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Category: India

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Dharangaon, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated October 07, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on The Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Dharangaon, Maharashtra (the bank), for non-compliance with the specific directions issued by RBI under Supervisory Action Framework (SAF). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers vested in RBI, conferred under the provisions of section 47A(1)(c) read with sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

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

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

    The bank had incurred capital expenditure without prior approval of RBI in violation of the directions issued under SAF.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1287

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Jilla Sahakari Kendriya Bank Maryadit, Bhind, Madhya Pradesh

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated October 03, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.75 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh Seventy Five Thousand only) on Jilla Sahakari Kendriya Bank Maryadit, Bhind, Madhya Pradesh (the bank) for contravention of the provisions of section 26A read with section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act) and non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Membership of Credit Information Companies (CICs) by Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of section 47A(1)(c) read with sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act and section 25 of the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005.

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

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

    The bank had:

    1. failed to transfer eligible unclaimed deposit amounts to the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund within the prescribed period; and

    2. failed to submit credit information of its borrowers to any of the four CICs.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1286

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Anderson Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Anderson Counties

    Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Aiken, Anderson Counties

    Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Aiken and Anderson counties to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

    Aiken County 
    Nancy Carson Library
    135 Edgefield Road
    North Augusta, SC 29841 

    Open Oct. 14-17 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 

    Anderson County 
    Anderson County Library
    300 N. McDuffie St.
    Anderson, SC 29621 

    Open Oct. 14-17 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m.  

    These two locations join the centers previously opened in Barnwell, Greenville and Lexington counties. 

    Barnwell County 
    Barnwell Regional Airport
    155 State Road S-6-398
    Barnwell, SC 29812 

    Open Oct. 13–15 from 8 a.m.–7 p.m.  

    Greenville County 
    Freetown Community Center 
    200 Alice Ave. 
    Greenville, SC 29611 

    Open daily from 8 a.m.–7 p.m. 

    Lexington County 
    Batesburg-Leesville Fire Station 
    537 W. Church St.  
    Batesburg, SC 29006 

    Open Oct. 13–16 from 8 a.m.–7 p.m.   

    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers will open soon in more affected areas. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find other center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

    Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and tribal members of the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

    The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

    FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

    kwei.nwaogu

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Milton

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Milton

    How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Milton

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Homeowners and renters in 34 Florida counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida who had uninsured or underinsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Milton may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida can apply.

    How to Apply

    If you applied to FEMA after Hurricanes Debby or Helene and have additional damage from Hurricane Milton, you will need to apply separately for Milton and provide the dates of your most recent damage. Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

    FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.

    What You’ll Need When You Apply

    • A current phone number where you can be contacted.
    • Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
    • Your Social Security number.
    • A general list of damage and losses.
    • Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
    • If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

    If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

    If you applied for assistance for multiple disasters, please note that each event may require a separate home inspection. During these inspections, the inspector will document damage and causes individually.

    FEMA is contacting registered applicants, including those affected by multiple disasters, to help them navigate the process more effectively. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. If you are concerned about verifying that FEMA is trying to reach you, call 800-621-3362. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, FEMA services are free.

    As part of the Major Disaster Declaration, President Biden also authorized FEMA Public Assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including Direct Federal Assistance, for 34 counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide.

    For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    kirsten.chambers

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EUROPE/ITALY – International Conference: Marco Polo and the Franciscans in the East

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Tolentino (Agenzia Fides) – “In the footsteps of Tommaso da Tolentino and Father Matteo Ricci” is the title of the opening session of the international conference “Travel Notes: Marco Polo and the Franciscans in the East in the 13th and 14th centuries”, which will take place next Friday and Saturday in the Italian city of Tolentino. The initiative, which is part of the official program of the celebrations for the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s death, is being scientifically supported by the Pontifical “Antonianum” University in Rome, the University “Ca’ Foscari” in Venice and the University of Macerata. With the contributions of renowned speakers from Italian and foreign universities, the conference aims to highlight travel as a form of exchange and encounter between different cultures and religions in dialogue with each other.Many cities in the Marche region of Italy have maintained relations with Venice for centuries, especially across the Adriatic: merchants and mendicants, such as the Franciscan Tommaso da Tolentino, set out in 1290 to reach first Armenia, then Persia, India and perhaps China, almost always travelling on Venetian merchant ships. On Friday afternoon, Gianni Valente, Director of Fides, will give a conference on the “Primum Concilium Sinense” that took place in Shanghai 100 years ago, between May and June 1924, to kick off the work in the church of San Catervo, which will be introduced by greetings from the Bishop of Macerata, Nazzareno Marconi, and Father Simone Giampieri, Provincial of the Franciscans. The documents of this Council – says the Director of Fides – express “the urgency of freeing the Catholic presence and works in China from everything that could make the Church appear as a para-colonial entity enslaved by foreign potentates”.On Saturday 19 October, the Nicola Vaccaj Theatre will host a three-day conference, which will begin with the greetings of the civil and religious authorities, followed by a long day of work on the theme that gives the entire conference its title. The chairman of the “Committee for the celebrations in memory of Blessed Tommaso da Tolentino”, the architect Franco Casadidio, stresses: “The aim of the conference is to enhance the centenary by highlighting the historical figure of Marco Polo from the perspective of the journeys he undertook, which link him to the routes of some important Franciscan figures who crossed Sino-Mongolian Asia and India for reasons related to evangelization and for purely diplomatic reasons. These itineraries represent an inexhaustible source of information at a religious, anthropological, geopolitical and cultural-historical level, and the choice of the title is intended to highlight the study of the typology of diary-chronicle sources, of which “Il Milione” (by Marco Polo) is an excellent example. Another section is dedicated to the travels of other non-Franciscan figures, such as monks and travelers, or to local chronicles of journeys and itineraries in this particular historical period”. (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 14/10/2024)

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ottawa — RCMP statement on violent criminal activity occurring in Canada with connections to the Government of India

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme will provide an update on the RCMP‘s investigative efforts related to violent criminal activity occurring in Canada with connections to India.

    Date
    October 14, 2024
    Time
    11:30 am Eastern Daylight Time
    Location
    RCMP National Headquarters
    73 Leikin Drive Ottawa, Ontario
    Virtual
    Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
    Instructions

    Members of the media attending in person need to register by email at rcmp.hqmediarelations-dgrelationsmedias.grc@rcmp-grc.gc.ca and must arrive by 11 am.

    Members of the media joining virtually will register through the Microsoft Teams link.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lujan Grisham issues statement in celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day

    Source: US State of New Mexico

    ​SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued the following statement on Monday in commemoration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which the governor established as a state holiday in 2019:

    “Today, I join all New Mexicans in celebrating the Indigenous nations and people of New Mexico and across the country while honoring their sacred languages, cultures, and heritage. Today is about reflecting on history, learning from it, and recognizing the resilience of our indigenous communities. My administration continues to strengthen relationships with the nations, tribes and pueblos in New Mexico built on the premise of honoring tribal sovereignty and self-determination.”

    Indian Affairs Department Secretary Josett Monette, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, issued the following statement:

    “Indigenous Peoples’ Day represents recognition and acknowledgement of Indigenous people in our state as well as our country’s difficult history. Indigenous histories have been repressed, but New Mexico is correcting that and empowering Native American people in New Mexico to be at the forefront of our state’s identity, culture, and future. Indigenous People are resilient and continue to make incredible and valuable contributions throughout New Mexico in every industry. Indigenous Peoples’ Day provides an opportunity to honor and understand those vital contributions and to take some time to learn a little more about our Indigenous partners and relatives in our great state.”

    In April 2019, Gov. Lujan Grisham signed into law the establishment of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, to be celebrated annually on the second Monday in October as an official state holiday.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU at the IX BRICS Legal Forum 2024

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    A representative of the State University of Management took part in the IX BRICS Legal Forum 2024 “Law on Guard of a Just World”.

    Researcher, Associate Professor Anna Churikova presented a report on the topic “Digital Transformation of Local Government in Brazil”. Based on the analysis of foreign law enforcement practice, legislation and scientific literature, the work identified the main problems of legal regulation of the digital transformation of local government in the BRICS countries and proposed ways to solve them.

    The report generated interest among scientists and discussions on the topic of digital transformation of local governments.

    The research, the results of which were presented in the report, was carried out with the help of the grant of the Russian Science Foundation No. 23-28-01252 “Transformation of the institution of local self-government in the Russian Federation in the context of the development of modern digital technologies: legal aspects” with the organizational support of the State University of Management.

    The founders and organizers of the forum are: Brazilian Bar Association, Russian Bar Association, Indian Bar Association, Chinese Law Society, Law Society of South Africa, East China University of Political Science and Law, University of Cape Town.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/14/2024

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    GUU at the IX BRICS Legal Forum 2024

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Shaktikanta Das: Central banking at crossroads

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    I feel highly privileged to be here at this High Level Conference on ‘Central Banking at Crossroads’ and share some of my thoughts. When the definitive history of our times is written, the turn of the current decade will, in all probability, be regarded as a watershed in the evolution of central banking. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the persistent geopolitical strife thereafter, central banks are treading in the uncharted terrain of a twilight zone. Today, like never before in the five centuries of their existence, central banks are confronted with a future where their mandates, their functions and their performances are all up for unforgiving scrutiny.

    Around them, the environment in which central banks have been operating is undergoing tectonic transformations. Structural changes are underway that have the power to fundamentally alter the context of central banking with headwinds from geo-economic fragmentation; muscular industrial, trade and financial policies that are already reshaping supply chains and the availability of critical minerals, intermediates, resources and services; new technologies; and climate change. In this rapidly evolving environment, central banks are required to navigate not just known unknowns but unknown unknowns too.

    Yet, even at these exceptional intersections, central banks are exploring new pathways and striving to reinvent their remit and functioning as the guardians of financial stability. Their effort is to stay ahead of these developments by strengthening guardrails and leveraging on technological innovations.

    For the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as we commemorate its 90th year, it has been an eventful journey since its establishment in 1935. In many significant ways, the Reserve Bank embodies the developmental aspirations of India. The landmarks of its journey are equally milestones in the progress of India. At the current juncture and looking ahead, developments around the world are impacting India on a continuous basis and challenging us as practitioners of central banking.

    Today’s conference gives us an opportunity to introspect on the journey of central banking so far and how we want to visualise and shape our role in the future. In my remarks today, I propose to briefly focus on three areas where central banking is likely to be redefined in the future: monetary policy; financial stability; and new technologies. In fact, these are among the themes of specific sessions in today’s conference. My observations would be mainly in the context of central banking across countries.

    Monetary Policy

    The three decades of restrained volatility of business cycles and the co-existence of price stability and uninterrupted growth that preceded the global financial crisis (GFC), perhaps lulled central banks into the belief that inflation expectations are enduringly anchored. The beast of inflation of the 1970s and early 1980s seemed completely behind our times. Conditioned by that experience, central banks shed their role of ‘lender of the last resort’ and became lender of the first resort to defend their financial systems when they responded to the GFC. They continued from their GFC moment and once again rushed to the frontline as warriors of the first resort to protect and preserve lives and livelihood when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world. They took interest rates to all-time lows, undertook unconventional policy measures to reach out to interest rates across the spectrum, including at the longer end, and gave assurances about low for longer interest rates. This was an uncharacteristic departure from the monetary mysticism that had prevailed up to the 1990s. Clearly, central banking has evolved in line with the developments of the 21st century.

    While the pandemic time measures provided the much needed support to the economies, in the aftermath of the pandemic the limits and downsides of easy monetary policy in protecting economic activity in a crisis period became evident. Today, rightly or wrongly, the central banks are accused of distributional consequences of their actions. The negative equity that weighs in the balance sheets of certain central banks is seen as compromising their independence in the conduct of monetary policy. The story in India was, however, different as most of our liquidity measures were calibrated and carried end dates at the time of their announcement itself.

