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Category: India

  • MIL-OSI: Compass Point and Sea Court Management Announce Strategic Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Compass Point Research & Trading, LLC (“Compass Point”), a leading middle market investment bank, is pleased to announce its partnership with Sea Court Management (“Sea Court”), an alternative investment management firm. Founded by industry veterans James DeNaut, Steven Quamme, and Patrick English, Sea Court shares Compass Point’s deep sector expertise and strategic focus, enabling both firms to leverage their collective knowledge and relationships to deliver capital raising and tailored advisory solutions to its clients.

    Sea Court recently closed the Sea Court Opportunity Fund I (the “Fund”), with $50 million in committed capital. The Fund is designed to support a curated group of early-and mid-stage investments, and will leverage Compass Point’s investment banking, capital markets, and research capabilities.

    Burke Hayes, Chief Executive Officer, and Head of Investment Banking for Compass Point said, “We are excited to partner with the Sea Court team, as we see this as a unique opportunity to support innovative growth companies and their investors in the early-and-mid-stages of their lifecycle. Sea Court’s expertise identifying and investing in differentiated companies makes them an ideal partner for us”.

    Jim DeNaut, Chief Executive Officer of Sea Court said “We are thrilled about our partnership with Compass Point which will enhance our ability to provide trusted advice and full cycle capital to a broader set of platform companies and sectors. Compass Point shares our focus of bringing high quality innovative and disruptive solutions companies to an expanded group of investors”.

    Over the course of his career, Jim DeNaut has advised numerous M&A, capital markets, and asset management clients. Additionally, he has more than fifteen years of experience advising and allocating capital for a variety of institutions, family offices and endowments. Prior to forming Sea Court, from 2010 to 2022, Jim served as President and Chief Executive Officer, Senior Managing Director and Head of International Investment Banking at Nomura Securities International, Inc. He also served on the Board of Directors of Nomura Holdings America, Inc. Prior to Nomura, Jim served as Senior Managing Director, Head of Global Banking Americas, and Head of Corporate and Investment Banking, Americas (2000 to 2010) at Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc. Prior to Deutsche Bank, Jim was a Managing Director in the Investment Banking Division at Morgan Stanley, Inc.

    Steven Quamme serves as Managing Partner of Sea Court. Prior to forming Sea Court, Steve was co-founder and President of Cartica Management, LLC, a $3 billion SEC-registered investment advisor focused exclusively on the emerging markets. Cartica’s institutional investor base included many of the world’s largest pension plans, university endowments, family offices and sovereign wealth funds. Prior to forming Cartica, Steve was the Chief Operating Officer of Breeden Partners, a $2 billion U.S. activist fund. Formerly, Steve was the founder and co-CEO of Milestone Merchant Partners (subsequently acquired by Houlihan Lokey), a full-service merchant bank that provided investment banking services and managed a series of private equity funds focused on the US and India.

    Patrick English serves as Managing Partner of Sea Court. Patrick has 25 years of experience in a broad range of professional capacities in the private equity, venture capital, real estate, hedge fund, and institutional securities industries. Prior to Sea Court, Patrick served as Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Three Mountain Capital, a discretionary global macro hedge fund that he co-founded. 

    About Compass Point

    Compass Point Research & Trading LLC is a leading full-service middle market investment bank. Our broad range of capabilities include public and private capital raising, corporate advisory services, fundamental research, Washington policy analysis and execution services. We provide innovative solutions for entrepreneurial businesses and their investors.

    Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in Charleston, SC, New York, NY, and Orange County, CA, Compass Point is a member of FINRA and SIPC. For further information about Compass Point, please visit our website at www.compasspointllc.com.

    About Sea Court Management
    Sea Court Management is an alternative investment management firm that invests in early-and-mid-stage growth companies. Sea Court focuses on identifying and investing in companies with innovative technologies and businesses. Recent investments include companies in healthcare, life sciences, digital asset and technology sectors. www.seacourtcapital.com

    Media Contact:
    Christopher Nealon
    202.540.7315
    cnealon@compasspointllc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mishawaka Man Sentenced to 75 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Makai Boyce, 19 years old, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing a machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Boyce was sentenced to 75 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in December 2023, Boyce possessed a stolen handgun with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device, or “switch,” capable of firing multiple bullets automatically. Boyce fired the machinegun and struck an occupied residence. Two days later, he led police on a lengthy foot chase during which he discarded the machinegun in a backyard doghouse surrounded by children’s toys.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the South Bend Police Department, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph P. Falvey and Katelan McKenzie Doyle.

    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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, DeGette, Neguse, Pettersen, Crow Condemn Trump Admin’s Arbitrary Firings of Interior Department Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Letter comes after Trump administration fired 2,300 employees at the Department of the Interior, threatening Colorado’s economy and natural resources
    Colorado lawmakers: “The decision to fire these employees will reverberate throughout Colorado’s economy and across the places and resources the agency is meant to protect nationwide.”
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet and U.S. Representatives Diana DeGette, Joe Neguse, Brittany Pettersen, and Jason Crow denounced the Trump administration’s recent firing of 2,300 employees from the Department of the Interior (DOI), and demanded that they be immediately reinstated. The mass firings– including at the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Indian Affairs – threaten to limit Coloradan’s access to public lands and to weaken Colorado’s economy. 
    “The 6,000 DOI professionals in Colorado fill a critical role, not just within DOI but in communities across our state,” the Colorado lawmakers wrote.
    “Without these employees, the administration will not be able to process permits for activities on public land, including for grazing and energy production. DOI capacity for building our wildfire resilience and protecting our headwaters will diminish,” they continued.  
    “The indiscriminate and short-sighted nature of the firings will hamper the overall mission of the DOI, with the public and our natural resources bearing the brunt of this decision…We urge you to reinstate the recently terminated employees in their positions immediately.”
    Following Trump’s February 11th executive order, the DOI fired 1,000 employees at the National Park Service, 800 at the Bureau of Land Management, 420 at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and 260 at the U.S. Geological Survey. The Trump administration also fired employees at the Bureau of Indian affairs, a historically underfunded federal agency. The firings followed an even larger exodus of roughly 2,700 DOI employees who voluntarily accepted the Trump administration’s reckless “Fork in the Road” resignation offer. 
    Hickenlooper has sent multiple letters pushing back against the Trump administration’s blanket cuts to the federal government including:
    A letter sounding the alarm over the Office of Personnel Management’s blanket buyout offer to federal employees;
    A letter urging Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to immediately resolve staff shortages at the National Park Service after they fired thousands of workers; and 
    A letter demanding SBA Administrator Loeffler address the devastating impacts of the arbitrary mass firings of SBA public servants.  
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:
    Dear Secretary Burgum:
    We write to condemn the firing of over 2,300 Department of the Interior (DOI) employees, particularly those based in Colorado. The 6,000 DOI professionals in Colorado fill a critical role, not just within DOI but in communities across our state. DOI employees protect our public lands, fulfill our trust responsibilities to Tribes, conserve wildlife resources, support access to recreation on some of our state’s most beautiful landscapes, and manage land for grazing, energy, mining, and other activities. A robust workforce is critical to fulfilling DOI’s mission to steward our natural resources and cultural heritage. We urge you to promptly reinstate the terminated employees in Colorado and across the country.
    DOI employees manage and conserve the resources that are an essential part of what makes Colorado so special – including our 13 National Park Service (NPS) units, 8.3 million acres of public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and 8 wildlife refuges managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These workers keep our lands accessible to the public and help boost our state’s $14 billion recreational economy. Already, the repercussions of the terminations are evident at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in Colorado, which now needs to close two days a week due to a lack of staffing. Blanket dismissals of NPS staff and other land management employees will continue to have a direct effect on public access for visitors statewide, as well as on the businesses in gateway communities surrounding federal lands.
    The decision to fire these employees will reverberate throughout Colorado’s economy and across the places and resources the agency is meant to protect nationwide. DOI’s land management employees often work in rural areas, where communities are tight-knit and often tied closely to the land – and workforce impacts will ripple across those local economies. In many places across Colorado, land management agencies are already challenged by the recruitment and retention of employees in remote areas, including those with a high cost of living. This unjust termination of employees will make management of lands in those areas all the more difficult.
    Just as the land managers in the field are critical to stewardship of our resources, so are the thousands of DOI scientists, grant managers, engineers, and other professionals based out of the Denver Federal Center. The agency’s decreased capacity from firing these employees is compounded by the administration’s recent hiring freeze and the 2,700 DOI employees that accepted the administration’s “Fork in the Road” deferred resignation offer. The current volatility and uncertainty affect DOI’s workforce as a whole, not just those who were fired – and that in turn threatens both our economy and Coloradans’ access to the places they love.
    We also object strongly to the fact that many who were terminated in this mass firing were told they were dismissed for performance reasons, regardless of the employees’ actual performance. The probationary employees who were fired range from those who joined the DOI workforce within the past year, bringing fresh enthusiasm and perspectives, to those with such strong experience that they were recently promoted. Without these employees, the administration will not be able to process permits for activities on public land, including for grazing and energy production. DOI capacity for building our wildfire resilience and protecting our headwaters will diminish. The indiscriminate and short-sighted nature of the firings will hamper the overall mission of the DOI, with the public and our natural resources bearing the brunt of this decision.
    DOI’s recent terminations hold serious on-the-ground consequences for our lands, waters, communities, Tribes, ranchers, and our state’s broader economy. We urge you to reinstate the recently terminated employees in their positions immediately.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Horizon Bancorp, Inc. Announces Retirement of Craig Dwight as Chairman and Enhancements to Board of Directors Structure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MICHIGAN CITY, Ind., Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (“Horizon” or the “Company”) announced that Craig Dwight, Chairman of Board, will retire from the Board of Directors effective at the expiration of his current term on May 1, 2025. Mr. Dwight provided written notice of his decision on February 24, 2025, which was accepted by the Board on February 25, 2025. Concurrently, the Board of Directors elected Eric Blackhurst to serve as an Independent Chairperson, effective upon Mr. Dwight’s retirement. Mr. Blackhurst has served as a Company Director for over seven years during which time his leadership has been instrumental, notably as Chairperson of Corporate Governance and as a member of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Blackhurst recently retired from an esteemed 35-year career at The Dow Chemical Company where he served as Associate General Counsel, Corporate Transactions and Latin America. His is currently interim president of Alma College. Additionally, with Horizon’s transition to an Independent Chairperson, the role of Independent Lead Director, currently held by Michele Magnuson, will be retired. Ms. Magnuson will remain on the Board and continue to serve on the Compensation and Governance Committees.

    “On behalf of the Board of Directors, Executive Leadership, and Horizon’s Advisors, it is my privilege to thank and congratulate Craig who will retire from the Board upon the expiration of his term in May. For more than 25 years Craig drove the success of Horizon by fostering a winning culture centered on placing client needs first, strengthening the communities Horizon calls home, and delivering significant value for Horizon’s shareholders. His legacy of servant leadership has positively impacted all who have had the pleasure to work with him. We wish Craig and his family the best as he enjoys this richly earned new chapter in life,” said Thomas Prame, Horizon’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am also pleased to announce the Board’s election of Eric Blackhurst to Independent Chairperson. Eric’s strategic vision, character and experience make him ideally suited to seamlessly transition into the role of Chairperson. I look forward to our continued positive working relationship and the value he will bring to Horizon in this important new role. Additionally, we would like to thank Michele Magnuson for her impactful stewardship as independent Lead Director over the last 3 years. We are fortunate to have Michele as a Board member, and we look forward to the positive contributions she continues to bring to the Board and organization.”

    In addition to the changes to Horizon’s director roles, Horizon welcomes Larry Magnesen to the Horizon Bank’s Board of Directors effective February 25, 2025. Mr. Magnesen brings to the Bank Board significant experience in marketing and corporate communications resulting from his 20 plus-year career at Fifth Third Bank in various senior leadership roles. “Larry has a vast experience in financial services marketing and corporate communications that will benefit Horizon Bank’s strategic objective of profitably expanding our core banking relationships,” Prame added. “Larry brings a great understanding of attracting and retaining core clients that is combined with an intimate knowledge of our local markets through his former leadership roles. I look forward to the immediate contributions Larry will bring to Horizon’s strategic outlook and the valuable skillset he adds to our already very talented Bank Board.”

    About Horizon Bancorp, Inc.

    Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ GS: HBNC) is the nearly 8 billion–asset bank holding company for Horizon Bank, which serves customers across attractive Midwestern markets through convenient digital tools, as well as its Indiana and Michigan branches. Horizon’s retail offerings include prime residential, indirect auto, and other secured consumer lending, as well as a range of personal banking and wealth management solutions. Horizon also provides a comprehensive array of in–market business banking and treasury management services, as well as equipment financing solutions for customers regionally and nationally, with commercial lending representing over half of total loans. More information on Horizon, headquartered in Northwest Indiana’s Michigan City, is available at horizonbank.com and investor.horizonbank.com.

    Contact: Thomas Prame
    Chief Executive Officer and President
    Phone: (219) 814-5983
    Date: February 26, 2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Announcing $80 Million to Support Resiliency Initiatives

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $80 million in new grant funding available to communities across New York State for climate resiliency projects. The grants, funded through the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022, will support nature-based and green infrastructure projects designed to reduce flood risk and enhance community resilience to extreme weather.

    “Making New York more resilient in the face of increasingly devastating storms and other extreme weather emergencies is a top priority for our state,” Governor Hochul said. “With $80 million now available from the Environmental Bond Act, communities statewide will be able to take necessary steps to protect flood-prone areas, safeguard infrastructure, and ensure the safety of their homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. These investments will not only strengthen our ability to withstand future storms but also create healthier, more sustainable communities for future generations.”

    The funding will be distributed through three new grant programs, each focused on investing in adaptation and improvements that will protect lives and minimize the financial burden of recovering from future extreme weather events. The projects represent a proactive approach to emergency preparedness, prioritizing investments that mitigate the effects of extreme weather driven by climate change.

    The three resiliency related grant programs are:

    • Resilient Watersheds Grant Program: $45 million will be made available through the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), building on the success of the Resilient NY program and advancing the State’s goal of strengthening infrastructure and protecting New Yorkers from the impacts of extreme weather.
    • Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects Program: $20 million will be made available through the Department of State (DOS) for coastal communities. The program prioritizes projects using nature-based solutions to enhance community resilience while also delivering environmental, economic and social benefits.
    • Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Implementation Projects Program: $15 million will be made available through DOS for implementation projects that improve waterfront and watershed resiliency and reduce climate impacts, particularly flooding.

    DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Through Governor Hochul’s leadership and historic Environmental Bond Act investments, New York State is improving community resilience to extreme weather events driven by climate change. Leveraged with comprehensive Executive Budget proposals, DEC and our State agency partners are advancing comprehensive flood risk reduction projects across the state that will restore our environment, improve water quality and safeguard communities.”

    Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “By helping municipalities protect their critical water infrastructure from extreme weather events, we are investing in a safer, healthier, and more livable future for New Yorkers. EFC is pleased to partner with DEC to further Governor Hochul’s coordinated efforts to tackle water quality issues statewide and ensure equitable access to clean, safe water.”

    Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The Environmental Bond Act is a historic and transformative investment in the future of the Empire State that will pay dividends for generations to come. These essential programs and projects will have far reaching economic, social and environmental benefits for people and businesses, protecting lives, livelihoods and properties from the ravages of climate change and restoring critical habitats and ecosystems.”

    Resilient Watersheds Grant Program
    The goal of the Resilient Watersheds Grant program is to implement projects that take a comprehensive approach to building community resilience. This competitive statewide grant program is open to local governments, Indian Nations, County Soil and Water Conservation Districts, state agencies, and not-for-profit corporations.

    Projects will promote flood risk and ice jam reduction and restoration, enhance flood and climate resilience, implement natural and nature-based feature construction, or ecologically sustainable projects while supporting healthy riparian habitats. Projects are funded to the extent of available funds based on the evaluation criteria.

    Projects identified by existing and future Resilient NY Program studies are eligible to apply for the program. Additional eligibility information can be found here: Flood Recovery And Resilience – NYSDEC

    Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects Program
    The program supports the implementation of projects that increase resilience with an emphasis on natural processes that provide environmental, economic, and social benefits to communities within the New York State Coastal area and the Coastal Nonpoint Source boundary.

    Complete information on this DOS program can be found here: https://dos.ny.gov/funding-bid-opportunities

    Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Implementation Projects Program
    The program supports implementation projects that improve waterfront and watershed resiliency and reduce climate impacts, particularly flooding.

    Complete information on this DOS program can be found here: https://dos.ny.gov/funding-bid-opportunities

    Webinar and How to Apply
    DEC, DOS and EFC will co-host a webinar for all three funding opportunities on March 12, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. To register for the webinar, click here.

    Applications for all three funding opportunities can be submitted through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) portal at https://apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025.

    New York State continues to advance resiliency initiatives and investments that are helping to protect communities. Today’s announcement complements Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget proposal to invest more than $1 billion to help fund a more sustainable and affordable future. The ambitious proposal is the single-largest climate investment in state history, generating thousands of jobs, slashing energy bills for households, and cutting harmful pollution.

    The announcement today also demonstrates the ways New York State’s continued commitment can be achieved, by working with local communities to identify and address potential future climate impacts related to storm surges, rising sea levels, and other conditions. The Executive Budget also includes $108 million for climate resiliency initiatives that support coastal resiliency and additional funding for Green Resiliency Grants and continues a record $400 million for Environmental Protection Fund programs that include measures to adapt and mitigate climate impacts. Progress also continues in administering the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, which has allocated approximately $1.25 billion, or 25 percent, of Bond Act funds to date.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addresses Maha Shivratri festival organized by Isha Foundation in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addresses Maha Shivratri festival organized by Isha Foundation in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

    Maha Shivratri is not just a festival but a profound night of self-awakening, when the entire universe resonates itself with the presence of Shiva, only then can the true essence of Shivaratri be experienced

    Lord Shiva is a benevolent consciousness who embodies both destruction and protection

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has brought global recognition to Yoga by commemorating International Yoga Day and Sadguru has given a new dimension to Yoga through Adi Yogi

    Any account of India’s spiritual history is incomplete without mentioning rich Tamil culture

    Isha Yoga Centre has become a global center for yoga, sadhana, devotion, self-knowledge and liberation

    The 112-ft grand statue of Adi Yogi symbolizes the 112 paths to spiritual enlightenment

    Sadguru has brought science and spirituality together and proved that meditation, energy, and state of consciousness are not mere beliefs but fundamental aspects of science

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 9:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, today addressed the Maha Shivratri celebrations organized by the Isha Foundation in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah extended greetings to the countrymen on the occasion of of Maha Shivratri. He said that from Somnath to Kedarnath, Pashupatinath to Rameswaram, and Kashi to Coimbatore, the entire nation is immersed in the devotion of Lord Shiva today. Shri Shah highlighted the spiritual significance of this day, noting that while the Maha Kumbh concludes in Prayagraj, a grand “Maha Kumbh of devotion” is unfolding in Coimbatore. He emphasized that Maha Shivratri is not just a festival but a profound night of self-awakening. He said when the entire universe resonates itself with the presence of Shiva, only then can the true essence of Shivaratri be experienced. He further said that this sacred day marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, paving the way for the soul’s union with Shiva, thereby opening the path to salvation through unwavering devotion.

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that Lord Shiva is not just a symbol but a benevolent consciousness who embodies both destruction and protection, each playing a vital role in our lives. He said Shiva is described as Shambhu and Swayambhu, representing both truth and beauty. Known as Bhole Nath and Maha Kaal, Shiva is present here in Coimbatore as Adi Yogi, the first yogi. Shri Shah emphasized that Shiva is not merely an idol but the fundamental foundation of existence itself. He said that Maha Shivratri is a testament to the culmination of devotion and faith, where the true offering is not material but our unwavering dedication to the path of devotion.

    Shri Amit Shah said that this place created by Sadguru is not just a pilgrimage but has become a global center for yoga, sadhana, devotion, self-knowledge and liberation. He praised the Isha Yoga Center for bringing positive transformation into the lives of millions through yoga and meditation. He highlighted the significance of the 112-ft grand statue of Adi Yogi, which symbolizes the 112 paths to spiritual enlightenment. He said that visiting this sacred space reminds us that the ultimate goal of life is to attain Shivatva—the state of divine consciousness. Shri Shah said that the Isha Yoga Center serves as a bridge connecting people, especially the youth, with spirituality. He said that by coming here, one embarks on a journey from mere awareness to cosmic consciousness, self-interest to selflessness, and individual existence to universal oneness. He commended Sadguru for not only inspiring the youth towards spirituality but also offering them a profound and intelligent understanding of religion.

