Cape Town, South Africa, identified key areas of cooperation. The meeting was hosted by Brazil, which holds the presidency of the group this year.

The agenda also included priorities that were previously set during the Russian presidency. In particular, the meeting participants confirmed their readiness to discuss the most pressing issues on the payment agenda: the possibilities of using national currencies in settlements, prospects for ensuring the interoperability of the financial markets of the BRICS countries, as well as cooperation in the field of information security. The central banks of the association’s countries in 2025 will also focus on issues of transitional financing and the development of financial technologies.

The results of the meeting set the vector for further work of the relevant departments of the BRICS countries, and will also be taken into account during the upcoming summit of the association.

The meeting took place at the Group of Twenty (G20) with the participation of representatives from all countries of the association: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, as well as the new BRICS member, Indonesia.

Preview photo: hxdbzxy / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23415

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Large Fire Footprint on Faraway Amsterdam Island

Source: NASA

On the afternoon of January 15, 2025, a wildfire broke out on the northern end of Amsterdam Island. The island occupies a remote spot in the southern Indian Ocean between Australia, Antarctica, and Africa. Part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is home to large marine mammal and bird populations, rare plant life, and a research station important for monitoring Earth’s atmosphere.
By February 9, when the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9 acquired these images, the fire had burned a considerable portion of the 54-square-kilometer (21-square-mile) island. The image on the right is shown in false color to help distinguish between burned (brown) and healthy vegetation (green). The image on the left shows the same scene in natural color.
Burned areas form a thick ring around most of the island’s perimeter. Based on mapping by the Copernicus Emergency Management Service, the fire’s footprint spanned nearly 30 square kilometers—more than half of the island. The cause of the fire was unknown as of early February.
The fire started a few kilometers away from the Martin-de-Viviès research facility amid dry, windy conditions that helped it spread, according to a French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF) news release. At daybreak the next morning, the 31 people stationed at Martin-de-Viviès evacuated safely to a nearby lobster fishing vessel. They were transferred to a TAAF ship a couple days later.

News reports have noted concern for the island’s distinct vegetation and abundant wildlife, although the fire’s effects on the ecosystem have yet to be assessed. Amsterdam Island is one of the few places in the world where the endangered Phylica arborea shrub grows. The speck of land also supports the world’s largest Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross population, the only Amsterdam albatross population, and colonies of elephant and fur seals.
Scientific research operations on Amsterdam are notable for including long-term monitoring of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. These observations are made atop a cliff near the Martin-de-Viviès research station. Some of the power, water, and communications infrastructure at Martin-de-Viviès was damaged in the fire, according to a TAAF news release on January 29.

The island produced interesting atmospheric phenomena of its own as the fire burned. The VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite captured this image of cloud bands and smoke downwind of the landmass on January 28.
“What you see at Amsterdam Island is a perfect example of a mountain wave effect,” said Galina Wind, atmospheric scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. This phenomenon occurs when winds blow through a stable atmosphere and encounter a barrier—in this case, Amsterdam Island jutting up 881 meters (2,890 feet) from the sea. The disturbance sets off vertical ripples in the air, where clouds form at the cooler wave crests and not in the warmer troughs.
A faint plume of wildfire smoke also trails to the lee side of the island, entrained with the eddies, Wind noted. If the smoke were brighter, she said, it might be visible forming a similar wave pattern.
“Because the air is otherwise very stable with very little convection,” Wind said, “this pattern is being transported wholesale by the general circulation far away from the island.” Mountain-wave clouds extended over 300 kilometers (200 miles) on this day—even beyond the scope of the image above.
NASA Earth Observatory images by Wanmei Liang, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey, VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE, GIBS/Worldview, and the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership, and MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Photo of yellow-nosed albatross on Amsterdam Island by Antoine Lamielle. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Business Co-operative Bank Ltd., Nashik, Maharashtra

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 24, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.00 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Business Co-operative Bank Ltd., Nashik, Maharashtra (the bank) for contravention of the provisions of Section 26A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

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

The bank had failed to transfer eligible unclaimed amounts to the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund within the prescribed time.

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

(Puneet Pancholy)
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2024-2025/2268

MIL OSI Economics –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Make the World Wear Khadi
Source: Government of India

Make the World Wear Khadi

Join the Challenge to Elevate India’s Iconic Fabric on the Global Stage

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 4:40PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction

The Make the World Wear Khadi campaign aims to blend India’s rich textile heritage with global fashion trends, offering an exciting challenge to advertising professionals and freelancers. Part of the inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), this initiative seeks to position Khadi as a desirable global brand through innovative advertising. Organised by the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the challenge invites participants from domestic and international markets to create creative concepts across digital, print, video, and experiential formats. With a focus on strategic thinking and creativity, Make the World Wear Khadi encourages fresh ideas to enhance Khadi’s brand image, engage consumers, and celebrate its timeless appeal worldwide.

Scheduled from 1 to 4 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre and Jio World Gardens in Mumbai, WAVES promises to be a landmark event for the Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector. With its unique hub-and-spoke model, the summit will connect Indian talent with global industry leaders across its four key pillars: Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality), Digital Media & Innovation, and Films. The Make the World Wear Khadi challenge, part of the Broadcasting & Infotainment segment, brings together advertising and marketing professionals to shape brand strategies within the M&E space. This challenge is a part of the Create in India Challenges, a flagship WAVES initiative that has already attracted over 73,000 registrations from creative minds worldwide. With 112 participants registered for the Khadi challenge as of 15 February 2025, the stage is set for a creative showdown that champions Khadi and highlights India’s creative prowess on the global stage.

Campaign Requirements

Event Calendar

Participation Guidelines
1. Craft a message that resonates with a broad and diverse audience.
1. Submit your campaign as a single PDF file, ensuring the file size does not exceed 5 MB.
1. Maintain anonymity in your submission. Avoid including any information that could reveal your identity or your employer’s details, as this will lead to disqualification.
1. A distinguished panel of creative and branding experts will assess the entries, ensuring a fair and insightful evaluation.
1. Click here to register.
Rewards and Recognition

Conclusion

The WAVES Make the World Wear Khadi campaign offers a remarkable opportunity for advertising professionals and freelancers to unleash their creativity and strategic acumen. As part of the inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), this initiative is a crucial element of the broader Create in India Challenges, designed to amplify India’s creative landscape. By positioning Khadi as a global and aspirational brand, the campaign not only honours India’s rich textile heritage but also fosters innovative thinking in the Media and Entertainment sector. With the prestigious WAVES 2025 event providing a platform to present ideas to leading policymakers, technocrats, and entrepreneurs, participants can gain invaluable exposure and contribute to a vision that champions Khadi and strengthens India’s influence on the global stage.

References:
Click here to download PDF

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

(Release ID: 2106626) Visitor Counter : 63

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INMAS organizes International Radio Biology Conference on Biological Effects of Space Radiation, Heavy Ions and Human Space missions

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 4:36PM by PIB Delhi

          Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences (INMAS), the Delhi based laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is hosting the International Radio Biology Conference on Biological Effects of Space Radiation, Heavy Ions and Human Space missions – Mechanisms & Biomedical Counter measures at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi during 27^th February, 2025 to 1^st March 2025. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, who was the Chief Guest, inaugurated the conference today on 27^th February, 2025. Dr Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO was the Guests of Honour.

          Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood in his inaugural address complimented INMAS for organising the event and said that one of the most significant challenges that in space exploration is the issue of space radiation, which poses a considerable risk to the health and well-being of astronauts during long duration space flights. He appreciated the efforts being made by INMAS in addressing these challenges.

          Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO in his address said the challenges associated with space radiation require an integrated approach, combining the expertise of various scientific disciplines. The conference, he said, serves as a unique and important forum for the exchange of knowledge between radiobiologists, physicists, engineers, and medical researchers, among others. It is through such interdisciplinary collaboration that we can develop the innovative technologies and solutions necessary to safeguard the health and well-being of astronauts in the harsh conditions of space, he added.

          Dr Samir V. Kamat said that exploring the Outer Space for the benefit of mankind has become a major necessity in modern times. Significant strides have been made, such as long-term human presence on the International Space Station (ISS) and missions to the Moon, which demonstrate our growing ability to sustain life in space. By developing effective strategies and protective measures, the country would be able to ensure the safety and well-being of astronauts, paving the way for successful long-term missions to Mars and beyond.