    Another challenge staring at central banks today emanates from soaring public debt caused, in a considerable measure, by the pandemic-related fiscal stimuli and the subsequent efforts for fiscal consolidation not gaining adequate traction. Such a situation is becoming a binding constraint on monetary policy in several countries. Global public debt has surged post the pandemic to 93.2 per cent of GDP in 2023 and is likely to increase to 100 per cent of GDP by 20291. In major economies, debt-GDP ratios are on an upward trajectory, raising concerns about their sustainability and their negative spillovers for the broader global economy. In several other countries, central banks are willy-nilly expected to facilitate financing of such huge public debts. In fact, the debt overhang is simmering underneath the radar of central banks, threatening to un-anchor inflation expectations and undermine macroeconomic stability.

    For emerging market economy (EME) central banks, the international dimensions of monetary policy continues to be a testing challenge. For them, the trilemma is real. Today the global economy is more financially integrated than ever before. Monetary policy actions in systemic economies produce large fluctuations in capital flows and exchange rates, which can then feed into domestic liquidity, inflation and eventually affect the real economy. While monetary policies in the systemic economies are determined by their domestic inflation-growth considerations, they have large spillovers to the emerging and developing economies and even to other advanced economies. These spillovers can be expected to accentuate as capital flows dwarf trade flows. Quite naturally, emerging economies are having to strengthen their policy frameworks and buffers to manage this external flux and mitigate its adverse consequences.

    Financial Stability

    Financial stability is the essential reason why central banks exist. Price stability as a central bank objective is of more recent vintage. There is a growing opinion today that ‘low for long’ policies practiced during the GFC and again during the pandemic, apart from providing support to the real economy, also produced exuberant financial asset prices that have come back to haunt central banks in their role as guardians of financial stability. Amidst ultra-low interest rates and super abundant liquidity, leveraging and risk-taking were celebrated as if there is no tomorrow. Consequently, when central banks were confronted with inflation surges in 2022 in the shadow of the war in Ukraine, they reacted with one of the most aggressive and synchronised tightening of monetary policies in history. This resulted in risks to financial stability, especially when these risks morphed into banking crises in certain countries in March 2023 and sell-offs in financial markets in August and September 2024. These developments have once again brought to fore the role of central banks in securing and preserving financial stability. Specifically, how should they account for financial stability considerations in their pursuit of price stability?

    Let me now address some of the emerging risks to financial stability. First, the divergence in global monetary policies – monetary easing in some economies, tightening in a few, and pause in several other economies – can be expected to lead to volatility in capital flows and exchange rates, which may disrupt financial stability. We saw a glimpse of this with the sharp appreciation of the Japanese Yen in early August which led to disruptive reversals in the Yen carry trade and rattled financial markets across the globe.

    Second, private credit markets have expanded rapidly with limited regulation. They pose significant risks to financial stability, particularly since they have not been stress-tested in a downturn.

    Third, higher interest rates, aimed at curtailing inflationary pressures, have led to increase in debt servicing costs, financial market volatility, and risks to asset quality. Stretched asset valuations in some jurisdictions could trigger contagion across financial markets, creating further instability. The correction in commercial real estate (CRE) prices in some jurisdictions can put small and medium-sized banks under stress, given their large exposures to this sector. The interconnectedness between CRE, non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), and the broader banking system amplifies these risks.

    New Technologies

    In recent years, the technology-driven digitalisation wave in the payments sphere has been revolutionary. While most of the innovations have been at the national level focusing on retail payments, the market for cross-border payments has also expanded substantially. The significant volume of cross-border worker remittances, the growing size of gross flows of capital, and the increasing importance of cross-border e-commerce have acted as catalysts to this growth.23 Remittances are the starting point for many emerging and developing economies, including India, to explore cross-border peer-to-peer (P2P) payments. We believe there is immense scope to significantly reduce the cost and time for such remittances.

    India is one of the few large economies with a 24×7 real time gross settlement (RTGS) system. The feasibility of expanding RTGS to settle transactions in major trade currencies such as USD, EUR and GBP can be explored through bilateral or multilateral arrangements. India and a few other economies have already commenced efforts to expand linkage of cross-border fast payment systems both in the bilateral and multilateral modes.4

    India has developed a world-class digital public infrastructure (DPI), which has facilitated the development of high-quality digital financial products with enormous potential for cross-border payments. India is now home to the world’s third most vibrant startup ecosystem, with over 140,000 recognised startups, more than a hundred unicorns, and over US$150 billion in funding raised. India’s experience in DPI can be leveraged by other countries to improve and usher in a global digital revolution.

    Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) is another area which has the potential to facilitate efficient cross-border payments. India is one of the few countries that have launched both wholesale and retail CBDCs. Programmability, interoperability with the UPI retail fast payment system and development of offline solutions for remote areas and underserved segments of the population, are some of the value added services which we are now experimenting as part of our CBDC pilot.

    Going forward, harmonisation of standards and interoperability would be important for CBDCs for cross-border payments and to overcome the serious financial stability concerns associated with cryptocurrencies. A key challenge could be the fact that countries may prefer to design their own systems as per their domestic considerations. I feel we can overcome this challenge by developing a plug-and-play system that allows replicability of India’s experience while also maintaining the sovereignty of respective countries.

    It is well recognised that growing digitalisation of financial services has enhanced the efficiency of the financial sector across the globe. At the same time, it has brought in several challenges which central banks have to deal with. For instance, in the modern world with deep social media presence and vast access to online banking with money transfer happening in seconds, rumours and misinformation can spread very quickly and can cause liquidity stress. Banks have to remain alert in the social media space and also strengthen their liquidity buffers.

    Latest technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have opened new avenues of business and profit expansion for financial institutions. At the same time, these technologies also pose financial stability risks. The heavy reliance on AI can lead to concentration risks, especially when a small number of tech providers dominate the market. This could amplify systemic risks, as failures or disruptions in these systems may cascade across the entire financial sector. Moreover, the growing use of AI introduces new vulnerabilities, such as increased susceptibility to cyberattacks and data breaches. Additionally, AI’s opacity makes it difficult to audit or interpret the algorithms which drive decisions. This could potentially lead to unpredictable consequences in the markets. Banks and other financial institutions must put in place adequate risk mitigation measures against all these risks. In the ultimate analysis, banks have to ride on the advantages of AI and Bigtech and not allow the latter to ride on them.

    Conclusion

    Despite the difficult trials and trade-offs, central banking in the current decade is a success story. In the realm of monetary policy, central banks have been successful in bringing inflation closer to targets. Major financial collapses or recessions, seen during earlier episodes of crisis, have been averted. Central banks are now at the forefront of technological innovations and are driving them through sandboxes, innovation hubs and hackathons.

    As we navigate the high intensity tail events and black swans of the current decade, the lessons imbibed can well form the basis of our deliberations today to chart out a course for the future. Central banks must remain vigilant, adaptable, continuously assess risks and build resilience. They should remain prepared to navigate complex challenges, support sustainable growth, maintain price stability and promote sound and vibrant financial systems.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joachim Nagel: Introducing a digital euro – the cross-border dimension

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Check against delivery 

    1 Introduction

    Dear Governor Das,

    dear colleagues,

    ladies and gentlemen,

    I am delighted to be here with you today, at this wonderful location, visiting this wonderful country – one of the cradles of world civilisation and culture. 

    The Reserve Bank of India is currently celebrating its foundation 90 years ago. My heartfelt congratulations to all members of staff on this anniversary! Last year, Indian real-time payment systems processed about 129 billion digital transactions.1 This means that 84% of electronic payment transactions took place in real time. During the same period, only about 19% of electronic payments worldwide were real-time transactions. In my view, this is impressive evidence of the excellent work the RBI has accomplished over the last few years.

    Payment systems and their cross-border interaction are also an important topic at this conference. This is because cross-border payments are an integral part of our globalised world. Historically, from the Renaissance to modern times, correspondent banks have acted as the bedrock for cross-border payment transactions.2 However, even today, transferring funds by means of correspondent banking is often slow, involves many steps and may result in high and non-transparent fees. 

    Moreover, in the last two decades, correspondent banking has been subject to a downward trend, mainly due to increasingly strict compliance requirements. Between 2011 and 2022, the number of active correspondents decreased by roughly one third, while the value of cross-border payments increased by almost 40%.3 Obviously, this is an alarming trend in terms of market competition.

    To some extent, technical progress might be able to compensate for a tighter correspondent banking market. In particular, in the last decade, a number of FinTech companies have provided new opportunities to streamline cross-border payments using innovative methods like blockchain and digital wallets.  The FinTech revolution focused on private money. However, it now appears there may be another revolution on the horizon – this time involving payments in central bank money: the introduction of central bank digital currencies (CBDC).

    In my talk, I would like to address CBDC developments with a particular focus on cross-border payments. First, I will outline some general points about the potential impact and benefits of the introduction of CBDC for processing cross-border transactions. Second, I will aim to highlight this topic in the context of the Eurosystem’s work on a digital euro – the envisaged European retail CBDC.

    2 CBDCs and cross-border payments

    Given that there are correspondent banks and FinTechs working on digital innovations as well, let me begin with a question. What would be the additional benefits of CBDCs in the area of digital payments? The introduction of CBDCs would facilitate a setup of new infrastructures for digital payments. On the one hand, this makes high initial investment necessary. On the other hand, once a CBDC is established with its new infrastructure, it could catalyse broad improvements in payment systems, including cross-border transactions – by introducing new message standards and shorter process chains, for example.4

    Starting on a green field may be one major advantage of CBDCs. Experience shows that, in particular, implementing common standards is not an easy task. Take ISO 20022, for example.5 The International Organisation for Standardisation proposed this common standard for financial messages in cross-border payments in 2004. It will be probably more widely used in payment systems on a global level next year – 21 years after the initial proposal. This period feels even longer when you think of all the innovations that have taken place in the meantime – the first iPhone was presented in 2007, the concept of a decentralised blockchain in 2008.

    However, to be able to reap the benefits for cross-border payment, interoperability between CBDCs must be ensured early on. To this end, central banks should already begin to consider the best ways for interaction in the planning phase. In my view, we have a historic opportunity to vastly improve cross-border transactions by making different CBDCs interoperable from the very beginning.

    Indeed, a number of projects are already researching the best ways of making CBDCs interoperable. For instance, the Bank for International Settlement (BIS) Innovation Hub in Singapore and a number of national central banks in the Indo-Pacific region set up Project Dunbar to explore how a common platform for CBDCs could enable cheaper, faster and safer cross-border payments.6

    I am strongly in favour of a multilateral approach in this area, because this best serves the interests of all participants. If central banks proceed in a largely unilateral way instead, we not only risk inefficiencies, but also undesirable interferences. Consider a scenario in which a CBDC is made available for holders abroad in a unilateral way. In such a case, we could see currency substitution or appreciation pressure for the domestic currency. Also, the balance sheet of the CBDC emitting central bank could strongly expand. A knock-on effect may be that domestic monetary policy in countries that suffer from increased currency substitution becomes less effective. By contrast, a multilateral approach including reasonable holding limits could mitigate these risks.

    Meanwhile, the RBI has made valuable contributions to the topic of retail CBDC. The digital rupee based on blockchain technology was launched on 1 December 2022. It is issued by the central bank and distributed by commercial banks. As I understand it, the RBI intends to tap the potential for using CBDCs in cross-border payments as well.

    3 A digital euro: The cross-border dimension

    In the Eurosystem, we expect a digital euro to be launched in just a few years’ time. The primary goal of a digital euro is meet the domestic needs of the euro area. To some extent, however, this goal already includes a significant cross-border dimension. Let me explain what I mean by that. A quarter century on from the introduction of the euro, there is still no single pan-European solution for digital payments when people go shopping in stores or online. This means there is a risk that traditional cashless payment solutions offered by private European payment service providers will not match customer needs.

    To be fair, some euro area Member States have successfully implemented innovative digital solutions in the area of payments – I am thinking, for example, of the online payment system iDEAL in the Netherlands or Bizum Wallet in Spain. However, such payment solutions by themselves usually only function within national borders. Promising initiatives have been underway in recent years to widen the scope of these solutions. For example, iDEAL was successfully acquired by the European Payments Initiative, a company founded by several European banks and financial services companies. This initiative seeks to create a truly pan-European payment solution in the near to medium term. 

    This shows that the European payments sector has made meaningful progress; however, there are challenges further ahead. International payment providers, particularly those offering credit card schemes, still heavily dominate the European market for payment services – and even more when it comes to payments abroad.

