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Category: India

  • Amit Shah releases ‘The Emergency Diaries’, traces PM Modi’s underground role during Emergency

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday released a book titled “The Emergency Diaries – Years that Forged a Leader”, chronicling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s experiences and involvement during the 1975-77 Emergency.

    The launch, held in the capital on the occasion of ‘Savidhan Hatya Diwas’, was attended by several senior leaders, including Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.

    Describing the Emergency as “a dark chapter in Indian democracy”, Shah said the book offers a glimpse into Modi’s life as a 25-year-old underground worker of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), who participated in the resistance movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan and Nanaji Deshmukh.

    “The book details how Modi went into hiding, adopting multiple disguises — as a saint, a Sardarji, a hippie, an incense stick seller, a newspaper vendor — to avoid arrest and continue mobilising support,” Shah said. “He distributed secretly printed newspapers in markets and among students and women, reached out to families of those jailed under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), and helped arrange medical support.”

    Shah claimed the Emergency was imposed to protect dynastic politics and silence dissent, and framed Modi’s role as an early symbol of resistance to authoritarianism. “That same youth who went door-to-door to protect democracy is today strengthening its roots as Prime Minister,” he said.

    According to the Home Minister, the book is divided into five chapters — covering media censorship, state repression, the role of the Sangh and Jana Sangh, stories of Emergency victims, and the eventual return to public participation in governance.

    He urged young people to read the book, stressing that it would help them understand how a generation of activists resisted what he called “dictatorial ideas” and preserved the democratic framework.

  • MIL-OSI Canada: First Nations and Métis Organizations Receiving more than $107 Million in Gaming Payments in 2025-26

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 25, 2025

    Saskatchewan’s First Nations and Métis organizations are set to receive $107.4 million in gaming payments for the 2025-26 fiscal year with the strong performance of Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) casinos, SaskGaming casinos and the PlayNow.com online platform.

    Announced in the 2025-26 Provincial Budget, this reflects the province’s ongoing commitment to support economic, social, educational and cultural initiatives within Indigenous communities across the province.

    “The Gaming Framework Agreement ensures continued investment for First Nations and Métis communities, supporting vital programs and cultural initiatives throughout Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis, and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz said. “This is an increase of nearly $16.3 million over the 2024-25 budget, which will go into programs that help make Saskatchewan stronger.”

    The Ministry of Government Relations oversees the distribution of these funds in accordance with The 2002 Gaming Framework Agreement and The Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan Corporation Act. Payments are allocated to the First Nations Trust, Community Development Corporations and the Clarence Campeau Development Fund. 

    In the 2025-26 Provincial Budget, the Government of Saskatchewan committed $284.9 million in targeted funding for First Nations and Métis organizations, programs and supports. 

    For additional details about this year’s investments in First Nations and Métis communities, visit: saskatchewan.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • Mexico home shooting kills at least 10 including children

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 10 people were killed and more injured in a shooting at a home in the central Mexican city of Irapuato on Tuesday night, including children, authorities said.

    “It is an appalling multiple homicide and an investigation is being carried out,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said in a regular press conference on Wednesday morning, adding that children were among those killed.

    Security authorities said in a statement that they have launched an operation to find those responsible for the attack.

    Local media reported the shooting happened during a religious celebration.

    The attorney general’s office for Guanajuato, the central state where the attack took place, confirmed the attack.

    “According to preliminary data, 10 people lost their lives and several more were injured by firearm projectiles,” Irapuato’s civil security office said in a statement on social media.

    It added that the local government condemned the violence and expressed its solidarity with the victims, relatives and other citizens affected by “this cowardly act.”

    -Reuters

  • Mexico home shooting kills at least 10 including children

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 10 people were killed and more injured in a shooting at a home in the central Mexican city of Irapuato on Tuesday night, including children, authorities said.

    “It is an appalling multiple homicide and an investigation is being carried out,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said in a regular press conference on Wednesday morning, adding that children were among those killed.

    Security authorities said in a statement that they have launched an operation to find those responsible for the attack.

    Local media reported the shooting happened during a religious celebration.

    The attorney general’s office for Guanajuato, the central state where the attack took place, confirmed the attack.

    “According to preliminary data, 10 people lost their lives and several more were injured by firearm projectiles,” Irapuato’s civil security office said in a statement on social media.

    It added that the local government condemned the violence and expressed its solidarity with the victims, relatives and other citizens affected by “this cowardly act.”

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI USA: Entire Michigan Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Approve Disaster Declaration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    Today, Rep. Jack Bergman – alongside Senators Slotkin and Peters and Reps. Barrett, Dingell, Huizenga, James, McClain, McDonald-Rivet, Moolenaar, Scholten, Stevens, Thanedar, Tlaib, and Walberg – sent a bipartisan letter to President Donald J. Trump, urging him in the strongest possible terms to approve Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

    The Members wrote in part, “The unprecedented storm brought record levels of snow and freezing rain to thirteen counties and one federally recognized tribe, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Tens of thousands of residents were left without heat or power, prompting the State of Michigan to activate the Michigan National Guard and local jurisdictions to implement emergency response efforts.

    “Although substantial progress has been made in restoring power, heating homes, clearing roadways, and removing debris, the recovery process remains far from complete nearly three months later. State and local resources have been expended, and federal support is desperately needed to continue recovery efforts.

    “Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request has received strong bipartisan support across both chambers of Congress. On May 19, Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin, and Representative Bergman wrote to you in full support of her request, and on June 9, they followed up with a letter to Small Business Administrator Loeffler endorsing the Governor’s June 5 request for an administrative declaration of disaster.

    “The counties of Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Kalkaska, Mackinac, as well as the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, can afford to wait no longer. Though they responded swiftly, and with the help of the State, and have made meaningful strides toward recovery, they cannot adequately handle this burden alone.”

    John Kran, President & CEO, Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) noted, “In late March and early April, northern lower Michigan and part of the Upper Peninsula were hit with an unprecedented ice storm, impacting cooperative members across 12 counites. The State of Michigan’s May 16 request for a major disaster declaration is a critical step in helping our communities and cooperatives move forward after this historic event. Michigan’s electric cooperatives are incredibly grateful to Congressman Bergman, Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin and their House colleagues for strong, bipartisan support on this critical issue.”

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Emergency was imposed to protect power, not nation: Amit Shah

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday described June 25, 1975 — the day Emergency was imposed in India — as the “murder of the Constitution,” and said the nation must remember it not merely as a chapter in history, but as a warning for future generations.

    Speaking at an event in New Delhi to mark the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, now officially observed as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, Shah said democratic institutions were silenced and individual freedoms suppressed “to protect one leader’s hold on power.” He added that forgetting the Emergency would be a mistake, and that younger generations need to know how institutions were silenced and rights curtailed “in the name of national security.”

    “Usually, bad incidents should be forgotten. But when it comes to national life, such incidents should be remembered forever — so that they’re never repeated,” Shah said, addressing the event in New Delhi as chief guest.

    The event was also attended by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, among others.

    The home minister referred to the night of June 24, 1975, when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed a state of Emergency across India. He said the justification offered — a threat to national security — was a smokescreen to protect the Prime Minister’s hold on power.

    “On June 12, the Allahabad High Court had struck down the PM’s election. That same day, the Janata Morcha won in Gujarat. The Emergency was declared just days later. The world knows today — it was not national security that was in danger, it was the Prime Minister’s position,” Shah said.

    The Constitution, which had been carefully drafted over three years by Dr B R Ambedkar and others, was rendered meaningless by a single sentence: “The President has declared Emergency”, the home minister stressed.

    Detailing the measures taken during the Emergency, Shah cited the Shah Commission’s findings and said India had been turned into a prison. According to him, over 1.1 lakh political workers and social activists were jailed, 253 journalists arrested, 29 foreign correspondents expelled, and widespread censorship was enforced — even in Parliament.

    “All India Radio was censored. Electricity to newspaper offices was cut. Papers like The Indian Express and Jansatta protested by leaving editorial spaces blank,” Shah said, adding that “judges who ruled against the government were punished,” and that films, actors, and even songs were banned if they were seen as critical of the regime.

    Artists including Kishore Kumar, Dev Anand, and Manoj Kumar were targeted. Films such as Aandhi and Kissa Kursi Ka were banned. Parliamentary debates were censored, and the judiciary “brought under control,” he said.

    Shah said a Cabinet meeting was convened at 4 a.m. on June 25, without an agenda, to formalize the imposition of Emergency.

    “The mindset that emerged during that time — that the party is bigger than the nation, the family bigger than the party, and the individual bigger than the family — still poses a threat to democracy,” Shah said.

    Referring to the 1977 general election — in which the Congress was voted out and the Janata Party came to power — Shah said that was the first time in India’s history that a non-Congress party formed a government with an absolute majority.

    “That victory was not of a party but of Indian democracy. The people reminded us that the Constitution belongs to them, not those in power,” he said.

    In a veiled contrast with the past, Shah said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the idea of ‘Nation First’ has taken firm root. “Today, 1.4 billion Indians are working with resolve to make India No. 1 globally by 2047. This has been made possible by the sacrifices of those who resisted the Emergency and spent 19 months in jail,” he said.

    In 2024, the Centre issued a notification officially designating June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, to mark the declaration of Emergency — widely viewed as one of the most controversial and debated chapters in Indian political history.

    Source: PIB

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Unveils 2025 Bespoke AI Appliances in India; Debuts Innovative Bespoke AI Laundry Combo

    Source: Samsung

    From L – R: Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India ; John S.W. Park, Corporate Vice President, Digital Appliance Business, Samsung India; & JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia.
     
    Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today introduced its 2025 Bespoke AI appliance lineup, built on four distinct consumer benefits: Easy, Care, Save and Secure to enrich and simplify your lives with AI. These experiences are powered by Samsung’s new AI Home screen interface, Bixby voice assistant with two-way natural communication, Samsung Knox security, and seamless SmartThings connectivity, delivering hyper-personalised, energy-efficient, and secure smart home solutions for modern Indian households.
    At the heart of the new lineup is the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo, a category-defining innovation that sets a new standard for convenience and intelligent automation in home laundry care.
     
    The 2025 range expands Samsung’s AI Home ecosystem across key appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines. With intuitive touchscreen displays, upgraded voice intelligence, and inclusive accessibility features, the line-up offers a truly connected, easy-to-use, and secure smart home experience for all. The AI Home screen sits at the center of this innovation – a smart display and interaction hub that transforms home management. Built into select appliances, AI Home enables real-time appliance insights, control over connected appliances, entertainment, and even family communication – all from a single interface. With its user-friendly design, AI Home makes it easier than ever to unlock the full potential of Samsung’s Bespoke AI appliances.
     
    The upgraded Bixby voice assistant enhances control through voice commands and introduces new capabilities like Voice ID[1], which recognizes individual users and switches to their Samsung accounts for a personalized experience. Additionally, new SmartThings services like Family Care enhance home safety by sending alerts to family members in unusual situations such as when no activity has been detected at a scheduled time, offering peace of mind and proactive care.
     
    To bring its AI Home vision for 2025 to life, Samsung is focused on delivering a trusted, intelligent, and future-ready experience for users. A key part of this commitment is the integration of enhanced Samsung Knox security across a wide line-up, giving users the confidence to enjoy their AI-powered connected homes with complete peace of mind.
     