    Union Home Minister said that the phrase “A Mystic Man on a Mission” perfectly describes Sadguru. He praised Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev for guiding the world on the path of a meaningful and conscious life. He said that through Sadguru, the world has come to understand the eternal wisdom that true knowledge begins with understanding oneself. Shri Shah emphasized that the journey to transforming the world starts with self-transformation. He lauded Sadguru’s efforts in making people aware to the value of India’s most precious heritage—its soil—and spreading a profound environmental message across the globe. He said that Sadguru has emerged as a true national asset, inspiring millions and bringing the essence of India’s spiritual heritage to the fore.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Sadguru has given a new dimension to Yoga through Adi Yogi, while Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has brought global recognition to Yoga by commemorating International Yoga Day. He emphasized that Yoga is not just a practice but a journey that takes us from Sva (self) to Sarv (universal), from Aham (ego) to Vayam (togetherness), from Sankalp (resolve) to Siddhi (attainment), and from Vairagya (detachment) to Samadhi (ultimate consciousness). Shri Shah highlighted that despite its ancient roots, Yoga remains highly relevant in the modern world and continues to evolve dynamically. He described Yoga as a force that unites the mind, body, and soul, bridges the gap between the individual and the Supreme, and ultimately paves the way for deep devotion and spiritual fulfillment.

    Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that any account of India’s spiritual history is incomplete without mentioning rich Tamil culture. He said that Tamil Nadu is a land enriched with countless living examples of spirituality, carrying forward an unbroken legacy of wisdom and devotion. Shri Shah said the Maha Shivratri celebrations organized by Sadguru are amazing, unimaginable, and beyond words. He hailed Sadguru for creating a spiritual pilgrimage that seamlessly blends science and spirituality, proving that meditation, energy, and state of consciousness are not mere beliefs but fundamental aspects of science. He said that Sadguru has made people realize that Shiva is not just a deity but an eternal presence, a universal consciousness, and that awakening Shivatva—the essence of Shiva—is the true path to self-realization.

    *****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2106511) Visitor Counter : 93

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO & Indian Navy successfully conduct flight-trials of first-of-its-kind Naval Anti-Ship missile

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 7:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Navy carried out successful flight-trials of first-of-its-kind Naval Anti-Ship missile (NASM-SR) from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur on February 25, 2025. The trials demonstrated the missile’s capability against ship targets while launched from an Indian Naval Seaking Helicopter.

    The trials have proven the missile’s Man-in-Loop feature and scored a direct hit on a small ship target in sea-skimming mode at its maximum range. The missile uses an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for terminal guidance. The mission also has demonstrated the high bandwidth two way datalink system, which is used to transmit the seeker live images back to the pilot for in-flight retargeting.

    The missile was launched in Bearing-only Lock-on after launch mode with several targets in close vicinity for selecting one among them. The missile initially locked on to a large target within a specified zone of search and during the terminal phase, the pilot selected a smaller hidden target resulting in its being  hit with pinpoint accuracy.

    The missile uses an indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based INS and Radio Altimeter for its Mid-course guidance, an Integrated avionics module, Electro-Mechanical actuators for Aerodynamic and Jet vane control, thermal batteries and PCB warhead. It uses solid propulsion with an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer. The trials have met all the mission objectives.

    The missile is developed by different labs of DRDO including Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and

    Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory. The missiles are currently being produced by Development cum Production Partners with the help of MSME’s, start-ups and other production partners.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, Indian Navy and the industries for the successful flight tests. The tests for Man-in-Loop features is unique as it gives the capability of in flight retargeting, he said.

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the entire DRDO team, users and the industry partners.

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2106482) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary (L&E) Chairs 112th EPFO Executive Committee Meeting

    Source: Government of India

    Secretary (L&E) Chairs 112th EPFO Executive Committee Meeting

    Highlights Strengthening Pension System, IT Infrastructure Enhancements & Service Delivery Improvements

    Stresses the Need to Reduce Validations and Implement Partial Withdrawal through simplified processes in a Time-Bound Manner

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 7:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The 112th meeting of the Executive Committee (EC) of the Central Board of Trustees, EPF, was chaired by Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary (Ministry of Labour and Employment), at the EPFO Head Office in New Delhi on February 25, 2025. Shri Ramesh Krishnamurthi, CPFC, along with other senior officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment and representatives of employers and employees, also attended the meeting. Key agenda items discussed included:

    Adoption of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for EPFO Officers and Staff: The EC formally adopted the Unified Pension Scheme for EPFO officers and staff, aligning with the recent gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Finance. This marks a significant step toward establishing a structured and assured pension framework for EPFO employees covered under the National Pension System (NPS). Effective from April 1, 2025, the UPS ensures financial security post-retirement, offering a minimum guaranteed pension along with additional benefits such as family pension provisions and dearness relief adjustments. EPFO officers and staff will now have the option to transition from NPS to UPS.

    Updates on the Centralized Pension Payment System (CPPS): The EC was informed that the Centralized Pension Payment System (CPPS), implemented across all regional offices in January 2025 through NPCI (NACH) payments, has begun yielding positive outcomes. CPPS represents a paradigm shift from the previous decentralized pension disbursement system, enabling pensioners to access their pensions seamlessly from any bank, any branch, anywhere in the country. In January 2025, 69.4 lakh pensioners received their pensions through CPPS, achieving a 99.9% success rate.

    EC emphasized the need to transition to the Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) in a time-bound manner, ensuring that pension payments are credited directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts for a more secure and efficient system.

    Centralized IT-Enabled System (CITES 2.01) & EPFO 3.0 – The EC reviewed progress under CITES 2.01, whereby EPFO is transitioning from decentralized databases to a centralized system, laying the foundation for enhanced performance. This modernization effort, set for completion by March 31, 2025, aims to streamline claims settlement and payments, replacing the aging Field Office Application Software to enhance efficiency and service delivery.

    Additionally, EPFO updated EC on plan under EPFO 3.0, an exercise to transform itself into a future-ready, member-centric, and technology-driven organization. This vision involves developing a new system, adopting cutting-edge technologies, and re-engineering processes to expand social security coverage. The EC directed EPFO to prepare a Vision Document for EPFO 3.0 by March 31, 2025.

    Pension on Higher Wages (PoHW): The EC was updated on progress on applications received under Pension on Higher Wages (PoHW), for implementation of the Hon’ble Supreme Court judgment dated November 4, 2022. EPFO updated on the multiple steps taken by their regional offices to facilitate members, pensioners, and employers, and informed that 70% have already been processed. EPFO aims to complete the processing of all applications by March 31, 2025. The EC instructed EPFO to expedite the cases of members who have already deposited the required amount, including for the large PSUs.

    Rationalization of Validations and Partial Withdrawals through simplified processes: With the goal of providing ease of living for its members, EPFO is working on a plan for simplification of claim processing, including rationalization of validations for partial withdrawals. EC was also provided an update on the progress. A technical committee has recommended simplification of validations in Form 31 for advance withdrawals.

    EC decided that the reduction in unnecessary validations and the implementation of simplified partial withdrawals should be carried out in parallel with ongoing IT reforms. It was emphasized that these measures would significantly enhance ease of living for EPFO members.

    EPFO reaffirmed its commitment to digital transformation and member-centric reforms, ensuring faster claim settlements, seamless pension disbursements, and improved service delivery for its members. EC decided to meet again within a month to review progress.

    ****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2106480) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: A Spectacle of Faith, Unity, and Tradition

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

    Mahakumbh 2025: A Spectacle of Faith, Unity, and Tradition

    As the sacred waters settle, the echoes of devotion and grandeur leave an everlasting imprint on history

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 7:22PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    In a world marked by the hustle of modernity, few events hold the power to bring millions together in pursuit of something greater than themselves. The Maha Kumbh Mela, currently being held from 13 January 2025 to 26 February 2025, is a sacred pilgrimage that is celebrated four times over a course of 12 years. Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest peaceful gathering, draws millions of pilgrims who bathe in sacred rivers seeking to purify themselves from sins and attain spiritual liberation. The Maha Kumbh Mela is deeply embedded in Hindu mythology and represents one of the most significant gatherings of faith in the world. This sacred event rotates between four locations in India-Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj– each situated by a holy river, from the Ganges to the Shipra, the Godavari, and the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati in Prayagraj. The expected turnout of 45 crore devotees in 45 days was exceeded within a month, reaching 66 crores+ by the concluding day.

    Attractions of Kumbh Mela 2025

    • Triveni Sangam: The sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, offering a deeply spiritual experience.
    • Ancient Temples: Hanuman Mandir, Alopi Devi Mandir, and Mankameshwar Temple, showcasing the city’s religious heritage.
    • Historical Landmarks: Ashoka Pillar, University of Allahabad, and Swaraj Bhawan, reflecting India’s rich history and colonial-era architecture.
    • Cultural Vibrance: Bustling streets, markets, local art, and cuisine providing a glimpse into the city’s life.
    • Kalagram: Kalagram, set up by the Ministry of Culture in Sector-7 of the Maha Kumbh district, is a vibrant cultural village showcasing India’s rich heritage. Designed around the themes of Craft, Cuisines, and Culture, it offered an immersive experience through performances, exhibitions, and interactive zones.
    • Akhara Camps: Spiritual hubs where sadhus and seekers engaged in meditation, discussions, and philosophical exchanges.
    • Immersive Digital Experiences: Inspired by Kumbh 2019, ten stalls facilitating the pilgrims with this experience were specially set up at prime locations in the Kumbh Mela to show videos of major events such as Peshwai, auspicious bathing days, Ganga aarti, etc.
    • Drone Show: A Grand Drone show was organised by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department featuring hundreds of drones creating vibrant shapes in the sky. Devotees were mesmerized by the divine depiction of the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) and Gods drinking from the Amrit Kalash.
    • Cultural events at the Ganga Pandal: It saw renowned artists from across the country mesmerize devotees with grand presentations of music, dance, and art from 7th – 10th February. The main highlights of the event included performances by famous artists like Odissi dancer Dona Ganguly on 7th; renowned singer Kavita Krishnamurti and Dr. L. Subramaniam on 8th; Suresh Wadkar and Sonal Mansingh on 9th; and, on 10th, celebrated singer Hariharan. In addition, prominent artists from various Indian classical dance and music traditions made the evening musical and grand.
    • International Bird Festival: Held from February 16-18, 2025, showcasing over 200 migratory and local birds, including endangered species.

    Key Rituals and Practices

    • Shahi Snan: The most significant ritual, where millions bathe at Triveni Sangam to cleanse sins and attain Moksha. Special dates like Paush Purnima and Makar Sankranti witness grand processions of saints and Akharas, marking the official start of the Maha Kumbh.
    • Ganga Aarti: A visually stunning ritual where priests offer glowing lamps to the sacred river, evoking devotion.
    • Kalpavas: A month-long period of spiritual discipline where devotees renounce comforts, engage in meditation, and participate in Vedic rituals like Yajnas and Homas.
    • Prayers & Offerings: Dev Pujan honors deities, while rituals like Shraadh (ancestral offerings) and Veeni Daan (offering hair to the Ganges) symbolize surrender and purification. Acts of charity, such as Gau Daan (cow donation) and Vastra Daan (clothing donation), hold great merit.
    • Deep Daan: Thousands of lamps are floated on the river, creating a celestial glow that symbolizes devotion and divine blessings.
    • Prayagraj Panchkoshi Parikrama: A sacred journey around Prayagraj’s holy sites, reviving an ancient tradition and offering spiritual fulfillment.

     

    History and Major Bathing Dates

     

    The origins of the Kumbh Mela are rooted in Hindu mythology. According to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) story in the ancient Hindu scriptures, the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) fought over the Amrit (nectar of immortality). During this celestial battle, drops of the nectar fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik—where the Kumbh Mela is now held, with the Maha Kumbh occurring once every 144 years at Prayagraj.  Historically, the Maha Kumbh Mela has been referenced since ancient times, with records dating back to the Maurya and Gupta periods. It received royal patronage from various dynasties, including the Mughals, and was documented by colonial administrators like James Prinsep. Over centuries, it evolved into a global spiritual and cultural phenomenon. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, the Kumbh Mela symbolizes India’s enduring traditions, fostering unity, spirituality, and cultural exchange among millions worldwide.

    The timing of each Kumbh Mela is determined by the astrological positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, believed to signal an auspicious period for spiritual cleansing and self-enlightenment. The festival embodies a confluence of faith, culture, and tradition, attracting ascetics, seekers, and devotees alike. The event’s grandeur is marked by Shahi Snans (bathing rituals), spiritual discourses, and vibrant cultural processions that reflect India’s deep spiritual heritage.

     

    Major bathing dates are:

    Date

    Bathing Occasion

    Significance

    Number of Devotees taking a dip

    (Approx.)

    January 13, 2025

    Paush Purnima

    It serves as an unofficial inauguration of the Maha Kumbh Mela, signifying the commencement of this grand event. Additionally, Paush Purnima marks the initiation of Kalpvasa, a period of intense spiritual practice and devotion observed by pilgrims during the Maha Kumbh Mela.

    1.5 crore

    January 14, 2025

    Makar Sankranti

    (First Shahi Snan)

    Makar Sankranti signifies the sun’s transition to its next astronomical position in accordance with the Hindu calendar. This auspicious day marks the initiation of charitable donations at the Maha Kumbh Mela. Pilgrims traditionally make contributions based on their own volition and generosity.

    3.5 crore

    January 29, 2025

    Mauni Amavasya

    (Second Shahi Snan)

    Mauni Amavasya is a day steeped in significance, as it is believed that the celestial alignments are most propitious for the sacred act of bathing in the holy river. It commemorates a profound event when Rishabh Dev, revered as one of the first sages, broke his protracted vow of silence and immersed himself in the purifying waters of the Sangam. As a result, Mauni Amavasya draws the largest congregation of pilgrims to the Kumbh Mela, making it a momentous day of spiritual devotion and purification.

    5 crore

    February 3, 2025

    Basant Panchami

    (Third Shahi Snan)

    Basant Panchami symbolizes the transition of seasons and celebrates the arrival of the Goddess of Knowledge, Saraswati, in Hindu mythology.

    2.33 crore

    February 12, 2025

    Maghi Purnima

    Maghi Purnima is renowned for its connection with the veneration of Guru Brahaspati and the belief that the Hindu deity Gandharva descends from the heavens to the sacred Sangam.

    2 crore

    February 26, 2025

    Maha Shivratri

    Maha Shivaratri holds deep symbolism as it marks the final holy bath of the Kalpvasis, and it is intrinsically connected to Lord Shankar.

    1.3 crore

     

    Key Infrastructure Development

     

    • Temporary City Setup: Maha Kumbh Nagar had been transformed into a temporary city with thousands of tents and shelters, including super deluxe accommodations like the IRCTC’s “Maha Kumbh Gram” luxury tent city which offers deluxe tents and villas with modern amenities.
    • Roads and Bridges:
    • Renovation of 92 roads and beautification of 17 major roads
    • Construction of 30 pontoon bridges using 3,308 pontoons.
    • Signage for Navigation: A total of 800 multi-language signages (Hindi, English, and regional languages) were installed to guide visitors.
    • Public Utilities: Over 2,69,000 checkered plates had been laid for pathways. Mobile toilets and robust waste management systems ensured hygiene.

     

    Medical Facilities at Maha Kumbh

     

    The Maha Kumbh 2025 witnessed an extensive medical setup to ensure the well-being of millions of devotees. With over 2,000 medical personnel deployed across the Mela area, the Uttar Pradesh government implemented high-tech healthcare services in every sector. From minor treatments to major surgeries, all medical needs were addressed efficiently.

     

    Key Medical Arrangements:

    • Central Hospital at Parade Ground:
      • 100-bed capacity
      • OPD, ICU, and emergency care
      • Conducted over 10,000 treatments and multiple successful deliveries
    • Additional Hospitals:
      • 23 hospitals with a total capacity of 360 beds
      • Two sub-central hospitals (25 beds each)
      • Eight sector hospitals (20 beds each)
      • Two infectious disease hospitals (20 beds each)
    • Medical Services Expansion During Amrit Snan & Magh Purnima:
      • 133 ambulances deployed, including seven river ambulances and one air ambulance
      • Medical Observation Rooms at key railway stations for emergencies
      • First aid posts with trained staff at multiple locations
    • SRN Hospital and Other City Hospitals on High Alert:
      • 250 beds reserved at SRN Hospital
      • Blood bank stocked with 200 units
      • Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital prepared with:
        • 40-bed trauma center
        • 50-bed surgical ICU
        • 50-bed medicine ward
        • 10-bed cardiology ward and ICU
    • Medical Teams and Emergency Readiness:
      • 300 specialist doctors deployed at the Super Specialty Hospital
      • Expert doctors from AIIMS Delhi and BHU remained on high alert
      • 150 AYUSH medical personnel provided alternative treatments
    • Advanced Facilities and AI Integration:
      • ECG services and Central Pathology Lab conducting 100+ tests daily
      • 50+ free diagnostic tests available for pilgrims
      • AI-driven translation technology enabled doctors to communicate in 22 regional and 19 international languages
    • Affordable Medicines through Jan Aushadhi Kendras:
    • Five Jan Aushadhi Kendras set up in Mahakumbh Nagar, including one in Kalagram
    • Established under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
    • Provided affordable and quality medicines to pilgrims throughout the Mela
    • Part of a nationwide network of 15,000+ Jan Aushadhi centers, with 62 centers in Prayagraj
    • Contributed to the national target of ₹2,000 crore in medicine sales, with ₹1,500 crore already achieved.

     

    The entire medical infrastructure was continuously monitored by senior officials to ensure smooth operations, cleanliness, and quick emergency responses. These arrangements played a crucial role in managing the healthcare needs of millions at the Maha Kumbh 2025.

     

    AYUSH at Maha Kumbh

     

    The Ayush OPDs, clinics, stalls, and wellness sessions emerged as major attractions for devotees and visitors at Maha Kumbh 2025, Prayagraj. The Ministry of Ayush, in collaboration with the National Ayush Mission, Uttar Pradesh, provided free healthcare services to both domestic and international pilgrims. With a strong focus on traditional healing systems, Ayush services received widespread participation, reinforcing the global trust in Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Naturopathy.

     

    Key Highlights of Ayush Services:

    1. Extensive Healthcare Support: Over 1.21 lakh devotees availed Ayush services during the festival.
    2. Dedicated Ayush OPDs: A team of 80 doctors across 20 OPDs provided 24×7 medical services, addressing both common and chronic conditions.
    3. International Participation: Foreign devotees also accessed Ayush OPD consultations and wellness therapies.
    4. Yoga Therapy Sessions: Daily therapeutic yoga sessions were conducted from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at designated camps in the Sangam area and Sector-8, led by experts from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi.
    5. Integrated Healthcare: Over 7 lakh pilgrims received medical care, including:
      • 4.5 lakh treated at 23 allopathic hospitals
      • 3.71 lakh pathology tests conducted
      • 3,800 minor and 12 major surgeries successfully performed
    6. Specialist Involvement: Experts from AIIMS Delhi, IMS BHU, and international specialists from Canada, Germany, and Russia contributed to providing world-class healthcare.
    7. Traditional Treatments: 20 AYUSH hospitals offered treatments in Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Naturopathy to over 2.18 lakh pilgrims.
    8. Holistic Wellness: Services such as Panchakarma, yoga therapy, and health awareness campaigns were well-received, enhancing the overall well-being of attendees.

     

    Security Measures

    Security at Maha Kumbh 2025 had been strengthened through a seven-tier system with AI-powered surveillance, a vast deployment of personnel, and emergency response mechanisms. Over 50,000 security personnel, including paramilitary forces, 14,000 home guards, and 2,750 AI-based CCTV cameras, had been deployed. Enhanced measures included drone and underwater surveillance, cyber security, and river safety. Fire safety infrastructure had been expanded with specialized vehicles and firefighting stations. Lost and Found centers used digital registration and social media updates to reunite missing persons with their families.

     

    Key Security Measures

    1. Surveillance and Law Enforcement
    • AI & Drone Monitoring: 2,750 AI-powered cameras, drones, anti-drones, and tethered drones for real-time tracking.
    • Underwater Drones: First-time deployment for 24/7 river surveillance, operating up to 100 meters deep.
    • Checkpoints & Intelligence Squads: Screening at multiple entry points, hotel and vendor inspections, and patrols.
    • Seven-Tier Security System: Layered protection from the outer perimeter to the inner sanctum.

     

    1. Fire Safety Measures
    • ₹131.48 crore allocated for fire safety, ensuring the deployment of:
      • 351 firefighting vehicles.
      • 50+ fire stations and 20 fire posts.
      • Four Articulating Water Towers (AWT) equipped with thermal cameras, reaching 35 meters in height.
      • Over 2,000 trained fire personnel.
      • Fire safety equipment installed in all tent settlements.