    A digital euro would be a major step forward in this context. It would provide a standardised digital means of payment for day-to-day transactions throughout the euro area. Despite the need for a more integrated payment system, we are determined to prevent the Eurosystem’s footprint in the European financial system from becoming too large. We are therefore planning to issue a digital euro, but not to distribute it. This means that banks and other payment providers should assume the role of the CBDC interface between the Eurosystem and the customers.

    The euro area currently consists of 20 Member States, each of which has its own banking system with its own unique features. Against this background, I am sure you can imagine the overall complexity of our task. Therefore, our current focus is on making the digital euro accessible for all users within the euro area. We are investing great effort in our work on this, and we are constantly explaining what we do and why we do it, not least because a number of people are sceptical of CBDCs. 

    Once we have accomplished a digital euro for all users within the euro area, it will, in my view, be worth considering making it accessible to users outside the euro area as well. Rules for geographical access to a digital euro will be set down in legislation. If European legislation allows, access to a digital euro can also be granted to consumers and firms in the Member States of the European Economic Area outside the euro area. Selected non-EU countries can be included as well.7

    Ideally, the D€ would be interoperable with other CBDCs from the very start, for example, for person-to-person payments or commercial payments from or to firms outside the euro area. However, this is currently a vision for the future, since, as already mentioned, we first have to overcome numerous challenges to establish a retail digital euro that works within the euro area.

    4 Concluding remarks

    Let me conclude. So far, CBDCs are newcomers to the world of payment systems. We can only estimate how large a role they will end up playing in payment transactions. This is all the more true when it comes to cross-border payments.

    The scepticism about CBDCs in many quarters is not uncommon for many technological innovations. For example, in the early 1980s, “computerphobia” was a widespread phenomenon.8 This took a wide range of forms, even fear of physically touching a computer or feeling threatened by those who worked with them. Today, this may seem very strange to us. Computers have since become an essential day-to-day tool for us.

    And so we will continue our efforts to implement CBDCs. I am confident that this will ultimately make our payment systems better, faster and more efficient.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Customer experience still an untapped opportunity to drive sales growth for auto brands and mobility providers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

    Customer experience still an untapped opportunity to drive sales growth for auto brands and mobility providers

    • Three quarters (76%) of vehicle/mobility services customers expect the same hassle-free end-to-end experience offered by other industries
    • However, most organizations (73%) are over-indexing on the importance of reputation in customer experience instead of prioritizing digital experiences and post-purchase services
    • Nearly half of consumers (48%) are likely to shift to mobility subscription-based services over vehicle ownership given the flexibility these services offer

    Paris, October 14, 2024 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s latest report titled ‘Joining the race: Automotive’s drive to catch up with customer experience’, published today, reveals a significant gap between how automotive business leaders and consumers perceive the quality of their customer experience (CX). In today’s competitive landscape, customer expectations are shaped by exceptional service standards across various industries, yet the survey shows that automotive CX frequently falls below par, ranking 9thout of 13 major consumer-facing industries. In comparison, mobility-as-a-service is overall ranked higher by customers, but with a significant variation depending on the country.

    According to the report, the Net Promoter Score (NPS®)1 for vehicle brands shows a notable gap between customer and organizations’ perceptions of CX. Whilst executives surveyed estimate this score at 14, consumers score automotive brands an average NPS rating of 2, lower than any other consumer-facing industry.

    Perception gaps in brand reputation, ease of use and access, and emotional connection
    While 73% of vehicle brands or mobility providers consider brand reputation as the top factor in the buying decision, only 48% of consumers surveyed do. In addition, emotional connection with the brand is also considered as an important factor by consumers (41%) compared to only 24% of organizations surveyed.

    Ease of use and accessibility emerge as a top priority that influence the large majority (76%) of consumer decisions to opt for or stay with a vehicle brand or mobility service, whereas only 51% of organizations consider it as a priority: consumers surveyed expect seamless and hassle-free functionality across apps, dashboard screens, battery charging, and insurance claims (77%), best-in-class digital experience (59%), and eco-friendly options (51%).

    According to the report, only 29% of automotive brands and mobility services customers rate consistent experiences across channels as extremely good or good. The vast majority (90%) report dissatisfaction with the integrated services – pre-purchase to aftersales – provided to them, for instance, the availability of a single app for all vehicle or transport needs.

    Seven in ten organizations consider CX as a C-level priority, with opportunities to be seized in digital experiences and post-purchase services
    Fewer than one in five (17%) organizations surveyed involve IT or digital teams in CX initiatives while three-quarters of customers are feeling dissatisfied with digital experiences.

    In 41% of organizations surveyed, CX is limited to a few functional areas, such as sales, customer service and support. Only one-third (27%) involve marketing and communications, in contrast to research and development for nearly half of them (49%).

    Overall, the report highlights that CX initiatives are disproportionately focused on the pre-purchase and purchase phases in contrast with the post-purchase stages of the customer journey, like servicing and maintenance and end of life of vehicle, including reselling, renewing subscriptions, and refurbishing. 57% of consumers surveyed who are planning to switch brands within 6-18 months express dissatisfaction with their post-purchase service and maintenance experience.

    “Amid constant industry change, focusing on customer interactions is essential. But, when it comes to delivering a consistent customer experience ‘one size does not fit all’,” said Laurence Noël, Head of Global Automotive Industry at Capgemini. “Mobility consumers demand the same level of experience than the one offered by other sectors that is hassle-free, digitalized, and sustainable. A cultural shift is underway, notably among Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X consumers in Europe from vehicle ownership to on-demand access to transportation. Automotive organizations should seize the opportunity offered by CX-enhancing digital solutions to create true end-to-end customer journeys focusing the full lifecycle, beyond pre-sales/sales offerings, that include maintenance, software updates, and personalized services. In this fast-changing highly competitive market, a full-mobility experience across the customer journey until the end-life of the vehicle, can be seen as a top priority for brands to differentiate themselves.”

    Report Methodology
    The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed 600 senior executives from large automotive OEMs (including passenger cars, two- and three-wheelers, trucks, and buses), fleet service organizations, dealers, aftersales organizations, and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) providers (e.g., car rental, taxi, and ridesharing providers). The surveyed automotive passenger-car OEMs and dealers each have an annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, while the OEMs producing two- and three-wheelers, trucks, and buses, as well as the fleet service and aftersales organizations, and MaaS providers each have annual revenue over $300 million. These executives are based in 10 countries across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The global survey took place in August 2024.
    The research also included a global survey of 10,000 consumers over the age of 18 across 11 countries. To complement the survey findings, the Institute also conducted in-depth discussions with 32 CX experts from automotive and MaaS organizations, as well as from other consumer-facing industries, such as hospitality and hotels, consumer products and retail, luxury goods and retail, consumer electronics, airlines and transport, and banking and insurance.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | http://www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was recently ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts.
    Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

    1 Net Promoter Score (NPS®) is a metric used to measure customer loyalty and satisfaction with a company’s products or services.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Mint Begins Shipping 2024 American Women Quarters™ Honoring Zitkala-Ša on October 21

    Source: United States Mint

    WASHINGTON – The United States Mint (Mint) will begin shipping the fifth coin in the 2024 American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program honoring Zitkala-Ša on October 21. The Mint facilities at Philadelphia and Denver manufacture these circulating quarters.

    Zitkala-Ša (meaning “Red Bird”), also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, was a writer, composer, educator, and political activist for Native Americans’ right to United States citizenship and other civil rights they had long been denied. She left her South Dakota home on the Yankton reservation at age eight to attend a boarding school run by white missionaries, where her native culture and traditions were prohibited.

    “The fifth coin of the 2024 American Women Quarters Program celebrates the life and legacy of Zitkala-Ša,” said the Honorable Ventris C. Gibson, Director of the Mint. “Zitkala-Ša was a gifted musician and violinist and collaborated on what is considered the first known American Indian opera. Premiering in Utah in 1913, The Sun Dance Opera was centered on the Sun Dance, a sacred, ceremonial dance that was outlawed by the U.S. government at the time. Zitkala-Ša felt the opera would be a powerful way to share her values with diverse audiences. Her writings and advocacy continue to have an impact today.”

    The reverse (tails) depicts Zitkala-Ša in traditional Yankton Sioux dress. She is holding a book, which represents her work as an author as well as her successful activism for Native American rights. Behind her, a stylized sun represents her work on The Sun Dance Opera, while a cardinal symbolizes her name, which translates to “Red Bird.” A Yankton Sioux-inspired diamond pattern sits underneath the sun.

    Artist Infusion Program Designer Don Everhart designed the image, which Mint Medallic Artist Renata Gordon sculpted.

    “The design features the effigy of Zitkala-Ša wearing her tribal regalia—the beads and intricate leather straps with metal elements made for a beautiful and challenging subject,” said Gordon. “I stayed faithful to the design down to the most minute detail because much of the regalia is steeped in Native American symbolism and meaning. I loved participating in the legend that lives on, as my fellow engravers and I get to do with many of the subjects selected to be on U.S. coinage and medals.”

    Each coin in this series features a common obverse (heads) design depicting a portrait of George Washington. This design was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser as a candidate entry for the 1932 quarter, which honored the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. The inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2024.”

    View images of the Zitkala-Ša quarter here.

    Each 2024 AWQ honoree is a powerful, inspiring example of the breadth, depth, and range of accomplishments, and the experiences demonstrated by these extraordinary women. Coins featuring additional honorees will continue to ship through 2025.

    Authorized by Public Law 116-330, the American Women Quarters Program features coins with reverse (tails) designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of American women. Beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five quarters in each of these years. The ethnically, racially, and geographically diverse group of individuals honored through this program reflects a wide range of accomplishments and fields, including suffrage, civil rights, abolition, government, humanities, science, space, and the arts.

    Please consult with your local financial institutions regarding the availability of AWQ Program quarters honoring Zitkala-Ša beginning in middle to late November.

    Numismatic Products
    This groundbreaking coin program is an excellent way to remind future generations what can be accomplished with vision, determination, and a desire to improve opportunities for all. Subscribe to the program today to ensure fulfillment of your favorite product through 2025.

    About the United States Mint
    Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Ushers in a New Era by Expanding Galaxy Ecosystem, Begins Pre-reserve for Galaxy Ring in India

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the commencement of pre-reserve for its highly anticipated Galaxy Ring in India. The Galaxy Ring, which fits comfortably on users’ fingers like a traditional ring, is equipped with cutting-edge Galaxy AI features and sensors to deliver a differentiated experience.
     
    The Galaxy Ring adorns a titanium finish for enhanced durability and comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The Galaxy Ring is rated 10ATM as it is built to withstand water depths of up to 100 meters, performing seamlessly in all conditions.
     
    Customers can pre-reserve their Galaxy Ring by paying a token amount of INR 1999 on Samsung.com, select retail stores, Amazon.in and Flipkart.com.
     
    Customers who pre-reserve the Galaxy Ring during this period will receive a complimentary Wireless Charger Duo worth INR 4999 upon purchase.
     
    Ushering a new era in the wearable device portfolio, Galaxy Ring features technology that helps users understand their health and body mannerisms easily. Blending a sleek, timeless design with cutting-edge health tracking features, Galaxy Ring will be available in 9 different sizes, ranging from size 5 to size 13.
     
    Offering a compact, sophisticated solution for users seeking seamless connectivity and wellness monitoring, Samsung India will provide its customers the option to get a sizing kit to ensure best fit before purchasing Galaxy Ring.
     
    Weighing just 2.3 grams (for size 5) with a narrow 7.0 mm width, Galaxy Ring is ultra-lightweight and compact, designed for providing comfort, during both day and night wear. It offers up to 7 days of battery life, providing users with a long-lasting endurance best suited for busy lifestyles.
     
    Powered by Samsung’s innovative “Health AI,” Galaxy Ring will deliver personalized health experiences that track users’ energy levels, sleep stages, activity, heart rate, and stress levels. It allows users to set and forget, simplifying health tracking while providing personalized coaching and insights.
     