    Another major priority is future-proofing appliances. With Smart Forward, Samsung’s software update service via SmartThings, users can continue to receive the latest features and performance upgrades on their existing devices without needing to buy new ones.
     
    The Bespoke AI line-up is driven by four key values that directly benefit consumers: Easy, Save, Care, and Secure.
     

    Easy: Bespoke AI appliances now simplify your tasks by using AI and seamless connectivity to automate daily chores via AI Home, Bixby, and SmartThings. For example, AI Home enables automated routines, remote control, and real-time monitoring. Bixby allows users to ask detailed questions about appliances and control them using natural, two-way voice commands, without the need for a nearby phone or speaker.
    Save: Bespoke AI appliances are engineered to help consumers save energy and time. AI Energy Mode helps manage power consumption. AI Vision Inside in refrigerators tracks food items and expiry dates, suggesting recipes to avoid waste. AI Wash features on the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo and Top Load washers optimize cycles based on soil levels and load types, saving valuable time and water.
    Care: Bixby assists with appliance care and maintenance alerts, while SmartThings notifies users of any motion, smoke, or leaks detected through its’ connected 3rd party devices. Bespoke AI ensures peace of mind with features such as inactivity alerts at a loved one’s home, helping families feel reassured from afar.
    Secure: Samsung Knox ensures multi-layered protection with a visualized dashboard across appliances and smartphones. Five Samsung products including the Bespoke AI Family Hub and Bespoke AI Laundry Combo have been verified to level ‘Diamond’ from UL Solutions’ IoT Security Ratings.

     
    “We are proud to bring the 2025 Bespoke AI digital appliances line-up to India, where innovation meets intention. These are not just smart appliances; they are intuitive companions built for Indian homes. Whether it is a child exploring the refrigerator via AI Vision Inside, a working couple managing laundry remotely, or an elderly user interacting with the appliance, we have designed every touchpoint to be personal, seamless and secure. With a strong focus on the four core values: Easy, Save, Care, and Secure, our vision is to deliver interconnected AI appliances that seamlessly integrate into the household reflecting a forward-thinking approach to innovation that is quickly becoming a reality,” said JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia
     
    “With the 2025 range, we are offering appliances that understand lifestyles, protect personal data, and deliver real-world convenience with AI Home. Whether it’s through AI Vision Inside, Knox-powered security, or inclusive design, our new line-up is a powerful step towards homes that are truly smart, safe, and human-centric. We are confident our Bespoke AI appliances will revolutionize modern Indian households so that consumers ca experience the comfort of seamless smart home living,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India.

    The 2025 Bespoke AI Home Appliance Line up

    Bespoke AI Laundry Combo All-in-One: The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is a space-saving, ultra-capacity all-in-one appliance that seamlessly combines washing and drying in a single unit. It eliminates the hassle of transferring clothes between machines, allowing users to save time and prevent odours from lingering after wash cycles. Powered by AI Wash & Dry[2], the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo senses laundry weight, fabric type, and soil levels[3], automatically adjusting water, detergent, wash time, and drying conditions for each load. This ensures optimal cleaning performance and personalized laundry experience without the guesswork.

     
    The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo features advanced heat pump drying technology that gently and efficiently dries clothes at lower temperatures by recycling warm air. The heat pump system optimizes heat transfer and reduces drying time by up to 60%[4] and energy consumption by up to 75%[5], while reducing shrinkage and fabric damage. With the Super Speed cycle, users can wash and dry a load in just 98 minutes.
     
    Its 7-inch AI Home LCD display provides an intuitive interface for cycle selection, monitoring, and control, delivering personalized suggestions based on usage patterns and seasonal habits. The display also shows energy and water consumption reports and offers a full view of connected appliances at home via Map View. The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is also verified to level ‘Diamond’ from UL Solutions, highlighting Samsung’s industry-leading device security.
     
    The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo comes with upgraded Bixby, which understands complex, conversational voice commands. Additionally, the Flex Auto Dispense System is able to store detergent for up to 32 loads[6], while the Auto Open Door automatically releases humid air after a cycle ends to prevent damp smells and enhance freshness.
     

    Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Home: The new Bespoke AI Refrigerator is equipped with AI Vision Inside, which can recognize up to 37 fresh food items, allowing users to remotely view the interior, track expiry dates, and receive smart recipe suggestions. It can also recognize up to 50 pre-saved processed food items, largely expanding the variety of items it can manage. The new refrigerator comes with a 9-inch AI Home Display, which serves as a personalized dashboard for notes, schedules, entertainment, and full appliance control, transforming the refrigerator into the central hub of the smart kitchen. Featuring an Auto Open Door for effortless access, it is designed for convenience and better organisation. It also provides easy hands-free control by just using your voice to control settings, select functions or ask questions through Bixby. The refrigerator also includes access to SmartThings Energy which can help monitor your energy consumption in real-time

     

    The Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator line-up features improved smart capabilities with AI Energy Mode, SmartThings Home Care and Wi-Fi connectivity, designed to offer remote access, intelligent energy savings and real-time maintenance updates via the SmartThings app. This range delivers comprehensive cooling tailored to meet consumer needs, such as longer freshness with Twin Cooling Plus technology, everyday flexibility with Convertible 5-in-1 Modes, and enhanced hygiene with Active Fresh Filter+ eliminating up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria.

     

    Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner: The Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner offers Customized Cooling, AI Fast & Comfort Cooling, and Quick Remote, making temperature control effortless and intuitive. With AI Energy Mode, the system intelligently adjusts compressor speed based on room temperature and consumers’ usage patterns, helping reduce energy consumption by up to 30%[7]. The WindFree technology delivers comfortable cooling through 23,000 micro-holes without cold drafts, ensuring consistent, gentle airflow without direct blasts of air, while the AI engine learns usage behavior to continuously enhance efficiency and comfort.

     

    Bespoke AI Top Load Washer: Equipped with AI Wash[8], these machines intelligently detect the fabric type and weight to automatically recommend the optimal settings for each load. Leveraging an advanced AI algorithm, the cycle adjusts key parameters—such as water level, agitation intensity, and wash and rinse duration—delivering up to 25% more fabric care[9]. Building on this technology, features like Ecobubble, Hygiene Steam & Stain Wash (with inbuilt heater), Super Speed, AI Energy Mode, and SmartThings integration, AI VRT+ further enhance the laundry experience.

     
    Smarter, Safer, More Inclusive Living
    The 2025 Bespoke AI digital appliances range is a testament to inclusive, human-centric design. With universal design at its core, the line-up ensures technology adapts to users—not the other way around. Features like the expanded Auto Open Door function across key appliances, accessible control panels, screen readers, enlarged fonts, and Bixby’s Voice ID support make operation easier for users with limited mobility or visual impairments. Built-in microphones and voice-based alerts further enable a seamless, easy to use experience.
     
    Price & Availability
    Samsung’s 2025 Bespoke AI appliance range is now available across leading online and offline retail channels, including Samsung Exclusive Stores, Samsung.com as well as major e-commerce platforms.
     
    The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is priced at INR 319000, offering all-in-one washing and drying convenience with smart automation. The Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner starts at INR 36000, while the Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator is available from INR 44000 onwards. For those seeking smart laundry solutions, the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer starts at INR 24500 for the 8kg model. The Bespoke AI French Door Refrigerator with integrated AI Home display will be available from July onwards.
     
     
    [1] Each user must register for a Samsung Account on screen appliances in advance. Voice ID should be registered either on the refrigerator, or Galaxy mobile devices and then transferred to the refrigerator. (Limited to Galaxy S24 and subsequent models where Voice ID can be registered.)
    [2] AI Wash & Dry’s detection and sensing capabilities are based on our deep learning models trained using predefined set of data and may yield inaccurate or incorrect results. New datasets may be introduced to our learning models from time to time to enhance its accuracy
    [3] A turbidity sensor operates for all weights, while fabric sensing operates for 8lbs and under. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.
    [4] Based on internal testing of the cycle time when drying an IEC 3kg load with Cotton cycle. Results: BESPOKE AI Laundry Combo model with a heat pump (WD21B6400KV) = 78 minutes vs. WD21B6400KV/** combo model with a condenser  = 202 minutes, which is a reduction of 60%. Individual results may vary based on actual load contents.
    [5] Based on internal testing and verified by KATRI (Korea Apparel Testing Research Institute) of the cycle energy consumption when drying an IEC 3kg load with Cotton cycle.
    Results: BESPOKE AI Laundry Combo model with a heat pump (WD21B6400KV) = 0.8kWh vs.  WD21B6400KV/** combo model with a condenser = 3.6kWh, which is a reduction of 75%. Individual results may vary based on actual load contents.
    [6] Expected number of loads: Detergent compartment can hold general detergent for up to 17 loads. Flex compartment can hold one of the following: softener for up to 19 loads, general detergent for up to 15 loads or specialty detergent for up to 36 loads.
    [7] The testing was conducted in Samsung’s 132m² residential environment laboratory at a temperature of 35°C/24°C (dry bulb/wet bulb, KS C 9306: air conditioner). Results provided to and interpreted by Intertek, comparing the power consumption between AI Energy mode on and off in AI Comfort mode on the AR07D9181HZN model. Actual savings may vary by usage patterns and environment and the set temperature may increase by up to 2 degrees. Requires the use of the SmartThings App and a Samsung account.
    [8] Fabric sensing uses an AI algorithm to sense 3 fabric types (Normal, Delicates, Towels) for loads up to 3kg. Mixed fabrics may reduce detection accuracy. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.
    [9] Based on internal testing with WA80F/24, using IEC 3kg load, comparing a normal cycle. Results may vary depending on the actual usage conditions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow: Inspiring Young Innovators in Maharashtra and Gujarat

    Source: Samsung

     
    From the dynamic classrooms of Pune to the imaginative spaces of Kolhapur and the inquisitive minds of Vadodara, the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow roadshows have sparked a surge of creativity and purpose across Maharashtra and Gujarat.
     
    Launched on April 29, 2025, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a pan-India competition that empowers students with tools, mentorship, and resources to address real-world challenges through technology. With guidance from Samsung leaders, IIT Delhi faculty, and support for prototyping, the programme awards INR 1 crore to the top four teams. However, its true essence lies in motivating young minds to dream ambitiously and act decisively.
     
    Recent roadshows at DPS School and Munsukhbhai Kothari School in Pune, SPSMBH College of Architecture and NIT Sabhagruh in Kolhapur, and New Era School and Anand Vidya Vihar School in Vadodara highlighted the programme’s transformative influence.
     
    In Pune, Aakash, a class 11 student, arrived with a vague concept but left with a clear vision for sustainable packaging. “Samsung Solve for Tomorrow showed me I can turn this idea into reality,” he expressed.
     
    In Vadodara, Rohan from Anand Vidya Vihar designed wireframes for a mobile app aimed at making education accessible for remote learners. “I want to ensure children like my cousin aren’t left behind,” he shared.
     
    In Kolhapur, architecture student Ishan found inspiration in leveraging technology to revive local crafts. “It’s about connecting the past with the future,” he explained.
     
    Throughout the sessions, students proposed innovative solutions — from smart agriculture tools to mental health platforms and affordable solar innovations. What united them was a shared commitment to driving change and a belief in their potential.
     
    “These ideas are driven by empathy,” remarked a teacher at the Pune event. “They’re creating solutions to help others, not for recognition.”
     