     

    1. Emergency & Disaster Response
    • Multi-Disaster Response Vehicles: Equipped with lifting bags (10-20 tonnes), rescue tools, and victim location cameras.
    • Remote-Controlled Life Buoys: Deployed for immediate water rescue operations.
    • Incident Response System (IRS): Ensures swift emergency handling through a coordinated command structure.

     

    1. Enhanced River Security
    • 3,800 Water Police personnel deployed, including 2,500 currently on duty and 1,300 additional personnel before the event.
    • 11 FRP Speed Motor Boats and four Anaconda motorboats with built-in changing rooms for patrol.
    • Three Water Police Stations & Two Floating Rescue Stations operating 24/7.
    • Four Water Ambulances equipped with medical facilities stationed along the river.
    • Deep-Water Barricading: An 8-km stretch secured to prevent accidents.
    • Equipment Deployment: 100 diving kits, 440 lifebuoys, and over 3,000 life jackets.

     

    1. Overall Deployment & Infrastructure
    • Security Forces: 10,000+ police personnel, NDRF, SDRF, CAPF, PAC, and bomb disposal squads.
    • Prayagraj Police Infrastructure:
      • 57 permanent police stations.
      • 13 temporary police stations.
      • 23 security checkpoints.
      • 8 zones, 18 security sectors.
    • 700+ boats with police and disaster response personnel stationed along the rivers.
    • Mock Drills & Inspections: Conducted by police and ATS teams for security preparedness.

     

    1. CRPF’s Role in Maha Kumbh 2025
    • 24/7 Security: Personnel deployed at ghats, Mela grounds, and key routes.
    • Use of Modern Technology: Vigilant monitoring to handle emergencies effectively.
    • Guidance & Assistance: Helping devotees navigate massive crowds with a polite approach.
    • Disaster Management: Rapid response team on high alert for crises.
    • Humanitarian Efforts: Assisting in reuniting lost children and elderly with their families.

     

    Cyber Security at Maha Kumbh

    More than 65 crore devotees have visited the Maha Kumbh Nagar. To ensure that such a large number of devotees are well-informed, the Uttar Pradesh government had decided to utilize every platform, including print, digital, and social media. Cyber experts have been actively monitoring online threats and investigating gangs exploiting platforms such as AI, Facebook, X, and Instagram. A mobile cyber team was also deployed for large-scale public awareness campaigns.

    Special cyber security arrangements were initiated to safeguard devotees from across the globe:

    • Deployment of 56 dedicated cyber warriors and experts for cyber patrolling.
    • Establishment of a Maha Kumbh cyber police station to counter cyber threats like fraudulent websites, social media scams, and fake links.
    • 40 Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) installed in both the fair area and the commissionerates for raising awareness about cyber threats.
    • Formation of a dedicated helpline number, 1920, and promotion of verified government websites.

     

    Ease of Making Payments at Maha Kumbh

    • Seamless Digital Banking Services: Ensuring convenience, safety, and security for millions of devotees and pilgrims.
    • Service Infrastructure: Service counters, mobile banking units, and customer assistance kiosks at five key locations.
    • Daak Sevaks: Trusted Daak Sevaks offering doorstep banking services for cash withdrawals via Aadhaar-linked accounts through AePS (Aadhaar ATM).
    • ‘Banking at Call’ facility: Pilgrims can dial 7458025511 to access banking services anywhere within Maha Kumbh.
    • Empowering Digital Transactions: Enabling local vendors and businesses to accept digital payments through DakPay QR Cards, fostering a cashless ecosystem.
    • Awareness Campaigns: Educating pilgrims and vendors through trained professionals, Daak Sevaks, hoardings, and digital demonstrations and assisting with account openings, transactions, and queries.
    • Memorabilia Offer: Free printed photographs for visitors as a keepsake.

    Railway Transportation at Maha Kumbh

    Maha Kumbh 2025, necessitated extensive preparations by Indian Railways to ensure seamless transportation, safety, and infrastructure readiness. Indian Railways has undertaken massive operational, infrastructural, and security measures to handle the unprecedented influx of devotees at Prayagraj and adjoining regions.

    1. Operational Measures To manage the surge in passengers, Indian Railways has implemented the following measures:

    • Special Train Services: Over 1,000 special trains are being introduced on high-demand routes to Prayagraj from various parts of India.
    • Increased Train Frequencies: Regular trains operating on critical routes have been augmented to handle additional passengers.
    • Reservation System Enhancements: Tatkal and special booking counters have been set up to facilitate smooth ticketing.
    • Dedicated Help Desks: Information booths and inquiry counters have been increased at major railway stations to assist pilgrims.

    2. Security and Crowd Management Given the large congregation, security measures have been significantly bolstered:

    • Deployment of RPF and GRP Personnel: More than 10,000 personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have been deployed at key stations.
    • CCTV Surveillance: High-resolution CCTV cameras have been installed across railway stations and inside trains for real-time monitoring.
    • Drone Surveillance: Drones are being used for crowd monitoring and quick response to emergencies.
    • AI-Based Crowd Management Systems: Advanced AI-based predictive modeling is being used to monitor crowd density and prevent stampedes.

     

    3. Infrastructure Development To accommodate the increased footfall, major infrastructural upgrades have been carried out:

    • Expansion of Platforms: Stations in Prayagraj and nearby regions have undergone expansion to handle additional trains.
    • New Foot Over Bridges (FOBs): Additional FOBs have been constructed to ease passenger movement.
    • Enhanced Lighting and Signage: Railway stations have been equipped with improved lighting and digital signboards for better navigation.
    • Escalators and Lifts: Stations have been upgraded with escalators and lifts for the convenience of elderly and differently-abled passengers.

    4. Passenger Amenities and Digital Initiatives To ensure a comfortable experience for devotees, Indian Railways has introduced several passenger-friendly initiatives:

    • Additional Waiting Rooms and Rest Areas: Temporary waiting halls with adequate seating, clean drinking water, and sanitation facilities have been established.
    • Food and Water Distribution: Special food counters and kiosks have been set up to provide hygienic meals and drinking water.
    • Digital Ticketing and Mobile App Services: The Indian Railways app has been upgraded with real-time train tracking, ticket booking, and emergency services information.
    • Public Announcement Systems: High-quality PA systems have been installed for timely announcements regarding train arrivals and departures.

     

    5. Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response To mitigate risks and handle emergencies effectively, Indian Railways has implemented:

    • Quick Response Teams (QRTs): Deployed at key stations to handle medical emergencies and crowd control.
    • Onboard Medical Facilities: Special medical coaches have been added to long-distance trains.
    • Fire Safety Measures: Fire extinguishers and emergency exits have been reviewed and upgraded in railway coaches and stations.
    • Coordination with Local Authorities: Continuous coordination with local police, healthcare units, and disaster management teams to handle contingencies.

    Bus Transportation at Maha Kumbh

    The Uttar Pradesh government had deployed 1200 additional buses on 12 February 2025, supplementing the 3050 already allocated for Maha Kumbh 2025. Special shuttle services had also been arranged to enhance intra-city transportation.

    • Buses were available every 10 minutes at four temporary bus stations.
    • 750 shuttle buses were operating every 2 minutes for intra-city connectivity.
    • Measures taken to prevent overcrowding and ensure smooth pilgrim movement.

    Air Transportation for Maha Kumbh

    Prayagraj Airport underwent significant modernization to support the large influx of devotees during the Maha Kumbh Mahotsav from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Expansion efforts improved connectivity, capacity, and passenger services, ensuring a seamless travel experience. To ensure seamless travel for tourists attending the Maha Kumbh, the Ministry of Tourism had partnered with Alliance Air to enhance air connectivity to Prayagraj from multiple cities across India.

    1. Flight Operations & Connectivity
    • 81 new flights were introduced in January 2025 to accommodate pilgrims.
    • The total number of flights increased to 132, providing around 80,000 monthly seats.
    • Direct connectivity expanded from 8 cities in December 2024 to 17 cities, while connecting flights reached 26 cities, including Srinagar and Visakhapatnam.
    • The Union Civil Aviation Minister directed airlines to regulate airfares, especially for peak days like the Shahi Snan (January 29, February 3) and other major bathing days (February 4, 12, and 26).

     

    1. Passenger and Flight Traffic
    • The airport witnessed 30,172 passengers and operated 226 flights within a week.
    • For the first time, over 5,000 passengers traveled through the airport in a single day.
    • Night flights were introduced, providing 24/7 connectivity—a historic first in the airport’s 106-year history.

     

    1. Infrastructure Expansion
    • The terminal area expanded from 6,700 sq. m. to 25,500 sq. m.
    • The old terminal was reconfigured to accommodate 1,080 peak-hour passengers, while a new terminal handled 1,620 passengers.
    • Parking capacity increased from 200 to 600 vehicles.
    • Check-in counters rose from 8 to 42, and baggage scanning machines (XBIS-HB) increased from 4 to 10.
    • Aircraft parking bays grew from 4 to 15, while conveyor belts increased from 2 to 5.
    • Taxi tracks and airport gates were expanded from 4 to 11.

     

    1. Enhanced Passenger Experience
    • Boarding bridges increased from 2 to 6 for smoother passenger movement.
    • New lounges, a childcare room, and additional F&B counters were introduced.
    • The UDAN Yatri Café was established for affordable food options.
    • Meet-and-greet services were launched for differently-abled passengers.
    • Prepaid taxi counters and city bus services were introduced in collaboration with the UP Government.

     

    1. Safety & Medical Facilities
    • Security infrastructure was strengthened with additional aerobridges and door-framed metal detectors.
    • Ambulances and air ambulance services were deployed to handle medical emergencies.
    • Arriving pilgrims were given a floral welcome, enhancing their spiritual journey.

    Ensuring Food Availability and Safety

    The Union Government and Uttar Pradesh government have taken multiple measures to provide affordable food and ensure food safety at Maha Kumbh 2025. Subsidized rations, free meals, and stringent food safety protocols are in place to cater to millions of devotees.

     

    1. Subsidized Ration Distribution by NAFED
    • Quality ration at affordable prices distributed across Prayagraj.
    • Over 1000 metric tons of rations provided.
    • 20 mobile vans ensure delivery across Maha Kumbh.
    • Orders via WhatsApp/call on 72757 81810 for doorstep delivery.
    • Subsidized items:
      • Wheat flour & rice (10 kg packets).
      • Moong, masoor, and chana dal (1 kg packets).

     

    1. Free Meal Distribution & Cooking Gas Arrangements
    • 20,000 people served free meals daily.
    • 25,000 new ration cards issued for Maha Kumbh.
    • 35,000+ gas cylinders refilled and 3,500 new connections issued.
    • 5,000 gas cylinders refilled daily to support food preparation.

     

    1. Food Safety Measures by FSSAI & UP Government
    • 5 zones & 25 sectors monitored for food hygiene.
    • 56 Food Safety Officers (FSOs) deployed across the fair.
    • 10 Mobile Food Testing Labs (Food Safety on Wheels) conducting on-the-spot food safety tests.
    • Hotels, dhabas & stalls regularly inspected for hygiene compliance.
    • Public health lab in Varanasi testing food samples from Maha Kumbh.

     

    1. Awareness & Public Engagement
    • FSSAI’s interactive pavilion educating visitors on food safety.
    • Nukkad Natak performances & live quizzes promoting hygiene awareness.
    • Adulteration checks & training sessions for vendors and food businesses.

    Cleanliness and Sanitation

    The Swachh Maha Kumbh Abhiyan has set a benchmark for environmental stewardship, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable pilgrimage experience.

     

    1. Sanitation Infrastructure
    • 10,200 sanitation workers and 1,800 Ganga Sevadut deployed for cleanliness.
    1. Waste Management Initiatives
    • 22,000 sanitation workers ensuring litter-free fairgrounds.
    • Water treatment initiatives to maintain clean river water for bathing.
    • Strict plastic ban and use of biodegradable cutlery.
    • Thousands of bio-toilets and automated garbage disposal units installed.

     

    1. Major Bathing Days and Cleanliness Efforts
    • Basant Panchami (Feb 14, 2025):
      • 2.33 crore devotees took a dip in the Triveni Sangam.
      • 15,000 sanitation workers and 2,500 Ganga Seva Doots deployed.
      • Special cleaning of akhada paths and ghats.
      • Quick Response Teams (QRTs) ensured swift waste removal.
    • Magh Purnima (Feb 24, 2025):
      • Over 2 crore devotees participated.
      • Overnight cleaning drive restored ghats and fairgrounds.
      • Special cleaning vehicles and cesspool operations maintained sanitation.

     

    1. Sanitation and Waste Disposal System
    • 12,000 FRP toilets with septic tanks.
    • 16,100 prefabricated steel toilets with soak pits.
    • 20,000 community urinals installed.
    • 20,000 trash bins and 37.75 lakh liner bags for waste collection.
    • Special sanitation teams clearing waste post-major rituals.

     

    1. Miyawaki Forests: A Green Initiative
    • 119,700 saplings of 63 species planted in 2023-24 across 34,200 sqm.
    • Buswar dumping yard transformed into a green zone with 27,000 saplings.
    • Species planted: Mango, neem, peepal, tamarind, tulsi, gulmohar, and medicinal plants.

     

    1. Public Participation and Awareness
    • Swachhata Rath Yatra promoting cleanliness.
    • Street plays, musical performances, and public address systems spreading awareness.
    • Waste disposal initiatives: Segregation at source and organized garbage collection.

     

    1. River Cleaning with Trash Skimmer Machines
    • Two machines remove 10-15 tons of waste daily from Ganga and Yamuna.
    • Machine capacity: 13 cubic meters, covering a 4 km stretch of the river.
    • Waste disposal at Naini plant, plastic sent for recycling, and organic waste composted.

     

    1. Welfare of Sanitation Workers
    • Sanitation colonies with housing and amenities.
    • Primary schools for workers’ children under Vidya Kumbh initiative.
    • Proper food, accommodation, and timely wages ensured.

    Water Supply

    A large-scale arrangement for clean and pure drinking water has been made for millions of pilgrims coming from across the country and abroad at the Maha Kumbh:

    • 233 Water ATMs installed across the Mela area, operational 24/7.
    • RO (Reverse Osmosis) purified water provided to pilgrims.
    • Over 40 lakh pilgrims benefited from these Water ATMs between January 21 and February 1, 2025.
    • Initially, water was available at ₹1 per liter via coins or UPI payments, but now it is completely free.
    • Each ATM is equipped with sensor-based monitoring to detect faults.
    • SIM-based technology ensures connectivity with the administration’s central network.
    • Each ATM dispenses 12,000 to 15,000 liters of RO water daily.
    • On-site operators ensure smooth functioning and quick resolution of technical issues.
    • Pilgrims must refill bottles instead of using plastic, reducing waste.
    • Water supply arrangements focus on cleanliness and sustainability.
    • Technical teams monitor ATMs to ensure uninterrupted service.

     

    International Bird Festival

    This festival blended science, nature, and culture, inspiring conservation efforts and sustainable development.

    • Date & Venue: February 16-18, 2025, in Prayagraj.
    • Bird Species: Over 200 migratory and local birds, including endangered species.
    • Objective: Promote environmental conservation and biodiversity awareness.

     

    Festival Highlights

    • Bird Watching & Awareness
      • Rare birds like Indian Skimmer, Flamingo, and Siberian Crane.
      • Thousands of migratory birds from Siberia, Mongolia, Afghanistan, and other regions.
      • Eco-tourism plan for devotees, featuring expert-led bird walks and nature walks.
    • Competitions & Activities
      • Photography, painting, slogan writing, debates, and quizzes.
      • Prizes worth ₹21 lakhs (₹10,000 to ₹5 lakhs).
    • Expert Insights
      • Ornithologists, environmentalists, and conservation experts in technical sessions.
      • Discussions on bird migration, habitat protection, climate change impact.
    • Cultural & Educational Programs
      • Street plays, art exhibitions, and cultural performances on biodiversity.
      • Student participation in conservation activities for hands-on learning.

    List of Notable Personalities at Maha Kumbh

     

    Various well-known personalities visited Prayagraj to take a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam. These include:

    • Hon. President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu
    • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
    • Home Minister Shri Amit Shah
    • Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh
    • Governor of Uttar Pradesh Smt. Anandiben Patel
    • UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath & Cabinet Ministers
    • Chief Ministers:
      • Rajasthan – Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma
      • Haryana – Shri Nayab Singh Saini
      • Manipur – Shri N. Biren Singh
      • Gujarat – Shri Bhupendra Patel
    • Union Ministers:
      • Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
      • Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal
      • Shri Shripad Naik
    • Members of Parliament:
      • Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi
      • Shri Anurag Thakur
      • Smt. Sudha Murthy
      • Shri Ravi Kishan
    • Sports & Entertainment Personalities
    • Olympic Medalist Saina Nehwal
    • Cricketer Suresh Raina
    • International Wrestler Khali
    • Renowned Poet Kumar Vishwas
    • Choreographer Remo D’Souza
    • Bollywood Actress Katrina Kaif
    • Bollywood Actress Raveena Tandon

    Kalagram

    Kalagram, set up by the Ministry of Culture in Sector-7 of the Maha Kumbh district, is a vibrant cultural village showcasing India’s rich heritage. Designed around the themes of Craft, Cuisines, and Culture, it offers an immersive experience through performances, exhibitions, and interactive zones. The space brings together traditional arts, folk performances, digital storytelling, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit for devotees and tourists. The exhibition featured performances by nearly 15,000 artists from different parts of the country.

     

    Key Highlights of Kalagram

    • Grand Entrance: 635 ft wide, 54 ft high façade depicting 12 Jyotirlingas and Lord Shiva consuming Halahal.
    • Massive Stage: 104 ft wide and 72 ft deep, themed on Char Dham.
    • Performances: 14,632 artists perform daily on multiple stages.
    • Anubhuti Mandapam: 360° immersive experience narrating the descent of Ganga.
    • Aviral Shashwat Kumbh: Digital exhibition by ASI, NAI, and IGNCA on Kumbh’s history.
    • Food Zone: Offers satvik cuisine from different regions and Prayagraj’s local delicacies.
    • Sanskriti Aangans: Handicrafts and handlooms by 98 artisans from seven Zonal Cultural Centres.

    International Tourism at Maha Kumbh

    The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj emerged as a global phenomenon, attracting foreign tourists, travel writers, and spiritual seekers from various countries. The Uttar Pradesh government and the Ministry of Tourism implemented extensive initiatives to facilitate international participation, promote cultural exchange, and position the event on the world tourism map.

     

    1. International Participation and Tourism Initiatives
    • A group of British travel writers visited the Maha Kumbh on February 25–26, 2025, exploring religious, historical, and cultural sites in Prayagraj.
    • Special plans were executed to provide accommodation, guided tours, digital information centers, and cultural programs for foreign visitors.
    • The delegation also visited Prayagraj Fort, Anand Bhawan, Akshayavat, Alfred Park, and the Sangam area, along with trips to Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow.

     

    1. Foreign Tourists and Cultural Engagement
    • Pilgrims and tourists from South Korea, Japan, Spain, Russia, the United States, and other nations participated in the festival.
    • Many engaged with local guides at the Sangam Ghat to understand the spiritual and cultural significance of the event.
    • A visitor from Spain described the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
    • Foreign devotees actively participated in the rituals and ceremonies, with many international sadhus and sanyasis taking the holy dip.

     

    1. Maha Kumbh as a Global Cultural Brand
    • The event was promoted as part of the “Brand UP” vision, highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s potential for tourism and investment.
    • The Uttar Pradesh government engaged with global tourism and hospitality stakeholders at international fairs to foster sustainable tourism and investment opportunities.
    • The strategic engagement aimed to enhance India’s reputation as a land of spirituality and innovation.

     

    1. Promotion at International Tourism Fairs
    • Maha Kumbh 2025 was showcased at FITUR in Madrid, Spain (January 24–28, 2025) and ITB Berlin, Germany (March 4–6, 2025).
    • Special 40-square-meter pavilions were set up to display Uttar Pradesh’s cultural heritage and attract global tourists.
    • VVIP lounges facilitated B2B and B2C interactions, ensuring international collaborations.
    • Promotional materials in multiple languages helped reach a diverse global audience.

     

    1. Digital Maha Kumbh and Global Engagement
    • The event’s official website saw 33 lakh visitors from 183 countries in the first week of January.
    • Visitors from 6,206 cities worldwide accessed the platform, with India, the United States, Britain, Canada, and Germany leading the traffic.
    • The technical team managing the site reported a surge in global traffic, with millions of daily users exploring content on Maha Kumbh’s history and spiritual significance.
    • The digital initiative ensured seamless access to information, enabling visitors to focus on the spiritual aspects of the festival without logistical challenges.