    Galaxy Ring also integrates effortlessly with other devices in the Galaxy ecosystem, enhancing the connected experience for users. Galaxy Ring further offers features like 24/7 health tracking in synergy with Galaxy smartwatches, gesture controls, and Smart Find for added convenience.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ottawa — RCMP statement on violent criminal activity occurring in Canada with connections to agents of the Government of India

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    An extraordinary situation is compelling us to speak about what we have discovered in our multiple ongoing investigations into the involvement of agents of the Government of India in serious criminal activity in Canada. It is not our normal process to publicly disclose information about ongoing investigations, in an effort to preserve their integrity. However, we feel it is necessary to do so at this time due to the significant threat to public safety in our country.

    Over the past few years, and more recently, law enforcement agencies in Canada, including the RCMP, have successfully investigated and charged a significant number of individuals for their direct involvement in homicides, extortions and other criminal acts of violence.

    In addition, there has been well over a dozen credible and imminent threats to life which have led to the conduct of Duty to Warn by law enforcement with members of the South Asian community, and specifically members of the pro-Khalistan movement. As a result, in February 2024, the RCMP created a multidisciplinary team to investigate and coordinate efforts to combat this threat. The team has learned a significant amount of information about the breadth and depth of criminal activity orchestrated by agents of the Government of India, and consequential threats to the safety and security of Canadians and individuals living in Canada.

    Despite law enforcement action, the harm has continued, posing a serious threat to our public safety. We reached a point where we felt it was imperative to confront the Government of India and inform the public about some very serious findings that have been uncovered through our investigations.

    There is a violent extremism threat in Canada that Canada and India have been working on over the years. However, these threats are impacting Canada and India’s ability to collaborate.

    Earlier this week, the Deputy Commissioner of Federal Policing, Mark Flynn, made attempts to meet with his Indian law enforcement counterparts to discuss violent extremism occurring in Canada and India, and present evidence pertaining to agents of the Government of India’s involvement in serious criminal activity in Canada. These attempts were unsuccessful, therefore Deputy Commissioner Flynn met with officials of the Government of India, along with the National Security and Intelligence Advisor (NSIA), Nathalie Drouin, and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs David Morrison over the weekend.

    Through our national taskforce and other investigative efforts, the RCMP has obtained evidence that demonstrates four very serious issues:

    1. Violent extremism impacting both countries;
    2. Links tying agents of the Government of India (GOI) to homicides and violent acts;
    3. The use of organized crime to create a perception of an unsafe environment targeting the South Asian Community in Canada; and
    4. Interference into democratic processes.

    Investigations have revealed that Indian diplomats and consular officials based in Canada leveraged their official positions to engage in clandestine activities, such as collecting information for the Government of India, either directly or through their proxies; and other individuals who acted voluntarily or through coercion.

    Evidence also shows that a wide variety of entities in Canada and abroad have been used by agents of the Government of India to collect information. Some of these individuals and businesses were coerced and threatened into working for the Government of India. The information collected for the Government of India is then used to target members of the South Asian community.

    This evidence was presented directly to Government of India officials, urging their cooperation in stemming the violence and requesting our law enforcement agencies work together to address these issues.

    The RCMP is hoping to address these threats through our relationship with the Government of India and the National Investigation Agency with the end goal of strengthening the safety and security of the Canadian public and South Asian community.

    The safety and security of our citizens, regardless of their background or beliefs, remains a top priority for the RCMP and we will not tolerate any form of intimidation, harassment, or harmful targeting of communities or individuals in Canada.

    We are seeking the public’s assistance in reporting incidents of foreign interference by the Government of India. Anyone who feels threatened online or in person, should report the incident to their local police. If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Individuals can also report to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1-800-420-5805 or online at rcmp.ca/report-it.

    We recognize the concern and fear people might be feeling when seeing this news and we recognize that South Asians are victims of the activities we’re investigating. We want to assure all Canadians that their safety and security is at the forefront of everything we do and we urge the public and South Asian communities to remain calm and give law enforcement and Canadian officials time to continue discussions.

    While the RCMP does not generally comment on investigative matters to preserve operational integrity, we will keep the public updated as things develop.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Lang, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Fine Art , University of Lincoln

    The average art lover isn’t supposed to like art fairs because they’re so corporate. When you pay £9 for a sandwich and your wifi is sponsored by a big bank, you can understand the reservations. They’re also too big and crowded. Even the VIPs are left queuing to get in.

    But the fair provides opportunities to see work from galleries from all over the world in London and there is plenty of good art on display. As Frieze describes itself “[it] is one of the world’s most influential contemporary art fairs, focusing only on contemporary art and living artists”. It is primarily for those in the art world, those who create, critique and those who collect, and a lot of money changes hands as the world’s galleries show the best they have. But it has also become a cultural day out.

    Apart from loads of great painting and the occasional noncommercial showpiece, Frieze goes out of its way to balance the corporate with more thoughtful displays. There’s a chance to see big-name artists, international galleries and work by new artists. The “Artist-to-Artist” section returned this year, containing work by emerging talents (selected by established artists). With so much on show, Frieze can be daunting. You can easily spend a whole day at the fair, but with so much on display there is truly something for everybody.

    At this year’s Frieze, international highlights included Proyectos Ultravioleta from Guatemala city, who showed miniature paintings by Rosa Elena Curruchich hung alongside larger works emblazoned with the text “me venden” (they’re selling me) by Edgar Calels. Calels also brought the smell of a forest into the booth by covering the floor with pine needles.

    Jhaveri Contemporary (Mumbai, India) presented work by the Bangladeshi duo Kamruzzaman Shadhin and Gidree Bawlee. The piece Kaal (Pala) consists of seven delightful jute figures – among the most enchanting figurative sculptures I have seen recently. Joydeb Roaja’s pen drawings of people, tanks, and people with tanks on their heads are as enigmatic and disturbing as they are engaging.

    Non-commercial art appeared in Jenkins Van Zyl’s Sweat Exchange at Edel Assanti (London). This video installation housed in what Van Zyl has called a sauna-cum-“sweat extraction brewery”, which features two doppelgangers, who alternate between self-care and abuse. Imagine the Pink Panther crossed with Jar Jar Binks as a drag queen and you’re nearly there.

    Then there was Patrick Goddard’s silver cast bees on the floor of Seventeen Gallery, and Lawrence Lek (winner of the Frieze artist award) who has produced Guanyin: Confessions of a Former Carebot – an interactive videogame installation about an AI created to service self-driving cars.

    Most of the works were are those hung on walls. Gallery booths have a small storage area in which they are able to keep paintings and prints, (but less able to store sculptural works). Collectors also favour paintings, prints and photographs to adorn their walls (or similarly put into storage) over artists’ films or video installations.

    What’s to complain about though when there is so much good painting on display?

    Highlights included Tom Anholt and Ryan Mosley at Josh Lilley Gallery (London); Carl Freedman Gallery (Margate), which showed great paintings by Ben Senior, Laura Footes and Vanessa Raw (as well as Lindsey Mendick’s ceramic sculptures) and Tanya Leighton Gallery (Berlin and LA), which had plenty of good painting on show, including works by Matthew Krishanu. Ingleby (Edinburgh) showed Andrew Cranston and Hayley Barker and Arcadia Missa (London) showed Lewis Hammond’s Schmetterling, an eerie blue interior with an unsettling blue-eyed figure, and Jesse Darling, whose Come on England (up the) takes a novel approach to wall-based work by leaning crowd-control barriers in the corner of the gallery booth.

    Counter Editions (Margate) presented a Tracey Emin solo show. You’re not supposed to like Emin, since she outed herself as a Tory sympathiser. Opposite is a Billy Childish solo show at Lehmann Maupin (London, Seoul, New York), where the artist paints live while wearing a beret next to a dirty stepladder for reaching the tops of the large canvases. You’re not supposed to like Billy Childish either because he is a Stuckist (stuck in the age of Van Gogh and Edvard Munch – his only two art heroes). Funnily enough, Charles Thomson, co-founder of Stuckism, derived the name from an insult by Emin, who told Childish, her ex-lover, that his art was “stuck, stuck, stuck”. Don’t tell anybody, but the Emin and Childish works were quite good.

    With an annual curated section, more solo shows and over 270 Galleries from more than 40 countries, if you love art in all its forms (and can afford it) you should experience Frieze London at least once. If you didn’t go this year, you really should spend a day there next. Despite what people say… you’re bound to find something you like.


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

    Martin Lang 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. Frieze 2024: it’s an industry art fair you’re not supposed to like – but here’s why you might – https://theconversation.com/frieze-2024-its-an-industry-art-fair-youre-not-supposed-to-like-but-heres-why-you-might-241293

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop

    Annual Jingle Bells are Rocking at Museum of the Albemarle Gingerbread Workshop
    jejohnson6

    ELIZABETH CITY

    Join the Friends of the Museum of the Albemarle on Friday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. for a Gingerbread Workshop. 

    Join FOMOA in its tradition of decorating a gingerbread house. The houses will be freshly baked by a local baker. Design your house with a wide variety of candies, cookies, cereals, and more. We do the clean-up, and you go home with a marvelous gingerbread creation to enjoy through the season.

    A completed registration form and payment are required for guaranteed reservations.  Supply fee before November 18, 2024 is $25.00 (For FOMOA members $20.00).  Supply fee after November 18, 2024 is $30.00 (For FOMOA members $25.00).  Registration for this event is nonrefundable. Registration forms are available in the lobby of the Museum of the Albemarle, on the museum’s website at https://www.museumofthealbemarle.com, or on the museum’s Facebook page. 

    For more information concerning the event call 252-335-1453

    About the Museum of the Albemarle

    The Museum of the Albemarle is located at 501 S. Water Street, Elizabeth City, NC. (252) 335-1453. http://www.museumofthealbemarle.com. Find us on Facebook! Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays and State Holidays. Serving Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell, and Washington Counties, the museum is the northeast regional history museum of the North Carolina Division of State History Museums within the N.C.

    Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the state agency with the mission to enrich lives and communities and the vision to harness the state’s cultural resources to build North Carolina’s social, cultural and economic future. Information is available 24/7 at http://www.ncdcr.gov.   

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

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

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

    Oct 11, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26

    Celebrate Fall at Bentonville’s Fall Festival Oct. 26
    jejohnson6

    Take a wagon ride around the historic Harper farm at Bentonville Battlefield’s annual fall festival on Saturday, Oct. 26. The program will include historic trades demonstrations, displays from community organizations, and an “old-timey” festival atmosphere featuring wagon rides, kid’s games, food trucks, live music, and more!

    Bring the whole family for a unique view into daily life during the 1800s. Learn about 19th-century music, food preservation, woodworking, and blacksmithing, or enjoy a stroll through the historic Harper House. Learn about beekeeping with a display from the Johnston County Beekeepers Association. Historic interpreters will also demonstrate weaving, pill rolling, and open-hearth cooking. Live music also will be performed throughout the day by the Huckleberry Brothers Band and the Waterbound Dulcimers.

    Admission for the event is $5 for adults, ages 8 and under get in free. Multiple food trucks and food vendors will be onsite! The program is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities are subject to change without notice. For more information about activities, check the site’s social media channels (@bentonvilleshs) or contact Colby Lipscomb at 910-594-0789.

    About Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site
    Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site interprets the battle and the Harper House, a farmhouse used as a field hospital where surgeons treated nearly 600 men wounded in the battle. The site is located at 5466 Harper House Road, Four Oaks, NC 27524, 3 miles north of Newton Grove on S.R. 1008, about one hour from Raleigh and about 45 minutes from Fayetteville.

    For more information, visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/bentonville-battlefield or call (910) 594-0789.

    Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site is part of the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 11, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum

    Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era Program at CSS Neuse Museum
    jejohnson6

    Step back in time with the CSS Neuse Museum to explore the captivating customs of Victorian-era mourning with the program “Mourning Etiquette, Rituals, and Jewelry in the Victorian Era,” highlighting the extensive collection of mourning items owned by reenactor and historian Thomas Bailey.  

    This one-of-a-kind event on Oct. 12, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. will showcase an array of relics from the 19th century, including intricately designed mourning jewelry, ornate funeral attire, and mementos made to honor the deceased. Guests will gain insights into the deep cultural meaning of grief and remembrance that shaped an era defined by elaborate mourning traditions, and how some of the mourning traditions from the past are still practiced today. In addition, volunteers can view the mourning items on display at the museum.

