NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI: Coface : agreement to acquire Cedar Rose Group, strengthening its information services in the Middle East and Africa

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Coface: agreement to acquire Cedar Rose Group, strengthening its information services in the Middle East and Africa

    Paris, 3 February 2025 – 17.35

    Coface announces that it has signed an agreement with Mr. Antoun Massaad and Mrs. Christina Massaad, co-founders of the company, to acquire the Cedar Rose Group.

    With over 25 years’ experience, Cedar Rose is one of the leading providers of business information solutions in the Middle East and Africa region. In a region where information is difficult to access and with positive economic growth outlook, Cedar Rose has built up a vast business network enabling it to produce data whose quality is recognized by its customers, including a number of multinationals.

    Following the acquisition, Cedar Rose will become Coface’s information provider in the region, for both credit insurance and information services sales. All Coface’s customers will benefit from enhanced Coface data.

    This external growth operation will enable Coface to further strengthen its information production capabilities in areas where information is not readily available. This acquisition aligns perfectly with the objectives of Power the Core ‘s strategic plan, which notably focuses on data excellence.

    The closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.

    Ernesto de Martinis, CEO for Mediterranean and Africa region said:

    “This acquisition enables Coface to strengthen its position in a zone that promises strong growth, where information remains difficult to obtain, and in which Coface has now been operating for many years. We look forward to welcoming Cedar Rose’s teams to Coface and to working with their partners in the region.”

    Antoun Massaad, Cedar Rose Group’s CEO and co-founder said:

    “We are delighted to join the Coface team in the Mediterranean & Africa region (MAR). This acquisition is a major milestone in the Cedar Rose story, and I believe it will supercharge Coface’s business information strategy. We are confident that our company, our employees and our international partners will all benefit from this smart strategic alliance.”

    CONTACTS

    ANALYSTS / INVESTORS
    Thomas JACQUET: +33 1 49 02 12 58 – thomas.jacquet@coface.com
    Rina ANDRIAMIADANTSOA: +33 1 49 02 15 85 – rina.andriamiadantsoa@coface.com

    MEDIA RELATIONS
    Saphia GAOUAOUI: +33 1 49 02 14 91 – saphia.gaouaoui@coface.com
    Adrien BILLET: +33 1 49 02 23 63 – adrien.billet@coface.com

    FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2025
    (subject to change)

    FY-2024 results: 20 February 2025 (after market close)
    Q1-2025 results: 5 May 2025 (after market close)
    Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting: 14 May 2025
    H1-2025 results: 31 July 2025 (after market close)
    9M-2025 results: 3 November 2025 (after market close)

    FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    This press release, as well as COFACE SA’s integral regulatory information, can be found on the Group’s website: http://www.coface.com/Investors

    For regulated information on Alternative Performance Measures (APM), please refer to our Interim Financial Report for H1-2024 and our 2023 Universal Registration Document (see part 3.7 “Key financial performance indicators”).

    Les documents distribués par COFACE SA sont sécurisés et authentifiés avec Wiztrust.
    Vous pouvez vérifier l’authentification sur le site www.wiztrust.com.
     

    COFACE: FOR TRADE
    With over 75 years of experience and the most extensive international network, Coface is a leader in trade credit insurance & risk management, and a recognised provider of Factoring, Debt Collection, Single Risk insurance, Bonding, and Information Services. Coface’s experts work to the beat of the global economy, helping around 100,000 clients in 100 countries build successful, growing, and dynamic businesses. With Coface’s insight and advice, these companies can make informed decisions. The Group’ solutions strengthen their ability to sell by providing them with reliable information on their commercial partners and protecting them against non-payment risks, both domestically and for export. In 2023, Coface employed ~4,970 people and registered a turnover of €1.87 billion.

    www.coface.com

    COFACE SA est cotée sur le Compartiment A d’Euronext Paris
    Code ISIN : FR0010667147 / Mnémonique : COFA

    DISCLAIMER – Certain declarations featured in this press release may contain forecasts that notably relate to future events, trends, projects or targets. By nature, these forecasts include identified or unidentified risks and uncertainties, and may be affected by many factors likely to give rise to a significant discrepancy between the real results and those stated in these declarations. Please refer to chapter 5 “Main risk factors and their management within the Group” of the Coface Group’s 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with AMF on 5 April 2024 under the number D.24-0242 in order to obtain a description of certain major factors, risks and uncertainties likely to influence the Coface Group’s businesses. The Coface Group disclaims any intention or obligation to publish an update of these forecasts, or provide new information on future events or any other circumstance.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Trump Administration Forcing Out Multiple DOJ And FBI Officials

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 31, 2025

    CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement after the Trump Administration reportedly purged multiple Justice Department and FBI officials involved in Donald Trump’s prosecution and the prosecution of January 6 rioters:

    “The Trump Administration’s purge of dozens of DOJ and FBI officials involved in investigating Donald Trump and the January 6 rioters is a major blow to the FBI and Justice Department’s integrity and effectiveness. This is a brazen assault on the rule of law that also severely undermines our national security and public safety. Unelected Trump lackeys are carrying out widespread political retribution against our nation’s career law enforcement officials. President Trump would rather have the FBI and DOJ full of blind admirers and loyalists than experienced law enforcement officers.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Mexican Nationals Sentenced for $4.7 Million Methamphetamine, Heroin Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Mexican Drug-Trafficking Organization Distributed Over 335 Kilos of Meth, 22 Kilos of Heroin

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Mexican nationals were sentenced in federal court this week for their roles in a $4.7 million conspiracy to distribute more than 335 kilograms of methamphetamine and 22 kilograms of heroin.