     

    1. Incredible India Pavilion and Tourist Services
    • On January 12, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism set up the Incredible India Pavilion, a 5,000 sq. ft. immersive space at Maha Kumbh.
    • The pavilion facilitated foreign tourists, scholars, researchers, journalists, photographers, and the Indian diaspora.
    • The Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice Poll allowed visitors to vote for their favorite tourism destinations in India.
    • A dedicated toll-free Tourist Infoline (1800111363 or 1363) was launched, operating in 10 international languages and Indian regional languages like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Assamese, and Marathi.

     

    1. Luxury Accommodation and Travel Packages
    • The Ministry of Tourism collaborated with UPSTDC, IRCTC, and ITDC to provide curated tour packages and luxury accommodations.
    • ITDC set up 80 luxury accommodations at Tent City, Prayagraj, while IRCTC introduced luxury tents for the convenience of international tourists.
    • A digital brochure detailing the tour packages was widely circulated through Indian Missions and India Tourism Offices to reach a broader audience.

     

    Through these extensive efforts, Maha Kumbh 2025 successfully established itself as a global spiritual and cultural event, reinforcing Uttar Pradesh’s identity as a premier destination for religious tourism and international investment.

    Key Exhibitions at Maha Kumbh

    The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 featured a vast array of exhibitions designed to showcase India’s rich cultural, artistic, and spiritual heritage. These exhibitions provided visitors and pilgrims with a unique opportunity to engage with the traditions, crafts, and historical narratives of India.

     

    1. Kumbh Gram (Sector 7) Exhibitions

    A specially curated space in Sector 7 of Kumbh Gram hosted several exhibitions reflecting the diverse aspects of India’s heritage, handicrafts, tourism, and disaster preparedness. These included:

    • Khadi Gramodyog Exhibition: Displaying the significance of khadi and village industries, promoting indigenous craftsmanship and self-reliance.
    • One District One Product (ODOP) Pavilion: Showcasing district-specific products from Uttar Pradesh, supporting local artisans and businesses.
    • Uttar Pradesh Darshan Mandapam: A visual journey through the major cultural and religious sites of Uttar Pradesh.
    • Incredible India Kala Gram: Featuring a vast collection of artistic works that celebrated India’s folk and traditional art forms.
    • Chhattisgarh Exhibition: Presenting the unique cultural and traditional aspects of Chhattisgarh, including tribal art and crafts.
    • Uttar Pradesh Tourism Exhibition: Highlighting major tourist destinations within Uttar Pradesh, encouraging travel and exploration.
    • North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC) Pavilion: Dedicated to promoting the region’s diverse cultural performances, arts, and heritage.
    • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Exhibition: Educating visitors on disaster preparedness, resilience, and emergency response mechanisms.

    2. ‘Bhagwat’ Exhibition at Allahabad Museum

    Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the ‘Bhagwat’ exhibition at the Allahabad Museum, an initiative that showcased a remarkable collection of miniature paintings inspired by the Bhagwat. The exhibition presented intricate depictions of significant events from the Bhagwat, offering visitors a deep insight into India’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

    3. ‘Aviral Shashvat Kumbh’ Exhibition

    This exhibition provided a historical perspective on the Kumbh Mela, tracing its origins and evolution over centuries. Featuring artifacts, digital displays, and informational posters, ‘Aviral Shashvat Kumbh’ aimed to educate visitors on the enduring legacy of this grand festival and its role in India’s spiritual landscape.

    The exhibitions at Maha Kumbh 2025 not only enhanced the spiritual experience of pilgrims but also served as a window into India’s rich cultural heritage. Through a blend of traditional artistry, historical retrospectives, and interactive showcases, these exhibitions played a crucial role in making Maha Kumbh 2025 an enriching and memorable event for millions of attendees.

    Telecom at Maha Kumbh: BSNL

    Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) played a crucial role in strengthening the communication infrastructure at the Maha Kumbh 2025, ensuring reliable connectivity for millions of pilgrims, administrative officials, security forces, and volunteers. A dedicated customer service center was set up in the Mela area, where visitors received on-site assistance, complaint resolution, and uninterrupted communication services.

    Pilgrims from different parts of the country were provided with free SIM cards from their respective circles. If any pilgrim lost or damaged their SIM card, they did not need to return to their home state, as BSNL had arranged for SIM cards from all circles across the country to be available in the Mela area. This service was provided free of charge, allowing devotees to stay connected with their families throughout the event.

    BSNL established a camp office at Lal Road, Sector-2, from where all communication services were managed. There was a significant increase in demand for fiber connections, leased line connections, and mobile recharges during the Kumbh, and BSNL ensured the availability of SIM cards from different states, benefiting both pilgrims and security personnel.

    To guarantee uninterrupted communication, BSNL activated a total of 90 BTS towers in the Mela area:

    • 30 BTS towers operating on the 700 MHz 4G band
    • 30 BTS towers on the 2100 MHz band
    • 30 BTS towers with 2G-enabled connectivity

     

    Additionally, BSNL provided several advanced communication services, including:

    • Internet leased lines
    • Wi-Fi hotspots
    • High-speed internet (FTTH)
    • Webcasting
    • SD-WAN services
    • Bulk SMS services
    • M2M SIMs
    • Satellite phone services

     

    Through these initiatives, BSNL ensured seamless communication throughout the Mahakumbh 2025, supporting both the public and the administrative machinery in managing the grand event efficiently.

    Akharas at Maha Kumbh

    In Maha Kumbh 2025, the Akharas played a significant role, representing various traditions and sects of Sanatan Dharma. The word ‘Akhara’ originates from ‘Akhand,’ meaning indivisible. These religious institutions have existed since the 6th century during the time of Adi Guru Shankaracharya and have been the custodians of spiritual practices and rituals at the Kumbh Mela.

     

    A total of 13 Akharas participated in this Maha Kumbh, including the Kinnar Akhara, Dashnam Sannyasini Akhara, and Mahila Akhara, symbolizing gender equality and a progressive outlook. The grand processions and sacred rituals of the Akharas were among the main attractions of the event, inspiring millions of devotees toward spiritual growth, discipline, and unity.

    These institutions not only preserved the spiritual and cultural values of Sanatan Dharma but also embraced modern sensibilities by promoting inclusivity and equality. The presence of the Akharas at Maha Kumbh fostered unity across caste, religion, and cultural diversity, making the event a symbol of spiritual and cultural enrichment.

    Green Maha Kumbh: A National-Level Environmental Discussion

    The Green Maha Kumbh was held on January 31, 2025, as a significant platform to promote environmental awareness alongside cultural and spiritual traditions. The event brought together over 1,000 environmental and water conservation experts from across the country. It was organized as part of the Gyan Maha Kumbh – 2081 series by Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas.

    The discussions at the Green Maha Kumbh focused on:

    • Issues related to nature, the environment, water, and cleanliness.
    • Maintaining the balance of the five elements of nature.
    • Sharing best practices in environmental conservation and cleanliness.
    • Strategies to engage devotees in sustainability efforts during Maha Kumbh.

     

    Experts from various fields shared their insights and experiences on tackling environmental challenges and implementing eco-friendly solutions. Additionally, the discussions explored ways to raise awareness among visitors about environmental protection, promoting initiatives that ensured a cleaner and greener Maha Kumbh. The event reinforced the vision of an environmentally responsible Maha Kumbh, setting a precedent for sustainable practices in future religious gatherings.

    Netra Kumbh

     

    Maha Kumbh 2025 witnessed several record-breaking initiatives, with a significant focus on healthcare and social welfare. One of the most remarkable efforts was the Netra Kumbh, a massive eye care initiative aimed at combating vision impairment. Spanning 10 acres in Sector 5 near Nagvasuki, the event set new benchmarks in eye testing and spectacle distribution, striving to secure a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

    • Record-Breaking Eye Tests & Spectacles: Over 5 lakh people underwent eye tests, and 3 lakh spectacles were distributed.
    • Daily OPD & Facilities: The Netra Kumbh had 11 hangars, offering 10,000 consultations daily with specialists and optometrists.
    • Previous Achievement: The earlier Netra Kumbh secured a place in the Limca Book of Records.
    • Aim for Guinness World Record: The 2025 event sought to surpass previous achievements and enter the Guinness Book of World Records.
    • Eye Donation Camp: Encouraged donations to help reduce blindness, addressing corneal issues affecting over 15 million people in India.

     

    BHASHINI in Maha Kumbh

    At Maha Kumbh 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) successfully leveraged BHASHINI, a revolutionary initiative under the Digital India program, to overcome language barriers and enhance communication. By offering multilingual access in 11 Indian languages, BHASHINI transformed information dissemination, navigation, emergency response, and governance, ensuring a seamless experience for millions of pilgrims. Additionally, the Kumbh Sah’AI’yak chatbot, powered by AI, provided real-time assistance, making Maha Kumbh 2025 more accessible and technologically advanced than ever before.

    BHASHINI’s Role in Maha Kumbh 2025:

    1. Real-Time Information Dissemination: Announcements, event schedules, and safety guidelines were translated into 11 Indian languages, enabling pilgrims to stay informed regardless of their native language.
    2. Simplified Navigation: BHASHINI’s speech-to-text, text-to-speech tools, and multilingual chatbot, integrated with mobile applications and kiosks, assisted devotees in finding their way.
    3. Accessible Emergency Services: The CONVERSE feature helped pilgrims communicate with the 112-emergency helpline in their native languages, in collaboration with the UP Police.
    4. E-Governance Support: Authorities used BHASHINI to effectively communicate regulations, guidelines, and public service announcements to a diverse audience.
    5. Lost and Found Assistance: BHASHINI’s Digital Lost & Found Solution enabled visitors to register lost or found items using voice inputs, with real-time translations simplifying the process.

     

    Kumbh Sah’AI’yak Chatbot:

    • Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this AI-powered, multilingual, voice-enabled chatbot played a crucial role in assisting pilgrims.
    • Powered by advanced AI technologies like Llama LLM, it provided real-time navigation and event-related information.
    • BHASHINI’s language translation enabled the chatbot to function in Hindi, English, and nine other Indian languages, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

     

    Akashvani’s Kumbhvani

     

    In a significant initiative to keep devotees and pilgrims informed, Akashvani’s Kumbhvani News Bulletins were broadcasted live through the public address system in Mahakumbh Nagar in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The first Kumbhvani News Bulletin was aired on public address system today i.e. 18.01.2025 at 8:30 am. The Kumbhvani news bulletins were broadcasted three times a day, at 8:30-8:40 am, 2:30-2:40 pm, and 8:30-8:40 pm, providing updates on various activities related to the Mahakumbh Mela. Additionally, devotees could also tune in to Kumbhvani news bulletins on 103.5 MHz frequency in Prayagraj.

     

    References

    https://pib.gov.in/EventDetail.aspx?ID=1197&reg=3&lang=1

    https://www.instagram.com/airnewsalerts/p/DE3txwqIpRQ/

    Click here to see PDF:

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2106476)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal to Chair Post-Budget Industry Meet on February 27, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal to Chair Post-Budget Industry Meet on February 27, 2025

    Major Maritime initiatives to be announced in Mumbai

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 7:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal will chair a high-level industry consultation in Mumbai on February 27, 2025 (Thursday). The event will bring together industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss key maritime sector announcements from Union Budget 2025 and their impact on India’s maritime growth.

    Senior officials of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), including the Secretary (MoPSW), port authorities, all subordinate organisations, Consulate Generals of major maritime nations, maritime associations, and major maritime industry stalwarts will participate in discussions on modernising maritime infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and promoting sustainability in the sector.

    Strategic Dialogue on Budget-2025

    • Establishment of the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF): This fund aims to support long-term investments in the sector, with the government contributing 49% and the remaining 51% mobilised from ports and private sector investments.
    • Introduction of the Revamped Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP 2.0): With an outlay of ₹18,090 crore, this policy will strengthen domestic shipyards and enhance their global competitiveness.
    • Large ships are classified as infrastructure assets to facilitate long-term, low-cost financing.

    New Maritime Initiatives-2025

    • Global Maritime India Summit and Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue: The Union Minister will announce the dates for these significant events aimed at strengthening India’s global maritime leadership.
    • Major maritime initiatives: The Union Minister will also announce initiatives aimed at further strengthening India’s position as a global maritime leader.

    Technical Sessions on Shipbuilding & Shipbreaking

    The event will feature focused discussions on shipbuilding and shipbreaking policies:

    • Session 1: Key Union Budget announcements on shipbuilding, including financial assistance policies led by industry leaders and government representatives.
    • Session 2: Financial and policy support for shipbuilding clusters, shipbreaking regulations, and capital assistance for infrastructure development.
    • Session 3: Future strategies for shipbuilding, incentives for industry growth, and expansion of shipbreaking operations.

    Key Attendees

    The event will see participation from leading organisations, including:

    • All major Industry Associations like FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM, PHCCI, FIEO, etc.
    • All major Maritime related Associations like INSA, ICCSA, MASSA, CSLA, CFSAI, Shipyards Association of India, etc.
    • All major, international and national, shipping lines, Port & Terminal Operators, Shipyards, Freight forwarders, Stevedores, Cruise & Ferry operators, etc.
    • Major PSUs associated with ports and shipbuilding like those of Defence, MoPNG, etc.
    • Domestic and Foreign Banks, Financial Institutions and Funds.

    ***

     

    G.D. Hallikeri / Henry

    (Release ID: 2106477) Visitor Counter : 69

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Vice-President to visit West Bengal on 28th February, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Vice-President to visit West Bengal on 28th February, 2025

    VP to preside over 150th Birth Anniversary celebration of AcharyaSrila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupadin Kolkata

    VP to perform darshan at Tarapith in Birbhum District

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 6:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, will be on a one-day tour of West Bengal on 28th February, 2025.

    During the visit, the Vice-President will perform darshan at Tarapith, one of the reveredShaktipeethas, in Birbhum district.

    Shri Dhankhar will also preside as Chief Guest at the Closing Ceremony of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gaudiya Mission’s founder, Acharya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad, in Kolkata.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2106471) Visitor Counter : 121

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Vice-President to visit Kolkata, West Bengal on 28th February, 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Vice-President to visit Kolkata, West Bengal on 28th February, 2025

    VP to preside over 150th Birth Anniversary celebration of Acharya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad

    VP to perform darshan at Tarapith in Kolkata

    Posted On: 26 FEB 2025 6:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, will be on a one-day tour of Kolkata, West Bengal on 28th February, 2025.

    During the visit, the Vice-President will perform darshan at Tarapith Shaktipeeth, and preside as Chief Guest at the Closing Ceremony of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gaudiya Mission’s founder Acharya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupad in Kolkata.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2106471) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Lee Introduces SCREEN Act for 119th Congress to Protect Children from Pornography Online

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee has introduced the Shielding Children’s Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net (SCREEN) Act, a step toward safeguarding minors from the pervasive threat of online pornographic content. Sens. John Curtis (R-UT) and Jim Banks (R-IN) are cosponsors. Representative Mary Miller (R-IL) leads the companion bill in the House of Representatives.  
    “It is time for our laws to catch up with technology,”  said Senator Mike Lee. “The SCREEN Act addresses the urgent need to protect minors from exposure to online pornography and stop those who profit from stealing the innocence of America’s youth.”
    “As a mother of seven and grandmother to 20, I am committed to defending parental rights,” said Representative Mary Miller. I am proud to join Senator Mike Lee in introducing the SCREEN Act to the House, providing parents with more control over their children’s online access and protecting our kids from exposure to pornography. I urge my colleagues in the House to act swiftly in adopting the SCREEN Act to protect American children.”
    “Like any parent in Utah, I’m deeply concerned that children remain vulnerable to explicit content online, as well as the psychological and societal harm it brings,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bill ensures that online platforms take responsibility by leveraging modern technology to verify users’ ages and prevent minors from accessing explicit material—all while upholding personal freedoms.”
    “Internet pornography has infected our culture and corroded the vulnerable minds of America’s kids, with the average age of initial exposure being 12 years old. That’s appalling,” said Senator Banks. “The accessibility of commercial pornography calls for the implementation of commonsense guardrails to protect our children. Indiana passed an age verification bill last year, paving the way for the rest of the nation. Our bill combats—with federal legislation—the forces attempting to poison the young minds of America.”
    Despite Congress’s ongoing efforts over the past three decades to shield children from online pornography, prior legislative measures have been challenged and overturned by the Supreme Court on the grounds of not meeting the least restrictive means test. Nonetheless, the Court acknowledged the government’s compelling interest to protect children.
    Advancements in technology since the Supreme Court last addressed this matter reveal a stark reality: traditional methods like blocking and filtering software have fallen short, leaving an alarming 80% of teenagers exposed to online pornography. The repercussions on minors are profound, contributing to a spectrum of psychological issues, unhealthy sexual behaviors, and broader societal harms.
    Senator Lee’s SCREEN Act is a necessary evolution of the law, aligning technological progress with the government’s duty to protect children. The Act mandates commercial pornographic websites to implement robust age verification technologies, providing a pragmatic and narrowly tailored solution to a complex problem.
    The bill has garnered support from the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, National Decency Coalition, Heritage Action, Ethics and Public Policy Center, American Principles Project, Family Policy Alliance, Institute for Family Studies, Family Research Council, Concerned Women for America, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Culture Reframed, Enough is Enough, Envoc, Foundation and Council on Pornography Reform, Eagle Forum, Eagle Forum of Alabama, and The Silent Addiction.
    For bill text, click HERE. 
    For a one-pager, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters, Slotkin, Bergman Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Settle Longstanding Land Claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Clear Title of Current Landowners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and U.S. Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), reintroduced bipartisan legislation to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC). Through Treaties signed in 1842 and 1854, the KBIC was granted occupancy over a large area of land established as the L’Anse Reservation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Despite those treaties, thousands of acres of reservation land were taken by the federal government without compensation and awarded to the State of Michigan. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2025 would address this issue and clear the title of current landowners in the community.   
    “For years, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community has worked to settle these land claims and provide clear title to those who currently own the property in question,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to work alongside Tribal partners and local community members to introduce this long overdue legislation, which would right this wrong once and for all.” 
    “This legislation to settle longstanding claims represents the work of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, the local community and a bipartisan coalition in Congress to correct this historic mistake,” said Senator Slotkin. “KBIC has for some time sought to address a problem it did not create, and resolving this issue is the least we can do to right a longstanding wrong.”
    “I’m proud to have introduced this much-needed legislation in the House of Representatives. It’s time to ensure fairness and to correct the wrongs of history on behalf of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community,” said Representative Bergman.
    “This legislation represents our Community, our neighbors, and the Michigan delegation coming together to acknowledge the unlawful taking of our lands and provide a solution for a better future for the Tribe and our neighbors. This settlement has been generations in the making, and the Tribal Council and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community share our sincere gratitude to Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin, and Representative Bergman for their leadership to right this historic wrong,” said KBIC President Robert “RD” Curtis, Jr. and the KBIC Tribal Council.
    The KBIC’s land claims involve the dispossession of between approximately 1,333 and 2,720 acres of land transferred by the United States government to the State of Michigan as compensation for the construction of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, as well as approximately 2,743 acres of swamplands. The KBIC asserts that as a result of the 1842 and 1854 Treaties, these lands were not available for transfer and therefore transferred illegally. The KBIC contends that the inappropriate transfer of these lands has created substantial economic and other harm, through the loss of valuable land in prime locations along Lake Superior that could have been used for a variety of revenue-generating activities over the past 150 years. Meanwhile, non-Indian individuals, entities, and local governments have since acquired the land at issue – in good faith – and now seek to ensure they possess clear title to the land.  
    The bill – which unanimously passed the Senate last Congress – would authorize funds through the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) that may be used by the KBIC for governmental services, economic development, natural resource protection, and land acquisition. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sex Predator Sentenced to 15 Years for Sexually Abusing a Minor Child

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Damon Michael Dozier, 41, for Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. Judge Hill ordered Dozier imprisoned for 180 months, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Upon release, he will be required to register as a sex offender.

    In June 2023, Dozier took a minor child behind a shopping mall to engage in sexually explicit activity. Dozier admitted that he knew the child was only 13 years old.