    Bailey is the visitor experience director at the Visitor Center in Kinston, N.C. A retired Goldsboro police officer, he started a walking ghost tour in downtown Goldsboro at the Goldsborough Bridge Battlefield. He also helped set up and participated in the Kinston Ghost Walk for several years and has been a paranormal investigator for over 20 years. In 2001, he began collecting Victorian mourning items and has been learning more about bizarre customs ever since.

    About the CSS Neuse
    The CSS Neuse is the only remaining commissioned Confederate ironclad above water. It was part of a new technology that the Confederacy used to combat the superior manpower and firepower of the Union Navy. Learn about this technological advance and warfare in eastern North Carolina at the CSS Neuse Museum. The Confederate Navy launched the CSS Neuse, attempting to gain control of the lower Neuse River and New Bern, but ultimately destroyed the vessel to keep it out of Union hands.

    The CSS Neuse Museum (100 N. Queen St., Kinston, N.C.) is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $5/Adult: 13-64 years old, $4/Senior: 65 years old, $3/Child: 6-12 years old, and ages 5 and under are free. As a Blue Star Museum program member, all active-duty military personnel with ID and their families of up to five members get free admission.

    Please contact Rachel Kennedy at rachel.kennedy@dncr.nc.gov or by phone at (252) 526-9600 x222 for more information. The CSS Neuse Museum is a part of the Division of State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 3, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service

    North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office Receives African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina Historic Preservation Office has received an African American Civil Rights (AACR) Grant from the National Park Service to undertake an architectural survey of resources associated with the Civil Rights movement in northeastern North Carolina.

    The $27,500 grant will support architectural survey documentation of up to 40 previously un-surveyed historic buildings and the update of records for 24 previously documented resources. The project will conclude with recommendations for buildings to be added to the state’s Study List, a prioritized list of resources that should be considered for the National Register of Historic Places, and recommendations for adding Civil Rights as an area of historic significance to the National Register nominations of six listed historic districts.

    The project defines northeastern North Carolina as the region bounded by I-95, U.S. Highway 64, Virginia, and the Atlantic Ocean.

    This project builds on an earlier project, also funded through the African American Civil Rights Grant program, that used oral histories and historic research to identify buildings now proposed for the architectural survey.

    Across North Carolina between 1941 and 1976, thousands of Civil Rights protests and actions occurred in large and small communities. In many instances, white-owned newspapers did not cover these activities or relegated them to small notes on pages. As a result, oral history is often the best and, in some cases, only way to locate the sites and resources associated with this aspect of our history.

    The northeast region was chosen because it is easily definable by highways and a state line, because its towns are relatively evenly spread across the region, and because the region includes Elizabeth City State University, a historically Black university.

    Should this project document buildings eligible for the National Register of Historic Places for an association with Civil Rights, the State Historic Preservation Office will plan a third phase to nominate some or all of the eligible resources.

    The project will begin in October 2024 and be completed by August 2026.

    The AACR grant, funded by the Historic Preservation Fund, documents, interprets, and preserves sites and stories related to the African American struggle to gain equal rights as citizens. The 2008 NPS report Civil Rights in America, A Framework for Identifying Significant Sites serves as the foundation reference document for the grant program and for grant applicants to use in determining the appropriateness of proposed projects and properties. The final report will not necessarily reflect views or policies of the U.S. Department of the Interior, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Department of the Interior.

    For more information about the project, please contact Sarah Woodard, branch supervisor for the National Register and Survey Branch of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office at sarah.woodard@dncr.nc.gov or 919-814-6573.

    About the State Historic Preservation Office
    In North Carolina, the State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) is an agency of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Kevin Cherry, the department’s Deputy Secretary of Archives and History, is North Carolina’s State Historic Preservation Officer. The HPO carries out state and federal preservation programs that assist private citizens, non-profit institutions, local governments, and agencies of state and federal government in the identification, evaluation, protection, and enhancement of properties significant in North Carolina’s history and archaeology. The HPO oversees the statewide architectural survey; administers the National Register of Historic Places for North Carolina properties; conducts environmental review of state and federal actions affecting historic and archaeological properties; provides technical assistance to owners in the restoration of historic properties, including those owners seeking state and federal rehabilitation income tax credits; provides grant assistance for historic preservation projects; provides technical assistance to local preservation commissions; and provides historic preservation education https://www.hpo.nc.gov/.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 10, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Continues Recovery Efforts in North Carolina Following Hurricane  Helene

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Following Hurricane Helene’s devastating impacts across the Southeast and Appalachia, the Biden-Harris Administration continues its robust Federal efforts to help communities recover and rebuild. The storm heavily impacted North Carolina, where the Administration continues to surge resources and assist families, business owners, farmers, and other impacted communities receive the support and assistance they need and deserve.
    Federal disaster assistance for Hurricane Helene survivors has surpassed $474 million – including more than $86 million in housing and other types of assistance for survivors in North Carolina. Survivors can register for assistance at one of three Disaster Recovery Centers in Caldwell, McDowell, and Buncombe Counties, or on disasterassistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or via the FEMA app.
    The Department of Defense continues to support search-and-rescue operations, route clearance, and commodities distribution across western North Carolina with 1,500 active-duty troops. The Department of Defense is also employing additional capabilities to assist with increasing situational awareness across the remote terrain of Western North Carolina. The Army Corps of Engineers continues missions supporting debris removal, temporary emergency power installation, infrastructure and water and wastewater assessments, and technical assistance. Over 2,000 North Carolina National Guard personnel along with over 200 Guardsmen from 15 States are conducting response operations in western North Carolina.
    As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,250 FEMA staff remain on the ground, with more arriving daily. Nearly 400 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date.  
    Power has been restored to more than approximately 96 percent of customers, as a result of 10,000 utility personnel working around the clock. Cellular restoration also continues to improve, with more than 93 percent of cellular sites in service. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other.
    Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations continue in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA continues to send commodity shipments and voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties. The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting this massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to survivors. To date, the American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage.
    Additional recovery efforts in North Carolina include:
    Supporting Infrastructure Recovery
    As part of the robust, whole-of-government response to Hurricane Helene, the U.S. Department of Transportation is supporting response and recovery efforts in impacted communities in North Carolina. DOT personnel are on the ground in multiple locations of the state.
    On October 5, the Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced $100 million in Quick Release Emergency Relief funding to support North Carolina. The funding helps pay for the costs of immediate emergency work resulting from Hurricane Helene flood damage. Additional funding will flow to affected communities from the Emergency Relief program.
    FHWA worked closely with North Carolina and other federal agencies to assess infrastructure damage, including supporting hundreds of bridge inspections and other critical infrastructure assessments across the Southeast. On October 8, FHWA Acting Administrator Kristin White visited the region with Governor Roy Cooper, North Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins and other federal, state and local officials and got a first-hand look at impacts from the storm and recovery efforts.   
    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to work with partners in affected parts of North Carolina and Tennessee, as the national airspace steadily returned to normal operations.
    The FAA Air Traffic Organization Technical Operations Team is on-site and leading communications restoration efforts at air traffic facilities. FAA also supported the North Carolina Air National Guard by providing advisory services at Rutherford County Airport and Avery County Airport.
    The FAA worked with state and local governments, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and first responders to enable drones to support response and recovery. The FAA granted permission to allow Wing to temporarily conduct beyond visual line of sight drone package deliveries for Walmart’s pharmacy in western North Carolina, delivering essential items including prescription medicine, medical supplies, and medical equipment to hard-to-reach locations.
    Additionally, President Biden’s approval of a Presidential Emergency Declaration for North Carolina affords the state a period of emergency regulatory relief from Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations, including flexibility around driving time for property- and passenger-carrying vehicles. This allows truck drivers to get essential supplies to affected areas in North Carolina. It may also provide opportunities for motorcoach buses to deliver relief teams to response locations and allow for the transport and evacuation of residents.
    On October 10, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan joined Governor Cooper, Senator Tillis, Congressman Edwards and local officials to assess federal and state recovery efforts in response to Hurricane Helene. EPA and its state partners have made significant progress bringing drinking water and wastewater systems back online, including restoring service to more than 75 drinking water systems that serve approximately 260,000 people in the Asheville area. EPA is also providing technical assistance and drinking water testing to systems and private drinking water well owners across the Asheville area through their Mobile Drinking Water lab – giving residents clear data and confidence that their water is safe to drink. The lab is capable of testing 100 samples per day. Water utilities and private well owners must request sampling services through their local health departments. EPA will remain on the ground in North Carolina helping area residents as long as their assistance is needed.  
    The Department of Energy’s Energy Response Organization remains activated to respond to storm impacts, and responders remain deployed to FEMA regional response coordination centers. Via the Electricity Sub-Sector Coordinating Council and Oil and Natural Gas Sub-Sector Coordinating Council, the Department of Energy has been coordinating continuously with energy sector partners on the ongoing Hurricane Helene response. As noted above, there are 10,000 line workers supporting power restoration efforts.
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continues to support post-disaster imagery flights following Hurricane Helene, already totaling over 68 flight hours during 20 flights, including over western North Carolina. This imagery not only supports FEMA and the broader response community, but the public at large.
    Providing Financial Flexibilities to Homeowners and Taxpayers
    The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as well as foreclosures of mortgages to Native American borrowers guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. Additionally, affected homeowners that have mortgages through Government-Sponsored Enterprises – including Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – and the FHA are eligible to suspend their mortgage payments through a forbearance plan for up to 12 months.
    HUD announced $3 million for the State of North Carolina to support people experiencing homelessness in communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Funding from the Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing program will help residents and families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and have needs that are not otherwise served or fully met by existing Federal disaster relief programs.
    This summer, HUD launched a new streamlined process for requesting additional flexibility on existing grants after a disaster is declared. Recipients of annual HUD funding – including in North Carolina – may request waivers to unlock and accelerate the use of their funding for disaster response and recovery. With the updated waiver process, HUD is proactively issuing maximum flexibility to communities impacted by disasters. These flexibilities will expedite the recovery process, reduce administrative burden, and allow impacted jurisdictions to quickly tailor programs and activities to address the post disaster needs of their communities. The Disaster Assistance and Recovery Team within HUD’s Office of Housing Counseling continues to conduct focused meetings with housing counseling agencies in each state impacted by these disasters to discuss their unique response and recovery challenges and identify resources available to assist.
    The Internal Revenue Service announced disaster tax relief for all individuals and businesses affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. North Carolina taxpayers now have until May 1, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.
    Protecting Public Health
    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared a Public Health Emergency for North Carolina to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. HHS’s Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) continues to provide medical support for Hurricane Helene, predominantly onsite in North Carolina. These ASPR personnel are deployed to support Hurricane Helene response operations, which include four Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and personnel from a Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT) in North Carolina. ASPR Health and Medical Task Forces and ASPR Disaster Medical Assistance Teams from the National Disaster Medical System are providing 24-hour surge support to three hospitals: Mission Hospital in Asheville, Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine, and Caldwell Memorial in Lenoir. To date, ASPR teams have seen nearly 1000 patients. ASPR will continue to work with federal, state, and local partners to prioritize medical assistance to other areas affected by Hurricane Helene as required and requested.  
    Supporting Workers and Worker Safety
    Working alongside the Department of Labor, the States of North Carolina has announced that eligible workers can receive federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance to compensate for income lost directly resulting from Hurricane Helene. And, through the Department of Labor’s innovative partnership with the U.S. Postal Service, displaced workers in North Carolina can now go to the post office in any other state and verify their ID for purposes of getting their benefits quickly.
    Supporting Farmers and Agriculture
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has put contingency plans and program flexibilities into place to ensure farmers, foresters and communities are able to get the support they need, such as by extending program signup opportunities, expediting crop insurance payments, and using waivers and emergency procedures to expedite recovery efforts on working lands. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service has issued flexibilities and waivers for North Carolina to ensure that food and nutritional assistance reaches those in need as soon as possible. In North Carolina, waivers have been issued to increase access to WIC products, replace benefits through Summer EBT, allow the purchase of hot foods through SNAP, and more.
    Additionally, USDA is currently coordinating over 200 staff on the ground in North Carolina, including saw support teams and emergency road clearance teams, to help clear trees and debris, including in Waterville, Marion, Newton, and Weaverville.
    Supporting Students and Student Loan Borrowers
    The Department of Education has offered technical assistance to states and local educational agencies to support recovery efforts and shared critical resources, including those developed by other federal agencies and organizations, to support restoring the teaching and learning environment.
    The Department’s office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) has flexibilities that are automatically available to affected institutions of higher education to help their continued management of the federal student aid programs. These flexibilities help schools if they need to adjust their academic calendars, such as due to unexpected closures, and also help students who may need to take a leave of absence. The flexibilities also help students avoid reductions in their federal aid due to any state or federal disaster assistance provided. FSA will also work with affected institutions that need help on other areas, such as paying credit balances. FSA has communicated with schools located in the areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. Those communications included existing Department guidance about how natural disasters impact schools and their administration of financial aid, resources, and links to FEMA disaster aid information. FSA’s communications also included a way for schools to share more information about the disaster impact on their campus and submit questions about administrative relief and flexibilities.
    The Department is ensuring affected borrowers in areas impacted by the hurricanes can focus on their critical needs without needing to worry about missing their student loan payments. Direct Loan borrowers and federally-serviced FFEL borrowers in the affected area who miss their payments will be automatically placed into a natural disaster forbearance. During forbearance, payments are temporarily postponed or reduced, and interest is still charged. Thanks to regulations issued by the Biden-Harris Administration, months in this forbearance will count toward PSLF and IDR forgiveness. Direct Loan and federally serviced FEEL borrowers are not required to take an action but have the option to call their servicer if they wish to enroll in the forbearance proactively. Perkins loan borrowers should contact their loan holder to request natural disaster forbearance. 
    Continuing to Survey Data
    The Department of the Interior’s U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) continues working to measure river levels and flow, and repair streamgages that transmit critical data. USGS crews continue working to determine the extent of flooding by surveying for high-water marks. These flood-peak data and high-water marks are used to determine flood frequency and are critical in the design of infrastructure and in determining flood plain boundaries. USGS stood up a landslide response team that now includes 32 USGS scientists, 19 of which ware mapping landslides, to provide technical assistance to the North Carolina Geological Survey and Tennessee Geological Survey. Their work includes reconnaissance using satellite imagery, flights, and on-the-ground assessments to map landslides.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly announces expulsion of Indian diplomats related to ongoing investigation on violent criminal activity linked to the Government of India