    The roadshows introduced design thinking, encouraging students to question, empathise, define, and prototype. It was about understanding the ‘why’ behind the ‘what.’
     
    As Samsung Solve for Tomorrow continues to grow, its impact is evident: it’s not just fostering innovation but shaping a future where classroom ideas can transform the world.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • CBSE to hold Class 10 Board exams twice a year from 2026

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will conduct Class 10 board exams twice a year starting from the 2026 academic session, allowing students to improve their scores in up to three subjects.

    The move, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is aimed at reducing exam stress and offering students more flexibility.

    According to an official circular issued by CBSE Controller of Examinations Sanyam Bhardwaj, all students must appear for the first board exam in mid-February. Those who wish to improve their scores can take the second exam in May. The first set of results will be announced in April, followed by the second in June.

    Students will have the option to retain the better score in each subject. Internal assessments will only be held once, before the first exam.

    Special provisions have been made for sportspersons, students from winter-bound schools, and children with special needs, allowing them to choose the most suitable exam session.

    CBSE had first proposed the two-exam format in February and sought feedback from stakeholders. While the new system will begin for Class 10 in 2026, CBSE has indicated that a similar plan could be considered for Class 12 as well.

    The reform is expected to ease academic pressure, reduce dependency on coaching centres and encourage a more inclusive and student-centric approach to education.

    IANS

  • MIL-Evening Report: Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University

    Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends?

    I am the director of the Happiness Lab at Drexel University, where I also teach a course on happiness. The Happiness Lab is a think tank that investigates the ingredients that contribute to people’s happiness.

    Often, my students ask me something along the lines of, “Dr. Z, tell us one thing that will make us happier.”

    As a first step, I advise them to spend more time outside.

    Achieving lasting and sustainable happiness is more complicated. Research on the happiest countries in the world and the places where people live the longest, known as Blue Zones, shows a common thread: Residents feel they are part of something larger than themselves, such as a community or a city.

    So if you’re living in a metropolis like Philadelphia, where, incidentally, the iconic pursuit of happiness charge was ratified in the Declaration of Independence, I believe urban citizenship – that is, forming an identity with your urban surroundings – should also be on your list.

    The Greek island of Ikaria in the Aegean Sea is a Blue Zone famous for its residents’ longevity.
    Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Safety, social connection, beauty

    Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychoanalyst, wrote extensively about the relationship between our internal world and our external environment.

    He believed that this relationship was crucial to our psychological well-being.

    More recent research in neuroscience and functional imaging has revealed a vast, intricate and complex neurological architecture underlying our psychological perception of a place. Numerous neurological pathways and functional loops transform a complex neuropsychological process into a simple realization: I am happy here!

    For example, a happy place should feel safe.

    The country of Croatia, a tourist haven for its beauty and culinary delights, is also one of the top 20 safest countries globally, according to the 2025 Global Peace Index.

    The U.S. ranks 128th.

    The availability of good food and drink can also be a significant factor in creating a happy place.

    However, according to American psychologist Abraham Maslow, a pioneer in the field of positive psychology, the opportunity for social connectivity, experiencing something meaningful and having a sense of belonging is more crucial.

    Furthermore, research on happy places suggests that they are beautiful. It should not come as a surprise that the happiest places in the world are also drop-dead gorgeous, such as the Indian Ocean archipelago of Mauritius, which is the happiest country in Africa, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report from the University of Oxford and others.

    Happy places often provide access to nature and promote active lifestyles, which can help relieve stress. The residents of the island of Ikaria in Greece, for example, one of the original Blue Zones, demonstrate high levels of physical activity and social interaction.

    A map of 28 happy places in Philadelphia, based on 243 survey responses from Drexel students.
    The Happiness Lab at Drexel University

    Philly Happiness Map

    I asked my undergraduate psychology students at Drexel, many of whom come from other cities, states and countries, to pick one place in Philadelphia where they feel happy.

    From the 243 student responses, the Happiness Lab curated 28 Philly happy places, based on how frequently the places were endorsed and their accessibility.

    Philadelphia’s founder, William Penn, would likely approve that Rittenhouse Square Park and three other public squares – Logan, Franklin and Washington – were included. These squares were vital to Penn’s vision of landscaped public parks to promote the health of the mind and body by providing “salubrious spaces similar to the private garden.” They are beautiful and approachable, serving as “places to rest, take a pause, work, or read a book,” one student told us.

    Places such as the Philadelphia Zoo, Penn’s Landing and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are “joyful spots that are fun to explore, and one can also take your parents along if need be,” as another student described.

    The Athenaeum of Philadelphia, a historic library with eclectic programming, feels to one student like “coming home, a perfect third place.”

    Some students mentioned happy places that are less known. These include tucked-away gardens such as the John F. Collings Park at 1707 Chestnut St., the rooftop Cira Green at 129 S. 30th St. and the James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond at 433 S. University Ave.

    The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond in West Philadelphia is an urban oasis.
    M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

    My students said these are small, unexpected spots that provide an excellent opportunity for a quiet, peaceful break, to be present, whether enjoyed alone or with a friend. I checked them out and I agree.

    The students also mentioned places I had never heard of even though I’ve lived in the city for over 30 years.

    The “cat park” at 526 N. Natrona St. in Mantua is a quiet little park with an eclectic personality and lots of friendly cats.

    Mango Mango Dessert at 1013 Cherry St. in Chinatown, which is a frequently endorsed happiness spot among the students because of its “bustling streets, lively atmosphere and delicious food,” is a perfect pit stop for mango lovers. And Maison Sweet, at 2930 Chestnut St. in University City, is a casual bakery and cafe “where you may end up staying longer than planned,” one student shared.

    I find that Philly’s happy places, as seen through the eyes of college students, tend to offer a space for residents to take time out from their day to pause, reset, relax and feel more connected and in touch with the city.

    Happiness principals are universal, yet our own journeys are very personal. Philadelphians across the city may have their own list of happy places. There are really no right or wrong answers. If you don’t have a personal happy space, just start exploring and you may be surprised what you will find, including a new sense of happiness.

    See the full Philly Happiness Map list here, and visit the exhibit at the W.W. Hagerty Library at Drexel University to learn more.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

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

    – ref. Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest – https://theconversation.com/philly-psychology-students-map-out-local-landmarks-and-hidden-destinations-where-they-feel-happiest-258790

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University

    Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends?

    I am the director of the Happiness Lab at Drexel University, where I also teach a course on happiness. The Happiness Lab is a think tank that investigates the ingredients that contribute to people’s happiness.

    Often, my students ask me something along the lines of, “Dr. Z, tell us one thing that will make us happier.”

    As a first step, I advise them to spend more time outside.

    Achieving lasting and sustainable happiness is more complicated. Research on the happiest countries in the world and the places where people live the longest, known as Blue Zones, shows a common thread: Residents feel they are part of something larger than themselves, such as a community or a city.

    So if you’re living in a metropolis like Philadelphia, where, incidentally, the iconic pursuit of happiness charge was ratified in the Declaration of Independence, I believe urban citizenship – that is, forming an identity with your urban surroundings – should also be on your list.

    The Greek island of Ikaria in the Aegean Sea is a Blue Zone famous for its residents’ longevity.
    Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Safety, social connection, beauty

    Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychoanalyst, wrote extensively about the relationship between our internal world and our external environment.

    He believed that this relationship was crucial to our psychological well-being.

    More recent research in neuroscience and functional imaging has revealed a vast, intricate and complex neurological architecture underlying our psychological perception of a place. Numerous neurological pathways and functional loops transform a complex neuropsychological process into a simple realization: I am happy here!

    For example, a happy place should feel safe.

    The country of Croatia, a tourist haven for its beauty and culinary delights, is also one of the top 20 safest countries globally, according to the 2025 Global Peace Index.

    The U.S. ranks 128th.

    The availability of good food and drink can also be a significant factor in creating a happy place.

    However, according to American psychologist Abraham Maslow, a pioneer in the field of positive psychology, the opportunity for social connectivity, experiencing something meaningful and having a sense of belonging is more crucial.

    Furthermore, research on happy places suggests that they are beautiful. It should not come as a surprise that the happiest places in the world are also drop-dead gorgeous, such as the Indian Ocean archipelago of Mauritius, which is the happiest country in Africa, according to the 2025 World Happiness Report from the University of Oxford and others.

    Happy places often provide access to nature and promote active lifestyles, which can help relieve stress. The residents of the island of Ikaria in Greece, for example, one of the original Blue Zones, demonstrate high levels of physical activity and social interaction.

    A map of 28 happy places in Philadelphia, based on 243 survey responses from Drexel students.
    The Happiness Lab at Drexel University

    Philly Happiness Map

    I asked my undergraduate psychology students at Drexel, many of whom come from other cities, states and countries, to pick one place in Philadelphia where they feel happy.

    From the 243 student responses, the Happiness Lab curated 28 Philly happy places, based on how frequently the places were endorsed and their accessibility.

    Philadelphia’s founder, William Penn, would likely approve that Rittenhouse Square Park and three other public squares – Logan, Franklin and Washington – were included. These squares were vital to Penn’s vision of landscaped public parks to promote the health of the mind and body by providing “salubrious spaces similar to the private garden.” They are beautiful and approachable, serving as “places to rest, take a pause, work, or read a book,” one student told us.

    Places such as the Philadelphia Zoo, Penn’s Landing and the Philadelphia Museum of Art are “joyful spots that are fun to explore, and one can also take your parents along if need be,” as another student described.

    The Athenaeum of Philadelphia, a historic library with eclectic programming, feels to one student like “coming home, a perfect third place.”

    Some students mentioned happy places that are less known. These include tucked-away gardens such as the John F. Collings Park at 1707 Chestnut St., the rooftop Cira Green at 129 S. 30th St. and the James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond at 433 S. University Ave.

    The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park and BioPond in West Philadelphia is an urban oasis.
    M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

    My students said these are small, unexpected spots that provide an excellent opportunity for a quiet, peaceful break, to be present, whether enjoyed alone or with a friend. I checked them out and I agree.

    The students also mentioned places I had never heard of even though I’ve lived in the city for over 30 years.

    The “cat park” at 526 N. Natrona St. in Mantua is a quiet little park with an eclectic personality and lots of friendly cats.

    Mango Mango Dessert at 1013 Cherry St. in Chinatown, which is a frequently endorsed happiness spot among the students because of its “bustling streets, lively atmosphere and delicious food,” is a perfect pit stop for mango lovers. And Maison Sweet, at 2930 Chestnut St. in University City, is a casual bakery and cafe “where you may end up staying longer than planned,” one student shared.

    I find that Philly’s happy places, as seen through the eyes of college students, tend to offer a space for residents to take time out from their day to pause, reset, relax and feel more connected and in touch with the city.

    Happiness principals are universal, yet our own journeys are very personal. Philadelphians across the city may have their own list of happy places. There are really no right or wrong answers. If you don’t have a personal happy space, just start exploring and you may be surprised what you will find, including a new sense of happiness.

    See the full Philly Happiness Map list here, and visit the exhibit at the W.W. Hagerty Library at Drexel University to learn more.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia.