    Dozier is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Scaife and Steve Briden prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Opening Statement on DOJ Nominees John Sauer, Harmeet Dhillon and Aaron Reitz

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    Opening Statement by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa
    Chairman, Senate Judiciary Committee
    Wednesday, February 26, 2025
    Good morning. I’d like to welcome everyone to this hearing to consider the nominations of John Sauer to serve as the Solicitor General, Harmeet Dhillon to serve as the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division and Aaron Reitz to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Policy.
    Before I turn to my opening statement, I’ll explain how we’re going to proceed today.
    I’ll give my opening remarks, and then I’ll invite Ranking Member Durbin to give opening remarks. Then, I’ll call on Senators Lee, Cruz, Hawley and Schmitt to introduce the nominees. After that, the nominees will have a chance to give an opening statement to the Committee. 
    Following the statements from the nominees, we’ll proceed to a single, five-minute round of questions. I ask Members to do their best to adhere to these time limits, so that we can proceed efficiently with the hearing.
    With that, I’ll turn to my opening remarks.
    Our three nominees have been tapped to serve in important roles in the Department of Justice. Congratulations on your nominations. If confirmed, your work will impact the lives of millions of Americans.
    Each of you has impressive qualifications, and we’re looking forward to hearing from you. I’d like to thank your family and friends for coming today. I know they’re all very proud of you.
    I’ve said many times that the Department of Justice is at an inflection point. Over the last four years, public trust in the Department has declined, and many Americans feel like the justice system doesn’t work for them.
    If confirmed, we expect you to work with Attorney General Pam Bondi to fulfill her promise to turn things around.
    Mr. Sauer, you’re particularly well suited to serve as the nation’s chief appellate lawyer. You started your career clerking for Justice Scalia, one of the legal giants of our time. Justice Scalia spent his life teaching lawyers to faithfully interpret the law and Constitution according to its original meaning. I’ve no doubt that you learned this lesson well.
    After clerking and a stint in private practice, you left D.C. behind to go home and serve as an Assistant United States Attorney in Missouri. You worked diligently to prosecute criminals and to keep your community safe. 
    In 2017, you joined the Missouri Attorney General’s Office as the Solicitor General, where you served under two members of this Committee, Senator Hawley and Senator Schmitt.  Serving as a state’s chief appellate officer during the COVID pandemic and across two presidential administrations undoubtedly prepared you for the role you will walk into if you are confirmed. 
    There’s a lot of work to be done defending our nation’s laws, and I know you’re prepared to take it on.
    Ms. Dhillon, you’re one of the nation’s foremost experts on civil rights. Your journey started a long way from here, when your family immigrated from India. You went to Dartmouth at the tender age of 16, and then went to law school at the University of Virginia.
    Throughout your career, you’ve never shied away from unpopular but just causes. You served as the Director of an ACLU chapter after 9/11, a group many on my side are often skeptical of. You also started your own law firm and founded a non-profit. You’ve litigated some of the most important cases on free speech, religious liberty, voting rights and discrimination.
    Discrimination is wrong. Our Constitution and our civil rights laws do not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, as the Supreme Court recently made clear in the Students for Fair Admissions cases.
    Unfortunately, the Biden administration not only allowed discrimination to take place, but openly encouraged it. Under the name of “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” the Biden administration imposed a nationwide regime of discrimination, and the Civil Rights Division completely failed to enforce our nation’s laws. President Trump has put an end to this and, if confirmed, I trust that you’ll work to help him execute on his promise.
    Americans don’t pick winners and losers based on the color of their skin, their sex or the name of their God.
    Ms. Dhillon, you’ve fought for everyone to be treated equally. You fought against colleges shutting down free speech for political reasons, against states restricting freedom of worship and against big tech companies engaged in censorship. You’ve won many victories defending freedom and our constitutional rights. If confirmed, we’ll need your continued leadership to protect the civil rights of all Americans.
    Our side of the aisle doesn’t spend much time talking about people’s personal characteristics. We care about character and merit. But in addition to your qualifications, your background makes you particularly suited to return the Justice Department to its proper role of enforcing our civil rights laws and ending discrimination.
    You’re an immigrant, a religious minority, a woman, a business owner, a civil rights leader, an accomplished lawyer, and, I’ve learned, an excellent knitter. You’re an example of what is great about America.
    Mr. Reitz, you have an impressive and dedicated career of service to our country. You attended college at Texas A&M University on an ROTC Scholarship and honorably served our country as a United States Marine, including a tour in Afghanistan.
    Upon your return from Afghanistan, you attended law school at the University of Texas, where you excelled.
    After a time in private practice, you decided to serve your country again. You clerked for the now-Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court. Then you ran for a seat in the Texas House of Representatives and campaigned on issues that you believed in. You continued gaining legal experience during this time in private practice.
    You eventually joined the Office of the Attorney General of Texas as Deputy Attorney General for Legal Strategy. In that role, you were involved in some of the office’s most impactful litigation during the Biden administration. You fought to secure the border, hold Big Tech accountable, protect the integrity of the ballot box and promote conservative social values.
    Today, you continue to serve Texas and your country as a member of Senator Cruz’s staff. You are currently his Chief of Staff, and I think I won’t offend my colleague when I say that this is no easy job. This is particularly true because you continue to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve, where you actively drill with your unit and hold the rank of Major. Your relentless work ethic and love of country are obvious.
    In short, the three nominees before us have impressive careers and life stories. I look forward to hearing from them today.
    With that, I’ll turn to Ranking Member Durbin for his opening remarks.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Greatest threat to UN Peacekeeping is divisions between nations, says UN Peace Operations Chief

    Source: United Nations 2

    The two-day event was an opportunity to highlight the importance of women in peacekeeping, and delegates also discussed the current challenges to peacekeeping, and how the UN and Member States can work together to adapt to the new realities of today’s geopolitical landscape.

    This interview has been edited for clarity and length

    UN News: What is the biggest threat to peacekeeping in the next 20 years, and how can we prepare for it today?

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix: The biggest challenge is divisions between our member states, because we rely on their strong and united political support.

    Unfortunately, that unity is less certain today. When they encounter challenges and difficulties existing peacekeeping missions cannot always count on strong and united support from Member States, including host governments.

    Another critical point is that peacekeeping operations are deployed to support political efforts. But for those political efforts to succeed, we need a united, committed, and strong international community.

    The nature of conflicts has evolved. There are more non-state actors, including private security companies. The drivers of conflicts are increasingly transnational, whether they are terrorism, organized crime, or the impact of climate change.

    Although we cannot control the level of unity among our Member States, we must work on addressing the evolving nature of conflicts and improving our ability to respond effectively.

    UN India/ Shachi Chaturvedi

    The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations (USG DPO, Jean-Pierre Lacroix takes a look at the ‘Make in India’ exhibition on the sidelines of the conference.

    UN News: How can peacekeeping stay ahead of the threats posed new technology, such as AI, cyber attacks and drones?

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix: That is a critical objective, and the reason we have launched a strategy for the digital transformation of peacekeeping, which aims to improve situational awareness, enhance the safety and security of our peacekeepers and counter misinformation, which is currently being weaponized in many peacekeeping settings.

    However, to achieve this we need to improve digital literacy among our staff, which will require significant efforts in terms of training and enhancing their level of preparedness. We cannot do that alone as the UN Secretariat, we need to work with our partners.

    UN News: From frontlines to leadership roles, what do you think would it take for women to be the face of UN peacekeeping?

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix: We are doing better when it comes to the number of women serving in peacekeeping, and the proportion of women has been constantly improving.

    However, we want to have more female officers in senior positions, such as Force Commander and Deputy Force Commander. Not many armed forces have women at this kind of level, but India is doing a lot to achieve that and is providing more female officers.

    We also have to look at how we make the peacekeeping environment welcoming for both women and men. This includes practical issues such as facilities, and a lot of effort is being made to improve the quality of our camps and their suitability for women as well as for men.

    © UN Photo/ Gema Cortes

    Captain Sandra Hernandez Vega (right) in Timbuktu, Mali (file)

    There is also a psychological dimension to this, ensuring that all peacekeepers, men and women, do their best to make the work environment welcoming to all, and certainly to women. We are working on this, but I think it’s also a shared responsibility that we have with the troop- and police-contributing countries.

    UN News: How can we improve the advancement of women in peacekeeping?

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix: First of all, it is UN policy to empower women. Having more female peacekeepers generates a better work environment and they become role models for other women. I believe that we have a better record of conduct and discipline when we have more women in peacekeeping.

    It’s particularly important to have more women in peacekeeping when it comes to building trust with communities, and that is something that has been regularly emphasized.

    However, their role is not limited to community engagement. For example, we have female officers who are helicopter pilots and basically every task that we have in peacekeeping is open to women as well as to men.

    UN News: How do you think the countries of the Global South can play a more active role in peacekeeping?

    Jean-Pierre Lacroix: The majority of the peacekeepers that we deploy come from the Global South, including India, which is one of the biggest contributors. Their role is critically important, not only in terms of numbers but also in other areas.

    India, for example, is helping with all efforts currently being carried out to improve peacekeeping, from safety and security to how we use digital technology. Of course, this includes improving the number of women in peacekeeping, enhancing how performance assessments are carried out, and other areas.

    I think there is a wealth of experience in the Global South which we really want to take advantage of so that we continue to adapt and address current challenges: we need to make sure that tomorrow’s peacekeeping operations remain relevant.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kokomo Woman Ordered by Federal Court to Repay over $200,000 in Stolen Retirement Benefits from Deceased Husband’s Account

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Rebecca Fields, 70, of Kokomo, has been sentenced to three years’ probation after pleading guilty to making a false statement to illegally receive Social Security benefits. Fields has also been ordered to pay $231,203.10 in restitution.

    According to court documents, beginning around July 1985, Rebecca Fields’ husband, “L.F.” began receiving Social Security retirement benefits. On December 4, 2002, Rebecca requested to be added as L.F.’s representative payee, which the Social Security Administration (SSA) ultimately approved.

    When a qualified retirement beneficiary lacks the capacity to manage his or her own benefits, the SSA may approve a “representative payee” to receive the beneficiary’s benefits and to use them for the beneficiary. In such an instance, the SSA requires the representative payee to annually certify a continuing relationship with the beneficiary and how the representative used the beneficiary’s program benefits on his or her behalf.

    On April 10, 2006, L.F. died. Nonetheless, not only did Fields fail to report that fact to the SSA, but she also completed at least 13 Representative Payee Reports between 2007 and 2022 on which she falsely claimed that L.F continued to live with her. These reports also contained false claims that she had spent his retirement benefits on his behalf to maintain his health and well-being. The lies were aimed at deceiving the SSA into continuing to pay her money that she was not owed. As a result, Rebecca Fields received approximately $231,203.10 in L.F.’s social security benefits- of which she was not entitled after he passed away.

    “For over a decade, Fields brazenly stole not only from the United States government, but also indirectly from taxpayers who diligently pay into the Social Security retirement fund. Fields’ conduct also indirectly preyed on the vulnerable, elderly beneficiaries who ultimately depend on the program’s payments upon their retirement from the workforce,” said John E. Childress, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This sentence should serve as a stark warning to potential fraudsters who may believe they can cheat the system- you will pay the price.”

    The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Corbin D. Houston, who prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson backs Trump executive order ending federal funding for gender transitions for kidsRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today he’s joined a 23-state coalition filing a friend-of-the-court brief supporting President Trump’s Executive Order, Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation. 

    “South Carolina stands with President Trump to protect our children from irreversible medical procedures driven more by politics than science,” said Attorney General Wilson. “The evidence is clear: WPATH’s so-called ‘Standards of Care’ are not the gold standard they claim to be. They were crafted to push a legal and political agenda, not to reflect sound medical practice. We cannot allow federal funds to support turning our children into guinea pigs for the Left’s political agenda.”  

    This order prohibits the use of federal dollars going towards gender transitioning procedures for minors, a policy now being challenged in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The brief supported by South Carolina urges the court to uphold the executive order by rejecting claims that rely on flawed and politically charged medical guidelines from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). 

    The amicus brief argues that WPATH’s Standards of Care Version 8 lacks scientific integrity. Key points include: 

    • WPATH tailored its guidelines to advance political and legal goals, including influencing lawsuits, rather than adhering to evidence-based medicine.
    • Political pressure, notably from former Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Rachel Levine and the American Academy of Pediatrics, led WPATH to alter treatment recommendations, such as removing age minimums for procedures, without scientific justification.
    • WPATH failed to manage conflicts of interest among its authors, suppressed systematic evidence reviews showing little support for pediatric interventions, and misused the GRADE framework to issue strong recommendations despite weak evidence.

    The coalition includes attorneys general from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, and Arizona legislative leaders. 

    Attorney General Wilson and his counterparts urge the court to deny the plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary injunction, affirming the executive order as a necessary protection for America’s youth. 

    The full brief is available for review here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: WENDEL: 2024 Full-Year Results: a very active year, a dual model in place, strong value creation & a growing return to shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

          

    2024 Full-Year Results: a very active year, a dual model in place, strong value creation & a growing return to shareholders

    Fully diluted1 Net Asset Value per share of €185.7,
    representing a +16.9% year-over-year value creation, adjusted for the dividend paid

    Dividend boosted at €4.7 per share, up +17.5% year-over-year

    Strong portfolio rotation: more than €2 billion of capital reallocation

    Significant expansion of the Asset Management platform in Europe and US, and development of our dual business model towards more recurring cash flows and growth

    Fully diluted Net Asset Value2as of December 31, 2024: €185.7 per share, up +14.4%

    • Value creation of +16.9%3 over 2024, adjusted for the €4 dividend paid in May 2024 reflecting:
      • The increase in Bureau Veritas’ share price (+28.3% YoY) on the back of the quality of its LEAP | 28 strategic plan
      • The changes in the valuation of unlisted assets, on a like-for-like basis, in line with their respective operating performances and multiples, and active management of private principal investments to create long term value through repositioning and accretive bolt-ons (Stahl, Scalian, and CPI).
      • The strong growth of IK Partners’ FRE to €69.9 million, above estimates (€60 million). IK Partners’ AuM up +24% in 2024, totaling €13.8 billion, with €3.4 billion raised.

    Delivering strong and recurring returns to shareholders, in line with the strategic roadmap published in 2023

    • Ordinary dividend of €4.70 per share for 2024, up +17.5% compared to 2023, to be proposed at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on May 15, 2025, representing slightly above 2.5%4 of NAV and a 4.8%5 yield vs share price as of February 21, 2025. This dividend level takes into account the first partial integration of Asset management activities into Wendel in 2024, which will be mechanically higher in 2025.
    • €100 million share buyback launched in October 2023 completed in July 2024. €92.5 million share bought back in 2024.

    Very active investment activity & capital allocation

    • Principal Investments:
      • €2.3 billion proceeds and value crystallization
      • €0.7 billion invested including €0.6 billion in Globeducate
    • Asset Management:
      • €0.4 billion invested for the acquisition of 51% of IK Partners
      • $1.13 billion will be invested in equity to acquire 75% of Monroe Capital, as announced on October 22, 2024 (closing expected in the first quarter of 2025)

    Strong financial structure and committed to remain Investment Grade

    • Debt maturity of 3.6 years with an average cost of 2.4%
    • LTV ratio at 7.2%6 as of December 31, 2024, and 22.9%7 on a pro forma basis taking into account future investment commitments in IK Partners funds and the acquisition of Monroe Capital.
    • Pro forma total liquidity of €1.28 billion as of December 31, 2024, including €0.4 billion in cash and €875 million in committed credit facility (fully undrawn)

    Reappointment of Wendel’s Executive Board

    • On February 26, 2025, Wendel’s Supervisory Board decided to reappoint the members of the Executive Board.   Laurent Mignon has been reappointed Chairman of the Executive Board and David Darmon, Member of the Executive Board, Deputy CEO, for a period of four years ending to April 6, 2029

    Net income, Group share at €293.9 million, showing a strong increase

    • The net income from operations rose from €711 million to €753.7 million, up 6%.
    • Net income, group share, at €293.9 million in 2024, compared with €142.4 in 2023, due to the disposal of Constantia Flexibles in 2024.
    Laurent Mignon, Wendel Group CEO, commented:

    “2024 was a very active year for Wendel and its portfolio companies. Fully diluted net asset value growth, adjusted for the €4 dividend paid in 2024, was 16.9%, driven in particular by the good share price and operational performance of Bureau Veritas and the strong growth of our new third-party asset management business.

    We continued to execute our strategic plan, as detailed in 2023, with determination, rigour and financial discipline.

    In 2024, we further improved our cash flow generation and value creation profile, notably with the announced acquisition of Monroe Capital, which will give us critical mass to develop our third-party asset management platform. We also focused on premium assets in our principal investments activites, highlighted by the acquisition of Globeducate in October 2024.

    These value-creating and recurring cash flow generating transformations now enable us to propose a dividend that is 17.5% higher than last year, reaching 4.70 euros for the financial year 2024.Our transition to a dual model is now well grounded, with top partners in asset management such as IK Partners in private equity and Monroe Capital in private credit, bringing third-party assets under management to more than 33 billion euros.The priorities of Wendel’s teams are to create value on existing assets, to successfully build the private asset management platform around IK Partners and Monroe Capital, and to maintain a solid financial structure.

    I would like to thank the members of the Supervisory Board for their renewed full support, as well as the Wendel teams who are skillfully accompanying our value-creating transformation.

    In 2025, Wendel’s teams will pursue the roadmap defined two years ago, supporting our principal investments companies in their value creation process, building the third-party asset management platform through the successful integration of Monroe Capital, the continued development of IK Partners as well as the implementation of commercial synergies between the two entities, and continuing to have an agile management of our balance sheet to seize the right opportunities, while maintaining a solid financial structure. We are confident that the development of this dual model will continue to create more value and more recurring returns for our shareholders.”

    Wendel’s net asset value as of December 31, 2024: €185.7 per share on a fully diluted basis

    Wendel’s Net Asset Value (NAV) as of December 31, 2024, was prepared by Wendel to the best of its knowledge and on the basis of market data available at this date and in compliance with its methodology.

    Fully diluted Net Asset Value was €185.7 per share as of December 31, 2024 (see detail in the table below), as compared to €162.3 on December 31, 2023, representing an increase of +14.4% since the start of the year and + 16.9% restated from the dividend paid in 2024. Compared to the last 20-day average share price as of December 31, the discount to the December 31, 2024, fully diluted NAV per share was -49.6%.

    Bureau Veritas contributed very positively to Net Asset Value, as end of December 2024, its 20-day average share price was up strongly YTD (+32.5%). IHS Towers (-28.0%) and Tarkett (+15.4%) share price impacts were negligible given the weight of Bureau Veritas in NAV. Total value creation per share of listed assets was therefore +€25.9 on a fully diluted basis over the course of 2024.

    Unlisted asset contribution to NAV was negative over the course of the year with a total change per share of -€4.9 reflecting selective assets’ operational performances offsetting the good performance from CPI.

    Asset management activities were consolidated and accounted in the NAV for the first time at the end of June following the acquisition of IK Partners. There is no sponsor money included in the NAV yet, as no capital has been called. IK Partners’ valuation is up by €6.0 per share, driven by strong performance and positive market multiples evolution.

    Cash operating costs, Net Financing Results and Other items impacted NAV by -€1.0, as Wendel benefits from a positive carry. The impact of year-to-date share buyback activity would be +€1.4 per share as of December 31, 2024.

    Total Net Asset Value creation per share amounted to €27.4 in 2024.

    Fully diluted NAV per share of €185.7 as of December 31, 2024

    (in millions of euros)     12/31/2024 12/31/2023
    Listed investments Number of shares Share price (1) 3,793 3,867
    Bureau Veritas 120.3m/160.8m €29.5/€22.2 3,544 3,575
    IHS 63.0m/63.0m $3.2/$4.4 192 251
    Tarkett   €10.5/€9.1 57 40
    Investment in unlisted assets (2) 3,612 4,360
    Asset Management Activities (3) 616 –
    Other assets and liabilities of Wendel and holding companies (4) 174 6
    Net cash position & financial assets (5) 2,407 1,286
    Gross asset value     10,603 9,518
    Wendel bond debt     -2,401 -2,401
    IK Partners transaction deferred payment -131 –
    Net Asset Value     8,071 7,118
    Of which net debt     -124 -1,115
    Number of shares     44,461,997 44,430,554
    Net Asset Value per share €181.5 €160.2
    Wendel’s 20 days share price average   €93.5 €79.9
    Premium (discount) on NAV -48.5% -50.1%
    Number of shares – fully diluted 42,466,569 43,302,016
    Fully diluted Net Asset Value, per share €185.7 €162.3
    Premium (discount) on fully diluted NAV -49.6% -50.7%

    (1)   Last 20 trading days average as of December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023.
    (2)   Investments in unlisted companies (Globeducate, Stahl, Crisis Prevention Institute, ACAMS, Scalian and Wendel Growth as of December 31, 2024. As of Dec 31,2023 also included Constantia Flexibles and excluded Globeducate). Aggregates retained for the calculation exclude the impact of IFRS16.
    (3)   IK Partners’ activity, no sponsor money at this stage.
    (4)   Of which 1,995,428 treasury shares as of December 31, 2024, and 1,128,538 treasury shares as of December 31, 2023
    (5)   Cash position and financial assets of Wendel & holdings.

    Assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the euro have been converted at exchange rates prevailing on the date of the NAV calculation.
    If co-investment and managements LTIP conditions are realized, subsequent dilutive effects on Wendel’s economic ownership are accounted for in NAV calculations. See page 246 of the 2023 Registration Document.

    Wendel’s Principal Investments’ portfolio rotation

    In 2024, Wendel has realized a total of €2.3 billion in disposals for its own account and has invested c.€0.7 billion, reflecting the acceleration of the diversification of its investment portfolio, in line with the strategy announced a few months ago:

    • Wendel announced on January 4, 2024, that it had completed the sale of Constantia Flexibles, generating total net proceeds9 for Wendel of €1,121 million for its shares, i.e. a valuation over 10% higher than the latest NAV on record before the announcement of the transaction (as at March 31, 2023).
    • Wendel announced on April 5, 2024, that it had successfully completed the sale of 40.5 million shares in Bureau Veritas, representing c.9% of the Company’s share capital, for total proceeds of approximately €1.1 billion. The transaction was carried out at a price of €27.127, or a discount of 3% from the previous day’s share price.
    • Wendel Growth realized its investment in Preligens, a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) for aerospace and defence, generating net proceeds to Wendel of c.€14.6 million, translating into a gross IRR of 28%10. In addition, Wendel Growth announced on June 11, 2024, the acquisition of a minority stake in YesWeHack through an equity investment of €14.5 million.
    • Wendel reinvested €43.7m in Scalian upon the acquisition of Mannarino on June 21, 2024. This Canadian company is a leading engineering services specialist for advanced technology R&D for the aviation sector, primarily in North America, with recognized expertise in safety-critical embedded software and systems.
    • On October 16, 2024, Wendel completed the acquisition of c.50% of Globeducate, one of the world’s leading bilingual K-12 education groups, from Providence Equity Partners. Wendel invested €607 million of equity, at an Enterprise Value of c.€2 billion11, to join Providence, and both firms will now own c.50% of the group.

    Wendel’s Asset Management platform evolution

    Acquisition of Monroe Capital dramatically expands Wendel’s Asset Management platform and rebalances its business model towards more recurring cash flows and growth

    Wendel announced on October 22, 2024 that it had entered into a definitive partnership agreement including the acquisition of 75% of Monroe Capital LLC (“Monroe Capital” or “the Company”) for $1.13 billion, and a sponsoring program of $800 million to accelerate Monroe Capital’s growth, and will invest in GP commitment for up to $200 million.

    For Wendel, the acquisition of a controlling stake in Monroe Capital, a private credit market leader focused on the U.S. lower middle market that has established an outstanding track record, would represent a significant and transformational advancement of the strategy it announced in March 2023 to develop its third-party asset management platform to complement its longstanding Principal Investment business.

    With IK Partners and Monroe Capital, Wendel’s third party asset management platform will reach more than €33 billion in AUM12, and should generate, on a full year basis, c.€ 455 million revenues, c.€160 million pre-tax FRE (c.€100 million in pre-tax FRE (Wendel share) in 2025. Wendel’s objective is to reach €150 million (Wendel share) in pre-tax FRE in 2027.

    Third Party Asset Management value creation and performance

    2024 performance

    Over 2024, IK Partners had particularly strong activity, generating a total of €163.3 million in revenue, up 31% YoY, and a strong growth of FRE to €69.9 million. Total Assets under Management (€13.8 billion, of which €3 billion of Dry Powder13) grew by 24% since the beginning of the year, and FPAuM14 (€10.1 billion) by 33%. Over the period, €3.4 billion of new funds were raised (IK X, IK PF III, IK SC IV and IK CV I) and 11 exits have been announced, for over €1.6 billion.

    Sponsor money invested by Wendel

    Wendel committed €500 million in IK Partners funds, of which €300 million in IK X. These commitments have not yet been called as of December 31, 2024.

    Principal Investment companies’ value creation and performance

    Figures post IFRS 16 unless otherwise specified.

    Listed Assets: 36% of Gross Asset Value

    Bureau Veritas’ LEAP | 28 strategy delivers outstanding results in 2024; Confident 2025 outlook

    (full consolidation)

    Revenue in 2024 amounted to €6,240.9 million, a 6.4% increase year-on-year. The organic increase was 10.2% (including 9.6% in the fourth quarter) benefiting from robust underlying trends across businesses and geographies.

    Adjusted operating profit increased by 7.1% to €996.2 million. This represents an adjusted operating margin of 16.0% up 11bps on a reported basis and up 38 bps at constant currency.

    Bureau Veritas posted a record free cash flow of €843.3 million (+27.9% year-on year). As of December 31, 2024, adjusted net financial debt was €1,226.3 million, i.e. 1.06x EBITDA, compared with 0.92x at December 31, 2023.

    In line with LEAP I 28 plan focused portfolio strategy and through active portfolio management, in 2024 Bureau Veritas completed: i) the acquisition of 10 bolt-on companies for a total annualized revenue of c. €180 million; ii) the divestment of its Food testing business and of a technical supervision business on construction projects in China (c. € 165 million in annualized combined revenue). Bureau Veritas ended the year with its inclusion in the CAC 40, the benchmark index of the Paris stock exchange. This achievement underscores the Group’s consistent operational success and marks a significant milestone in Bureau Veritas’ remarkable journey.

    2025 outlook

    Building on a strong 2024 momentum, a robust opportunities pipeline, a solid backlog, and a strong underlying market growth, and in line with LEAP | 28 financial ambitions, Bureau Veritas expects to deliver for the full year 2025:

    • Mid-to-high single-digit organic revenue growth;
    • Improvement in adjusted operating margin at constant exchange rates;
    • Strong cash flow, with a cash conversion15 above 90%.

    For further details: group.bureauveritas.com

    IHS Towers – IHS Towers will report its FY 2024 results in March 2025

    Tarkett reported its annual results on February 20, 2025

    For more information: https://www.tarkett-group.com/en/investors/

    Unlisted Assets: 34% of Gross Asset Value

    (in millions) Sales EBITDA Net debt
      2023 2024 2023 including IFRS 16 2024     including IFRS 16 Δ End of December including IFRS 16
    Stahl €913.5 €930.2 €204.0 €206.9 +1.4% €383.8
    CPI $138.4 $150.1 $68.6 $74.0 +7.8% $378.2
    ACAMS $102.9 $102.1 $24.6 $25.1 +2.0% $165.0
    Scalian €539.9 €533.4 €63.9 €59.8 -6,3% €345.6
    Globeducate(1) na €352.2 na €84.2 na na

    (1)   Globeducate acquisition was completed on October 16th, 2024. Globeducate fiscal year ends in August, and figures shown are last twelve months at the end of August 2024. Indian operations are deconsolidated and accounted for by the equity method due to the absence of audited figures for the year ending in August-24.

    Stahl – Total sales up +1.8% in 2024 despite market challenges in the automotive and luxury goods end-markets. Strong EBITDA margin of 22.2%. In 2024, Stahl completed its transformation into a pure-play specialty coatings formulator for flexible materials.

    (Full consolidation) 

    Stahl, the world leader in specialty coatings for flexible materials, posted total sales of €930.2 million in the full year of 2024, representing a total increase of +1.8% versus 2023.

    Organically, sales were slightly down -1.1%, in a context of tougher markets in automotive and luxury goods, while FX contributed -1.5%. Acquisitions contributed positively (+4.4%) to total sales variation.

    Full Year 2024 EBITDA16 amounted to €206.9 million (+1.4% vs. 2023), translating into a strong EBITDA margin of 22.2%, thanks to a disciplined margin and fixed costs management, as well as a good diversification across geographies and segments.

    Net debt as of December 31st, 2024, was €383.8 million17, versus €329 million at the end of 2023 and leverage stood at 1.7x18.

    On November 18, 2024, Stahl announced the sale of its Wet-end leather chemicals division, that marks an important step in the Group’s strategic journey. The proposed sale completes Stahl’s transformation into a pure-play specialty coatings formulator for flexible materials. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in H1 2025.

    Pro forma for the sale of the Wet-end leather chemicals business and the acquisition of Weilburger Graphics GmbH, 2024 sales would amount to c.€ 759 million, EBITDA to c.€180 million (i.e., a 23.7% margin) and leverage would stand at an estimated 1.6x. These transactions strengthen Stahl’s growth profile, with the company now better positioned for faster growth, and have an accretive impact on its EBITDA margin.

    Crisis Prevention Institute reports +8.5% revenue and +7.8% EBITDA growth

    (Full consolidation)

    CPI recorded 2024 revenues of $150.1 million, up +8.5% compared to 2023, or +8.4% organically (FX impact was +0.1%), resulting from strong growth in the consumption of training materials, signifying active training of broader staff throughout the Company’s primary customers in educational, healthcare and human services settings. In addition, the Company benefitted from continued growth in its Enterprise segment, a core strategic focus targeting large health systems.

    Full Year 2024 EBITDA was $74.0 million19, reflecting a margin of 49.3%. EBITDA was up +7.8% vs. last year while margins are stable (49.6% in 2023), despite investments to scale in International markets.

    As of December 31, 2024, net debt totaled $378.2 million20, or 4.6x EBITDA as defined in CPI’s credit agreement, following the c. $100 million dividend payment to Wendel in April of 2024. Given current leverage, CPI repriced its Term Loan and received a 50bps interest rate stepdown, or a c. $1.4 million annual savings.

    On January 21st, 2025, CPI announced the acquisition of Verge, a Norwegian leader in behaviour intervention and training. This acquisition extends CPI’s presence in the Nordics, and enhances CPI’s ability to support professionals worldwide, leveraging Verge’s innovative techniques to address challenging behaviours, aggression and violence.

    ACAMS – Total sales stable and improved 24.6% margin amid strong transformation momentum

    (full consolidation)

    ACAMS, the global leader in training and certifications for anti-money laundering and financial crime prevention professionals, generated 2024 revenue of $102.1 million, down 0.8% vs. 2023. The results for 2024 reflected continued growth and market expansion in North America and Europe, largely offset by soft sales in the Asia-Pacific region and from exhibition spend at certain conferences early in the year, slower sales to non-banking customers at consultancies and governments.

    EBITDA21 in 2024 was $25.1 million, up 2% vs. 2023, and reflecting a margin of 24.6%, up 70 bps year-over -year.

    As of December 31, 2024, net debt totaled $165.0 million22, slightly up from $155.8 million at the end of 2023, which represents 6.7x EBITDA leverage as defined in ACAMS’ credit agreement, with ample room relative to the 9.5x covenant level.

    This past year has been pivotal in the Company’s transformation, with the addition of CEO Neil Sternthal who joined from Thomson Reuters in early 2024 and subsequently made several additions to the senior leadership team, and shifted focus to core growth with large enterprise customers, product and market expansion including the introduction of its Certified Anti-Fraud Specialist certification (CAFS), and key investments in the technology platform. These critical investments are all geared toward advancing the impact of the Company’s mission of combating financial crime, accelerating its strategy and further developing its position as a technology-enabled provider of trusted information, data and analytics for the anti-financial crime (AFC) community.

    Management expects the significant changes will, over time, create a more robust platform for the global AFC community and a more scalable, consistent business model with accelerated growth for ACAMS.

    ACAMS anticipates modest growth in 2025 as the recent changes take hold with improved growth toward the end of the year and into 2026.

    Scalian – Slight decrease of total sales of -1.2% in 2024, in the context of continued market growth slowdown. EBITDA margin rate at 11.2%, down c. 60 bps, mainly due to lower utilization rate and the marked slowdown in certain sectors (automotive in Germany and civil aeronautics). Acquisition of Dulin in January 2024 and Mannarino in June 2024.

    (Full consolidation since July 2023.)  

    Scalian, a European leader in digital transformation, project management and operational performance consulting, reported total sales of €533.4 million as of December 31, 2024, a -1.2% decrease vs. 2023. The slowdown is spread across several sectors, particularly automotive in Europe and Aeronautics (supply chain disruptions). Sales are down -4.0% organically and benefited from a positive scope effect of +2.8%.

    Scalian generated an EBITDA23 of €59.8 million in 2024. The EBITDA margin rate stood at 11.2%, down c. 60 bps vs. 2023, mainly explained by lower utilization rate, partially offset by strict SG&A control.

    As of December 31, 2024, net debt24 stood at €345.6 million (leverage of 6.46x25 EBITDA).

    In 2024, Scalian announced the acquisition of Dulin Technology in January, a Spanish-based consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity for the financial sector, and Manarinno in June, a Canadian-based company that is a leading engineering services specialist with a unique know-how in advanced technology R&D for the aviation sector.

    Globeducate – Total sales up +10%26over LTM as of August 2024 Year-end. Strong EBITDA margin at 23.9%27in line with expectations.

    (Accounted for by the equity method. Globeducate acquisition was completed on October 16th, 2024. Globeducate fiscal year ends in August, and figures shown below are last twelve months at the end of August 2024 and first 3 months of the Globeducate year (September – November). Indian operations are deconsolidated and accounted for by the equity method due to the absence of audited figures for the year ending in August-24).

    Globeducate, one of the world’s leading bilingual K-12 education groups, posted total sales of €352.2 million1 for the full year ending in August 2024, representing a total increase of +10% year on year.

    EBITDA2 for the year ending in August amounted to €84.2 million, translating into a strong EBITDA margin of 23.9%, in line with expectations. This solid financial performance was fueled by a combination of organic and external growth.

    Over the first quarter of Globeducate’s fiscal year (September – November), Globeducate completed 3 acquisitions: Olympion School in Cyprus, and Ecole des Petits and Battersea in the UK.

    Net debt as of November 30th, 2024, was €490 million28 and leverage3 stood at 6.2x.

    Consolidated Accounts

    On February 26, 2025, Wendel’s Supervisory Board met under the chairmanship of Nicolas ver Hulst and reviewed Wendel’s consolidated financial statements, as approved by the Executive Board on February 21, 2025. The audit procedures by the statutory auditors on the consolidated financial statements are underway. The audit report would be released mid-March 2025. 

    Wendel Group’s consolidated net sales29 totaled €8,063.5 million, up +13.1% overall and up +8.4% organically. FX contribution is -3.9% and scope effect is +8.6%.

    The overall contribution of Group portfolio companies to net income from operations, Group share amounted to €274.1 million, down -24.3% year on year impacted by the disposal of Constantia and the sale of 25% of the stake in Bureau Veritas. Net income from operation, Group share, was €232.7 million, down -5.8%.

    Financial expenses, operating expenses and taxes at Wendel SE level totaled €63.0 million (of which €22.4 million non-cash), down -45.4% from the €115.3 million (of which €25.3 million non-cash) reported in 2023. Operating expenses are slightly down and financial expenses are positive with a positive carry of cash generating €35.6 million. 2024 is impacted by a goodwill depreciation of €188.2 million, mainly related to Scalian and the Stahl’s wet-end division, which is in the process of being sold.

    Net income Group share €293.9 million strongly up vs.€142.4 million in 2023, reflecting a €418.6 million capital gain group share from the disposal of Constantia Flexibles in H1 2024.  

    ESG achievements

    Non-financial ratings: Wendel improves its CSA rating from S&P, confirms its inclusion in the DJSI World and Europe.

    For the sixth year in a row, Wendel has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class (previously Dow Jones Sustainability Indices) World and Europe indices, making it one of the top 10% of companies in terms of sustainability in the Diversified Financials category. With a score of 76/100 in its category, Wendel is well above the average for its sector (26/100). This rating places Wendel in the top 1% of its sector “FBN Diversified Financial Services and Capital Markets”

    Through the review of the Corporate Sustainability Assessment questionnaire, S&P Global assesses the ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) performance of listed companies in different industries since 1999. The top 10% of companies with the best performance in terms of sustainability, according to criteria defined for each industry, are included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices (previously Dow Jones Sustainability Indices).

    New ESG roadmap 2024-2027

    In 2024, Wendel defined a new ESG roadmap, approved by the Supervisory Board and the Executive Board, notably to take into account the Group’s recent strategic developments, including the new third-party asset management activity (IK Partners and Monroe Capital acquisitions).
    This roadmap includes five priorities: Governance & Business Ethics, Reliability of extra-financial information, Health & Safety, Climate change & adaptation, Parity.

    These five priorities will apply to all Wendel’ investment activities, encompassing both principal investment and third-party asset management. The detailed policies and action plans of the roadmap will be presented in the sustainability report included in the Group’s 2024 Universal Registration Document.

    Renewal of the Executive Board of Wendel

    On 26 February 2025, the Supervisory Board of Wendel decided to renew the appointments of Laurent Mignon and David Darmon as Chairman of the Executive Board of Wendel and Member of the Executive Board and Group Deputy CEO of Wendel, respectively, for a period of four years until 6 April 2029, with effect from 7 April 2025.

    Renewal of the appointments of members of the Supervisory Board

    At the General Meeting of 15 May 2025, it will be proposed to the shareholders that Nicolas ver Hulst, Priscilla de Moustier, Bénédicte Coste and François de Mitry be reappointed as members of the Supervisory Board for a further four-year term. If the renewal of their mandate is approved, Nicolas Ver Hulst will remain chairman of the Supervisory Board, Priscilla de Moustier and Bénédicte Coste will continue their roles on the Governance and Sustainable Development Committee, and François de Mitry will continue his role on the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee.

    Agenda

    Thursday, April 24, 2025

    Q1 2025 Trading update – Publication of NAV as of March 31, 2025 (post-market release)

    Thursday, May 15, 2025

    Annual General Meeting

    Wednesday, July 30, 2025

    H1 2025 results – Publication of NAV as of June 30, 2025, and condensed Half-Year consolidated financial statements (post-market release)

    Thursday, October 23, 2025

    Q3 2025 Trading update – Publication of NAV as of September 30, 2025 (post-market release)

    Wednesday, December 10, 2025

    2025 Investor Day.

    About Wendel

    Wendel is one of Europe’s leading listed investment firms. Regarding its principal investment strategy, the Group invests in companies which are leaders in their field, such as ACAMS, Bureau Veritas, Crisis Prevention Institute, Globeducate, IHS Towers, Scalian, Stahl and Tarkett. In 2023, Wendel initiated a strategic shift into third-party asset management of private assets, alongside its historical principal investment activities. In May 2024, Wendel completed the acquisition of a 51% stake in IK Partners, a major step in the deployment of its strategic expansion in third-party private asset management and also announced in October 2024 the acquisition of 75% of Monroe Capital. Pro forma of Monroe Capital, Wendel manages more than 33 billion euros on behalf of third-party investors, and c.7.4 billion euros invested in its principal investments activity.

    Wendel is listed on Eurolist by Euronext Paris.

    Standard & Poor’s ratings: Long-term: BBB, stable outlook – Short-term: A-2 since January 25, 2019

    Wendel is the Founding Sponsor of Centre Pompidou-Metz. In recognition of its long-term patronage of the arts, Wendel received the distinction of “Grand Mécène de la Culture” in 2012.

    For more information: wendelgroup.com

    Follow us on LinkedIn @Wendel 

    Appendix 1: 2024 Consolidated sales and results

    2024 consolidated net sales

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Δ Organic Δ
    Bureau Veritas 5,867.8 6,240.9 +6.4% +10.2%
    Stahl(1) 913.5 930.2 +1.8% -1.1%
    Scalian(2) 126.8 533.4 n.a. n.a.
    CPI 128.0 138.8 +8.4% +8.4%
    ACAMS(3) 91.6 93.7 +2.4% -0.6%
    IK Partners(4) n.a. 126.5 n.a. n.a.
    Consolidated sales 7,127.6 8,063.5 +13.1% +8.4%

    (1) Acquisition of ICP Industrial Solutions Group (ISG) since March 2023 (sales’ contribution of €89.7M vs €89.1M in 2023) and acquisition of Weilburger since September 2024 (sales’ contribution of €18.2M).                                                                        

    (2) Scalian, which had a different reporting date to Wendel (refer to 2023 consolidated financial statements – Note 2 – 1.” Changes in scope of consolidation in 2023″), realigns its closing date with Wendel group. Consequently, 2024 sale’s contribution correponds to 12 months’ sales between January 1st 2024 and December 31st 2024. Last year’s contribution corresponds to 3 months’ sales between July 1st 2023 and September 30 2023.

    (3) The sales include a PPA restatement for an impact of -€0.6M (vs -€3.4M as of 12M 2023). Excluding this restatement,the sales amount to €94.2M vs. €95.2M as of 12M 2023. The total growth of +2.4% include a PPA effect of +3,3%.                                         

    (4) Contribution of eight months of sales        

    2024 net sales of equity-accounted companies

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Δ Organic Δ
    Tarkett (5) 3,363.1 3,331.9 -0.9% -0.4%
    Sales (Equity method) (6) 3,363.1 3,331.9 -0.9% -0.4%

    (5)Selling price adjustments in the CIS countries are historically intended to offset currency movements and are therefore excluded from the 
    “organic growth” indicator

    (6) Due to the recent acquisition date of the Globeducate group, its contribution is not yet included in Group sales.