                   The three day conference will deliberate upon the topics in line with its theme “Biological Effects of Space Radiation” through theme areas namely, Biomarkers of Exposure/ Susceptibility, Chronic Effects/Carcinogenesis, Combined Stressors (Microgravity, Confinement, Circadian Misalignment, Isolation and Space Radiation), Acute & Late/ Chronic Effects of Heavy Ions, Mathematical Modelling and Simulation, Medical Countermeasures, Cellular & Molecular Mechanisms, Muscle & Bone Loss, Degenerative Diseases/ Cognition, Heavy Ions Radiation Chemistry.

******

SR/GC

(Release ID: 2106625) Visitor Counter : 73

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Community Radio Content Challenge
Source: Government of India

Community Radio Content Challenge

Amplifying Local Impact

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

Introduction
The Community Radio Content Challenge aims to highlight the creative, impactful, and innovative content from community radio stations, emphasizing their role in empowering local voices and addressing region-specific issues. In collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Community Radio Association (CRA), this platform recognizes the contributions of stations under the first season of the Create India Challenge at WAVES. So far, 246 participants, including 14 international entries have registered for the challenge.

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.

Community Radio Content Challenge under the Broadcasting and Infotainment pillar, celebrates the vital contribution of community radio in fostering informed, engaged and connected communities.

Objectives of Competition

The competition aims to celebrate the power and potential of community radio stations encouraging innovation and fostering collaboration.

Categories to Submit Entries

The WAVES Competition invites Community Radio Stations (CRSs) to submit entries in five distinct categories, each focused on a crucial aspect of community development. These categories aim to highlight the impactful work CRSs are doing to drive positive change across diverse sectors.
- Public Health and Safety: CRSs can showcase innovative programs that address public health issues, emergency preparedness, disease prevention, hygiene practices, and mental health awareness.
- Education and Literacy: Programs that promote education and literacy, especially in rural areas, empowering individuals with knowledge and skills to improve their quality of life.
- Women and Child Development/Social Justice and Advocacy: Programs that focus on gender equality, child rights, empowerment and social justice, advocating for marginalized communities and fostering an equitable society.
- Agriculture and Rural Development: Programs that support sustainable farming, agricultural innovations, and rural entrepreneurship, promoting the socio-economic growth of rural communities.
- Cultural Preservation: Programs dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage, celebrating traditional art forms, languages and practices for future generations.
Registration Guidelines

The registration for the competition will remain open until February 28, 2025. It was available to all registered Community Radio Stations (CRS) in India approved by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) and holding a valid or renewed license. Each station was allowed to submit only one entry under one of the five categories. Submitting multiple entries, either within the same or different categories would result in disqualification.

Submission Requirements

The program submissions must meet specific criteria including format, duration and supporting materials to highlight their content and impact.
- Program Criteria: Each submission must be a half-hour program or a single episode from a series.
- Program Formats: Entries can include talk shows, documentaries, music programs, educational content, Live Shows, Phone in Program or any other genre.
- Supporting Materials:
- Program descriptions: Provide a brief overview of the program’s content and objectives.
- Impact reports: Detail the program’s reach and impact on the community.
- Listener testimonials: Include feedback and comments from listeners.
Submission Process

Evaluation Criteria

To ensure fair and comprehensive evaluation of the submissions for the WAVES Competition, the following parameters will be used to assess each community radio program:

Final Selection

The WAVES Competition will be judged by a panel of experts including media personalities and Community Radio Association of India (CRAI) representatives, through a two-stage evaluation process.

Final Selection: Winners will be chosen from the shortlisted entries and advance to the final round based on the evaluation criteria.

Conclusion

The Community Radio Content Challenge as part of the WAVES Competition offers a valuable platform to recognize and celebrate the impactful work of community radio stations across India. By encouraging innovation and collaboration, this competition highlights the essential role of community radio in empowering local communities and addressing critical issues.

Reference

Click here to see PDF.

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

(Release ID: 2106623) Visitor Counter : 18

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NASA veteran Mr. Mike Massimino interacts with PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya students

Source: Government of India

NASA veteran Mr. Mike Massimino interacts with PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya students

He explores labs, praises India’s moon mission, shares zero gravity experiences during PM SHRI school visit

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 4:22PM by PIB Delhi

Former NASA astronaut Mr. Mike Massimino interacted with PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya students today in New Delhi. Mr. Massimino also explored the school’s facilities, including the AR-VR Lab, Atal Tinkering Lab, language lab, etc.

While interacting with the students, Mr. Massimino praised India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission, emphasizing its significance not just for India but for the global space community. He highlighted the challenges of landing on the Moon’s South Pole and how this achievement could provide key insights into water sources essential for habitation. Additionally, he underscored the importance of international collaboration in future space programs.

Mr. Massimino shared how a movie based on 7 astronauts inspired him to become an astronaut. Engaging with the students, he answered their questions about space exploration, the kind of food they had during their space trips, etc. Recounting his personal experiences, he described how he adapted to zero gravity in space and elaborated on their sleeping arrangements, consoles to work, etc. Students were also curious about AI’s role in space exploration. In response, he explained that AI would streamline the processes, making them more efficient, cost-effective, and safe. Concluding his interaction, he advised students on the subjects and skills they should pursue if they aspire to a career in space exploration.

During the event, students asked several questions about the challenges of pursuing a career as an astronaut and the key subjects essential for their preparation. Mr. Massimino emphasized the importance of exploring various fields, including soil sciences and marine biology. His practical and insightful answers left the students excited and deeply inspired. They also asked him about the most challenging project he worked on at NASA and whether human habitation on Mars would be possible in the near future. He explained that while living on the Moon could become a reality soon, settling on Mars would take longer due to the technological challenges that still need to be overcome.

Mr. Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut, is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and the senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. He received a BS from Columbia University, and MS degrees in mechanical engineering and in technology and policy, as well as a PhD in mechanical engineering, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

After working as an engineer at IBM, NASA, and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, along with academic appointments at Rice University and at the Georgia Institute of Technology, he was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1996, and is the veteran of two space flights, the fourth and fifth Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions in 2002 and 2009. Mike has a team record for the number of hours spacewalking in a single space shuttle mission, and he was also the first person to tweet from space. During his NASA career he received two NASA Space Flight Medals, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the American Astronautical Society’s Flight Achievement Award, and the Star of Italian Solidarity.

He is the Senior Adviser for Space Programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City. He is also a professor in Columbia University’s engineering school, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Also present at the programme were Shri Somit Shrivastava, Joint Commissioner (Pers); Shri B.K. Behra, Deputy Commissioner (Academics) KVS HQ; Shri S.S. Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner, KVS Delhi Region; Shri G.S. Pandey and Shri K.C. Meena, Assistant Commissioner, Delhi Region; Shri V.K. Mathpal, Principal KV No.2, Delhi Cantonment; and others.

*****

MV/AK

MOE/DoSEL/27 February 2025/1

(Release ID: 2106621) Visitor Counter : 96

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to preside over as Chief Guest for the 49th Civil Accounts Day celebrations in New Delhi on 1st March 2025

Source: Government of India

Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman to preside over as Chief Guest for the 49th Civil Accounts Day celebrations in New Delhi on 1st March 2025

16th Finance Commission Chairman Shri Arvind Panagariya will also deliver the keynote address on “India in Global Economy: The Next Decade” during the second session

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 4:20PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman will preside over the celebrations for the 49^th Civil Accounts Day to mark the Foundation Day of the Indian Civil Accounts Service, in New Delhi, on 1^st March 2025.

During the inaugural session, a compendium on the Public Financial Management System (PFMS), titled “Digitalisation of Public Financial Management in India: The Transformative Decade (2014-24)” will also be released. PFMS, designed, developed and implemented by the organisation of Controller General of Accounts (CGA) is the key IT Platform for financial administration of the Government including payment, receipt, accounting, cash management, and Financial reporting. PFMS has provided the digital infrastructure for operationalising Direct Benefit Transfers, one of the key Public Expenditure Management reform of the Government.

In session two of the founding day celebrations, Shri Arvind Panagariya, Chairman, 16^th Finance Commission, will deliver the keynote address on “India in Global Economy: The Next Decade”.

The Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) was established in 1976 following a significant reform in public financial administration. On March 1, 1976, the President of India promulgated ordinances separating the maintenance of Union Government accounts from audit functions, leading to the creation of departmentalised accounts. Since then, ICAS, led by the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), has been at the forefront of financial governance.