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Global Affairs Canada, today announced that six Indian diplomats and consular officials had received a notice of expulsion from Canada in relation to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    October 14, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Global Affairs Canada, today announced that six Indian diplomats and consular officials had received a notice of expulsion from Canada in relation to a targeted campaign against Canadian citizens by agents linked to the Government of India.

    The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) gathered information that established linkages between the investigation and agents of the Government of India. In order to further the investigation and allow the RCMP to interview relevant individuals, India was asked to waive diplomatic and consular immunities and to cooperate in the investigation. Regrettably, as India did not agree and given the ongoing public safety concerns for Canadians, Canada served notices of expulsion to these individuals. Subsequent to those notices, India announced it would withdraw its officials.

    Canada and India have over 75 years of diplomatic relations. Our countries share important historic, business and people-to-people ties. Canada took this decision as its main interest remains the safety and security of all Canadians, defending our sovereignty and upholding the rule of law. Canada will continue to work diligently to do everything it can to keep Canadians safe now, and into the future. Dialogue with India continues through our High Commission in Delhi. 

    “Keeping Canadians safe is the fundamental job of the Canadian government. The decision to expel these individuals was made with great consideration and only after the RCMP gathered ample, clear and concrete evidence which identified six individuals as persons of interest in the Nijjar case. We continue to ask that the Indian government support the ongoing investigation in the Nijjar case, as it remains in both our countries’ interest to get to the bottom of this.”

    – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anusandhan National Research Foundation Launches First Two Initiatives: Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) and Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas -Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 3:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The newly operationalised Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) today announced the launch of first two of its initiatives– the Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) and the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas -Electric Vehicle (MAHA- EV) Mission.

    While the PMECRG invites early career researchers to join the country’s transformative journey and contribute to the advancement of India’s scientific excellence and innovation, the MAHA- EV Mission is designed to build a robust research and development ecosystem for Electric Vehicle (EV) components particularly Battery Cells, Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD) and Charging Infrastructure.

    “As ANRF kickstarts its activities with the launch of two crucial initiative, both of them can play a transformative role in bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application, one of the key goals of ANRF. While PMECRG can boost the creativity, innovation, and excellence of early career researchers and accelerate India’s research-driven aspirations, the MAHA- EV Mission will support industry-aligned translational research in Electric Vehicles, an area of national priority,” said ANRF CEO, Professor Abhay Karandikar.

    The operationalisation of the ANRF was initiated with the First Meeting of the Governing Board (GB) on September 10, 2024, which was chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister as the President of the Governing Board (GB).

    The meeting discussed strategic interventions of ANRF which include global positioning of India in key sectors, aligning R&D with national priorities, promoting inclusive growth, capacity building, driving scientific advances and innovation ecosystem, as well as bridging the gap between academic research and industrial applications through industry-aligned translational research. The PMECRG and the MAHA-EV are the two first initiatives announced aligned with the discussions.

    Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG)

    The Grant is designed with a flexible budget and incorporates progressive initiatives to facilitate ease of research. It will foster high quality innovative research, enable researchers to expand knowledge boundaries, drive technological progress and contribute to positioning India as Global leader in S&T.

    PMECRG reflects ANRF’s commitment to nurturing young researchers and by investing in early career researchers, it will help seed, grow, and foster a robust culture of research and innovation across India.

    ANRF recognizes the pivotal role that early career researchers play in positioning India as a global leader in science and technology. By empowering these researchers, ANRF is committed to creating a vibrant research ecosystem that supports excellence and fosters groundbreaking discoveries.

    Mission Electric Vehicle (EV) under Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA) Scheme

    The MAHA-EV mission focuses on the development of key EV technologies to reduce dependency on imports, promote domestic innovation, and position India as a global leader in the EV sector.

    The MAHA- EV Mission is part of ANRF’s Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA) program designed to catalyze multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary, and multi-investigator collaboration to tackle critical scientific challenges. It aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision and aims to accelerate technological advancement in key sectors that have a high impact on the nation’s future growth to create a global standing in the area.

    Concentrating on three critical technology verticals– Tropical EV Batteries and Battery Cells, Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD) and Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure, the mission will enhance domestic capabilities in the design and development of essential EV components.

    It will strengthen competitiveness and position India as a hub for EV component development, driving global competitiveness and innovation. By accelerating the shift towards electric mobility, it will contribute to a greener and sustainable future.

    The MAHA- EV Mission underscores ANRF’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and development that aligns with the nation’s priority areas and emerging technological frontiers.

    By spearheading the EV-Mission, ANRF aims to build a vibrant R&D ecosystem that promotes innovation and collaboration across academic, research, and industrial sectors. This mission is expected to accelerate India’s progress towards a sustainable and technologically advanced future, contributing significantly to the government’s goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Under the guidance of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the foundation is set to implement numerous programs to bolster the country’s research ecosystem and accelerate scientific and technological advancements and the first two will serve as the initial steps for transformation of India’s R&D ecosystem.

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    NKR/DK/AG

    (Release ID: 2064660) Visitor Counter : 202

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Income-Tax Department Conducts TDS Outreach Programme at RINL, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Income-tax Department under the aegis of the Joint Commissioner of Income tax, TDS Circle, Visakhapatnam has conducted “TDS OUTREACH PROGRAMME” at RINL, the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, today (14.10.2024).

    The program was chaired by Shri K Prasad, IRS, Joint Commissioner of Income tax, TDS Circle, Visakhapatnam in which other dignitaries Shri Ijjada Madhusudhana Rao, IRS, Dy. Commissioner of Income-tax, TDS circle Visakhapatnam, several senior officials of RINL and Income Tax department also participated.

    Addressing the senior officials of RINL, Shri K Prasad, IRS, Joint Commissioner of Income tax ,TDS Circle, Visakhapatnam explained the recent developments taken place in the Income-tax Department with regard to TDS starting from digitalization process undergone in the Department, gathering of financial information which reflects in pre-filled returns, collection of data through annual information system, filing of appeals, etc., all at the convenience of taxpayers without visiting any income-tax office. Sri K Prasad, IRS, Joint Commissioner of Income tax, TDS Circle, Visakhapatnam said that RINL has a strong foundation and plays a vital part in the financial growth of the nation.

    The program was conducted to reach officers/employees of RINL, the corporate entity of Visakhapatnam steel plant to create awareness about TDS provisions and compliances, genuine claim of IT deduction/exemptions and for issuing the advisory to their staff members and to create awareness about tax compliance, taxpayer services, recent developments in the Income-tax Department, flagship schemes taken up by the Department, etc.

    Later, senior officials of the Income Tax department clarified the doubts raised by the participants of the program in the matters related to Income-tax.

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    MG/SK

    (Release ID: 2064695) Visitor Counter : 73

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr Jitendra Singh addresses 11th India Sweden Innovation Day;

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr Jitendra Singh addresses 11th India Sweden Innovation Day;

    Calls for bilateral collaboration at multiple levels, including Govt to Govt, industry to industry and academia to academia

    India climbing rapidly on innovation indices; In GII 2024, India ranks 1st among the 10 economies in Central and Southern Asia and 39th among the 133 economies: the Minister

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 4:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh has called for bilateral collaboration between India and Sweden at multiple levels. He said, Sweden is one of the global leaders in innovation. In Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024, Sweden ranks 2nd among the 39 economies in Europe and among the 133 global economies featured in the GII 2024.

    Dr Jitendra Singh was addressing the 11th India Sweden Innovation Day (ISID) function. The theme for 2024 is “Accelerating Green Growth for Inclusive Transition”.

    Informing the audience about the growth of the country in the field of innovation, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “India is climbing rapidly on innovation indices. In GII 2024, India ranks 1st among the 10 economies in Central and Southern Asia and 39th among the 133 economies, he said.

    Similarly, on the other hand, the Union Minister noted that Sweden too is one of the global leaders in innovation. In Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024, Sweden ranks 2nd among the 39 economies in Europe and among the 133 global economies featured in the GII 2024, he said. He expressed hope that the country will certainly catch the top echelons of the world in the years to come.

    Speaking about the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi aiming at global benchmarks in research and innovation, the Minister said, “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has already announced the net zero carbon footprint target of 2070 and therefore I think India and Sweden can cooperate and collaborate at different levels both government as well as non-government sector.” There is a bundle of scope for the two nations for joint research calls to collaborate on deliverable research, academia, innovation and industrial entrepreneurship, including startups.

    Speaking about strides in the sector, Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned, “I am also proud to note that over the last ten years, under the patronage of Prime Minister Shi Narendra Modi, there has been a special impetus and high prioritisation as far as science technology innovation is concerned. India Today is it in a position to claim to be a frontline nation in different areas, for example the space sector we plan to send a human being next year, the first human mission indigenously developed by India, and at the same time next year we hope to send on Indian human 6,000 metre deep as a part of the deep-sea mission.

    Research & Innovation have been the important aspect of the flourishing India Sweden partnership. The 11th edition of ISID reflects the ongoing importance & success of our ongoing partnerships. The continued presence of the Minister at the ISID inauguration since 2021 is a strong signal of the importance attached by India to its innovation partnership with Sweden.

    Several Indian and Swedish government agencies partnering and jointly funding these calls (eg. DST, DBT). That includes extensive and growing research cooperation between Indian and Swedish universities. Leading Swedish universities like Karolinska, KTH, Chalmers and others have ongoing cooperation with leading Indian universities. This can be further strengthened by involving the private sector also.

    In addition, several Swedish companies carry out R&D and innovation in India. Alkem Laboratories, which is pioneering the high-tech medical devices segment, has partnered with Swedish company Biosergen for clinical trials of fungal diseases. There is also growing cooperation between research, education, government and private sector in India, including vaccines, digital public infrastructure and defence.