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

    – ref. Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest – https://theconversation.com/philly-psychology-students-map-out-local-landmarks-and-hidden-destinations-where-they-feel-happiest-258790

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Bazaarvoice launches the new Intelligent Trust Mark for authentic ratings and reviews

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bazaarvoice, Inc., the leading platform for full-funnel authentic user-generated content (UGC) and social commerce solutions, today released the Intelligent Trust Mark, an updated, smarter version of the original Trust Mark, launched in 2013. The Intelligent Trust Mark, a visual indicator of review authenticity, has been modernized for today’s threats facing brand authenticity, including AI-generated content, fake reviews, and deceptive practices. 

    “As AI-generated content and misinformation continue to pervade the internet, shoppers today are more discerning and less trusting than ever,” said Ananda Chakravarty, VP Research, Retail at IDC. “Consumers are actively looking for reassurance that what they see is real, making trust signals and content verification key parts of the shopping experience. Brands who adopt trust marks will be paid back with customer loyalty, conversions, and engagement.”

    According to Bazaarvoice research, 75% of consumers report they are concerned about fake reviews, as fewer than a third (31%) are confident in their ability to differentiate if a product or service review was written by an AI or an actual human being. That’s where the Intelligent Trust Mark fits in. When asked if they would have confidence in a ‘trust signal’ that shows that if an independent third party verified each rating and review, 73% said they’d trust it. That trust drives purchase intent, as 81% of consumers said they would be more likely to ‘purchase from a website that has review content badged with a trust mark than a website that does not.’

    Along with a new design, the improved Intelligent Trust Mark:

    • Signals stronger protection, including the new shield design and full Bazaarvoice name, based on Bazaarvoice’s research findings around consumers’ trust in third-party validation.
    • Evaluates both hosted and syndicated reviews, offering a more comprehensive view of authentic content. This means consumers can feel confident that all reviews within a product display page (PDP) meet Bazaarvoice’s authenticity standards, not just those submitted directly on the site.
    • Is available to clients across more than 100 million qualifying PDPs supported by Bazaarvoice at launch.
    • Automatically detects and dynamically displays on brand and retailer PDPs to streamline Intelligent Trust Mark enablement, eliminating the need for manual review, saving time, and ensuring faster and more consistent application.
    • Builds on Bazaarvoice’s robust fraud detection capabilities bolstered by the breadth of our unparalleled retail network that supports 2.3 billion shopping sessions per month, allowing for faster pattern recognition and continuous optimization across the entire UGC ecosystem. 

    “The Intelligent Trust Mark isn’t just about protecting consumer trust – it also safeguards businesses and the future of e-commerce itself,” said Marissa Jones, SVP of Product at Bazaarvoice. “When bad actors use AI to create and spread fake content, it is then ingested by large language models and search engines and served back to consumers. The Intelligent Trust Mark combats this misinformation loop by giving brands a powerful, visible signal that their UGC is real and reliable.”

    To learn more about Bazaarvoice’s work on Authenticity and the Intelligent Trust Mark, visit https://www.bazaarvoice.com/Authenticity/ 

    About Bazaarvoice
    Bazaarvoice is reshaping how brands and retailers connect with consumers by putting the authentic consumer voice first. With an end-to-end, commerce-empowered omni-channel content solutions and analytics platform, Bazaarvoice helps 14,000+ brands and retailers inform consumer decisions consistently and at scale at every stage of the shopper journey, on every platform where shoppers live. 2.5B shoppers use the Bazaarvoice Network on a monthly basis.

    Founded in 2005, Bazaarvoice is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and India. For more information, visit www.bazaarvoice.com

    Media Contact
    Lauren Venticinque
    Lauren.venticinque@bazaarvoice.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bazaarvoice launches the new Intelligent Trust Mark for authentic ratings and reviews

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bazaarvoice, Inc., the leading platform for full-funnel authentic user-generated content (UGC) and social commerce solutions, today released the Intelligent Trust Mark, an updated, smarter version of the original Trust Mark, launched in 2013. The Intelligent Trust Mark, a visual indicator of review authenticity, has been modernized for today’s threats facing brand authenticity, including AI-generated content, fake reviews, and deceptive practices. 

    “As AI-generated content and misinformation continue to pervade the internet, shoppers today are more discerning and less trusting than ever,” said Ananda Chakravarty, VP Research, Retail at IDC. “Consumers are actively looking for reassurance that what they see is real, making trust signals and content verification key parts of the shopping experience. Brands who adopt trust marks will be paid back with customer loyalty, conversions, and engagement.”

    According to Bazaarvoice research, 75% of consumers report they are concerned about fake reviews, as fewer than a third (31%) are confident in their ability to differentiate if a product or service review was written by an AI or an actual human being. That’s where the Intelligent Trust Mark fits in. When asked if they would have confidence in a ‘trust signal’ that shows that if an independent third party verified each rating and review, 73% said they’d trust it. That trust drives purchase intent, as 81% of consumers said they would be more likely to ‘purchase from a website that has review content badged with a trust mark than a website that does not.’

    Along with a new design, the improved Intelligent Trust Mark:

    • Signals stronger protection, including the new shield design and full Bazaarvoice name, based on Bazaarvoice’s research findings around consumers’ trust in third-party validation.
    • Evaluates both hosted and syndicated reviews, offering a more comprehensive view of authentic content. This means consumers can feel confident that all reviews within a product display page (PDP) meet Bazaarvoice’s authenticity standards, not just those submitted directly on the site.
    • Is available to clients across more than 100 million qualifying PDPs supported by Bazaarvoice at launch.
    • Automatically detects and dynamically displays on brand and retailer PDPs to streamline Intelligent Trust Mark enablement, eliminating the need for manual review, saving time, and ensuring faster and more consistent application.
    • Builds on Bazaarvoice’s robust fraud detection capabilities bolstered by the breadth of our unparalleled retail network that supports 2.3 billion shopping sessions per month, allowing for faster pattern recognition and continuous optimization across the entire UGC ecosystem. 

    “The Intelligent Trust Mark isn’t just about protecting consumer trust – it also safeguards businesses and the future of e-commerce itself,” said Marissa Jones, SVP of Product at Bazaarvoice. “When bad actors use AI to create and spread fake content, it is then ingested by large language models and search engines and served back to consumers. The Intelligent Trust Mark combats this misinformation loop by giving brands a powerful, visible signal that their UGC is real and reliable.”

    To learn more about Bazaarvoice’s work on Authenticity and the Intelligent Trust Mark, visit https://www.bazaarvoice.com/Authenticity/ 

    About Bazaarvoice
    Bazaarvoice is reshaping how brands and retailers connect with consumers by putting the authentic consumer voice first. With an end-to-end, commerce-empowered omni-channel content solutions and analytics platform, Bazaarvoice helps 14,000+ brands and retailers inform consumer decisions consistently and at scale at every stage of the shopper journey, on every platform where shoppers live. 2.5B shoppers use the Bazaarvoice Network on a monthly basis.

    Founded in 2005, Bazaarvoice is headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and India. For more information, visit www.bazaarvoice.com

    Media Contact
    Lauren Venticinque
    Lauren.venticinque@bazaarvoice.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: REPORT: Energy Storage Market Continues Strong Growth in Q1 2025

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: REPORT: Energy Storage Market Continues Strong Growth in Q1 2025

    HOUSTON/WASHINGTON, D.C. June 25, 2025 — According to the new U.S. Energy Storage Monitor developed by Wood Mackenzie and the American Clean Power Association (ACP), the American energy storage market experienced record growth in Q1 2025—amidst current policy uncertainty.
    The U.S. energy storage market added more than 2 GW across all segments in Q1 2025, marking the highest Q1 on record. The utility-scale segment led the way with more than 1.5 GW of new capacity, representing a significant 57% increase compared to Q1 2024.
    “Surging energy demand is putting the electric grid under strain. The energy storage market is responding to help keep the lights on and support this unprecedented growth in an affordable and reliable way,” said John Hensley, ACP SVP of Markets and Policy Analysis. “Policy uncertainty is now one of the most significant risks that remains on the horizon as we tackle a balanced approach to allowing our economy to expand while maintaining the energy reliability that Americans deserve.”
    New horizons in the market
    The report shows there is a growing appetite across the country for deployment of grid-scale energy storage, as utilities, regulators, and communities further integrate the technology into their resource planning. In Q1 of 2025, states such as Indiana highlighted the geographic diversification that continues to take place as the market expands beyond early adopters such as Texas and California.
    The growing market in Indiana is made possible due to factors such as land availability and clear state permitting guidelines.

    Indiana added 256 MW of new storage to the grid in Q1 2025, effectively quadrupling its operational storage capacity.
    Indiana has more than 10 GW of new storage active in the interconnection queue—the fifth largest storage queue in the country.

    “We’re now seeing significant deployment of energy storage resources in emerging markets like Indiana, while states across the Southwest like Nevada and Arizona continue to expand their energy storage portfolio,” said ACP Vice President of Energy Storage, Noah Roberts. “Energy storage was the second most deployed resource in Q1 2025, demonstrating its unique ability to be quickly built to address critical reliability needs.”
    The residential storage market also saw significant year-over-year (YoY) growth, installing a record-breaking 458 MW in Q1. California and Puerto Rico accounted for 74% of this growth, while new markets like Illinois are beginning to emerge.
    A moment of policy uncertaintyThe total 5-year utility-scale capacity forecast remains strong. However, the segment is at risk for a potential 29% contraction in 2026 due to policy uncertainty.
    The community-scale, commercial, and industrial (CCI) segment has seen a 42% reduction in its five-year outlook, struggling with tariff uncertainty and slower-than-anticipated transition to NEM 3.0 projects in California.
    The report cautions that potential changes to current tax credits could significantly impact the industry’s overall growth. If access to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is severely reduced as proposed in the reconciliation bill passed by the House, it could lead to a 27% reduction in buildout over the forecast period. (Note: this report was developed before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee released its version of the reconciliation bill on June 16.)
    Distributed storage would be the most impacted segment, with a potential 46% drop from the base case over the next 5 years. Utility-scale installations would decrease by 16 GW over the next 5 years if the tax provisions are changed.
    In the near term, the report projects that 15 GW/49 GWh of energy storage capacity will be installed across all segments in 2025. The utility-scale segment is expected to grow 22% YoY in 2025.
    As the market evolves, continued innovation, supportive policies, and strategic planning will be crucial to navigate the changing landscape and capitalize on the immense potential of energy storage in the U.S. energy transformation.
    “The Q1 2025 results demonstrate the demand for energy storage in the US to serve a grid with both growing renewables and growing load. However, the industry stands at a crossroads, with potential policy changes threatening to disrupt this momentum,” said Allison Weis, Global Head of Energy Storage at Wood Mackenzie. “It’s crucial that policymakers understand the importance of stable, supportive policies for the continued expansion of energy storage.”
    Purchase the full report at ACP’s website.
    ###
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    About Wood Mackenzie
    Wood Mackenzie is the global insight business for renewables, energy and natural resources. Driven by data. Powered by people. In the middle of an energy revolution, businesses and governments need reliable and actionable insight to lead the transition to a sustainable future. That’s why we cover the entire supply chain with unparalleled breadth and depth, backed by over 50 years’ experience in natural resources. Today, our team of over 2,000 experts operate across 30 global locations, inspiring customers’ decisions through real-time analytics, consultancy, events and thought leadership. Together, we deliver the insight they need to separate risk from opportunity and make bold decisions when it matters most. For more information, visit woodmac.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • India’s economy resilient amid global uncertainties: RBI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s economy remains resilient despite heightened global uncertainties, with high-frequency indicators for May pointing to sustained growth across industrial and services sectors, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Wednesday in its monthly bulletin.