The ICAS will reaffirm its commitment to enhancing service delivery through comprehensive digitalization, ensuring secure and efficient financial management while leveraging advanced technologies for data-driven decision-making during the 49^th Foundation Day celebrations on March 1. The Public Financial Management System (PFMS), which now handles the entire budget for accounting of the Union Government and 65% of its budget for payments, is a testimony to the lead taken by the ICAS in this direction.

Officers and staff of the Indian Civil Accounts Organisation, Secretaries, Financial Advisers of Government of India, other Senior Officials of Department of Expenditure and other Ministries /Departments of Government of India, retired ICAS Officers, senior officers from banks and State Governments, among others, will also be attending the celebrations.

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NB/KMN

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurates ‘Bharat Calling Conference 2025’ organized by IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Source: Government of India (2)

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurates ‘Bharat Calling Conference 2025’ organized by IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Quality Management and Handholding of Small Business, Sustainability, Inclusive Growth, Skill Development, Competitiveness and Efficiency to be enablers for Viksit Bharat 2047: Shri. Piyush Goyal

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 3:20PM by PIB Mumbai

: Mumbai, February 27, 2025

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, inaugurated ‘Bharat Calling Conference 2025’ organized by IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Mumbai today. The Union Minister was the keynote speaker in the conference on the theme ‘Path to Viksit Bharat 2047: Pioneering Prosperity for All’. The conference highlights how India stands at the forefront of global economic growth, offering unparalleled opportunities for investment across diverse sectors. With a robust and resilient economy, a large and dynamic consumer market and a Government committed to fostering business-friendly policies, India is poised to become one of the world’s leading investment destinations.

Delivering the keynote address, Shri Piyush Goyal stated that there are huge opportunities unfurling in a country of 1.4 billion people, many of whom are aspirational young people. There is a deep commitment towards manufacturing, skill development, innovation, as advocated by the Prime Minister himself, which truly makes India as the world’s emerging investment destination. Various strategic initiatives of the Government of India, including Make in India, Digital India, Startup India, Swacch Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat, have collectively prepared the mindset of the nation to be resilient, self-sufficient and become a bigger player in the global trade, even as the the country’s economy is transformed in the Amrit Kaal of the coming two decades leading up to 2047. “We are collectively committed to bring about a prosperous and developed India”, he added.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Goyal further said that India cannot become a developed nation if it does not open up its businesses for international trade. In this context, he named five key enablers for bringing about Viksit Bharat@2047, namely Quality Management and Handholding of Small Business, Sustainability, Inclusive Growth, Skill Development and Competitiveness and Efficiency.

Shri Goyal stated that India is at the crux of a quality revolution. He said that quality has been the biggest casualty in our country in the past and urged that it is time for businesses to adopt modern quality standards and ensure that our ecosystem is trained towards good quality and follow good manufacturing practices. There are around 700 quality control orders in the country, he informed. Advocating for quality control by business chambers like IMC would be a great service to the nation, he added. Shri Goyal further said, adopting and handholding small businesses by the big players of a business for quality control and upgrading their manufacturing practices is also very important.

Speaking about sustainability, he said that it is another important aspect in trade and commerce. Indian ethos traditionally reflect consciousness for sustainability for thousands of years, he added. It is important to recognize sustainability as a challenge in present times, which along with energy efficiency should be a focus area for businesses. He further said development cannot happen if there is no inclusive growth in the country, for which targeted interventions like ease of living initiatives for various communities and infrastructure development across the country has been taken up by the government. The Union Commerce and Industry Minister urged that businesses will also have to cater to the agenda of inclusive development through better CSR initiatives.

Shri Goyal stated that skill-building initiatives for the people will add more jobs and make our economy stronger. In this context, he stated that two more skill development centres are coming up in North Mumbai, after the launch of the first state-of-the-art skill centre in Mumbai’s Kandivali area last year.

Shri Goyal also urged that increasing efficiency and competitiveness is the need of the hour. Businesses should thrive on competitive strength and engage with the world with confidence, instead of depending on the Government for subsidies, support, incentives and so on, he added. He further said that competitiveness in an industry also depends on its capacity building for innovation, upgrading manufacturing practices, skillsets and efficiency.

Dignitaries present on the occasion included Ms. Rosslyn Bates, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Queensland, Australia and President, IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shri. Sanjaya Mariwala among others.

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSC Olympiad 5.0 reaches milestone as Ministry of Electronics & IT recognizes 163 scholars among 280,000 rural participants, results to be released on February 28, 2025

Source: Government of India (2)

CSC Olympiad 5.0 reaches milestone as Ministry of Electronics & IT recognizes 163 scholars among 280,000 rural participants, results to be released on February 28, 2025

CSC Olympiad transforms rural education, ensuring students to compete on national and international platforms irrespective of their geographical location

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 3:05PM by PIB Delhi

The fifth edition of the CSC Olympiad (CSC Olympiad 5.0) has concluded with over 280,000 students from remote rural areas registering across 15 subjects, marking a significant milestone in bridging the educational gap between urban and rural India. Of those registered, 113,576 students participated in practice exams and over 100,000 online exams were conducted with AI proctoring. Notably, 163 students have been selected for performance-based scholarships, as announced by the Common Service Centre e governance under the Ministry of Electronics and IT.

CSC Olympiad 5.0 empowers education

CSC Olympiad 5.0, catering to students from Class 3 to 12, conducted examinations in 10 regional languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Odia, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. Beyond academic assessments, the Olympiad aims to foster leadership and communication skills and to elevate the role of Common Service Centers (CSCs) as crucial educational facilitators in rural communities.

The results for CSC Olympiad 5.0 will be released on the official website, with a streamlined online portal facilitating scholarship claims. This initiative signifies a paradigm shift in rural education, equipping students with the tools and opportunities to compete on national and international platforms, irrespective of their geographical location. The CSC Olympiad is not just an examination; it’s a catalyst for change, ensuring that no student is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

Enhancing skills & instilling a sense of confidence

“The CSC Olympiad serves as a vital bridge, connecting rural students to opportunities they might otherwise miss,” stated Mr. Sanjay Rakesh, Managing Director & CEO of CSC. “By providing a platform for academic assessment and competitive engagement, we are not only enhancing their skills but also instilling a sense of confidence and preparing them for future academic and professional challenges. The initiative, born out of a crisis, has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of technology to democratize education.”

About CSC Olympiad

The CSC Olympiad is a transformative educational initiative designed to identify and nurture talent among students across India, particularly in rural areas. With over 1,000 schools participating annually, the Olympiad provides an inclusive platform that is grade-agnostic, ensuring that students from diverse educational backgrounds can showcase their abilities. The event is further recognized for its credibility, as more than 15 District Magistrates and Education Officers actively participate in distributing awards to meritorious students.

The Olympiad is committed to accessibility, with registrations open for all schools, reinforcing its mission to bridge the urban-rural education gap and empower students with knowledge and opportunities.

Participants benefit from three meticulously crafted practice tests that mirror the latest curriculum patterns, followed by comprehensive performance analysis to pinpoint areas for improvement. Every participant receives a certificate acknowledging their effort and a national ranking, fostering motivation and a sense of achievement.

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Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith/Shatrunjay Kumar

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj concludes, penned few thoughts on this landmark gathering, which wonderfully illustrated the cultural, societal and spiritual strength of our land: Prime Minister

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 2:43PM by PIB Delhi

As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj concludes, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi reflected on this landmark gathering, which has wonderfully illustrated the cultural, societal, and spiritual strength of our land. Urging everyone to read the blog he has penned, Shri Modi in a post on X stated:

“As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj concludes, penned few thoughts on this landmark gathering, which wonderfully illustrated the cultural, societal and spiritual strength of our land. Do read my blog in English.”

As the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj concludes, penned few thoughts on this landmark gathering, which wonderfully illustrated the cultural, societal and spiritual strength of our land. Do read my blog in English.https://t.co/vOycQ4urzI

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2025

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MJPS/SR

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh releases first edition of MoD’s bi-annual Hindi magazine ‘Sashakt Bharat’

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 2:31PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh released the first edition of Ministry of Defence’s bi-annual Hindi magazine ‘Sashakt Bharat’ at South Block, New Delhi on February 27, 2025. The magazine comprises poems on the valour, patriotism and sacrifices of the Armed Forces personnel as well as articles on the policies of the Government written by the personnel of the Ministry, irrespective of their ranks, showcasing inclusivity and unity in diversity.