    Use of Technology & innovative solutions scaling up Development interventions in the country, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “India and Sweden are strengthening partnership in green technology through initiatives like LeadIT 2.0, focusing on low-carbon industrial transitions, sustainable energy, and smart transport.” This collaboration, highlighted at COP28, supports green innovations in sectors like steel, cement, and aviation, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.

    Venus Mission – Sweden has officially joined ISRO’s Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM). The Swedish Space Corporation (SSC) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) are collaborating on a Venus mission. The Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) will provide ISRO with the Venusian Neutrals Analyser (VNA), a lightweight and low-power yet highly effective energetic neutral atom (ENA) analyser.

    India’s active participation in several international Mega Science projects – capabilities of Indian scientists, engineers and companies. Going forward, the Minister said, “India, an unmatched source for Innovation, R&D and Talent and there is huge scope for bilateral collaboration for scalable, cost-effective development solutions for energy and health challenges.”

    The event was well attended by senior officials, innovators, industry leaders and academia of the both countries, which was also addressed by Vice Prime Minister and Minister for Energy and Enterprise of Sweden Ms Ebba Busch. Ambassador of Sweden to India, Mr Jan Thesleff also took part through video conferencing.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government’s Support Fuels Transformation of Bioenergy Ecosystem in India: Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Government’s Support Fuels Transformation of Bioenergy Ecosystem in India: Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

    Minister Puri addresses 12th Edition of the CII Bioenergy Summit

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

    At the 12th Edition of the CII Bioenergy Summit today, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, underscored India’s remarkable progress in bioenergy, aligning with the summit’s theme, “Fuelling the Future – Securing India’s Green Growth Goals.” Shri Puri highlighted the success of India’s ethanol blending initiative, which has seen the blending percentage rise from 1.53% in 2014 to a projected 15% by 2024. Encouraged by these results, the government has advanced its target for 20% blending to 2025, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy. He further revealed that discussions have already started to develop a roadmap for the future, post the attainment of the 20% blending target. This roadmap will guide the country’s next steps in its pursuit of energy sustainability and self-reliance.

    Shri Hardeep Singh Puri commended Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership in transforming India’s bioenergy ecosystem since 2014. He emphasized the crucial role of market dynamics, technology advancements, and supportive government policies in driving this transformation and enhancing sustainability in the energy sector.

    The Minister shared impressive outcomes of the ethanol program, revealing that from 2014 to August 2024, it has generated foreign exchange savings of ₹1,06,072 crore, reduced CO2 emissions by 544 lakh metric tons, and achieved crude oil substitution of 181 lakh metric tons. Payments to distillers by OMCs have reached ₹1,50,097 crore. Furthermore, he said, farmers have been paid ₹90,059 crore, empowering them from being Annadata to being Urjadata. Additionally, he mentioned about the government’s ambitious targets for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aiming for 1% blending in 2027 and 2% in 2028, positioning India as a leader in bio-mobility.

    At the event, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized India’s robust economic growth, predicting it will drive 25% of global energy demand over the next two decades. He noted that bioenergy will be crucial in meeting this demand while advancing climate goals and rural development. Currently valued at US$44 billion (as per Wood Mckenzie), the Minister said that the bioenergy market is projected to grow to US$125 billion by 2050. If global net-zero targets are achieved, this figure could surge to US$500 billion.

    Underscoring India’s agricultural strength and its vast biomass potential as critical elements in the country’s transition to clean energy, Shri Puri said that the country recognized as an agricultural powerhouse, is a leading producer of rice, wheat, cotton, sugar, and various horticultural and dairy products. He said that the country has more than 750 million metric tonnes of available biomass, with about two-thirds being used for domestic purposes such as cattle feed and compost fertilizer.  According to a report by PWC, he noted, 32% of India’s total primary energy consumption is derived from biomass, and over 70% of Indians rely on it for energy across the value chain.

    India’s position as a major biofuel producer and consumer has been strengthened through coordinated policies, political support, and abundant feedstocks, said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri. He noted that the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a growth potential of 3.5 to 5 times for biofuels by 2050 due to Net Zero targets, presenting a substantial opportunity for India. The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, technological advancement, and policy development, unlocking a $500 billion opportunity in biofuels and accelerating global adoption through technology transfer. He said that the government initiatives, such as the Indian Solar Alliance (ISA) and GBA, aim to accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources, reduce import dependency, save foreign exchange, promote a circular economy, and move toward a self-reliant energy future.

    The Minister also referred to different incentives introduced by government to support ethanol production.

    Shri Puri also highlighted India’s collaboration with Brazil, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in sustainable bioenergy and biofuels to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions, particularly in hard-to-decarbonize sectors like aviation and shipping.

    In his concluding remarks, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized that the responsibility for fuelling India’s green growth extends beyond the government to include industry leaders, researchers, innovators, and citizens. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate boldly to establish a sustainable bioenergy sector that meets energy needs and sets a global standard.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to inaugurate ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi on 15th October

    Source: Government of India

    PM to inaugurate ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024 in New Delhi on 15th October

    PM to also inaugurate 8th edition of India Mobile Congress 2024

    For the first time the ITU-WTSA will be hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific

    3,000 industry leaders, policy-makers and tech experts from over 190 countries to participate in ITU-WTSA

    Theme of the 8th edition of India Mobile Congress is “The Future is now”

    India Mobile Congress 2024 will showcase over 400 exhibitors, about 900 startups, and participation from over 120 countries

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:31PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the International Telecommunication Union – World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 15th October at 10 AM.

    Prime Minister will also inaugurate the 8th edition of India Mobile Congress 2024 during the programme.

    WTSA is the governing conference for the standardization work of International Telecommunication Union, the United Nations Agency for Digital Technologies, organised every four years. It is for the first time that the ITU-WTSA will be hosted in India and the Asia-Pacific. It is a pivotal global event that will bring together more than 3,000 industry leaders, policy-makers and tech experts from over 190 countries, representing telecom, digital, and ICT sectors.

    WTSA 2024 will provide a platform for countries to discuss and decide the future of standards of next-generation critical technologies like 6G, AI, IoT, Big Data, cybersecurity, etc. Hosting this event in India will provide the country an opportunity to play a key role in shaping the global telecom agenda and to set the course for future technologies. Indian startups and research institutions are set to gain critical insights into developing Intellectual Property Rights and Standard Essential Patents.

    India Mobile Congress 2024 will showcase India’s innovation ecosystem, where leading telecom companies and innovators will highlight advancements in  Quantum technology and Circular Economy along with spotlight on 6G, 5G use-case showcase, cloud & edge computing, IoT, semiconductors, cybersecurity, green tech, satcom and electronics manufacturing.

    India Mobile Congress, Asia’s largest digital technology forum, has become a well-known platform across the globe for showcasing innovative solutions, services and state-of-the-art use cases for industry, government, academics, startups and other key stakeholders in the technology and telecom ecosystem. The India Mobile Congress 2024 will showcase over 400 exhibitors, about 900 startups, and participation from over 120 countries. The event also aims to showcase more than 900 technology use case scenarios, host more than 100 sessions and discussion with over 600 global and Indian speakers.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Manohar Lal addresses Brainstorming Session on the Indian Power Sector Scenario 2047

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Manohar Lal addresses Brainstorming Session on the Indian Power Sector Scenario 2047

    All Power Sector Stakeholders to collaborate to achieve 2,100GW by 2047: Shri Manohar Lal

    Need to quickly shift towards a more diverse and cleaner energy mix: Shri Shripad Yesso Naik

    National Electricity Plan (Transmission) launched; targets achieving 500GW of renewable energy installed capacity by 2030 and over 600 GW by 2032

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:18PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal addressed Brainstorming Session on the Indian Power Sector Scenario 2047 in New Delhi today.

    At the two-day Brainstorming Session on the Indian Power Sector Scenario 2047  Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, outlined the government’s strategy to meet the country’s burgeoning energy needs while transitioning to cleaner sources of power.

    “By 2047, we anticipate our power demand to reach 708 gigawatts. To meet this, we need to increase our capacity by four times, i.e. 2,100 gigawatts,” Union Minister Manohar Lal stated, highlighting the scale of the challenge ahead. “This is not just about increasing capacity; it’s about reimagining our entire energy landscape.”

    The Union Minister emphasised the critical role of renewable energy in India’s future power mix. “We have set an ambitious target of 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030, effectively doubling our current capacity,” he said. This push towards green energy aligns with India’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by one billion tonnes by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

    Shri Manohar Lal praised the CEA for its pivotal role in shaping the sector’s future, citing the National Electricity Plan, which was launched at the session. “This plan will provide crucial guidance to state governments and investors, fostering a collaborative approach to sector development,” he noted.

    The National Electricity Plan (Transmission), developed in consultation with various stakeholders, outlines a comprehensive strategy to achieve the government’s energy transition goals. It details the transmission infrastructure required to support 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030, increasing to over 600 gigawatts by 2032. The plan incorporates innovative elements such as the integration of 10 gigawatts of offshore wind farms, 47 gigawatts of battery energy storage systems, and 30 GW of pumped storage plants. It also addresses the power needs of green hydrogen and green ammonia manufacturing hubs, and includes cross-border interconnections. With a planned addition of 190,000 circuit kilometres of transmission lines and 1,270 GPA of transformation capacity over the next decade, the plan presents an investment opportunity of over 9 lakh crore rupees in the transmission sector.

    The minister also addressed the challenges of integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid, emphasising the need for advanced storage solutions. “We are exploring innovative technologies in pump storage facilities and battery storage to ensure 24/7 power availability to our citizens,” the Union Minster explained.

    Recognising the transformative impact of rapid urbanisation and industrialisation on power demand, the government is focusing on grid infrastructure expansion and upgradation. The Union Minister stressed the importance of creating a skilled workforce to support this modernisation, stating, “We must develop a workforce capable of meeting the demands of a 21st-century energy system.”

    On occasion, Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, emphasised the need for meticulous planning to align the power sector with emerging priorities. He called for a swift transition towards a diverse and cleaner energy mix, driven by ambitious sustainability targets. “Significant investment will be needed in renewable technologies, energy storage solutions and grid modernisation,” Shri Naik stated. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Central Electricity Authority in shaping the sector’s transformation, noting its wide-ranging responsibilities from formulating national electricity plans to setting technical standards.  MoS stressed the importance of developing new skills, regulatory frameworks, and market structures to manage the evolving energy landscape, asserting that “electricity is not just a commodity, but a catalyst for growth, development and a sustainable future.”

    Among other speakers at the inaugural session, Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, outlined India’s roadmap for a modern, energy-efficient power sector, emphasizing India’s critical role in the vision of ONE SUN, ONE WORLD, ONE GRID for a sustainable future.

    He underscored the multifaceted nature of energy security, stating that it encompasses three critical elements: affordability, adequacy coupled with reliability, and sustainability. He further alluded to the recent G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, highlighting the ambitious targets set for the sector. “The G20 members have resolved to triple renewable energy capacity and double the rate of improvement in energy efficiency,” he noted. Looking ahead to COP29, the Secretary added, “We anticipate a requirement for a sixfold increase in storage capacity.” He also underlined the need for a comprehensive planning framework to meet demand optimally and securely while calling for the flexibilisation of Power Purchase Agreements and reduced power costs for consumers.

    Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, highlighted the critical link between water and power in driving India’s economic growth. She emphasized the need for sustainable energy solutions and the close collaboration between CEA and Central Water Commission in hydropower development for 2047.

    Shri Prashant Kumar Singh, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, highlighted India’s ambitious strides in renewable energy, focusing on solar, wind, and innovative green initiatives to power Viksit Bharat.

    Shri R.V. Shahi, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power highlighted the crucial role of financial planning and policy-making in India’s power sector growth and the steps needed for Viksit Bharat by 2047”.

    Shri Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson, CEA, presented a comprehensive roadmap for the power sector’s evolution, tracing its growth from a mere 1 GW peak demand at independence to now targeting to four times the capacity to 2053 GW by 2047. This ambitious plan includes a significant shift towards renewable energy, with targets of 1,200 gigawatts of solar and over 400 gigawatts of wind power by 2047. A key focus is on hydro pump storage plants, with capacity expected to surge from the current 4.7 gigawatts to 116 gigawatts. The plan addresses critical areas such as flexible operation of thermal and nuclear plants, skill development, research and development, financing for energy transition, and innovative solutions in transmission and distribution. He emphasised the need for a collaborative approach among all stakeholders to achieve the vision of a world-class Indian power sector by 2047, coinciding with the country’s centenary of independence.