    The report noted broad-based growth in agricultural output for 2024-25, with most major crops seeing an uptick in production. Retail inflation remained subdued, staying below the target for the fourth consecutive month in May.

    “Financial conditions remained conducive to efficient transmission of rate cuts,” the bulletin said.

    The RBI observed that the global economy is in flux due to trade policy uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. However, India’s provisional GDP estimates for 2024-25 reaffirm growth at 6.5%, with a significant sequential pickup in the fourth quarter.

    Among countries surveyed for the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), India posted the highest overall activity and was an outlier for new export orders in May amid contractions elsewhere. Capacity utilisation by manufacturing firms stayed above its long-term average.

    High-frequency demand indicators also signalled a pickup in rural demand, driven by strong agricultural output. Consumer confidence remained stable, with optimism about future prospects improving.

     

     

    Retail inflation stayed benign as food prices eased on the back of record crop production. Core inflation also remained stable, with some softening evident after excluding the impact of volatile gold and silver prices.

    Equity markets posted modest gains through May and June despite volatility on global cues, the report added. Markets rebounded on June 20 after a sharp dip driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

    Although credit growth moderated in April — notably in agriculture and services — non-bank sources of credit, including external commercial borrowings, remained robust. Financial conditions were supportive of rate cut transmission to the credit market, the report said.

    The RBI also noted that the external sector was resilient, with adequate foreign exchange reserves to cover imports and debt.

    IANS

  • India’s economy resilient amid global uncertainties: RBI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s economy remains resilient despite heightened global uncertainties, with high-frequency indicators for May pointing to sustained growth across industrial and services sectors, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Wednesday in its monthly bulletin.

    The report noted broad-based growth in agricultural output for 2024-25, with most major crops seeing an uptick in production. Retail inflation remained subdued, staying below the target for the fourth consecutive month in May.

    “Financial conditions remained conducive to efficient transmission of rate cuts,” the bulletin said.

    The RBI observed that the global economy is in flux due to trade policy uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. However, India’s provisional GDP estimates for 2024-25 reaffirm growth at 6.5%, with a significant sequential pickup in the fourth quarter.

    Among countries surveyed for the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), India posted the highest overall activity and was an outlier for new export orders in May amid contractions elsewhere. Capacity utilisation by manufacturing firms stayed above its long-term average.

    High-frequency demand indicators also signalled a pickup in rural demand, driven by strong agricultural output. Consumer confidence remained stable, with optimism about future prospects improving.

     

     

    Retail inflation stayed benign as food prices eased on the back of record crop production. Core inflation also remained stable, with some softening evident after excluding the impact of volatile gold and silver prices.

    Equity markets posted modest gains through May and June despite volatility on global cues, the report added. Markets rebounded on June 20 after a sharp dip driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

    Although credit growth moderated in April — notably in agriculture and services — non-bank sources of credit, including external commercial borrowings, remained robust. Financial conditions were supportive of rate cut transmission to the credit market, the report said.

    The RBI also noted that the external sector was resilient, with adequate foreign exchange reserves to cover imports and debt.

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jackson Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill, The Marshall “Major” Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL-01) and Jim Baird (R-IN-04) led 43 of their colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Marshall “Major” Taylor Congressional Gold Medal Act. This legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor — America’s first Black sports star, recognizing his significance to the nation as a trailblazing athlete. 

    Taylor managed to become the first African American world champion in any sport and earned the title of “world’s fastest man” despite the extraordinary challenges of the Jim Crow era. He endured attempts by white promoters in both the North and South to exclude him from races. White riders, too, subjected Taylor to curses, insults, and even physical harm during competitions. Despite these adversities, Taylor’s exceptional talent and tenacity turned him into a sensation, drawing tens of thousands at races across the United States, Europe, and Australia.

    “It is without question that Marshall ‘Major’ Taylor was a man before his time, a stellar athlete, a leader in the field of cycling, and a trailblazer,” said Rep. Jackson. “I believe it is fitting that Congress award the ‘world’s fastest man’ one of our nation’s most prestigious honors.”

    “Even when compared to today’s athletes, Marshall ‘Major’ Taylor is among the greatest cyclists of all time,” said Rep. Baird. “His accomplishments are especially impressive considering the challenges he faced on his climb to cycling greatness. Marshall Taylor is one of the greatest athletes in Indiana history, and I can think of no one better suited to receive the Congressional Gold Medal.”

    “Marshall W. ‘Major’ Taylor challenged both the odds and the adversity of his time with dignity and determination, and he went on to ultimately triumph,” said Karen Brown Donovan, the great-granddaughter of Major Taylor. “The awarding of a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal would be a significant achievement towards honoring his life and legacy.”

    Supporting Individuals and Groups

    119th Congress

    Co-lead: Jim Baird (R-IN-04)

    Original Cosponsors (44 total): Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI-AL), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), David Scott (D-GA-13), Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02),  Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Sharice Davis (D-KS-03),  Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09),  Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04),  Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC),  Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07),  Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12),  Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Cleo Fields (D-LA-06),  Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Becca Balint (D-VT-AL), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY-26), Nanette Barragan (D-CA-44), Troy Carter (D-LA-02),  Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Brad Sherman (D-CA-32), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Steven Horsford (D-NV-04), Shomari Figures (D-AL-02).

    Supporting Organizations: Washington Area Bicyclist Association, The League of American Bicyclists, Major Taylor Association, Bike to the Beach, and Black Girls Do Bike, Inc.

    118th Congress

    Co-lead: Jim Baird (R-IN-04)

    Original Cosponsors (32 total): Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), André Carson (D-IN-07), Henry “Hank” Johnson (D-GA-04), Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-DC), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Earl Blumenauer (D-WA-03), James McGovern (D-MA-02), David Scott (D-GA-13), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX-18), Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Al Green (D-TX-09), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Chuy Garcia (D-IL-04), David Trone (D-MD-06), Ann Kuster (D-NH-02), John Duarte (R-CA-13), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02). 

    Supporting Organizations: Bronzeville Trail Task Force, Inc., Major Taylor Association, Washington Area Bicyclist Association, League of American Bicyclists, ADD Impact Network & Bike to the Beach, and Black Girls Do Bike, Inc. 

    About Major Taylor

    Taylor, the son of a veteran who fought in the Civil War, was born in 1878. Despite racial tension, Taylor was educated and viewed as an adopted son by an affluent white family from Indianapolis, Indiana, who also employed his father, Gilbert Taylor. Due to his relationship with the family, Taylor received gifts, including his first bicycle. Upon receiving the bicycle, Taylor displayed natural talent. 

    Taylor received the nickname “Major” as a child while performing bicycle tricks outside of his workplace at Hay & Willits Manufacturing, Indiana Bicycle Co., in Indianapolis. His employer was so impressed with his abilities that the company enrolled him in his first race, which he won at the age of eleven. Taylor moved to Worcester, Massachusetts, with his employer, mentor, and racing manager, Louis D. “Birdie” Munger, in 1895, because Munger was forced out of his Indianapolis-based firm due to his mentorship of Taylor. 

    In 1896, at the age of eighteen, Taylor received a professional racing license from the League of American Wheelmen, despite the league’s 1894 “white only” rule for amateur membership. This membership led to his eventual professional debut.  

    Later that year, Taylor gained notoriety in his first professional contest by competing in the “Six Day Race” at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This race was considered a test of endurance, where cyclists would test both their mental and physical ability in front of a packed house at the Garden. At the conclusion of day six, Taylor finished eighth out of twenty-six and cycled roughly 1,732 miles. 

    In 1899, Taylor would win the world one-mile sprint championship in Montréal, becoming the first Black American and the second Black athlete to win a world title. Taylor would go on to set seven cycling records and become the first Black world champion, which led to his being considered the first international superstar. Taylor would even revolutionize the sport by creating an innovative adjustable handlebar stem, which to date is called the “Major Taylor Stem.”

    While experiencing racial prejudice throughout his career, Taylor became one of the first Black athletes to secure corporate sponsorships. He represented bicycle brands such as Iver Johnson, Sager, Stearns, and Orient, eventually becoming one of the wealthiest Black men in America. Due to his devout commitment to his faith, Taylor refused to race on Sundays, which led to him turning down a significant number of lucrative offers to race in Europe. However, once he achieved international superstardom, Taylor was able to negotiate “no Sundays” provisions in his European racing contracts. 

    Taylor retired from racing in 1910 and started many business ventures. In 1928, he published his autobiography “The Fastest Bicycle Rider in the World” with the intent of impacting justice, equal rights, and the ‘square deal’ for African Americans in sports. 

    About the Congressional Gold Medal

    Since the late 1700s, Congress has expressed public gratitude to individuals and groups by awarding medals and other similar decorations. The Continental Congress awarded the first Congressional Gold Medals. Since that time, Congress has awarded gold medals to express public gratitude for distinguished contributions, dramatize the virtues of patriotism, and perpetuate the remembrance of great events. Two-thirds of both the House and Senate must cosponsor the legislation to advance it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Preview Citation

    Format: Chicago

    Alexander Copestake, Divya Kirti, and Maria Soledad Martinez Peria. “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability”, Fintech Notes 2025, 004 (2025), accessed June 25, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229014250.063

    Export Citation

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    Summary

    Policymakers in many countries aim to increase the uptake of retail digital payment systems. This Note examines whether interoperability can help achieve this goal. We provide a conceptual framework that explains how interoperability can support the adoption of digital payments by increasing users’ freedom to choose their favorite app. We present evidence consistent with this framework using granular data covering the universe of transactions on India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), an interoperable platform that has become the world’s largest retail fast payment system by volume. We find that interoperability has indeed supported adoption, suggesting that promoting interoperability could be a promising policy lever for countries seeking to transition away from cash.

    Subject: Digital financial services, Financial markets, Financial regulation and supervision, Financial services, Fintech, Monetary policy, Money, Payment systems, Technology

    Keywords: Digital financial services, Fintech, Fintech, Interoperability, Networks, Payment systems, Payments, UPI

    Publication Details

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI China: SpaceX launches Axiom-4 astronaut mission to Int’l Space Station

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 2:31 a.m. local time (0631 GMT) Wednesday, beginning Axiom Mission 4, the fourth private astronaut flight to the International Space Station (ISS).

    About eight minutes later, the reusable first-stage booster touched down at Landing Zone 1 on Cape Canaveral, completing its descent at 200 meters per second in a pinpoint landing, according to SpaceX.

    The Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS around 7 a.m. EDT (1100 GMT) Thursday after a 30-hour orbital chase. The four-person crew will spend up to 14 days in orbit conducting science, outreach and commercial demonstrations, NASA said.

    Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who has spent 675 days in space, commands the mission. She is joined by pilot Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), European Space Agency project astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, and Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

    “With a culturally diverse crew, we are not only advancing scientific knowledge but also fostering international collaboration,” Whitson said in a statement released by Houston-based Axiom Space.

    The flight marks the first government-backed orbital mission for India, Poland and Hungary in more than four decades. NASA Acting Administrator Janet Petro said the launch underscored the “long history of cooperation” between NASA and Russia’s Roscosmos on the ISS, following recent repairs to the station’s Russian segment, according to a NASA media advisory.

    Axiom Space said the astronauts will conduct about 60 experiments representing 31 countries — the most attempted on any Axiom mission. Projects include radiation-tolerant electronics and student-designed physics demonstrations streamed live to classrooms worldwide.