Raksha Mantri appreciated the efforts of the MoD wing of the Department of Official Language towards promoting Hindi. He stressed on the need to adopt and increase the use of Hindi, describing the language as the thread that binds the social and cultural fabric of India.

The objective of ‘Sashakt Bharat’ magazine is to highlight the creative talent of the employees of MoD and encourage them to carry out their day-to-day activities

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurates Udan Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport

Source: Government of India (2)

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu inaugurates Udan Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport

Becomes 2nd airport after Kolkata to host pocket-friendly Udan Cafe

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 2:04PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu, today inaugurated the UDAN Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport, marking the second such facility under this groundbreaking initiative. The first UDAN Yatri Cafe was inaugurated on December 19, 2024, at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, commemorating the 100^th anniversary of the historic airport. The Kolkata Cafe has been a resounding success, with travelers expressing high satisfaction with the quality, taste and cost of the offerings. Following immense passenger demand, the initiative is now being expanded nationwide.

At the Chennai Airport, strategically located in the pre-check area of the T1 domestic terminal, the cafe will offer all connected passengers access to hygienic refreshments at following prices:

S. No.

Item

Rate (Rs.)

1.

Water Bottle

10

2.

Tea

10

3.

Coffee

20

4.

Samosa

20

5.

Sweet of the day

20

Addressing the media, Shri Ram Mohan Naidu said, “The UDAN Yatri Cafe is a testament to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of inclusive flying, making air travel more convenient, accessible and affordable for all. Following its successful launch at Kolkata Airport, there has been strong demand from travelers to introduce this facility at other airports. After the eastern gateway of Kolkata, we are proud to bring the UDAN Yatri Cafe to the southern gateway, Chennai Airport which is one of the oldest and now the fifth busiest airport in the country, handling over 22 million passengers annually. We are committed to enhance passenger convenience here and with the Digi Yatra and Trusted Traveler Program E-gates, we are also providing a seamless, end-to-end digital travel experience.”

Minister Shri Ram Mohan Naidu also shared that the 86,135 sq.m. expansion of Terminal 2 is underway to enhance international operations. Additionally, the refurbishment of Terminals 1 and 4 is progressing with an investment of over ₹75 crore, while a comprehensive traffic flow management system, costing ₹19 crore, is being implemented to ease city-side congestion.

Beyond infrastructure, Chennai International Airport is dedicated to passenger convenience. Free buggy services for senior citizens and pregnant women, childcare rooms, medical facilities and modern lounges ensure that every effort is made to provide a comfortable travel experience. In the media interaction, Minister also highlighted that the Chennai Airport operates entirely on green energy and houses a 1.5 MW solar power plant as part of its commitment to environment.

The UDAN Yatri Cafe inaugurated today aligns with the spirit of the UDAN scheme (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), aimed at democratizing air travel and modernizing airport infrastructure. The event was attended by Dr T R B Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Tamil Nadu, senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, AAI and Chennai Airport, marking another milestone in the Ministry’s mission to enhance passenger experience and connectivity.

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Pawan Singh Faujdar/Divyanshu Kumar

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC announces the 7 winners of its tenth prestigious annual competition for short films on human rights out of a record number of 303 entries

Source: Government of India (2)

NHRC announces the 7 winners of its tenth prestigious annual competition for short films on human rights out of a record number of 303 entries

The documentary film on river water pollution ‘Doodh Ganga- Valley’s dying lifeline’ from Jammu & Kashmir chosen for the first prize of Rs. 2 lakh

‘Fight for rights’ from Andhra Pradesh on child marriage and education selected for the second prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh

‘GOD’ from Tamil Nadu on the value of potable water chosen for the third prize of Rs. 1 lakh

Four films selected for the ‘Certificate of Special Mention’ with a cash award of Rs. 50 thousand each

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 1:50PM by PIB Delhi

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has announced the winners of its tenth prestigious annual competition for short films on human rights in 2024. It has chosen ‘Doodh Ganga- Valley’s Dying Lifeline’ for the first prize of Rs. 2 lakh. The documentary film by Er. Abdul Rashid Bhat from Jammu & Kashmir raises concerns on how the free flow of various waste into the pristine water of Doodh Ganga river has polluted it and the need for its restoration for the overall good of the people in the valley. The film is in English, Hindi and Urdu with subtitles in English.

‘Fight for Rights’ by Kadarappa Raju from Andhra Pradesh has been selected for the second prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh. The film raises the issue of the child marriage and education. It is in Telugu language with subtitles in English.

‘GOD’ by Shri R. Ravichandran from Tamil Nadu has been selected for the third prize of Rs. 1 lakh. The silent film through an old protagonist raises the value of potable water.

The Commission has also decided to give a cash award of Rs.50,000/- each to the four short films selected for the ‘Certificate of Special Mention’. These are:

1, ‘Aksharabhyasam’ by Shri Haneesh Undramatla from Telangana. The silent film raises the importance of child education;

2. ‘Vilayilla Pattathari (An inexpensive graduate)’ by Shri R. Selvam from Tamil Nadu. It is in Tamil with subtitles in English. The film highlights the concerns and rights of older persons;

3. ‘Life of Seetha’ by Shri Madaka Venkata Satyanarayana from Andhra Pradesh. It is in Telugu with subtitles in English. The film highlights rights violation of children due to religious practices and the need for reformation;

4. ‘Be a Human’ by Shri Lotla Naveen from Andhra Pradesh. The film

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Science Day 2025

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 1:40PM by PIB Delhi

Celebrating the Spirit of Scientific Innovation

National Science Day is celebrated every year on 28^th February to commemorate the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ made by the eminent physicist Sir C.V. Raman while working in the laboratory of the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Kolkata. For this discovery, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930. On National Science Day, theme-based science communication activities are carried out all over the country. The first celebration took place on February 28, 1987, marking the beginning of a tradition that continues to inspire generations. The theme for this year is “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science & Innovation for VIKSIT BHARAT.” It emphasizes the role of young minds in driving India’s scientific and technological progress, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, which aims for a developed and self-reliant India.

Objectives

The basic objective of the observation of National Science Day is to spread the message of the importance of science and its application among the people. It is celebrated as one of the main science festivals in India every year with the following objectives:

To widely spread a message about the significance of scientific applications in the daily lives of people.

To display all the activities, efforts, and achievements in the field of science for the welfare of human beings

To discuss all the issues and implement new technologies for the development of science

To encourage the people as well as popularize science and technology.

Key advancements in Science and Technology: 2024 Highlights

India’s Global Standing in Innovation and IP

India has made remarkable progress in the global science and technology landscape, securing the 39th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2024 and 6th position in global Intellectual Property (IP) filings, as per the WIPO report. The Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024 also marked India’s rise to 49th place from 79th in 2019, showcasing advancements in ICT infrastructure and digital transformation.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Pioneering Research & Inclusivity

Launched under the ANRF Act 2023, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is accelerating India’s research and development ecosystem. Several key programs have been introduced:

PM Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) supports young researchers, providing them with the resources to pursue independent research.
EV Mission aims to foster innovation in electric vehicle technology, making India self-reliant in sustainable mobility.
Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) follows a Hub and Spoke model, ensuring institutional collaboration in scientific research.
Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) provides financial support to researchers from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), promoting equal opportunities in frontier research fields.

National Quantum Mission (NQM): India’s Leap in Quantum Technology

With an investment of ₹6003.65 crore over eight years, the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is positioning India as a leader in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.

A total of 152 researchers from 43 institutions across 17 states and 2 Union Territories are contributing to this mission.
NQM has also laid out guidelines for startup support, ensuring robust mentorship, funding, and resource allocation.

National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): Expanding India’s Computational Power

India’s supercomputing infrastructure has significantly expanded, reaching 32 PetaFlops with the addition of 5 PetaFlops in 2024. The largest supercomputing system, commissioned at the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC), New Delhi, boasts 3 PetaFlops of computing power. Additional supercomputers at NCRA-Pune and SN Bose Institute-Kolkata further strengthen computational research.

The future roadmap includes adding 45 more PetaFlops, pushing India’s supercomputing capabilities to 77 PetaFlops using indigenous technology.

Artificial Intelligence & Cyber-Physical Systems: BharatGen and Beyond

Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), the BharatGen initiative has been launched, focusing on the development of India’s first multimodal, multilingual Large Language Model (LLM) for Generative AI (GenAI).