    Shri Subhrakant Panda, Immediate Past President, FICCI and and Managing Director, Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys, said, “India’s power sector, now surplus with 450+ GW capacity, presents vast opportunities in the transition to clean energy by 2070. The expanding renewable energy sector offers promising growth prospects. Enhancing local manufacturing and R&D investment will open new avenues for innovation and industry development; while improving ease of business, extending ISTS waivers, and strengthening the transmission and power evacuation system will further boost sector growth, creating numerous opportunities for investors and businesses.”

    The conclave is being organised in collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, including FICCI and CBIP, who serve as the programme partners, among a host of other organisations, reflecting its industry-wide significance. 

    The CEA has unveiled its vision for the power sector’s development through 2047, emphasising sustainable growth, technological innovation, and meeting the challenges of a rapidly expanding economy.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: E-Office Implemented in 92 Attached/ Subordinate Offices and Autonomous Bodies covering about 6500 users as part of 100 Days agenda of the Government

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 6:09PM by PIB Delhi

    E-Office implemented by Government of India, with the objective of improving the Government functioning by inculcating more efficient, effective, transparent and standard office procedures. The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) is the nodal Department for implementation of e-Office.

    In the years 2019–2024, the adoption of e-Office gained significant momentum in the Central Secretariat with 37 lac files i.e., over 94 percent of files and receipts being handled electronically as e-Files and e-Receipts.  In the backdrop of the successful implementation of the e-Office platform in the Central Secretariat, Government has decided that e-Office will be implemented in all attached, subordinate offices and autonomous bodies of the Government of India as part of DARPG’s 100-days agenda of Government.

    133 attached, Subordinate offices and Autonomous Bodies were identified for implementation of e-Office after consultations with all Ministries/ Departments. DARPG as the Nodal Department,issued detailed guidelines for adoption of e-Office in attached, subordinate offices and autonomous bodies on 24th June 2024. The on-boarding roadmap and technical modalities were firmed up in inter-ministerial meetings with all Ministries/ Departments and NIC, which is the knowledge partner for implementation of e-Office.

    As a result of continuous efforts of DARPG and NIC, e-Office hasbeen rolled out in 92 Attached/ Subordinate Offices and Autonomous Bodies covering about 6500 users.  The details of organisations in which e-Office has been implemented under 100 Days Agenda of the Government are as follows:

    S.No.

    Ministry /Department

    Number  of Attached/Subordinate Office and  Autonomous bodies, where e-office has been implemented

    No. of Active e-Office

    Users
    1.  

    Ministry of Skill Development and

    Entrepreneurship

    3

    753
    1.  

    Department of  Food & Public Distribution

    14

    153
    1.  

    Department of Consumer Affairs

    10

    1395
    1.  

    Department of Atomic Energy

    1

    527
    1.  

    Department of Telecommunications

    1

    415
    1.  

    Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying

    1

    84
    1.  

    Ministry of Tourism

     

    21

    63
    1.  

    Ministry of AYUSH

    1

    19
    1.  

    Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs

     

    2

    18
    1.  

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

    1

    16
    1.  

    Department of Posts

     

    26

    1502
    1.  

    Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

    2

     

    On Deptt. instance
    1.  

    Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation

    1

    22
    1.  

    Department of Health & Family Welfare

    6

    978
    1.  

    Department     of  Chemicals & Petrochemicals       

    1

    475
    1.  

    Ministry of AYUSH

    1

    47

    Total

    92

    6467

     

    In the remaining 41 attached/ sub-ordinate offices and autonomous bodies of Central Government also, the process for rolling out e-Office is at an advanced stage.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 38 companies apply for PLI Scheme for White Goods (ACs and LED Lights) in the 3rd Round of Application Window

    Source: Government of India

    38 companies apply for PLI Scheme for White Goods (ACs and LED Lights) in the 3rd Round of Application Window 

    Major global and domestic companies commit investments worth Rs 4,121 Crore.

    43% of the new applicants are in the MSME sector

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 5:50PM by PIB Delhi

    The 3rd Round of on-line application window for PLI Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED lights) has attracted 38 responses with a  net committed investment of Rs 4121 crore ended on 12th October 2024 after being open for 90 days from 15th July, 2024. 43% of the new applicants are in the MSME sector which shows the confidence among MSMEs to become part of the value chain of manufacturing of components of ACs and LED Lights. The PLI scheme was launched by the Department for  Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade(DPIIT).

    The applicants include 8 existing beneficiaries of the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for White Goods (PLIWG) committing net incremental investment of Rs 1,285 crore. 30 new applicants have committed investment of Rs 2,836 crore proposing to manufacture varieties of critical components of ACs and LED Lights across India. Investments have been proposed across India spanning in 13 States including Jammu & Kashmir and Odisha and 49 new locations. Altogether, investments will be spread across 54 Districts in 18 States, at 174 locations. Manufacturing clusters are coming up at Noida-Greater Noida in UP, Neemrana and Bhiwari in Rajasthan, Aurangabad-Pune in Maharashtra, Sanad, Gujarat and Sri City in Andhra Pradesh. 6 AC manufacturers and 12 component manufacturers are in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, also  nicknamed as  the Cooling City. The Scheme has a healthy mix of multinational and domestic Companies. Five additional Foreign Companies are investing Rs 245 Crore apart form 15 existing companies investing Rs 2,287 Crore

    Altogether, the scheme is expected to bring in investment in the component manufacturing ecosystem of ACs and LED Lights industry to the tune of Rs 11,083 crore. and generate approx. 80,486 direct employment. The Scheme is expected to lead to total production of components of ACs and LEDs in India of about Rs 1,81,975 crore. 

    As regards to bifurcation between two segments of PLIWG Scheme i.e. ACs and LED Lights, 21 applicants have applied for manufacturing components of ACs with a committed investment of Rs 3,679 crore and 18 applicants for components of LED Lights with a committed investment of Rs 442 crore. In ACs segment, several investments have been proposed to manufacture High value intermediates of ACs i.e. Copper Tubes (Plain / Grooved), Aluminium Stock for Foils or Fins for heat exchangers and Compressors which account for almost 50% of Bill of material (BoM) for room Air conditioners. In addition to that applicants have proposed to manufacture control assemblies for IDU or ODU, Heat Exchangers, motors, and Sheet metal components and plastic moulded goods etc. Similarly, LED Lights, LED Chip packaging, LED Drivers, Heat Sinks, LED Engines, and LED Light Management Systems etc. will be manufactured in India.  Applications have been filed for production of components which are not manufactured in India presently with sufficient capacity.

    Several applicants are vendors for large manufacturers such as Daikin, Voltas, Blue Star and LG Electronics in the ACs sector. Similarly, several applicants are suppliers of LED components for large LED Lights manufacturers like Surya, Orient, Crompton Greaves, Signify and Halonix etc.

    The overwhelming response from the Industry to participate under the PLIWG Scheme is also attributed to several factors namely:

    • continuous interactions with the Industry through one-to-one meetings,

    • physical meetings with vendors at Sri City,

    • connect with the selected Ambassadors of India in foreign countries and

    • weekly meeting with PLI beneficiary jointly organised by DPIIT and Project management Agency of the Scheme M/s IFCI Ltd.

    The application window for the PLI Scheme for White Goods was reopened based on the appetite of the Industry to invest more under the Scheme, which is an outcome of the growing market and confidence generated due to manufacturing of key components of ACs and LED Lights in India under the PLIWG Scheme. The application window was opened on the same terms & conditions stipulated in PLIWG Scheme notified on 16.04.2021 and PLIWG Scheme Guidelines issued on 04.06.2021, as amended from time to time. In order to avoid any discrimination, both new applicants as well as existing beneficiaries of PLIWG who propose to invest more by way of switching over to higher target segment or their group companies applying under different target segment were eligible to apply subject to fulfilling the eligibility conditions as mentioned in the Para 5.6 of the Scheme Guidelines and adhering to investment schedule as mentioned in the Scheme Guidelines.

    In terms of Para 6.4 of the PLIWG Scheme and Para 9.2 of the Scheme Guidelines, applicants shall only be eligible for incentives for the remainder of the Scheme’s tenure. The applicant approved in the proposed third round would be eligible for PLI for maximum three years only in the case of new applicants and existing beneficiaries opting for investment period upto March 2023 seeking to move to higher investment category. For existing beneficiaries opting for investment period upto March 2022 seeking to move to higher investment category in the proposed third round would be eligible for PLI for maximum two years only. Existing beneficiaries opting for the above, in case they are not able to achieve the threshold investment or sales in a given year will be eligible for submitting the claims as per their original investment plan. However, this flexibility will be provided only once during the Scheme period.

    The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi had given approval to the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED lights) to be implemented over FY 2021-22 to FY 2028-29 with an outlay of Rs 6238 Crore on 7th April 2021. The Scheme was notified by DPIIT on 16.04.2021. The Scheme Guidelines were published on 4th June 2021.  The PLI Scheme on White Goods is designed to create a complete component ecosystem for Air Conditioners and LED Lights Industry in India and make India an integral part of the global supply chains. Domestic Value Addition is expected to grow from the initial level of 15-20% to 75-80%.

    So far, 66 applicants with committed investment of Rs 6,962 crore have been selected as beneficiaries under the PLI scheme. For manufacturing components of Air conditioners (ACs) companies like Daikin, Voltas, Hindalco, Amber, Pg Technoplast, Epack, Mettube, Lg, Blue Star, Johnson Hitachi, Panasonic, Haier, Midea, Havells, Ifb, Nidec, Lucas, Swaminathan, And Triton Valves etc. have invested. Similarly, in manufacturing components of LED lights, companies like Dixon, R K Lighting, Radhika Opto, Surya, Orient, Signify, Crompton Greaves, Stove Kraft, Cosmo Films, Halonix, Chenfeng, Fulham, Adsun, Inventronix And Luker etc. have invested. These investments will lead to manufacturing of components of Air Conditioners and LED Lights across the complete value chain including components which are not manufactured in India presently with sufficient quantity.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NPPA revises the ceiling prices of eight scheduled drugs to meet the twin objectives of availability and affordability

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NPPA revises the ceiling prices of eight scheduled drugs to meet the twin objectives of availability and affordability

    Most of these drugs are low-cost and generally used as first line treatment crucial to the public health programmes of the country

    Posted On: 14 OCT 2024 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The mandate of National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) is to ensure availability of essential drugs at affordable prices and ensuring affordability without jeopardizing access to such medicines. The essential drugs must remain available to address the public health needs of the country and their price regulation should not lead to a situation where these drugs become unavailable in the market.

    NPPA has been receiving applications from the manufacturers for upward revision of prices citing various reason like increased cost of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients; increase in the cost of production; change in exchange rate etc.; resulting in unviability in sustainable production and marketing of drugs. Companies have also applied for discontinuation of some of the formulations on account of their unviability.

    After detailed deliberations in the full Authority meeting held on 8th October, 2024, invoking extraordinary powers under Para 19 of the DPCO, 2013, and in larger public interest, NPPA has approved increase in the ceiling prices of eleven (11) scheduled formulations of eight (8) drugs by 50% of their current ceiling prices. Most of these drugs are low-cost and generally used as first line treatment crucial to the public health programmes of the country. These drugs are used for treatment of Asthma, Glaucoma, Thalassemia, Tuberculosis, mental health disorders, etc.

    Formulations for which Ceiling prices have been revised include: Benzyl Penicillin 10 lakh IU injection; Atropine injection 06.mg/ml; Streptomycin powder for injection 750 mg and 1000 mg; Salbutamol tablet 2 mg and 4 mg and respirator solution 5 mg/ml; Pilocarpine 2% drops; Cefadroxil tablet 500 mg, Desferrioxamine 500 mg for injection; and Lithium tablets 300 mg.

    Earlier such extraordinary powers have been invoked by NPPA in 2019 and in 2021 whereby price of 21 and 9 formulations respectively were increased by 50% so as to ensure continued availability of essential drugs for the public.

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