    After the mission, the Dragon spacecraft will undock and aim for a splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean off the Florida coast, returning scientific samples to Earth.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yoga, Bollywood films and cooking master classes: what awaits guests at the India Day festival in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow will host the Day of India festival for the 10th time. It will be held from August 14 to 17 in the Dream Island landscape park. More than 25 thematic zones and 150 participants of the traditional fair, over 40 gastronomic points are planned. At the large-scale festival, you can get acquainted with Indian culture – from cinema to chess, from yoga to the Holi festival.

    This year’s themes are Indian Heritage in the Heart of Russia and the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Festival program

    Professional teachers will hold seminars on yoga and Ayurveda at thematic sites, and will teach how to cook traditional Indian dishes at culinary master classes. A Holi color zone will be open all four days.

    In addition, guests will enjoy dance and vocal performances. Children and adults will try their hand at a chess championship. Every day there will be screenings of Bollywood masterpieces and new releases.

    Janmashtami is scheduled for Saturday and the Rathayatra chariot festival will conclude the programme on Sunday.

    An obligatory part of the festival is gastronomy and a fair of goods, including handicrafts. More than 150 participants will offer visitors to the festival spices, decorations, fabrics, cosmetics. The wealth of national dishes will be presented in 40 restaurant zones. A special item on the menu is ripe mango straight from India.

    Distinguished guests and competitions

    The anniversary will be marked with a symbolic ceremony of cutting a huge cake with the participation of honored guests, diplomats and cultural figures of both countries. For the first time, the Day of India will feature a ceremony to present special awards in 10 nominations. Among the invited members of the jury are Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov and Maria Zakharova, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The Chairman of the Board is Dmitry Kiselev, Director General of the International Information Agency “Russia Today”, Deputy Director General of the All-Russian State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company.

    The opening of the Maha Kumbh Mela zone in Moscow will be a major event: guests will have a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and rituals of one of the largest religious holidays in India, during which millions of pilgrims bathe in the waters of the Ganges River.

    Schoolchildren from first to 11th grade will be able to take part in the all-Russian drawing competition “Maha Kumbh Mela in Moscow: a child’s view”. Applications are open from June 1 to July 31. The winners will receive memorable prizes.

    “India Day 2025 marks 10 years of Indo-Russian cultural relations. This year, as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of India Day and the 80th anniversary of Russia’s historic victory in the Great Patriotic War, we honour our shared values of peace, friendship and mutual respect. This festival is a living bridge between countries, uniting communities through culture, heritage and dialogue,” said Sammy Kotwani, founder of the India Day festival and president of the Indian Cultural and National Centre Sita.

    The organizer of the 10th India Day festival is the Indian Cultural and National Center Sita. Guests who registered for festival website, will receive a gift.

    All events are free, admission to the festival is free.

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155826073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wallet Adds Digital Key Compatibility for Mercedes-Benz

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, today announced that Samsung Wallet will support digital key compatibility for Mercedes-Benz vehicles starting in July 2025. With this new integration, Galaxy users1 can now experience a more seamless way to lock, unlock and start their Mercedes-Benz2 vehicle from their smartphone.
    “We’re excited to bring Mercedes-Benz drivers the incredible convenience that comes with Samsung Digital Key access,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz advances our vision of providing effortless access to tech-enabled experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem.”
    “Bringing convenience and luxury to our customers is our top priority as we strive to bring them the best vehicle experience possible,” said Stefan Blossey, Director of Body-/Comfort-E/E, UX Components at Mercedes-Benz AG. “Samsung Digital Key allows Mercedes-Benz to continue offering our customers convenient access and connectivity to their vehicles.”

    Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize digital keys, payment methods, identification cards, and more — all in one secure and easy-to-use application. Launched in June 2022, and backed by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox, Samsung Wallet smoothly integrates across the broader Galaxy ecosystem to offer powerful connectivity and fortified protection for users in their everyday lives.
    With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key on Samsung Wallet, users can experience a new level of convenience at their fingertips. Once inside the vehicle, Samsung’s Digital Key enables drivers to start their vehicle without using their physical key or even removing their smartphone from their pocket. Users can also securely share the digital key with friends or family, through an easy-to-use interface that lets owners grant or disable access as needed.

    The integration of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key in Samsung Wallet is also backed by Samsung’s commitment to providing a safe, secure and reliable mobile experience for users. Digital keys are securely embedded within the device, meeting rigorous EAL6+3 security standards for protection against unauthorized access. By utilizing Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium, the digital key provides precise functionality, significantly reducing the risk of unwanted attempts to access the vehicle.
    If a device containing the digital key in Samsung Wallet is misplaced or stolen, users can log in to the SmartThings Find service to remotely lock or delete the device, securing access to the digital key and further safeguarding their vehicle. With biometric or PIN-based user authentication requirements, Samsung Wallet helps to protect vehicles by keeping access private and secure.4
    Availability
    Digital Key functionality for select Mercedes-Benz vehicles will roll out starting July 2025 in select regions5 worldwide. Users can register their Digital Key through the Mercedes Me application.

    Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
    Mercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 175,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-end passenger cars. In 2024 it sold around 2,4 million passenger cars and vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.
    1 Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S21 Ultra/S21+, S22 Ultra/S22+, S23 Ultra/S23+, S24 Ultra/S24+, S25 Ultra/S25+, S25 Edge, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Fold Special Edition.
    2 Mercedes-Benz vehicles supporting Digital Car Key differ per region, in the US these include: E-Class Sedan W214, E-Class Wagon S214, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Z296, EQS Sedan V297, EQS SUV X296, EQE Sedan V295, EQE SUV X294, S-Class Sedan W223, S-Class Sedan Long V223, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Z223, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé C192, Mercedes-AMG SL R232, Mercedes-Maybach SL Z232, C-Class Saloon W206, C-Class Estate S206, GLC SUV X254, GLC Coupé C254. For the full breakdown per region, please visit https://moba.i.mercedes-benz.com/baix/cars/dck-compatibility/landingpage/index.html.
    3 Evaluation Assurance Level6+, for which a product must be evaluated for specific protection against side-channel attacks or other advanced attack vectors, plus additional, more extensive testing and verification of the product’s security functions.
    4 Requires compatible device, SmartThings and Samsung account.
    5 Available regions include: Abu Dhabi, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dubai, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wallet Adds Digital Key Compatibility for Mercedes-Benz

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, today announced that Samsung Wallet will support digital key compatibility for Mercedes-Benz vehicles starting in July 2025. With this new integration, Galaxy users1 can now experience a more seamless way to lock, unlock and start their Mercedes-Benz2 vehicle from their smartphone.
    “We’re excited to bring Mercedes-Benz drivers the incredible convenience that comes with Samsung Digital Key access,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz advances our vision of providing effortless access to tech-enabled experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem.”
    “Bringing convenience and luxury to our customers is our top priority as we strive to bring them the best vehicle experience possible,” said Stefan Blossey, Director of Body-/Comfort-E/E, UX Components at Mercedes-Benz AG. “Samsung Digital Key allows Mercedes-Benz to continue offering our customers convenient access and connectivity to their vehicles.”

    Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize digital keys, payment methods, identification cards, and more — all in one secure and easy-to-use application. Launched in June 2022, and backed by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox, Samsung Wallet smoothly integrates across the broader Galaxy ecosystem to offer powerful connectivity and fortified protection for users in their everyday lives.
    With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key on Samsung Wallet, users can experience a new level of convenience at their fingertips. Once inside the vehicle, Samsung’s Digital Key enables drivers to start their vehicle without using their physical key or even removing their smartphone from their pocket. Users can also securely share the digital key with friends or family, through an easy-to-use interface that lets owners grant or disable access as needed.

    The integration of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key in Samsung Wallet is also backed by Samsung’s commitment to providing a safe, secure and reliable mobile experience for users. Digital keys are securely embedded within the device, meeting rigorous EAL6+3 security standards for protection against unauthorized access. By utilizing Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium, the digital key provides precise functionality, significantly reducing the risk of unwanted attempts to access the vehicle.
    If a device containing the digital key in Samsung Wallet is misplaced or stolen, users can log in to the SmartThings Find service to remotely lock or delete the device, securing access to the digital key and further safeguarding their vehicle. With biometric or PIN-based user authentication requirements, Samsung Wallet helps to protect vehicles by keeping access private and secure.4
    Availability
    Digital Key functionality for select Mercedes-Benz vehicles will roll out starting July 2025 in select regions5 worldwide. Users can register their Digital Key through the Mercedes Me application.

    Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
    Mercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 175,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-end passenger cars. In 2024 it sold around 2,4 million passenger cars and vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.
    1 Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S21 Ultra/S21+, S22 Ultra/S22+, S23 Ultra/S23+, S24 Ultra/S24+, S25 Ultra/S25+, S25 Edge, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Fold Special Edition.
    2 Mercedes-Benz vehicles supporting Digital Car Key differ per region, in the US these include: E-Class Sedan W214, E-Class Wagon S214, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Z296, EQS Sedan V297, EQS SUV X296, EQE Sedan V295, EQE SUV X294, S-Class Sedan W223, S-Class Sedan Long V223, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Z223, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé C192, Mercedes-AMG SL R232, Mercedes-Maybach SL Z232, C-Class Saloon W206, C-Class Estate S206, GLC SUV X254, GLC Coupé C254. For the full breakdown per region, please visit https://moba.i.mercedes-benz.com/baix/cars/dck-compatibility/landingpage/index.html.
    3 Evaluation Assurance Level6+, for which a product must be evaluated for specific protection against side-channel attacks or other advanced attack vectors, plus additional, more extensive testing and verification of the product’s security functions.
    4 Requires compatible device, SmartThings and Samsung account.
    5 Available regions include: Abu Dhabi, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dubai, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • Operation Sindhu: IAF brings 224 Indian nationals back from Israel

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Air Force on Wednesday successfully evacuated 224 more Indian nationals from Israel, taking the total number of citizens brought back safely to 818, under Operation Sindhu.

    Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje greeted the Indian nationals upon their arrival in New Delhi.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on X, “Operation Sindhu update, MoS Ms. Shobha Karandlaje received 224 Indian nationals who returned to India from Israel on an IAF aircraft at 10:30 Hrs on 25th June. The safety and security of Indian nationals remain a priority for the government. To date, 818 Indian nationals have returned home from Israel as part of Operation Sindhu.”

    The IAF joined in the operations with its C-17 aircraft to evacuate the Indian nationals and the citizens of friendly nations, including Nepal and Sri Lanka, from war-hit Israel and bring them back home to safety.

    Earlier, the MEA had announced that the evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel under Operation Sindhu started on Monday, June 23, via Jordan, marking its first successful repatriation flight, with 161 citizens landing in New Delhi from Amman on Tuesday morning.

    Followed by a second flight on Tuesday itself, the IAF brought back 286 Indian nationals, who were residing in Israel, from Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt.

    Meanwhile, a similar evacuation process continued in Iran with 282 more evacuees arriving in India. According to the MEA, so far 2,858 Indian nationals have been brought back home from Tehran and other affected regions.

    The Government of India launched Operation Sindhu, an evacuation mission Operation Sindhu following the hostilities between Iran and Israel.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Centre approves ₹417 crore Electronics Manufacturing Cluster in Gautam Buddha Nagar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The central government has approved the establishment of a ₹417 crore Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC 2.0) in Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. The new cluster aims to significantly boost local manufacturing, encourage innovation, and attract substantial investments into the electronics sector.

    Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Minister of State, Jitin Prasada, reviewed the project on Wednesday and instructed officials to work closely with the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure faster implementation.

    About the Project

    To be developed by the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), the EMC will span 200 acres and is projected to draw approximately ₹2,500 crore in new investments. Speaking on the occasion, Vaishnaw highlighted that the EMC will generate 15,000 new jobs and create world-class infrastructure, aligning perfectly with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting “Make in India” and “Viksit Bharat.”

    Industry Impact and Products

    The cluster is set to support a broad range of industries, including:

    * Consumer electronics

    * Automotive and industrial electronics

    * Medical devices

    * Computer hardware

    * Communication equipment

    Startups and MSMEs will benefit greatly from this EMC as it will offer world-class plug-and-play infrastructure along with shared amenities. Some key facilities include standard factory sheds, electricity and water provisioning, sewage treatment, skill development centres, health centres, hostels, and more — all of which will help reduce logistics and setup costs.

    Strategic Location

    Strategically located along the Yamuna Expressway and Eastern Peripheral Expressway — with proximity to the Palwal–Khurja Expressway — the EMC enjoys strong multimodal connectivity by road, rail, and air. Its position close to the Jewar International Airport and railway hubs, along with surrounding industrial areas like the Medical Device Park, MSME & Apparel Park, and the Aviation Hub, further enhances its accessibility and appeal for potential investors.

    About EMC 2.0 Scheme

    To date, about ₹30,000 crore have been invested across EMCs under the scheme, attracting 520 companies and creating over 86,000 jobs. The new EMC in Uttar Pradesh underscores India’s commitment to becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse and will help establish a robust foundation for electronics companies looking to set up their operations in India.

  • ‘Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan’ — Remembering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s Resounding Call: Vice-President Pays Tribute on The Leader’s Balidan Diwas

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    lign=”center”>Article 370 Bled Jammu & Kashmir; Along With Draconian 35A, It Deprived People of Basic Human Rights – VP
    NEP 2020 Reaffirms India’s Belief in Education as Self-Awakening, Not Just Skill-Building, Highlights VP
    Our Universities Are Not Meant To Just Hand Out Degrees. They Have To Be Crucibles of Innovation And Sanctuaries of Ideas, Says VP
    Education Brings About Equality, Education Decimates Inequities. Education Gives Life to Democracy, Stresses VP
    Universities Must Allow Space for Disagreement, Debate, Dialogue and Discussion; Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad, Anant Vaad Are Inalienable Facets of Our Democracy, Urges VP
    Establish Institutions of Uncompromising Excellence in AI, Climate Tech, Quantum Science — Then Bharat Will Lead, Others Will Follow, Underlines VP
    Vice-President Addresses the Inaugural Session of the 99th Annual Meet and National Conference of Vice Chancellors (2024–2025) In Uttar Pradesh

    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today paid homage to Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, saying, “It’s a great day in the history of our nation. One of the finest sons of our soil, it is his balidan diwas today — Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. He gave the slogan — एक विधान, एक निशान और एक प्रधान ही होगा देश में दो नहीं होंगे. He said so during the campaign in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in 1952.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937053832418410692

    Shri Dhankhar further added, “We suffered from Article 370 for too long. It bled us and the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Article 370 and the draconian Article 35A deprived people of their basic human rights and fundamental rights. We had a visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a Home Minister in the shoes of Sardar Patel, Amit Shah. Article 370 does not exist now in our Constitution. It was abrogated on 5th August 2019, and the legal challenge to the Supreme Court failed on 11 December 2023. I therefore cannot be at a more befitting place than this to pay tribute to one of the finest sons of our soil. My tributes to him.”

    Addressing the inaugural session of the 99th Annual Meet and National Conference of Vice Chancellors (2024–2025), organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), at Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Dhankhar said, highlighting the National Education Policy, “I must share with you something which happened after more than 3 decades, that has really changed the landscape of our education. I am making reference to the ‘National Education Policy’ 2020. As Governor, State of West Bengal, I was associated with it. Some major inputs — in the hands of thousands — were taken into consideration for the evolution of this policy.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937060609058800015

    “The policy resonates with our civilizational spirit, essence, and ethos. It is a bold reaffirmation of India’s timeless belief that education is the awakening of the self — not just for education of skills.”

    “I have firmly believed — education is a great equalizer. Education brings about equality as no other mechanism does. Education decimates inequities. As a matter of fact, education gives life to democracy.”

    Congratulating the Government of Uttar Pradesh, he stated, “My congratulations to the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The Chief Minister has done a great initiative. IT was given ‘Industry Status’. That has a huge consequence for positive development. Another aspect for which UP is getting increasingly recognized is at the school education level. The transparency and accountability in administration is becoming a hallmark.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937054543826784674

    Applauding India’s national progress, the Vice-President said, “India has emerged as a land of opportunity, of entrepreneurship, of startups, of innovation, of unicorns. In every parameter where growth and development can be gauged, we are rising.”

    On the role of universities, the Vice-President emphasized, “Our universities are not meant to just hand out degrees. The degrees must carry great weightage. Universities must be sanctuaries of ideas and ideation, crucibles of innovation. These places have to catalyse big change.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937059527398224310

    “That responsibility lies on the Vice-Chancellors in particular and the academia in general. I appeal to you, there must be space for disagreement, debate, dialogue and discussion. That is how the mind cells are activated. Abhivyakti, Vaad Vivaad, Anant Vaad — these are inalienable facets of our civilisation, of our democracy.”

    Highlighting India’s potential to lead in knowledge domains, he said, “When you look around the world, you’ll understand its significance. The state of education defines not only the state of academics, but the state of the nation. We cannot remain perpetual students of Western innovation when our demographic dividend position says, as the world’s knowledge epicenter.”

    “And when we look back in our ancient history, we are reminded of our rich past. It is time Bharat must build world-class institutions, not just to teach, but to pioneer. These are not mere disciplines. These are levers of assurance of our sovereignty in all times to come.”

    https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1937061917761376261

    Calling for equitable expansion of higher education, the Vice-President observed, “A lot of our institutions have remained brown-field. Let us fall in line with the global groove — let’s go green. Greenfield institutions alone bring about equitable distribution. There is clusterization in metros and Tier 1 cities. Many regions remain untouched.”

    “Let’s go in for greenfield institutions in such areas. Vice Chancellors are not only the watchdogs, but impregnable bulwarks against commodification and commercialisation of education. One of our fundamental objectives is to ensure affordability, reach, and accessibility of quality education for ordinary people.”

    Concluding his address with a call to establish leadership in emerging domains, the Vice-President asserted, “Establish institutions of uncompromising excellence in emerging domains — artificial intelligence, climate change, climate technology, quantum science, digital ethics — then Bharat will lead, others will follow. That’s a challenge.”

    “Education is not just merely for public good. It is our most strategic national asset. It is integrally connected not only with our development journey in infrastructure or otherwise, it assures national security also.”

    “Friends, I am before academicians and therefore I will reveal my thought process a little more critically for your analysis. Impossible choices define our character and strength. We must not take the easy route. Impossible choices define that we really have a great inheritance. Taking the easy path is getting into mediocrity, and then into irrelevance and insignificance.”

    “Universities are crucibles to generate such choices. They prepare minds. They prepare people to be intrepid — to go in for impossible choices.”

    Shri Sunil Kumar Sharma, Minister for IT and Electronics, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Ashok K. Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education and Research Group; Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President, AIU; and Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General, AIU, and other dignitaries were also present.

  • MIL-OSI: Matador Acquires 8.4 Bitcoin for CAD$1.2M, Bringing Its Total Bitcoin (and Bitcoin Equivalent) Holdings to 77

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matador Technologies Inc. (“Matador” or the “Company”) (TSXV: MATA, OTCQB: MATAF, FSE: IU3) announces that the Company has acquired an additional 8.4 bitcoin for CAD$1.2M (USD$878,763). The 8.4 bitcoin was acquired at an average price of USD$104,914 per bitcoin, inclusive of fees and expenses. The purchase was made following a recent market correction, in line with the Company’s Bitcoin acquisition policy, further reinforcing its conviction in Bitcoin as a long-term asset.

    This acquisition brings Matador’s Bitcoin holdings to approximately 77 bitcoin (and Bitcoin equivalents), reinforcing its stated objective to diversify its treasury with long-duration reserve assets. The Company continues to operate debt-free, with all Bitcoin (and Bitcoin equivalent) holdings free and clear.

    The Company also maintains cash reserves of approximately CAD$5.3 million and physical gold holdings of 2 kilograms (approximately CAD$323,000), reflecting prudent financial management aimed at sustaining long-term growth and stability.

    On June 20, 2025, Matador received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) regarding its proposed Change of Business (“COB”) to a Tier 2 hybrid Investment/Technology Issuer. Assuming that the Company obtains TSXV final approval of the COB, this milestone would enable the Company to implement its treasury-first strategy, including the allocation of capital into Bitcoin and other reserve assets in accordance with its investment policy. The Change of Business remains subject to the satisfaction of various conditions including the receipt of applicable shareholder approval and the approval of the TSXV.

    Matador continues to integrate Bitcoin into its long-term strategy, reinforcing its role as a core treasury asset and the foundation for its Digital Gold Platform. Similar to other Bitcoin-native public companies, Matador views Bitcoin as a superior reserve asset and intends to grow its Bitcoin holdings over time.

    “This acquisition reflects the Company’s intention to increase its Bitcoin per share as part of its reserve asset strategy. The Company intends to continue increasing its Bitcoin position to align itself with the global shift to sound money assets,” said Mark Moss, Chief Visionary Officer, Matador Technologies.

    As Matador advances its growth strategy, the Company remains committed to expanding its treasury holdings of Bitcoin and gold, leveraging blockchain technology, with the goal of supporting long-term stakeholder value. The Company intends to continue increasing its Bitcoin position as part of a broader strategy to align itself with the global shift toward sound monetary assets.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Media Contact:
    Sunny Ray
    President
    Email: sunny@matador.network
    Phone: 647-496-6282

    About Matador Technologies Inc.
    Matador Technologies Inc. (TSXV: MATA, OTCQB: MATAF, FSE: IU3) is a publicly traded Bitcoin ecosystem company focused on holding Bitcoin as its primary treasury asset and building products to enhance the Bitcoin network. Matador’s strategy combines strategic Bitcoin accumulation, Bitcoin-native product development, and participation in digital asset infrastructure, with a focus on driving long-term shareholder value while maintaining capital efficiency.

    Matador has recently expanded its global footprint by investing in HODL Systems, one of India’s first digital asset treasury companies, securing up to a 24% ownership stake, subject to TSXV approval of the investment. This investment strengthens Matador’s position as a leading Bitcoin treasury company and underscores its commitment to the worldwide adoption of Bitcoin as a reserve asset.

    With a Bitcoin-first strategy, and a clear focus on innovation, Matador is shaping the future of financial infrastructure on Bitcoin.