The I-HUB Quantum Technology Foundation, IISER Pune, has selected eight startups for funding, accelerating research in quantum communication, computing, and sensing.
Plans are underway to upgrade four top-performing Technology Innovation Hubs (TIHs) into Technology Translation Research Parks (TTRPs), boosting commercialization efforts.

Geospatial Science: Expanding Spatial Thinking and Innovation

Geospatial technology adoption has increased through Spatial Thinking Programs in Schools, covering 116 schools across seven states and reaching 6205 students. Additionally, 575 participants have received training in geospatial science through Summer/Winter Schools. Future plans include expanding the program to five additional states and organizing a national event to showcase research and innovation in this field.

Climate Research and Risk Mapping for Disaster Preparedness

India has intensified its efforts in climate resilience, launching four new Centres of Excellence focused on risk mapping for floods and droughts. These initiatives aim to enhance disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies across the country.

Technology Development Board (TDB): Funding Innovation for Future Growth

The Technology Development Board (TDB) has provided ₹220.73 crore in funding across seven key projects, accelerating advancements in critical technological sectors. This initiative ensures that startups and innovators receive the necessary financial and infrastructural support to scale their ideas.

Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE): Nurturing Scientific Talent

The INSPIRE program, a flagship initiative of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), aims to attract and support young talent in science and research. It fosters innovation across disciplines, including engineering, medicine, agriculture, and veterinary sciences, strengthening India’s S&T and R&D ecosystem.

Key Achievements in 2024:

34343 INSPIRE Scholars, 3363 INSPIRE Fellows, and 316 INSPIRE Faculty Fellows received financial support to pursue higher education and research in Science & Technology.
9 INSPIRE Fellows showcased their research at the 15th JSPS-HOPE Meeting in Kyoto, Japan (Feb 26 – Mar 1, 2024).
INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship intake increased from 100 to 150 per year to support more postdoctoral researchers.
The 11th National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC) was held in September 2024 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, attracting 10,000 students. The Winners Felicitation Ceremony honored 31 students from 350 finalists at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.
A record-breaking 10,13,157 nominations were received for INSPIRE-MANAK, marking a milestone of one million entries from schools in 2024-25.
A new initiative, “Exposure Visit of Japanese School Students to India,” was launched under INSPIRE-MANAK. In August 2024, 10 Japanese students and 2 supervisors visited India to explore advancements in science, technology, industry, and culture.

Future Vision for 2025:

From 2025 onwards, the INSPIRE-MANAK scheme will expand its reach to Class 11 and 12 students, ensuring that more young minds are engaged in scientific innovation at a crucial stage of their education. This initiative is expected to strengthen India’s scientific workforce and global leadership in research and development.

Bridging the Gender Gap: Empowering Women to Lead in Science

India has taken significant steps to promote gender parity in STEM. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has recently implemented the WISE-KIRAN (Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN) scheme, a comprehensive program designed to support women at various stages of their scientific careers.

Key Initiatives:

WISE-PhD and WISE-Post Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF): Encourages women to pursue research in basic and applied sciences. More than 340 women scientists have been selected under 3 major fellowship programmes namely, WISE-PhD, WISE-PDF and WIDUSHI to carry out research in Basic and Applied Sciences.
Launched two new programmes namely, Women’s International Grants Support (WINGS) for research training in international labs and Women Leadership Programme for early and mid-level women scientists.
Vigyan Jyoti Program: Encourages female students to pursue higher education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine). Under Vigyan Jyoti, more than 29,000 girls of Class IX-XII from 300 Districts of 34 States/UTs of the country benefitted through various activities and interventions.
Under the CURIE (Consolidation of University Research for Innovation and Excellence) Programme, 22 Women PG Colleges have been selected to establish state-of-the-art research facilities.

The Glorious Heritage

Ancient India was a land of sages and seers as well as a land of scholars and scientists. Research has shown that from making the best steel in the world to teaching the world to count, India was actively contributing to the field of and technology centuries long before modern laboratories were set up.

Driving Innovation for a Brighter Future

National Science Day celebrates India’s scientific progress and commitment to innovation. With advancements in quantum computing, AI, geospatial technology, and climate research, alongside initiatives fostering inclusivity and young talent, India is shaping a future driven by science and technology. As the nation moves towards Viksit Bharat 2047, continued investment in research and innovation will be key to global leadership and sustainable growth.

References

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February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Quality Council of India (QCI) brings Gunvatta Sankalp to Nagaland to propel quality-backed growth in the state

Source: Government of India

Quality Council of India (QCI) brings Gunvatta Sankalp to Nagaland to propel quality-backed growth in the state

Gunvatta Sankalp Nagaland aims to strengthen quality in healthcare, education, MSMEs, and tourism

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 1:40PM by PIB Delhi

The Quality Council of India (QCI), in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland, organised Gunvatta Sankalp Nagaland at Hotel Vivor, Kohima — an initiative aimed at supporting the state’s efforts in driving quality-led growth across key sectors. After impactful engagements in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha, QCI has now brought Gunvatta Sankalp to Nagaland. This one-day event served as a dynamic platform, bringing together senior government officials, industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to drive meaningful discussions and forge partnerships aimed at elevating quality standards in Healthcare, Education & Skilling, Industry & MSMEs, and Tourism.

Shri Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Govt. of Nagaland, in his keynote address, remarked, “The people of Nagaland can serve as a beacon of quality for the nation. The pursuit of excellence and quality is at the heart of our progress, and Nagaland is committed to partnering in this journey. The aspirations of our common people define the quality of Nagaland — they are the true brand ambassadors of our state.”

Shri Jaxay Shah, Chairperson, QCI, emphasized the role of Gunvatta Sankalp in empowering states through quality-driven reforms, stating “Nagaland is a state that values sustainability, entrepreneurship, and excellence—qualities that make it a role model not only for India but for the world. At the Quality Council of India (QCI), we firmly believe that Viksit Bharat is not possible without a Viksit Nagaland. I am confident that through the discussions at Gunvatta Sankalp today, we will uncover new pathways to embed quality into Nagaland’s journey towards a developed future. QCI will support, collaborate, and ensure that Nagaland’s unique identity and strengths are amplified through quality-driven initiatives.”

The inaugural session was graced by the presence of Shri Temjen Imna Along, Minister of Tourism and Higher Education, Govt. of Nagaland; Dr. J. Alam (IAS), Chief Secretary, Govt. of Nagaland; Shri Kesonyu Yhome (IAS), Secretary to the Chief Minister; Shri Jaxay Shah, Chairperson, QCI; and Shri Chakravarty Kannan, Secretary General, QCI, marking the beginning of a strategic dialogue on embedding quality at the grassroots level.

Gunvatta Sankalp Nagaland marks a crucial step in supporting and amplifyingthe state’s efforts to strengthen quality standards across sectors. With engaging discussions, insights, and shared commitments, this initiative aimed to support the government, industries, and communities in enhancing quality consciousness. Aligned with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, it reinforced Nagaland’s journey toward a high-quality, sustainable, and globally competitive future.

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February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Geospatial Policy 2022

Source: Government of India

National Geospatial Policy 2022

“Powering India’s Vision for Viksit Bharat”

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 1:22PM by PIB Delhi

“The democratization of Indian geospatial ecosystem will spur domestic innovation and enable Indian companies to compete in the global mapping ecosystem by leveraging modern geospatial technologies and realising the dream of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ fully.

-Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Science and Technology

Introduction

The National Geospatial Policy, 2022, notified by the Government of India on December 28, 2022, is a transformative policy aimed at positioning India as a global leader in the geospatial sector. With a long-term vision extending to 2035, the policy seeks to liberalize and democratize access to geospatial data, fostering innovation and enabling its widespread use across governance, businesses, and academia.

At its core, the policy is citizen-centric, ensuring that geospatial datasets generated with public funds are openly accessible. It outlines a strategic roadmap for the development of geospatial infrastructure, services, and platforms at both national and sub-national levels. One of its key goals is to establish a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system by 2030, alongside a highly accurate Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for the entire country.

Recognizing the importance of geospatial technology in governance, economic growth, and societal development, the policy focuses on strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing national and state-level coordination, and fostering a vibrant geospatial ecosystem. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) plays a pivotal role in this effort by promoting the reuse and open access of geospatial data, products, and services through a network of geospatial platforms.