    2024 consolidated results

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024
    Contribution from asset management – 42.3
    Consolidated subsidiaries 826.3 774.4
    Financing, operating expenses and taxes -115.3 -63.0
    Net income from operations(1) 711.0 753.7
    Net income from operations, Group share 246.9 232.7
    Non-recurring income/loss -60.4 532.3
    Impact of goodwill allocation -120.4 -107.9
    Impairment 0.7 -188.2
    Total net income(2) 530.9 989.9
    Net income, Group share 142.4 293.9

    (1) Net income before goodwill allocation entries and non-recurring items.

    (2) -€85.2M of change in fair value for IHS recognized through OCI and €784M of capital gain on the Bureau Veritas bloc accounted for through equity.

    2024 net income from operations

    (in millions of euros) 2023 2024 Change
    Total contribution from asset management: IK Partners n/a 42.3 n/a
    Bureau Veritas 594.0 643.3 +8.3%
    Stahl 90.3 100.2 +11.0%
    Constantia Flexibles 115.2 – n/a
    CPI 20.7 22.2 +7.2%
    ACAMS 0.0 -0.7 n/a
    Scalian -2,8 -6.2 n/a
    Tarkett (equity accounted) 8.8 15.6 +76.2%
    Total contribution from Group companies 826.3 774.4 -6.3%
    of which Group share 362.1 274.1 -24.3%
    Operating expenses net of management fees -72.5 -72.2 -0.4%
    Taxes -1.5 -4.0 +169.8%
    Financial expenses -15,9 35.6 n/a
    Non-cash operating expenses -25.3 -22.4 -11.4%
    Net income from operations 711.0 753.7 +6.0%
    of which Group share 246.9 232.7 -5.8%

    Appendix 2: Fully diluted Net Asset Value bridge over 2024

    Appendix 3: Conversion from accounting presentation to economic presentation

    Please refer to table 7.1 of the consolidated statements.

    Appendix 4: Glossary

    • AUM (Assets under Management): Corresponding – for a given fund – to total investors’ commitment (during the fund’s investment period) or total invested amount (post investment period)
    • FRE (Fee-Related Earnings) : Earnings generated by recurring fee revenues (mainly management fees). It excludes earnings generated by more volatile performance-related revenues.
    • GP (General Partner): Entity in charge of the overall management, administration and investment of the funds. The GP is paid by management fees charged on assets under management (AuM)

    1 Fully-diluted NAV per share assumes all treasury shares are cancelled and a complementary liability is booked to account for all LTIP related securities in the money as of the valuation date.

    2 Fully diluted of share buybacks and treasury shares.

    3 Including the €4.0 per share dividend paid in 2024.

    4 Dividend payout calculated on the basis of fully-diluted NAV at the end of December 2024.

    5 Based on Wendel’s share price of €97.15 as of February 21, 2025.

    6 Including sponsor money commitment in IK (€-500m).

    7 Including sponsor money commitment in IK (€500m) and proforma of IK Partners transaction deferred payment (€-131m), Monroe Capital 100% acquisition (including estimated earnout and put on 25% of residual capital, i.e €-1.6bn) and GP commitments in Monroe Capital ($-200m for 2025).

    8 €2.4bn of cash as of December 31, 2024, restated from sponsor money commitment in IK (€-500m), IK Partners transaction deferred payment (€-131m), Monroe Capital 100% acquisition (including estimated earnout and put on 25% of residual capital, i.e €1.6bn) and GP commitments in Monroe Capital’s new strategies (c. $-200m for 2025).

    9 Net proceeds after ticking fees, financial debt, dilution to the benefit of the Company’s minority investors, transaction costs and other debt-like adjustments.
    10 Gross IRR of 28%. Net IRR of 26%.
    11 EV including IFRS 16 impacts. Excluding IFRS 16, EV stands at c.€1.86 billion.
    12 As of end of December 2024

    13 Commitments not yet invested

    14 Fee Paying AuM

    15 (Net cash generated from operating activities – lease payments + corporate tax)/adjusted operating profit

    16 EBITDA including IFRS 16 impacts, EBITDA excluding IFRS 16 stands at €201.0m.

    17 Including IFRS 16 impacts. Net debt excluding the impact of IFRS 16 was €364.4m.

    18 Leverage as per credit documentation definition.

    19 Recurring EBITDA post IFRS 16. Recurring EBITDA pre IFRS 16 was $72.8m

    20 Post IFRS 16 impact. Net debt pre IFRS 16 impact was $375.2m.

    21 EBITDA including IFRS 16. EBITDA excluding IFRS16 stands at $24.0m

    22 Including IFRS 16 impacts. Net debt excluding the impact of IFRS 16 was $164.2m.

    23 EBITDA including IFRS 16 impact. Excluding IFRS 16, EBITDA stands at €50.9 m. Mannarino taken into account for 6 months.

    24 Net debt including IFRS 16 impact. Excluding IFRS 16, net debt stands at €314.9 m.

    25 As per credit documentation (pre IFRS 16)

    26 Excluding Indian activities. Indian estimated revenue stands at €25 m.

    27 EBITDA including IFRS 16 impacts and excluding Indian activities. Indian estimated EBITDA stands at €9.8 m.

    28 As per credit documentation definition.

    29 Consolidated sales will be published only for Full Year and Interim results. For Q1 & Q3, sales by companies/activities will continue to be commented on an individual basis

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The world needs a circular economy. But workers in developing countries shouldn’t pay the price

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sukyung Park, Assistant Professor in International Business, Strategy, and Innovation, Loughborough University

    hanohiki/Shutterstock

    The circular economy offers a fresh approach to how we produce and consume, focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling and recovering. It moves us away from the traditional “make, use, discard” model, creating a more sustainable system to balance the needs of the economy, society and nature. Living within the planet’s limits is vital if we are to fight climate change, biodiversity loss and the twin crises of waste and pollution.

    But that’s not all the circular economy is important for. In promoting resource efficiency and reducing dependency on finite materials, it can also encourage innovation and job creation.

    Advances in biomaterials, for instance, are providing durable and recyclable alternatives to plastic packaging. And innovative approaches to textiles are enabling manufacturers to make fibres from agricultural waste.

    But all this comes at a cost – and raises the question of who should pay. While the circular economy offers promising solutions to environmental and economic challenges, the transition raises critical questions about equity. It’s vital to include the workers and communities from developing countries at every stage of the transition.

    Despite the potential of a circular economy to bring long-term benefits to both society and the environment, access to resources is uneven. There are also economic disparities. A lack of funding, insufficient investment and skills gaps make the shift towards a circular economy challenging for some developing countries.

    And power dynamics are shifting across industries and regions. The circular transition can hit utility companies (electricity, gas and water) as demand from other firms falls. At the same time, in some countries it can bring significant gains to sectors such as construction – possibly driven by manufacturing firms investing in new buildings after saving money on material and energy costs.

    In a recent review of 167 studies of the circular economy, we found that there was limited focus on democratic planning. Communities were not involved enough in decision-making about the transition to a circular economy – especially in low-income countries. Local workers and communities being shut out of decision-making and excluded from opportunities, such as green jobs in renewable energy or sustainable design, could worsen inequalities. This is particularly the case in low-income areas with limited resources and economic resilience.

    In developing countries, persistent problems including low wages and poor working conditions can continue even as circular practices gain momentum, unless these concerns are integrated into the model. In the fashion industry, for example, workers face the same precarious working conditions regardless of whether they are working with virgin or recycled materials.

    And new tensions are emerging over who benefits and loses in the transition to a circular economy. For example, a textile factory owner in the Tamil Nadu region of India voiced concerns that slower fashion cycles – promoted by circular initiatives in wealthier countries – could threaten jobs and livelihoods, making the case (in the words of one interviewee) for “much faster fashion”.

    Without careful planning, textile workers in developing countries could lose their livelihoods in the transition to a circular economy.
    Ruma Dey Acharya/Shutterstock

    Among textile manufacturers, secondhand clothing was seen in a negative light as it might decrease the need for new products. The recycling industry on the other hand was booming in the same area and was seen as a positive thing. This was reflected in the words of a textile factory manager: “It’s my message (to not) reuse, we can recycle so that we get some work in the future.”

    Nevertheless, even recycling was not considered to be a purely positive thing. Many cotton farmers dependent on traditional production face disruption to their livelihoods as recycled textiles gain popularity.

    This is in stark contrast to the narrative in the developed economies, where circular strategies advocating “buy nothing” or slow fashion cycles are championed for their environmental benefits.

    A path forward

    To ensure the circular economy benefits everyone, it is crucial to address its social dimensions. Policies and strategies often overlook marginalised voices, particularly in developing countries. Inclusive circular economy models must be rooted in local contexts, reflecting the unique socio-economic realities of these regions.

    Grassroots entrepreneurs in places where resources are scarce are well positioned to create innovative, locally tailored solutions. Supporting their efforts can lead to practices that address the challenges of their communities while contributing to broader circular goals. Recognising and nurturing this local capacity is essential for a sustainable and fair transition.

    International organisations, national governments, and businesses play a pivotal role in driving inclusivity. Initiatives should be judged not only on environmental and economic outcomes but also for their impact on jobs, livelihoods, education, equity and justice. Businesses must engage with local communities to share knowledge, resources, costs and profits equitably between developing and developed nations.

    This could be funding local innovators, supporting small enterprises or promoting cross-border collaboration on circular practices. For example, circular economy finance and international partnerships can help develop affordable energy solutions for low-income communities and engage developing countries in circular value chains to collect and process e-waste components. International frameworks, such as the EU’s Just Transition Mechanism, must ensure that no one is left behind. And businesses should guarantee living wages in global circular supply chains.

    There’s a risk the circular economy could perpetuate inequalities. That’s why it is vital to reach people at even the far end of supply chains to ensure they are included in decisions and transitions. An equitable circular economy is not just an environmental or economic necessity – it’s also a moral imperative.

    Anna Kristiina Härri receives funding from the Strategic Research Council of Finland. She is affiliated with the Greens in Finland.

    Jarkko Levänen has received funding from the Research Council of Finland and Business Finland.

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

    – ref. The world needs a circular economy. But workers in developing countries shouldn’t pay the price – https://theconversation.com/the-world-needs-a-circular-economy-but-workers-in-developing-countries-shouldnt-pay-the-price-246453

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 26 February 2025 Departmental update New WHO partnership with Indian Institute to advance technology transfer and health equity

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The WHO Health Technology Access Programme (HTAP), the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia and the WHO Country Office for India met with the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) at the Institute’s campus in Trivandrum, Kerala, India, on 12—13 February 2025 following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two organizations in January 2025.

    The visit and technical discussions mark an important milestone in facilitating the transfer of selected technologies from institutions with a public health mandate to HTAP and subsequently to suitable manufacturers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

    HTAP’s mission is to bridge the health technology access gap by providing an evidence-driven mechanism for selecting, securing and facilitating the geo-diversified transfer of existing technologies. In the long run, it also seeks to build end-to-end product development capacity in LMICs through global and regional health technology consortia.

    Discussions focused on potential technology candidates and key areas for potential collaboration, including education and training, technology transfer and the business incubation unit designed to allow small startups the opportunity to develop projects, informed by interactions with SCTIMST scientists, if requested.

    SCTIMST is a unique publicly funded institution that carries research and development of prioritized medical technologies all the way to proof of concept while also providing the necessary support for technology transfer. Fields of research discussed in detail during the visit include biomaterials, biomedical engineering, in vitro diagnostics, other medical devices and assistive technologies, which jointly contribute to a growing list of technologies that have now been commercialized in India and beyond.

    The MOU with SCTIMST will support HTAP’s vision of establishing a global network of public institutions that could provide technologies under transparent, non-exclusive licenses, addressing critical access gaps in underserved regions. This effort is guided by a robust prioritization process that considers both need and the likelihood of success.

    A two-year workplan is currently being developed to translate the objectives of the MoU into concrete, actionable activities.

    HTAP, which builds on lessons learned from the COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP), remains focused on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. At the same time, it promotes access to health products that address existing public health priorities by actively targeting platform technologies and other essential health products relevant both during and beyond health emergencies. 

    From left to right: Dr Anoop Kumar, Scientist, molecular medicine, SCTIMST, Dr Madhur Gupta, Technical officer, WHO Country Office for India, Mr Einstein Kesi, Medical device expert, WHO HTAP, Dr Dragana Milic, Diagnostics and medical device expert, WHO HTAP, Mr Michael Ward, Senior technical specialist, WHO HTAP, Mr Jofy Paul, Vice president, R&D-Reagent, Agappe.

    From left to right: Mr Einstein Kesi, Medical device expert, WHO HTAP, Dr Roy Joseph, Scientist, Polymeric medical devices, SCTIMST, Dr Sanjay Behari, Director, SCTIMST, Dr Anoop Kumar, Scientist, molecular medicine, SCTIMST, Mr Michael Ward, Senior technical specialist, WHO HTAP, Dr Madhur Gupta, Technical officer, WHO Country Office for India, Dr Jayasree RS, Scientist, biophotonics and imaging, SCTIMST, Mr Nagesh DS, Scientist, extracorporeal devices, SCTIMST, Dr Manikandan S, Deputy director, SCTIMST.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: African Union’s new chair has a long list of tough tasks – what it will take to get them done

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ulf Engel, Professor, Institute of African Studies, University of Leipzig

    Following seven rounds of balloting, 60-year-old diplomat Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was elected the sixth chair of the African Union Commission in February 2025. Politics professor Ulf Engel, who is the editor of the Yearbook on the African Union, explains the role and its challenges.

    What’s the new AU Commission chair’s background?

    Youssouf is a seasoned diplomat from Djibouti. He is the longest serving minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation of his country (2005-2025), and has also served as chair of the Council of Ministers of the Arab League (2007, 2017) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (2012).

    What’s the job?

    It involves navigating the different levels of commitments of AU member states, promoting the pan-African agenda on the global stage and developing the professionalisation of the commission.

    The chair is the chief executive officer and legal representative of the African Union as well as the accounting officer of the AU Commission.

    They are directly responsible to the AU executive council. The chair is elected by the assembly for a four-year term, renewable once.

    Their functions include:

    • chairing all meetings and deliberations of the AU Commission

    • keeping records of the deliberations of the AU Assembly, the executive council and the permanent representatives council

    • preparing the AU budget

    • acting as a depository of all AU treaties and other legal instruments

    • consulting and coordinating with the governments of member states and the regional economic communities on the activities of the AU.

    In the transition phase from the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to the AU (1999–2002), the office of the chair was still conceived as the “head of a secretariat”. But with the expansion of the African Union Commission’s staff from roughly 600 in the early 1990s to now well over 1,700 and the growing number of substantive tasks, this concept has evolved.

    The AU Commission has developed into the engine room of the pan-African project.

    Building on the three terms of the Tanzanian OAU secretary-general Salim Ahmed Salim (1989–2001), the commission has developed strong agency.

    On many political issues it has become the source for drafting legal and political documents.

    Through the chair, the commission coordinates relations with the regional economic communities. An example is in the field of early warning and conflict prevention.

    An example of the political guidance and leadership the chair can exercise is the 1999 report on “The Fundamental Changes Taking Place in the World and their Implications for Africa: Proposals for an African Response”.

    This had strong implications for the development of the continental body’s economic and security policies.

    It also had an impact on the 2011 report on “Current Challenges to Peace and Security on the Continent”. The report discussed the consequences of the public uprisings in northern Africa (the so-called Arab Spring).

    The 2022 report on “Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa” was drafted in response to the recent wave of coups d’état, especially in west Africa.

    A prominent example of proactive chairpersonship is the development of the AU’s Agenda 2063 under the leadership of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (South Africa, 2012–2017). This was an ambitious programme to steer the AU for the next 50 years after its 50th anniversary in 2013.

    What are the biggest challenges?

    The AU Commission chair’s main challenges include renewing member states’ commitment to the institution’s shared values amid a democratic recession.

    The new chair will have to deal with the decline in the quality of democracy across the continent.

    He will also have to deal with many member states that constantly violate AU decisions and communiqués on unconstitutional changes of government, as highlighted by the outgoing chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat (Chad), in a speech celebrating the 20th anniversary of the AU Peace and Security Council on 25 May 2024.

    The chair needs to finalise AU policy on the division of labour with the regional economic communities. In many policy fields this division is still unsystematic.

    Youssouf will have to increase the number of common African positions on key global challenges, increase ownership of positions by member states and lead the debate on defining clear obligations for member states.

    The most prominent common African position is the 2005 Ezulweni Consensus on the reform of the UN security council. It called for two permanent seats and five non-permanent seats for Africa.

    But more could be done to increase the African voice in the various international negotiation forums.

    The chair also needs to adopt a more systematic approach to the AU’s strategic partnerships with multilateral and bilateral players. For example, the AU became a member of the G20 in September 2024. Monitoring of strategic partnerships must be developed, and there should be clear guidelines which define African interests beyond funding issues.

    But the biggest task is to complete the financial and institutional reform of the AU that began in 2016/2017. This should include reducing its heavy financial dependence on international partners. Currently an estimated 58% of the budget comes from these partners, slightly down from last year’s 61%.

    The new chair needs to make the AU Commission more efficient and relevant for the African people. The lack of domestication of AU decisions by member states remains a huge challenge for Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

    Are any breakthroughs possible?

    G20 meetings in South Africa offer an opportunity to show how AU membership of this body can help address Africa’s concerns and rally AU member states behind a common agenda. There were meetings of G20 ministers of foreign affairs and finance in February, and heads of state and government will meet in November 2025.

    In his electoral campaign, Youssouf pledged to “defend Africa’s fair representation in international institutions and to strengthen its role in global forums”.

    He said Africa “must assert itself as an influential player in global policy discussion, advancing its economic and developmental interests”.

    With the new government in the US this certainly will become an uphill struggle. This is especially so giveng the pace with which the US president Donald Trump’s administration is dismantling established multilateral alliances, withdrawing from parts of the United Nations, and appears to be siding with Russia.

    Ulf Engel has been consulting for the African Union since 2006, mainly in early warning, conflict prevention, preventive diplomacy, and knowledge management.