    Visit us online at https://www.matador.network/.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

    Forward Looking Statements – Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with the implementation of the Company’s treasury management strategy, receipt of regulatory approvals (including final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange with respect to the Company’s proposed change of business), and the launch of its mobile application as currently proposed or at all. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including with respect to the potential acquisition of Bitcoin and/or US dollars, the pricing of such acquisitions and the timing of future operations. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • June 25, 1975, Lest We Forget

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Fifty years ago, on this day, the Constitution of India was put in abeyance. The political leadership, trusted to usher a new social and economic future for the citizens, conflicted with the judiciary, and the Emergency was announced.

    Fundamental rights were taken away overnight. Political opposition was put behind bars. Young voices were chased away into oblivion, and the frightened citizens of India were left to reminisce about the ugly days of British rule, for such were the dictatorial and draconian measures of the government.

    The Emergency was a setback for a young republic, rediscovering its civilisational place in a rapidly transforming world.

    Even when the Indian citizens languished for basic necessities, they always had their fundamental rights; the right to express their opinions, the right to question their governments, the right to demand better facilities, the right to practice their religion, the right to access information via press, and the right to be critical of the government. With one proclamation, all those rights were discarded, leaving millions of citizens in a limbo.

    For the people, the period was plagued with uncertainty. Many leaders, who were indefinitely jailed, were refused trial. Some have confessed that they were not even allowed to meet their family members. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh once narrated how he could not meet his mother in her final days, because he was jailed. The press, unable to function on principle, printed blank pages as a mark of protest.

    The Emergency of 1975 is the story of India’s democratic character being strangled. Within this larger story, there were millions of stories, unheard, unacknowledged, and unfortunately forgotten.

    Even when people had nothing, they had their rights, and they snatched away at the whims and fancies of one party. In a world oscillating between communism and democracy of the west, India, under the political leadership of 1975, was forced to choose a path that would usher an irreversible stain on our history.

    A democracy flourishes because of people’s trust in the institutions. From the election commission to the judiciary, these are the pieces in the larger puzzle that come together for the country to function perfectly. The Emergency diluted the criticality of these institutions. Elections were delayed. The judgement of the Allahabad High Court was set aside. When mass sterilisations were carried out in the name of population control, people did not have an institution to turn to.

    Many defenders of the Emergency proclaim that the Emergency was announced to curb possible anarchy, but in hindsight, it ushered in an era of silent anarchy within the country.

    Fifty years later, the fourth largest economy of the world must not forget the lessons from the Emergency. When a political entity loses control and conviction, it turns to the institutions, even while in opposition. Some leaders blame the election commission when the results do not go in their favour. Some pin the blame on the judiciary, and if all else fails, the media is made the scapegoat. Such political entities must be discarded.

    Our democracy’s strength is derived from its institutions, for these empower our citizens as well. Today, a citizen, even if in disagreement with the government, can walk upto the Supreme Court if their fundamental rights are violated. Today, a citizen, irrespective of their place in the socio-economic pyramid, can voice their criticism against the government. Despite the election results, the political opposition continues to flourish in our country. This is what democracy is all about- a voice for all.

    The Emergency serves as a lesson in political governance as well. Leadership must not be used to trample upon people’s rights, but to uplift those who need it the most. A leader should be able to elevate everyone’s socio-economic status, be it through financial inclusion, better infrastructure, or more economic opportunities.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was a young RSS worker during the Emergency, has taken all the right lessons from the Emergency. In his policy pursuits, he has empowered the people through an array of welfare programmes. Not letting dissent or disagreement come in the way of welfare, the Prime Minister has ensured everyone moves along the path of welfare. Dissent can be an exception, but delivery has been made a routine exercise.

    Fifty years, lest we forget the horrors of the Emergency and the people who made the brave sacrifice. Many stories and people are forgotten, and their stories never surfaced, but they all were equal stakeholders in the cause of the country. They all were equally suffering under the tyranny of a government that violated its constitutional obligations and duties.

    (Tushar Gupta is a Delhi-based journalist and a political commentator)

  • Piyush Goyal chairs review meeting on PLI scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Wednesday chaired a high-level review meeting on the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, underlining its critical role in making India “Aatmanirbhar” in the manufacturing sector. During the meeting, held with representatives from all concerned ministries, Goyal emphasized that India must focus on sectors where it holds a competitive edge globally and proactively address the challenges faced by various stakeholders to boost the country’s exports.

    Highlighting the need for self-reliance in the key sectors covered under the PLI Scheme, Goyal stressed the importance of building quality skilled manpower over quantity. He urged ministries to work in collaboration with the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) to resolve infrastructure bottlenecks. The minister also called for a well-defined roadmap for the next five years, both in terms of attracting investment and disbursing incentives under the scheme.

    The PLI Scheme, currently at various stages of implementation across 14 key sectors, has attracted investments worth ₹1.76 lakh crore and generated production and sales exceeding ₹16.5 lakh crore. This, in turn, has created over 12 lakh direct and indirect jobs as of March 2025. So far, a cumulative incentive of ₹21,534 crore has been disbursed under the scheme across 12 sectors including large-scale electronics manufacturing, IT hardware, bulk drugs, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, telecom and networking products, food processing, white goods, automobiles and auto components, specialty steel, textiles, and drones and drone components.

    The impact of the scheme has been significant in driving domestic manufacturing, creating employment, increasing exports, and fostering innovation. In the pharmaceutical drugs sector, the scheme has generated cumulative sales worth ₹2.66 lakh crore, including ₹1.70 lakh crore in exports within the first three years. In FY 2024-25 alone, eligible product exports stood at ₹67,000 crore—around 27 per cent of the country’s total pharma exports. Notably, 40 percent of the total investment in the sector, amounting to ₹15,102 crore, has been directed towards research and development. As of March 2025, the domestic value addition in the pharmaceutical sector stood at an impressive 83.7 per cent.

    In the bulk drugs sector, the PLI Scheme has played a transformative role by enabling India to become a net exporter of bulk drugs, with exports worth ₹2,280 crore in FY 2024-25, a reversal from the net import position of ₹1,930 crore in FY 2021-22. This shift has significantly reduced the gap between domestic manufacturing capacity and the demand for critical drugs.

    The food processing sector has also seen strong results, reporting investments worth ₹9,032 crore, which have resulted in production and sales of ₹3,80,350 crore and generated employment for 3,40,116 people. The scheme has encouraged the use of domestically grown agricultural products, thereby benefiting rural and underdeveloped areas and supporting farmers’ incomes. A majority of the beneficiaries are MSMEs, with 70 MSMEs directly enrolled and 40 more serving as contract manufacturers for larger firms. The value-added marine product segment has seen sales grow at a CAGR of 22 per cent during the PLI period. Additionally, the launch of the PLI Millet Scheme has led to a 25-fold increase in the sales of millet-based products in FY 2024-25 compared to the base year of FY 2020-21. Millet procurement by PLI beneficiaries increased from 4,081 metric tonnes in 2022-23 to 16,130 metric tonnes in 2024-25, boosting rural household incomes.

    In the textiles sector, exports of Indian man-made fibre (MMF) textiles reached US$ 6 billion in FY 2024-25, up from US$ 5.7 billion in the previous fiscal year. Exports of technical textiles also increased significantly, rising to US$ 3,356.5 million in FY 2024-25 from US$ 2,986.6 million in FY 2023-24.

  • PM Modi’s space reforms mark a key turning point, sector may hit $40B in 10 years: Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to open up the space sector to private players as a “turning point” that sparked a “miraculous” transformation. He projected that the sector could grow to USD 40–45 billion in a decade, and added that experiments conducted by astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla during the Axiom-4 mission will help prepare for future Indian space missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and the Bharat Space Station, planned for 2035.

    Singh noted that one of the biggest milestones in India’s space programme came when the private sector was allowed to participate. “I think one of the greatest turning points in India’s space journey has been PM Modi’s path-breaking decision to allow the private sector to step in. The change has been miraculous. The transformation in the last 4–5 years — there are thousands of crores of investments happening from the private sector,” he told ANI.

    Singh further said that India’s space sector is set for rapid growth in the coming years. “Our future projections indicate that in about 8–10 years, we might grow 4–5 times, reaching about USD 40–45 billion. Opening up the space sector to the private sector was a very courageous decision, which could have been taken only by a political dispensation with tremendous conviction and willpower,” the Union minister said.

    Referring to India’s growing ambitions in space exploration, Singh said the recent Axiom Mission 4 would provide valuable experience for future Indian missions.

    “I think it will also be a good experience for future missions. This, coupled with Chandrayaan-4 and missions like the Bharat Space Station, which we plan to have by 2035, and for long-duration stays in space or microgravity conditions — what arrangements need to be put in place will also be learned through the experiments conducted by Shubhanshu,” Singh said.

    Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the successful launch of the Axiom Mission 4, stating that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla carries the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indian citizens.

    “We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the US. The Indian astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, is on his way to becoming the first Indian to go to the International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and the other astronauts all the success!” PM Modi posted on X.

    Following the successful lift-off of Axiom Mission 4, Singh also saif on X that India’s rise to the status of a “Viksit Bharat” had begun through its space exploration.

    “Congratulations, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla — you are the first Indian astronaut to embark on a mission to the International Space Station. Indeed, a proud moment for India! ISRO’s growing global collaborations, after the reforms introduced by the government headed by PM Narendra Modi, have placed India at the forefront of space exploration,” Singh wrote.

    He added that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla would carry out seven important experiments designed by Indian institutes. The minister also took the opportunity to remember and honour the visionaries behind India’s space ambitions, Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan.

    The Axiom Mission 4 was launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 2:31 am Eastern Time (noon IST). 

    ANI

  • Sensex, Nifty rise for 2nd day as geopolitical tensions ease, oil prices fall

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian stock markets extended their gains for the second straight day on Wednesday, supported by strong buying in media and technology shares.

    Investors were relieved after crude oil prices dropped and tensions between Iran and Israel eased following a ceasefire.

    The Sensex closed 700.4 points higher at 82,755.51, gaining 0.85 per cent. The Nifty also rose by 200.40 points to settle at 25,244.75, up 0.8 per cent.

    Titan Company, M&M, Infosys, Power Grid, TCS and Bharti Airtel emerged as the top gainers on the Sensex, with gains of up to 3.6 per cent.

    On the other hand, BEL, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Axis Bank were the major laggards, falling as much as 3 per cent.

    The broader markets saw a positive trend as well. The Nifty MidCap index gained 0.44 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index jumped 1.5 per cent.

    Among sectoral indices, Nifty Media was the top performer with a 1.99 per cent rise, followed by Nifty IT which went up 1.64 per cent, and Nifty Consumer Durables which gained 1.43 per cent.

    Market sentiment improved due to the drop in oil prices and reduced geopolitical risk, which helped boost risk appetite among investors.

    Analysts believe that these developments have brought temporary relief to the markets, despite continued selling by foreign investors.

    Vinod Nair of Geojit Financial Services, said that the easing of tensions in the Middle East and the softening of crude oil prices have played a key role in the market’s recovery.

    “Indian equity markets have staged a recovery, supported by easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a moderation in crude oil prices,” Nair stated.

    He added that domestically, a favourable monsoon forecast, and moderating inflation are further underpinning the optimism.

    Meanwhile, the Indian Rupee traded flat near 86.10 after a sharp rally of over 0.75 seen in the previous session, taking a breather within a narrow range of 86.00-86.15.

    “Market participants are now eyeing upcoming triggers from the US, including the PCE Price Index and GDP data later this week. The Rupee is expected to trade in a range of 85.70 to 86.25,” Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities mentioned.

    (IANS)