By creating an enabling environment for geospatial technology adoption, the policy is expected to drive advancements in urban planning, disaster management, agriculture, environmental conservation, transportation, and various other sectors. This article examines the National Geospatial Policy 2022, focusing on its alignment with PM Gati Shakti, budgetary allocations, the National Geospatial Data Repository, and Operation Dronagiri’s impact on innovation. It also explores how the policy fosters inclusion, economic growth, and private sector participation, ensuring geospatial intelligence enhances governance, business, and public services across India.

Recent Allocations and Trends from the Union Budget 2025

In the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, the government has reinforced its commitment to the geospatial sector:

Government of India has allocated ₹100 crore for the National Geospatial Mission. This mission aims to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data, playing a crucial role in modernizing land records, urban planning, and infrastructure design. By leveraging PM Gati Shakti, the initiative will facilitate integrated planning, enhance data-driven decision-making, and improve the efficiency of infrastructure projects across the country. This strategic investment underscores the government’s focus on harnessing geospatial technology for economic growth, governance, and sustainable development.
To enhance public-private partnerships (PPPs) and support the private sector in project planning, access to relevant geospatial data and maps from the PM Gati Shakti portal will be made available. This initiative aims to streamline infrastructure development, improve decision-making, and foster greater collaboration between the government and private enterprises.

Vision of the National Geospatial Policy

To position India as a global leader in the geospatial sector by fostering a world-class innovation ecosystem, leveraging geospatial technology for economic growth, and ensuring easy access to valuable geospatial data for businesses and citizens.

Goals of the National Geospatial Policy

By 2025

Establish an enabling policy and legal framework to support the liberalization of the geospatial sector and democratization of data.
Enhance availability and accessibility of high-quality location data across sectors to drive innovation and enterprise.
Develop a unified digital interface for accessing geospatial data collected through public funds.
Redefine the National Geodetic Framework using modern positioning technologies, with online accessibility.
Create a high-accuracy geoid model for the entire country.
Strengthen national and sub-national geospatial governance by fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, academia, and civil society.

By 2030

Conduct high-resolution topographical surveys (5–10 cm for urban/rural areas and 50–100 cm for forests/wastelands).
Develop a high-accuracy Digital Elevation Model (DEM) (25 cm for plains, 1–3 m for hilly/mountainous areas).
Establish a Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure (GKI) underpinned by an Integrated Data and Information Framework.
Enhance geospatial skills, capabilities, and awareness to meet future technological and economic demands.

By 2035

Generate high-resolution bathymetric geospatial data for inland waters and deep-sea topography to support the Blue Economy.
Survey and map sub-surface infrastructure in major cities and towns.
Develop a National Digital Twin for major urban centers, creating digital replicas to improve urban planning and management.

Key Focus Areas of the National Geospatial Policy, 2022

Geospatial for Transformation & SDGs – The policy positions geospatial technology and data as key drivers for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing efficiency across sectors, and ensuring transparency in governance.
Atmanirbhar Bharat & Self-Reliance – Recognizing the need for locally relevant geospatial data, the policy aims to foster a self-reliant geospatial ecosystem, empowering Indian companies to compete globally and reduce dependency on foreign providers.
Global Best Practices & IGIF – Adopting international frameworks like the Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (IGIF) under UN-GGIM, the policy strengthens India’s national spatial information management.
Robust Geospatial & ICT Infrastructure – Establishing a well-defined data custodianship model to ensure the collection, management, and real-time accessibility of high-quality geospatial data for cross-sector collaboration.
Fostering Innovation & Startups – Encouraging startups, R&D, and emerging technologies, the policy promotes regulatory modernization and bridges the geospatial digital divide.
Standards & Interoperability – Advocating open standards, open data, and compliance frameworks, the policy ensures seamless integration and interoperability of geospatial information.
Capacity Development & Education – Promoting geospatial education from school levels, alongside standardized certifications and skill development programs to sustain long-term industry growth.
Ease of Doing Business – Continued policy liberalization to attract investment, facilitate business-friendly regulations, and support geospatial enterprises.
Democratization of Data – Survey of India (SoI) and other publicly funded geospatial data will be treated as a public good, ensuring easy access and utilization for all stakeholders.

Geospatial Policy Under PM Gati Shakti

The National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022 is closely aligned with the PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, a digital platform launched by the Prime Minister to integrate 16 key Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, for coordinated infrastructure planning and implementation. The initiative aims to facilitate seamless multi-modal connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services across different modes of transport, ensuring last-mile connectivity and reducing travel time. By leveraging accurate, real-time geospatial data, NGP 2022 plays a critical role in streamlining infrastructure projects, minimizing redundancies, and optimizing resource utilization.

PM Gati Shakti seeks to integrate infrastructure schemes across various Ministries and State Governments. A key aspect of this initiative is the extensive use of geospatial technology, including spatial planning tools developed by ISRO and BiSAG-N. This integration enhances data-driven decision-making for efficient infrastructure development and economic growth.

National Geospatial Data Repository: A Step Towards Seamless Data Integration

The National Geospatial Data Repository is being developed to serve as a centralized platform for geospatial data management and access. This repository will consolidate geospatial datasets from various government and private entities, ensuring seamless data sharing, interoperability, and accessibility across multiple sectors.

With the increasing demand for precise and real-time geospatial intelligence, this repository will act as a critical resource for improving governance, boosting economic development, and advancing digital infrastructure. It aligns with the National Geospatial Policy 2022, reinforcing India’s commitment to leveraging geospatial technology for sustainable growth and enhanced citizen services.

Operation Dronagiri: Transforming India’s Geospatial Landscape

Launch and Overview

Operation Dronagiri, launched on November 13, 2024, is a pilot initiative under the National Geospatial Policy 2022. The project aims to demonstrate the real-world applications of geospatial technologies to enhance citizen services, business efficiency, and governance. It is designed to integrate geospatial data, analytics, and advanced mapping technologies to support multiple sectors.

Components and Implementation

In its initial phase, Operation Dronagiri is being implemented in five states—Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

The project brings together government departments, industry partners, corporations, and startups to drive geospatial innovation and ensure efficient utilization of spatial data.

Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI)

A key feature of Operation Dronagiri is the development of an Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI), which:

Facilitates seamless access and sharing of geospatial data across different sectors.
Supports applications in urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
Helps organizations make data-driven decisions for public welfare.

Impact and Future Expansion

The initiative is expected to enhance governance, boost economic efficiency, and promote sustainable infrastructure development. By integrating geospatial technologies with public and private sector initiatives, Operation Dronagiri envisions a nationwide rollout under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

With India’s growing emphasis on geospatial intelligence, the project aims to transform infrastructure planning, improve disaster response, and foster innovation in geospatial applications—paving the way for a data-driven and technologically advanced India.

Empowering Inclusion and Progress: National Geospatial Policy 2022 in Action

The National Geospatial Policy 2022 (NGP 2022) underscores the Government of India’s commitment to inclusive development by significantly expanding access to geospatial data and related services. By democratizing location-based data, the policy has enhanced citizen services, improved governance, and extended its benefits to even the most remote areas of the country.

To implement NGP 2022, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has strengthened the governance framework to liberalize geospatial data access. Emphasizing the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, DST is fostering self-reliance in geospatial technology by empowering Indian enterprises to generate, utilize, and commercialize their own geospatial data—enhancing their global competitiveness. The policy further encourages the adoption of open standards, open data, and interoperable platforms to enable seamless collaboration across stakeholders.

To further enhance geospatial infrastructure, the Survey of India (SoI) has launched a pan-India Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) Network, ensuring high-accuracy location data. Additionally, under the SVAMITVA Scheme, SoI has surveyed and mapped over 2.8 lakh villages across Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Karnataka using drone technology, streamlining land records and property rights.

NGP 2022 is fostering a thriving geospatial industry by encouraging private sector participation. Individuals, companies, and government agencies can now process, build applications, and develop solutions using geospatial data. The promotion of open standards, open data, and geospatial platforms has enabled enterprise development and innovation, further solidifying India’s position as a global leader in geospatial technology. To support technological innovation and entrepreneurship, the policy is facilitating the establishment of incubation centers, industry accelerators, and Geospatial Technology Parks. These initiatives are driving research, fostering startups, and strengthening India’s geospatial ecosystem, ultimately positioning the country as a world leader in geospatial innovation.