    – ref. African Union’s new chair has a long list of tough tasks – what it will take to get them done – https://theconversation.com/african-unions-new-chair-has-a-long-list-of-tough-tasks-what-it-will-take-to-get-them-done-250421

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Delegation Demands HHS Secretary Kennedy Take Immediate Action to Contain Measles Outbreak

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Delegation Letter Comes Amid Measles Outbreak in New Mexico and Texas;
    Measles is One of the Most Highly Infectious Diseases and Can Lead to Serious Complications Like Pneumonia, Blindness, Brain Swelling, and Death
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) wrote to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. demanding immediate action to contain the recent outbreak of measles in New Mexico. Measles, once declared eliminated in the U.S. over two decades ago, has sickened nine individuals in Lea Country.
    “Given the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) important responsibility to stop the spread of infectious diseases, we request that you utilize HHS’ authorities for testing and monitoring and vaccine education and promotion, as well as rehire critical federal employees, to stop the spread of this dangerous infection,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to Secretary Kennedy.
    The lawmakers urged Secretary Kennedy to maintain regular reporting on measles cases, “States report confirmed measles cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. Previously, measles tracking on the CDC website was consistently updated weekly. These updates are critical for public health officials to effectively track the rapid spread of this life-threatening disease. We urge you to maintain posting updated measles tracking data weekly.”
    Following the firing of federal public health officials, the lawmakers demanded the reinstatement of these officials to contain the outbreak, “Just last Friday, two dozen employees at the CDC charged with training public health laboratory staffers and supporting outbreak response efforts were fired. These firings will worsen outbreaks and ultimately threaten the health of all Americans in the face of the next public health emergency. We urgently request that you reinstate the fired federal health workers to help stop the spread of measles and other infectious diseases.”
    Additionally, to prevent future outbreaks, the lawmakers pressed Secretary Kennedy to support life-saving measles vaccines, “Given that most of the infected individuals are unvaccinated, more must be done to increase vaccination rates against measles. Vaccination rates can and should be increased and therefore we request that HHS launch a national campaign to improve measles vaccination rates to prevent future outbreaks.”
    The text of the letter is here and below:
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
    We are concerned about the recent outbreak of measles in New Mexico. As of Wednesday, there are nine people with confirmed cases of measles in isolation in Lea County, New Mexico. This news comes as the nearby counties of Gaines, Terry, Lubbock, and Yoakum in Texas have recently reported 90 cases with 16 people hospitalized. Given the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) important responsibility to stop the spread of infectious diseases, we request that you utilize HHS’ authorities for testing and monitoring and vaccine education and promotion, as well as rehire critical federal employees, to stop the spread of this dangerous infection.
    Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases because the virus can survive in the air for up to 2 hours. Ninety percent of people who are susceptible will become infected if exposed. While many recover, some experience serious complications like pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling, and death.
    Preventing and mitigating outbreaks is only possible through effective disease tracking and communication, an adequate workforce, and vaccination. States report confirmed measles cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. Previously, measles tracking on the CDC website was consistently updated weekly. These updates are critical for public health officials to effectively track the rapid spread of this life-threatening disease. We urge you to maintain posting updated measles tracking data weekly.
    The public health workforce protects community health by tracking disease and communicating with the public about health threats. But on January 29, 2025, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported that there are still health care workforce shortages that inhibit the U.S.’s ability to protect and improve the health of American communities. Despite these health care workforce shortages, federal employees have been fired from the CDC, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Indian Health Service (IHS). Just last Friday, two dozen employees at the CDC charged with training public health laboratory staffers and supporting outbreak response efforts were fired. These firings will worsen outbreaks and ultimately threaten the health of all Americans in the face of the next public health emergency. We urgently request that you reinstate the fired federal health workers to help stop the spread of measles and other infectious diseases.
    Finally, the most effective way to protect people from contracting measles is to increase vaccination rates as quickly as possible. The measles vaccine, which also inoculates against mumps and rubella, has been in use for about 60 years and has consistently been found to be safe and effective. We urge you to keep your commitment to maintain the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for vaccination. The ACIP is critical for ensuring safe and effective vaccination practices among American adults and children. The resources provided by the ACIP not only help health care providers make vaccination recommendations to their patients but also empower everyday Americans to make informed decisions about their health. Given that most of the infected individuals are unvaccinated, more must be done to increase vaccination rates against measles. Vaccination rates can and should be increased and therefore we request that HHS launch a national campaign to improve measles vaccination rates to prevent future outbreaks.
    In closing, your action is urgently needed to stop the spread of measles in New Mexico and across America. In order to mitigate the further spread of this life-threatening disease, we urge you to utilize HHS’ authorities and proven outbreak mitigation strategies. Specifically, we are asking that you maintain weekly disease tracking data updates, rehire federal health workers, launch a vaccination promotion campaign against measles and other life-threatening infectious diseases, and trust the recommendations of public health experts, physicians, and scientists.
    Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/TANZANIA – Appointment of auxiliary bishop of Tabora

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 26 February 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Josaphat Jackson Bududu, of the metropolitan archdiocese of Tabora, Tanzania, until now vicar for consecrated life and parish priest of Saint Joseph in Kipalapala, as auxiliary bishop of the same archdiocese, assigning him the titular see of Vegesela di Numidia.Msgr. Josaphat Jackson Bududu was born on 6 March 1977 in Kaliua, Tabora.He studied philosophy at the major seminary of Kibosho, Moshi, and theology at the major seminary of Kipalapala, Tabora. He was awarded a doctorate in spirituality at the Tamil Nadu Institute of Spirituality and Saint Peter’s Pontifical Institute in Bangalore, India.He has held the following offices: deputy parish priest (2009-2011) and parish priest (2015-2018) of Saint Therese in Tabora.Since 2019, he has served as formator at Archbishop Mario Mgulunde Propaedeutic Seminary in Kipalapala, professor at Saint Paul’s Senior Seminary in Kipalapala, parish priest of Saint Joseph in Kipalapala, spiritual director of the Religious Congregation of the Daughters of Mary Sisters in Tabora and vicar for consecrated life of the metropolitan archdiocese of Tabora. (Agenzia Fides, 26/2/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: JMIC’s Role Expands to Entire CMF Operating Area

    Source: United States Navy

    To support the newly expanded JMIC mission, Royal Australian Navy Capt. Jorge McKee, Combined Task Force (CTF) 153 commander, transferred three Naval Cooperation and Guidance of Shipping (NCAGS) specialist officers to JMIC.

    McKee with JMIC Director, U.S. Navy Capt. Lee Stuart, and JMIC Deputy Director, Republic of Singapore Navy Cmdr. Andrew Sim, to transfer the officers, who are from the Royal Netherlands and Royal Norwegian navies.

    Since forming on Feb. 20, 2024, as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian (OPG), the international response to attacks on merchant mariners by Yemen-based Houthis terrorists, JMIC has enhanced understanding, information sharing and cooperation between naval and commercial shipping in the region.

    Once responsibility for OPG transferred from CTF 153 to the U.S. Navy’s Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 50 on Feb. 1, JMIC expanded their operating area so they can provide the same level of service to the entire operating area.

    JMIC’s regular information products now include incident monitoring, reporting and security assessments for the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and Northwestern Indian Ocean in addition to the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab al-Mandab.

    “These officers have been an integral part of this task force, bringing valuable specialist commercial shipping industry expertise to inform daily operational decisions that I, and the rest of the team, have greatly appreciated,” McKee said. “We look forward to seeing their expertise benefit all CMF task forces and shipping operators across the region.”

    Stuart likened the officers to the first crew of a newly commissioned ship.

    “These officers are JMIC ‘plank owners.’” Stuart said. “They comprise the first crew of a combined unit supporting the free flow of commerce and commercial mariner safety for years to come.”

    JMIC welcomes engagement from shipping industry stakeholders via its new LinkedIn page at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jmic

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. 5th Fleet Reserve Sailors Integrated in the International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    More than 80 Reservists took part in the ninth iteration of IMX, the largest multinational training event in the Middle East. IMX involved 5,000 personnel from more than 30 nations and international organizations committed to preserving the rules-based international order and strengthening regional maritime security cooperation.
    During the exercise, Reservists supported NAVCENT exercise serials for maritime operations, including intelligence briefings, logistics planning, and responses to medical emergencies — all designed to prepare them to fill the roles of their active-component counterparts at a moment’s notice while also working alongside partner nations.

    The immersive training brought many Reservists to the Maritime Operations Center and provided valuable experiences needed if called upon for duty.

    “This iteration of IMX featured more real world involvement of more real world elements than other exercises I have been a part of as a Navy Reservist,” said Chief Operations Specialist Brendan McLendon. “To be on the watch floor and knowing that there are real ships underway, executing real events, made IMX an all-encompassing exercise I was happy to be a part of.”
    Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Christopher Stark was at his third IMX, and acknowledged the work alongside partner nations was more integrated than previous editions.
    “I was not able to work alongside each nation represented at IMX, but the ones I did work alongside were very professional,” said Stark. “They brought a lot of different knowledge and experience with them and to the methods they approach each scenario, which was interesting to learn.”

    “If we did have a need to work alongside our partner nations, having this kind of preexisting relationship already in place is a good thing,” added McLendon.

    Rear Adm. Jeff Jurgemeyer, the NAVCENT/C5F vice commander, participated fully in IMX 25 and addressed the 83 reserve Sailors at the culmination of the exercise.

    “I hope you all had a worthwhile experience here in Bahrain during IMX,” said Jurgemeyer.
    Also, he reinforced, that in an increasingly dynamic global security environment, exercises such as IMX display the critical role reserve Sailors play in current operations.

    “The importance of what you all bring to NAVCENT and 5th Fleet in providing the support to be able to come in here is widely recognized. I get a lot of positive fededback about you all and they really appreciate that here. It can be hard for Vice Adm. Wikoff, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet, to tell who is a reservist and who is not, and that is certainly what I like to hear.”

    NAVCENT/C5F is the maritime component commander of U.S. Central Command in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, which encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water in the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse comprises more than 20 countries and includes three critical choke points: the Suez Canal, and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Strait of Hormuz.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: At Least Five Peacekeeping, Associated Personnel Killed in Malicious Attacks During 2024, United Nations Staff Union Committee Says

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    At Least 116 Staff Members of United Nations Palestine Refugee Agency Killed in 2024, Bringing Total to 263 Staff Fatalities Since War in Gaza

    At least five United Nations personnel — four military peacekeeping personnel and one civilian UN security coordination officer — were killed in deliberate attacks in 2024, the United Nations Staff Union Standing Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service said today.  By nationality, the UN personnel who died in 2024 were from Cameroon (1), Ghana (1), India (1) Pakistan (1) and Uganda (1).

    This does not include the personnel of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) who died in the war in Gaza, since they were not deliberately targeted.  However, at least 116 UNRWA personnel had been confirmed killed in 2024 in the conflict between Israel and Hamas in response to the terror attack by Hamas on 7 October 2023, the largest loss during a conflict in the 79-year history of the United Nations.  As of 29 December 2024, the total number of UNRWA team members killed since 7 October 2023 is 263 (UNRWA Situation Report #153).

    Peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were also affected by conflicts in the region.

    On 11 October, two peacekeepers from Indonesia serving with UNIFIL were injured after two explosions occurred close to an observation tower near the mission’s base in Naquora.

    On 29 October, eight peacekeepers from Austria serving with UNIFIL were wounded after a rocket, likely fired by Hizbullah or an affiliated group, hit UNIFIL headquarters in southern Lebanon.

    On 7 November, a UNIFIL convoy bringing newly arrived peacekeepers from Malaysia to south Lebanon was passing Saida when a drone strike occurred nearby.  Five peacekeepers were lightly injured.

    On 19 November, four peacekeepers from Ghana serving with UNIFIL were wounded when a rocket most likely fired by Hizbullah hit their base in southern Lebanon.  Peacekeepers and facilities were targeted in three separate incidents.

    On 22 November, four peacekeepers from Italy serving with UNIFIL were wounded when two rockets, likely launched by Hizbullah or affiliated groups, struck the Sector West Headquarters in Shama.

    In addition, three members of the World Food Programme (WFP) Sudan country team — the Head of field office, a programme associate and a security guard — lost their lives on 19 December after an aerial bombardment hit the WFP Field Office Compound in Yabus, Blue Nile State.

    The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) was the deadliest for peacekeepers with two fatalities, followed by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) with one.

    In 2023 at least 11 United Nations personnel (seven military and four civilians) were killed in malicious attacks, and in 2022 at least 32 (28 peacekeepers and four civilians).  The drop in fatalities can partly be attributed to the conclusion in 2023 of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), the deadliest peacekeeping mission with 175 fatalities due to malicious acts.

    Deliberate Attacks

    Following is a non-exhaustive list of deliberate attacks in 2024 that resulted in the death or injury of United Nations and associated personnel, compiled by the United Nations Staff Union Standing Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service.

    On 10 January, Al-Shabaab militants seized a helicopter with United Nations personnel travelling onboard in Galmdug, Somalia.  The helicopter was captured after it had to make an emergency landing in an area controlled by the armed group.  According to media reports, the helicopter took off from the city of Beledweyne and landed close to Gadoon village (near Hindhere village) in central Somalia’s Galgaduud region due to a technical glitch.  The UN-contracted helicopter was conducting an air medical evacuation.  According to media reports, nine people were on board:  four Ukrainian crew members, two Kenyan nurses, an Egyptian working for a contractor who provides emergency medical evaluations, a Somali military doctor and a Ugandan protection officer.  At least one passenger was reportedly killed and six were seized by al-Shabaab.

    On 11 January, Maimudu Edema, a peacekeeper from Uganda, serving with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, was killed when mortar rounds landed inside the Aden Adde International Airport area, in which the UN Compound was located.  Al-Shabaab has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

    On 15 January, Emmanuel Steve Atebele, a peacekeeper from Cameroon serving with MINUSCA, was killed when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device in Mbindali, in Ouham-Pendé Prefecture, north-west of Paoua, Central African Republic.  Five other blue helmets were injured in the attack.

    On 27 January, Kyere Evans, a peacekeeper from Ghana serving with UNISFA, was killed when the mission’s base in Agok came under attack by an armed group.

    On 28 January, Muhammad Tariq, a peacekeeper from Pakistan serving with UNISFA, died in Abyei when a UNISFA convoy transporting civilians came under attack.

    On 2 February, two peacekeepers from South Africa serving with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), were injured in an attack on a UN helicopter in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.  The helicopter was carrying out a medical evacuation when it came under fire from presumed members of the M23 armed group in the Karuba region, North Kivu Province.  The helicopter was able to land safely in the provincial capital, Goma.

    On 16 March, eight peacekeepers serving with MONUSCO were wounded during clashes between the M23 armed group and Government troops.  The incident occurred in the vicinity of Sake, 20 kilometres from Goma.  The wounded peacekeepers, who were part of Operation Springbok initiated in November 2023 to safeguard civilians in the region, sustained their injuries amidst the ongoing fighting, where MONUSCO troops had been assisting Government forces to protect vulnerable civilians.

    On 13 May, Waibhav Anil Kale, a former military officer from India working as a security coordination officer for the United Nations Department for Safety and Security (UNDSS), was killed in Rafah, southern Gaza, when a weapon impacted the back of his clearly marked United Nations vehicle.  The vehicle was driving to the European Hospital in Rafah.  Another UNDSS staff member, a Jordanian woman travelling in the same vehicle, was injured.  The shots were thought to come from an Israel Defense Forces tank in the area.

    On 10 October, two peacekeepers from Sri Lanka serving with UNIFIL were injured after an Israel Defense Forces tank fired its weapon toward an observation tower at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura, directly hitting the tower and causing its fall.

    Violations of the Independence of the International Civil Service

    On 24 January, the Houthi authorities in Yemen ordered United Nations and other humanitarian staff holding United States and United Kingdom passports to leave the country within a month.  The de facto authorities, who controlled the capital, Sana’a, along with many other areas of the country, thus violated the independence of the international civil service.

    On 11 June, the Secretary-General called for the immediate release of all United Nations staff held in Yemen by the de facto Houthi authorities, following the arbitrary detention of 13 of the Organization’s personnel, including six staff members of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).  Four additional United Nations staff members had been detained and held incommunicado by the de facto authorities since 2021 and 2023, without access to their families or their respective organizations and agencies.

    On 12 October, the heads of the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund, the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization and OHCHR, as well as the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, renewed urgent calls for the immediate release of their staff arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities in Yemen, amid reports that some of them might face “criminal prosecution”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Union’s new chair has a long list of tough tasks – what it will take to get them done

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ulf Engel, Professor, Institute of African Studies, University of Leipzig

    Following seven rounds of balloting, 60-year-old diplomat Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was elected the sixth chair of the African Union Commission in February 2025. Politics professor Ulf Engel, who is the editor of the Yearbook on the African Union, explains the role and its challenges.

    What’s the new AU Commission chair’s background?

    Youssouf is a seasoned diplomat from Djibouti. He is the longest serving minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation of his country (2005-2025), and has also served as chair of the Council of Ministers of the Arab League (2007, 2017) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (2012).

    What’s the job?

    It involves navigating the different levels of commitments of AU member states, promoting the pan-African agenda on the global stage and developing the professionalisation of the commission.

    The chair is the chief executive officer and legal representative of the African Union as well as the accounting officer of the AU Commission.

    They are directly responsible to the AU executive council. The chair is elected by the assembly for a four-year term, renewable once.

    Their functions include:

    • chairing all meetings and deliberations of the AU Commission

    • keeping records of the deliberations of the AU Assembly, the executive council and the permanent representatives council

    • preparing the AU budget

    • acting as a depository of all AU treaties and other legal instruments

    • consulting and coordinating with the governments of member states and the regional economic communities on the activities of the AU.

    In the transition phase from the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to the AU (1999–2002), the office of the chair was still conceived as the “head of a secretariat”. But with the expansion of the African Union Commission’s staff from roughly 600 in the early 1990s to now well over 1,700 and the growing number of substantive tasks, this concept has evolved.

    The AU Commission has developed into the engine room of the pan-African project.

    Building on the three terms of the Tanzanian OAU secretary-general Salim Ahmed Salim (1989–2001), the commission has developed strong agency.

    On many political issues it has become the source for drafting legal and political documents.

    Through the chair, the commission coordinates relations with the regional economic communities. An example is in the field of early warning and conflict prevention.

    An example of the political guidance and leadership the chair can exercise is the 1999 report on “The Fundamental Changes Taking Place in the World and their Implications for Africa: Proposals for an African Response”.

    This had strong implications for the development of the continental body’s economic and security policies.

    It also had an impact on the 2011 report on “Current Challenges to Peace and Security on the Continent”. The report discussed the consequences of the public uprisings in northern Africa (the so-called Arab Spring).

    The 2022 report on “Unconstitutional Changes of Government in Africa” was drafted in response to the recent wave of coups d’état, especially in west Africa.

    A prominent example of proactive chairpersonship is the development of the AU’s Agenda 2063 under the leadership of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (South Africa, 2012–2017). This was an ambitious programme to steer the AU for the next 50 years after its 50th anniversary in 2013.

    What are the biggest challenges?

    The AU Commission chair’s main challenges include renewing member states’ commitment to the institution’s shared values amid a democratic recession.

    The new chair will have to deal with the decline in the quality of democracy across the continent.

    He will also have to deal with many member states that constantly violate AU decisions and communiqués on unconstitutional changes of government, as highlighted by the outgoing chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat (Chad), in a speech celebrating the 20th anniversary of the AU Peace and Security Council on 25 May 2024.

    The chair needs to finalise AU policy on the division of labour with the regional economic communities. In many policy fields this division is still unsystematic.

    Youssouf will have to increase the number of common African positions on key global challenges, increase ownership of positions by member states and lead the debate on defining clear obligations for member states.

    The most prominent common African position is the 2005 Ezulweni Consensus on the reform of the UN security council. It called for two permanent seats and five non-permanent seats for Africa.

    But more could be done to increase the African voice in the various international negotiation forums.

    The chair also needs to adopt a more systematic approach to the AU’s strategic partnerships with multilateral and bilateral players. For example, the AU became a member of the G20 in September 2024. Monitoring of strategic partnerships must be developed, and there should be clear guidelines which define African interests beyond funding issues.

    But the biggest task is to complete the financial and institutional reform of the AU that began in 2016/2017. This should include reducing its heavy financial dependence on international partners. Currently an estimated 58% of the budget comes from these partners, slightly down from last year’s 61%.

    The new chair needs to make the AU Commission more efficient and relevant for the African people. The lack of domestication of AU decisions by member states remains a huge challenge for Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

    Are any breakthroughs possible?

    G20 meetings in South Africa offer an opportunity to show how AU membership of this body can help address Africa’s concerns and rally AU member states behind a common agenda. There were meetings of G20 ministers of foreign affairs and finance in February, and heads of state and government will meet in November 2025.

    In his electoral campaign, Youssouf pledged to “defend Africa’s fair representation in international institutions and to strengthen its role in global forums”.

    He said Africa “must assert itself as an influential player in global policy discussion, advancing its economic and developmental interests”.

    With the new government in the US this certainly will become an uphill struggle. This is especially so giveng the pace with which the US president Donald Trump’s administration is dismantling established multilateral alliances, withdrawing from parts of the United Nations, and appears to be siding with Russia.

    – African Union’s new chair has a long list of tough tasks – what it will take to get them done
    – https://theconversation.com/african-unions-new-chair-has-a-long-list-of-tough-tasks-what-it-will-take-to-get-them-done-250421

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Opens Data Centers in India to Support Expanding Customer Base and Minimize Cloud Data Risk 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI and MUMBAI, India, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), a leader in data security, today announced new data centers in India. Located in Mumbai and Pune, the centers will support customers using the Varonis cloud-native Data Security Platform to protect sensitive data, maintain privacy regulations, and stay on top of threats with AI-powered automation.

    New draft rules under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act require Indian businesses to navigate the country’s intricate legal landscape skillfully. Varonis’ new data centers will support customers who must comply with regulatory frameworks from the Reserve Bank of India, the Securities and Exchange Board of India, and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India — all without disrupting the business.

    “Varonis’ new data centers in India help us meet strict data localization requirements while strengthening our security,” said Makesh Chandramohan, the Group CISO of Aditya Birla Capital. “Varonis will help us ensure compliance, reduce latency, and improve our overall cybersecurity posture.”

    “Our new data centers underscore Varonis’ dedication to providing our customers with deep data visibility wherever it lives — in the most important data stores and applications across SaaS, IaaS, on-prem, and hybrid environments,” said Scott Leach, Varonis VP of APAC. “The launch demonstrates our ongoing commitment to helping customers automatically reduce their data security risk with a unified platform.”

    With data growing at a rate that surpasses the ability to secure it, organizations turn to Varonis to protect their sensitive cloud data.

    “Varonis establishing its data centers in India demonstrates our commitment to our customers and partners in the region and helps ensure their requirements around data sovereignty and regional regulatory compliance are met comprehensively,” said Maheswaran Shanmugasundaram, Country Manager for India at Varonis. “This move will accelerate our mission to help customers protect their most valuable and vulnerable asset — data — automatically and help ensure they are compliant and secure.”

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis

    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is a leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network –