With its focus on expanding access, promoting innovation, and leveraging geospatial intelligence, NGP 2022 is not just a policy—it is a transformative tool for national development, economic prosperity, and a thriving digital economy. It is a key driver in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India), paving the way for a future driven by geospatial intelligence and data-led governance.

Conclusion

The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is a significant step towards strengthening India’s geospatial ecosystem. By simplifying data access, promoting innovation, and fostering enterprise development, the policy is creating a robust and dynamic geospatial sector that supports governance, industry, and research.With initiatives like PM Gati Shakti, the National Geospatial Data Repository, and Operation Dronagiri, the policy is driving data-driven decision-making, infrastructure modernization, and digital transformation. As India advances towards Viksit Bharat, geospatial intelligence will be central to planning, connectivity, and national resilience. The National Geospatial Policy 2022 positions India as a global leader in geospatial technology, ensuring that location-based intelligence powers the nation’s progress and prosperity.

References

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Santosh Kumar/ Sheetal Angral/ Vatsla Srivastava

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February 28, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Haryana Chief Minister meets Prime Minister

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 12:35PM by PIB Delhi

The Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayan Singh Saini met the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle posted on X:

“Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri @NayabSainiBJP, met Prime Minister @narendramodi.

@cmohry”

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sarbananda Sonowal unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ to enhance efficiency with ease of doing business

Source: Government of India

Sarbananda Sonowal unveils ‘One Nation-One Port’ to enhance efficiency with ease of doing business

Sagar Ankalan to enhance port efficiency: Union Minister

“Bharat Ports Global Consortium to expand India’s maritime reach, strengthen supply chain, and boost Make in India”: Sonowal

Sonowal launches MAITRI Logo; aims to transform global trade with digital integration through AI and Blockchain for seamless ‘Virtual Trade Corridor

“India Maritime Week to celebrate ‘Maritime Virasat and Maritime Vikaas’, to be held from 27 – 31, October 2025 in Mumbai”

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 5:35PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched a series of major initiatives of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) aimed at modernising India’s maritime infrastructure, strengthening its global trade presence, and to promote sustainability. These initiatives were launched during a stakeholder meeting in Mumbai today to discuss on various possibilities from the major announcements made in the Union Budget for the maritime sector.

Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched the ‘One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP)’ an initiative to standardise and streamline operations across India’s major ports. The step aims at removing inconsistencies in documentation and processes that led to inefficiencies, increased costs, and operational delays.

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Sagar Ankalan — the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) for FY 2023-24, as a significant step towards enhancing efficiency and global competitiveness in India’s maritime sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “It gives me immense pleasure to launch important initiatives of our Ministry which are aligned with Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of Viksit Bharat, driving self-reliance, sustainability, and economic growth. With the launch of ‘One Nation – One Port’ Process and Sagar Ankalan – LPPI Index, India is taking a decisive step towards standardised, efficient, and globally competitive ports. By enhancing port performance and streamlining logistics, we are reducing inefficiencies, cutting carbon footprints, and strengthening India’s position in global trade. Our commitment to modern, green, and smart port infrastructure will not only fuel economic resilience but also ensure a sustainable maritime future for generations to come. This is a transformative leap towards making India a maritime powerhouse, contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat and a developed India by 2047.”

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Bharat Global Ports Consortium to Strengthen global trade by expanding India’s maritime reach and enhance global trade resilience; and MAITRI logo (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface) with an aim to streamline trade processes, reduce bureaucratic redundancies and expedite clearances, reinforcing India’s commitment to ease of doing business.

Adding further, Shri Sonowal said, “The launch of Bharat Ports Global Consortium and MAITRI App marks a transformative step in strengthening India’s maritime and trade ecosystem. These initiatives will sustain the initiatives taken since 2014, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, to enhance efficiency, streamline trade processes, and bolster global supply chains, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in international logistics. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India is rapidly modernising its ports and trade infrastructure, aligning with his commitment to Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat. By leveraging digital innovation and global partnerships, we are creating a seamless, efficient, and future-ready trade network, accelerating India’s journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.”

As Ports serve as critical gateways for international and domestic trade, this initiative aims to harmonise port procedures to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen India’s global trade position. As a first step through ONOP process, the Ministry has standardised documentation with Immigration, the Port Health Organisation, and Port Authorities, reducing container operation documents by 33% (from 143 to 96) and bulk cargo documents by 29% (from 150 to 106). These reforms mark a significant step towards Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, ensuring transparency, consistency, and optimised port management. The Minister called for active stakeholder participation to maximise its impact and drive India’s ports towards operational excellence on the global stage.

MAITRI plays a crucial role in operationalising the ‘Virtual Trade Corridor’(VTC) between India and the UAE. The initiative aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and is expected to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations, leveraging AI and Blockchain for efficiency and security. By standardising trade documentation and integrating digital solutions, MAITRI will reduce processing time, optimise trade flows, and contribute to sustainable development. MAITRI is set to redefine international trade, positioning India as a leader in global logistics and trade facilitation.

Aligned with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy, Sagar Ankalan LPPI aims to benchmark port performance, drive operational excellence, and strengthen India’s trade connectivity. Developed under the Sagar Aankalan guidelines, the LPPI evaluates all major and non-major ports under Bulk (Dry & Liquid) and Container categories. Key performance indicators include cargo handling, turnaround time, berth idle time, container dwell time, and ship berth-day output. The structured, data-driven methodology ensures transparency by equally weighing absolute performance and year-on-year improvement. By fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation, LPPI will drive India’s ports toward global standards, reinforcing the nation’s position as a maritime leader and a critical player in international trade. India has already made remarkable progress in global logistics, climbing to 22nd place in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023 for “International Shipments,” up from 44th.

By developing robust port infrastructure, the Bharat Global Ports Consortium initiative will streamline logistics, strengthen supply chains, and support the ‘Make in India’ initiative by boosting exports. Bringing together IPGL (operations), SDCL (finance), and IPRCL (infrastructure development), the consortium will drive port expansion, operations, and financing to position India as a key player in international trade and logistics. By focusing on efficiency, innovation, and global collaboration, the consortium aims to improve trade connectivity and enhance India’s economic footprint. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to maritime excellence and economic resilience on the global stage, maintained Shri Sarbananda Sonowal during its launch.

The Union Minister also announced the India Maritime Week to be held from 27^th to 31^st of October, 2025 in Mumbai with a view to celebrate country’s ‘Maritime Virasat’ and ‘Maritime Vikaas’ — a bi-annual global maritime gathering that will be one of the largest in the world. The week will host 4th edition of Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS), 2nd edition of Sagarmanthan among others. At the India Maritime Week, ‘representation from 100 countries and 100,000 delegates are expected to participate’, Sonowal said. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in partnership with the Observer Research Foundation, launched the ‘Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue’ as an annual dialogue to center-stage India as the global venue for all strategic maritime conversations.

The Maritime Stakeholders Meet focused on revitalising India’s shipbuilding sector in light of recent budgetary announcements. Key discussions centered on increased financial assistance for Indian shipyards, the Ship Breaking Credit Note Scheme and its impact, along with capital infusion to develop new shipbuilding clusters, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness. The Maritime Development Fund, the inclusion of large ships in the Infrastructure Harmonised Master List (HML), and the role of financial institutions and multilateral agencies in facilitating low-cost term financing were key focus areas. These measures aim to strengthen India’s maritime sector by enhancing financial accessibility, boosting shipbuilding, and improving industry competitiveness.

On the budgetary announcements for maritime sector, the Union Minister said, “Under the visionary leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, India is sailing towards a Viksit Bharat, ensuring that our ports, shipping, and waterways become the backbone of a thriving economy. The Union Budget 2025 has put the maritime sector at the forefront of India’s growth story. The ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund is a game-changer. It will provide long-term financing, encourage private investment, and modernize our port and shipping infrastructure. The recognition of LARGE ships as infrastructure will unlock new avenues for financing, making it easier for businesses to invest in shipbuilding and coastal trade. And let’s not forget the revamped Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP 2.0)—this will level the playing field for our shipyards, helping them compete with global giants. The shipbuilding clusters—a vision we are actively pursuing — will not only make India a hub for ship construction but will also create thousands of jobs, bring in new technologies, and strengthen our global competitiveness. To further boost this industry, we have extended customs duty exemptions on shipbuilding inputs for another 10 years. In order to propel our rich riverine network, the extension of the tonnage tax regime to inland vessels is a major step in making river transport more attractive and viable for businesses. With the collaborative approach, we can revolutionize logistics, reduce freight costs, and create an eco-friendly alternative to road and rail transport.”

The Union Minister also launched the National Centre of Excellence in Green Port and Shipping (NCoEGPS) website. It is a significant milestone in advancing sustainability in the maritime sector. This platform will offer insights and best practices for green port and shipping operations, focusing on carbon footprint reduction, cleaner fuels, and eco-friendly port management to drive a more sustainable future.

In his concluding remarks, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India’s Blue Economy is not just about ships and ports—it’s about jobs, trade, sustainability, and economic growth. There is immense potential, and we are committed to ensuring that you have the right policies, the right financing, and the right environment to thrive. We are not just aiming to be a top 10 shipbuilding nation by 2030—we are aiming to create an ecosystem that is world-class, efficient, and future-ready. Let’s capitalise this opportunity. Let’s build, innovate, and collaborate. Together, we are not just shaping India’s maritime future—we are shaping India’s economic destiny.”

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Maha Kumbh has concluded, marking the end of the ‘Maha Yagya of Unity’; In Prayagraj, for the entire 45 days of this grand congregation of unity, the faith of 140 crore citizens came together at this one festival at the same time, which is truly overwhelming! : Prime Minister

Source: Government of India (2)

The Maha Kumbh has concluded, marking the end of the ‘Maha Yagya of Unity’; In Prayagraj, for the entire 45 days of this grand congregation of unity, the faith of 140 crore citizens came together at this one festival at the same time, which is truly overwhelming! : Prime Minister

Today, India, proud of its heritage, is moving forward with new energy; This is the dawn of an era of transformation that is set to write the country’s new future: PM

The huge number of devotees participating in the Maha Kumbh is not just a record but also has laid a strong foundation for many centuries to keep our culture and heritage strong and rich: PM

People from every section and region of society united in this Maha Kumbh: PM

Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 11:12AM by PIB Delhi

Hailing the Maha Kumbh as a ‘Maha Yagya of Unity’, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today remarked that India was proud of its heritage and was treading forward with a new energy. He said that this is the dawn of an era of transformation that is set to write the country’s new future. He added that the huge number of devotees participating in the Maha Kumbh is not just a record but also has laid a strong foundation for many centuries to keep our culture and heritage strong and rich. Expressing satisfaction over the successful completion of Maha Kumbh of Unity and thanking the citizens for their hard work, efforts and determination, Shri Modi penned down his thoughts in a blog and shared it on X.

“महाकुंभ संपन्न हुआ…एकता का महायज्ञ संपन्न हुआ। प्रयागराज में एकता के महाकुंभ में पूरे 45 दिनों तक जिस प्रकार 140 करोड़ देशवासियों की आस्था एक साथ, एक समय में इस एक पर्व से आकर जुड़ी, वो अभिभूत करता है! महाकुंभ के पूर्ण होने पर जो विचार मन में आए, उन्हें मैंने कलमबद्ध करने का प्रयास किया है…”

“महाकुंभ में जिस भारी संख्या में श्रद्धालुओं ने भागीदारी की है वो सिर्फ एक रिकॉर्ड नहीं है, बल्कि यह हमारी संस्कृति और विरासत को सुदृढ़ और समृद्ध रखने के लिए कई सदियों की एक सशक्त नींव भी रख गया है।“

“प्रयागराज का महाकुंभ आज दुनियाभर के मैनेजमेंट प्रोफेशनल्स के साथ ही प्लानिंग और पॉलिसी एक्सपर्ट्स के लिए भी रिसर्च का विषय बन गया है।“

“आज अपनी विरासत पर गौरव करने वाला भारत अब एक नई ऊर्जा के साथ आगे बढ़ रहा है। ये युग परिवर्तन की वो आहट है, जो देश का नया भविष्य लिखने जा रही है।“

“समाज के हर वर्ग और हर क्षेत्र के लोग इस महाकुंभ में एक हो गए। ये एक भारत श्रेष्ठ भारत का चिर स्मरणीय दृश्य करोड़ों देशवासियों में आत्मविश्वास के साक्षात्कार का महापर्व बन गया।“

“एकता के महाकुंभ को सफल बनाने के लिए देशवासियों के परिश्रम, उनके प्रयास, उनके संकल्प से अभीभूत मैं द्वादश ज्योतिर्लिंग में से प्रथम ज्योतिर्लिंग, श्री सोमनाथ के दर्शन करने जाऊंगा। मैं श्रद्धा रूपी संकल्प पुष्प को समर्पित करते हुए हर भारतीय के लिए प्रार्थना करूंगा। मैं कामना करूंगा कि देशवासियों में एकता की ये अविरल धारा, ऐसे ही बहती रहे।“

महाकुंभ संपन्न हुआ…एकता का महायज्ञ संपन्न हुआ। प्रयागराज में एकता के महाकुंभ में पूरे 45 दिनों तक जिस प्रकार 140 करोड़ देशवासियों की आस्था एक साथ, एक समय में इस एक पर्व से आकर जुड़ी, वो अभिभूत करता है! महाकुंभ के पूर्ण होने पर जो विचार मन में आए, उन्हें मैंने कलमबद्ध करने का… pic.twitter.com/TgzdUuzuGI

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2025

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February 28, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO ERADICATE EVILS IN SOCIETY

Source: Government of India

LOK SABHA SPEAKER CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO ERADICATE EVILS IN SOCIETY

BRAHMA KUMARIS, GUIDED BY BLESSINGS OF LORD SHIVA, ARE SHOWING LIGHT TO SOCIETY TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD ORDER

LOK SABHA SPEAKER ATTENDS MAHA SHIVRATRI PROGRAMME AT BRAHMA KUMARIS WORLD HEADQUARTERS, MOUNT ABU

LOK SABHA SPEAKER INAUGURATES DADI PRAKASHMANI WISDOM PARK

Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 8:55PM by PIB Delhi

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today called for collective efforts to eradicate evils in society. On the occasion of Maha Shivratri, he urged all to ensure that their every step should be in the direction of building a better society. When societal evils would be eradicated, better world order would prevail, observed Shri Birla.

Shri Birla made these remarks at the Maha Shivratri programme organised at the Brahma Kumaris World Headquarters in Mount Abu. He was the Chief Guest at the Navsrijan Aqua Laser Show inauguration event there. Lok Sabha Speaker also inaugurated the Dadi Prakashmani Wisdom Park on this auspicious occasion.

महाशिवरात्रि के पावन पर्व पर आबू स्थित ब्रह्माकुमारीज़ वर्ल्ड हेडक्वार्टर्स में दादी प्रकाशमणि विज़डम पार्क का उद्घाटन किया। यह पार्क प्रकृति की अनुपम सुंदरता के साथ हमारी संस्कृति, सभ्यता और आध्यात्मिक ऊर्जा के केंद्र के रूप में शोभायमान है। आज इस अवसर पर भगवान शिव का… pic.twitter.com/IJnZd2uom5

— Om Birla (@ombirlakota) February 26, 2025

Extending greetings to the august gathering on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, Shri Birla said that the halo around Lord Shiva gives energy and strength to humanity. Lord Shiva gives a new perspective to our wisdom and knowledge and leads us from darkness to light and from weakness to strength, he added. Lauding the contributions of the Brahma Kumaris to nation building, Shri Birla noted that the Brahma Kumaris, guided by the blessings of Lord Shiva, are showing light to the society to build a better world order. The approach of the Brahma Kumaris is a perfect mix of tradition and science, he observed. Shri Birla was happy to note that the Brahma Kumaris are leading a movement to bring positive transformation in the society to make human lives better, peaceful and connected to the almighty. A nation can be built by building individual character through knowledge, wisdom and spirituality and the Brahma Kumaris are a perfect example of this guiding spirit, Shri Birla observed.

Referring to the canvas of activities of the Brahma Kumaris from protecting environment to campaign against drug abuse, initiatives in rural development, disaster management and women empowerment, Shri Birla said that such works are brining positive transformation in society.The Speaker concluded his speech with the clarion call to resolve that every step of ours should be in the direction of nation-building and to create a better world order, based on unity, peace and prosperity.

Shri Lumbaram Choudhary and Dr. B P Reddy, Members of Parliament were present among other dignitaries.

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla inaugurated the Dadi Prakashmani Wisdom Park at the Brahma Kumaris World Headquarters in Mount Abu on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri on 26 February, 2025.

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