    Jesus Morales-Garcia, also known as “Don Jesus,” 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips on Wednesday, Jan. 29, to 18 years in federal prison without parole. Co-defendant Santiago Raul Mendieta-Sanchez, 43, also was sentenced to seven years in federal prison without parole.

    On Tuesday, Jan. 28, co-defendant Baltazar Flores-Norzagaray, 53, was sentenced to 16 years and three months in federal prison without parole.

    On Aug. 28, 2024, Morales-Garcia pleaded guilty to one count of participating in a continuing criminal enterprise, one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, and one count of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. Mendieta-Sanchez and Flores-Norzagaray also have pleaded guilty to their roles in the drug-trafficking conspiracy that continued from Feb. 28, 2020, to Sept. 20, 2022. Flores-Norzagaray also pleaded guilty to possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

    Morales-Garcia admitted that he was a chief local operative of a drug-trafficking organization that distributed hundreds of kilograms of illegal drugs sourced from Mexico into the Kansas City region.

    Morales-Garcia also admitted that he was found in the United States after having been deported twice in 2016.

    Flores-Norzagaray also admitted that he was in possession of a Hammerli .22-LRcaliber rifle, a Taurus 9mm handgun, and a Taurus .38-caliber revolver when he was arrested on Oct. 7, 2021. Flores-Norzagaray sold hundreds of grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on at least four separate occasions.

    The conspiracy involved the distribution of more than 335.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, with an average street price of $300 per ounce, and more than 22.1 kilograms of heroin, with an average street price of $1,500 per ounce.

    On June 8, 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led an operation that involved 140 officers and agents from 14 state, local and federal law enforcement agencies. On the day of the takedown, officers executed 16 search warrants and seized 84.4 kilograms of methamphetamine, 4.5 kilograms of heroin, 10.4 kilograms of fentanyl, 7.6 kilograms of cocaine, 10.5 kilograms of marijuana, 687 Xanax pills, 3.1 kilograms of unknown pills, a quantity of bulk cash, five firearms, a 3D printer with manufactured ghost gun parts, and a liquid methamphetamine conversion lab.

    With these sentencings, 24 defendants have now been sentenced in this case in which 44 defendants were indicted.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan A. Baker. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jackson County Drug Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Olmsted County, Minn., Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the FBI, the Clay County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    KC Metro Strike Force

    This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gardner business owner sentenced to prison for failing to pay taxes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas business owner was sentenced to 17 months in prison for failing to forward more than one million dollars in employment tax collections to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

    According to court documents, Marvin Vail, 53, of Gardner pleaded guilty to one count of failure to account for and pay over employment taxes. 

    As the owner and operator of Marvin’s Tow Service, Inc. in Gardner, Kansas, Vail failed to pay employment taxes for at least 23 calendar quarters between 2012-2017. Employers are required to withhold Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) taxes and income taxes from the wages paid to their employees then forward the withheld amounts to the IRS. IRS-Criminal Investigation agents interviewed the office administrator for Marvin’s Tow Service and were told Vail wouldn’t allow the office administrator to pay the owed federal taxes.

     As part of his sentence, a federal judge ordered Vail to pay the IRS $1,512,283 in restitution. 

    The IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask prosecuted the case.

    ###
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Scranton Man Sentenced To 252 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Richard Potter, age 29, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 30, 2025, by United States District Judge Robert D. Mariani to 252 months’ imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute fentanyl resulting in death.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Potter was involved in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and other controlled substances throughout Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties beginning in January 2022 until the time of his arrest on February 28, 2023.  The investigation revealed that the conspiracy’s source of supply for fentanyl was located in Hazleton, Pennsylvania.  Potter and at least one other co-conspirator would travel from Scranton to Hazleton multiple times each week during the conspiracy to reup with the Hazleton source and return to Scranton with upwards of 60 to 80 bricks (3,000 to 4,000 bags) of fentanyl for further distribution.  On December 19, 2022, a 26-year-old Dunmore male purchased a quantity of fentanyl from a member of the conspiracy, ingested the fentanyl, overdosed, and died. Subsequent autopsy and toxicology confirmed a fentanyl overdose death.  The male’s cell phone located next to his body led investigators to Potter, and two others involved in the distribution that resulted in death.

    Potter was indicted by a grand jury in Scranton on April 4, 2023, along with Santino Bellucci, age 29, and Kaylee Ann Widmer, age 25.  Potter appeared in federal court in Scranton on September 23, 2024, and plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death.

    Bellucci and Widmer have both entered guilty pleas for conspiring to distribute fentanyl resulting in death.  Their sentences are scheduled for March 2025.

    The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton – Safe Streets Task Force, and the Dunmore Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Arrested in Second Federal Sweep Targeting Asian Boyz Gang for Alleged Drug Trafficking in Lowell

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BOSTON – Four indictments were unsealed today if federal court in Boston charging a second wave of alleged members and associated of the Asian Boyz gang for their roles in a distribution network of homemade methamphetamine pills, branded as “Adderall.”

    The following five men were arrested this morning and will appear in federal court in Boston later today:

    • Sovath Yern, a/k/a “Stryke,” 35, of Billerica, charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
    • Owen Landry, a/k/a “Oski,” 22, of Lowell, charged with one count was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine, aiding and abetting; and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
    • Zachary Hansen, 29, of Lowell, charged with one count was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine;
    • Scott Fournier, a/k/a “S.G.,” 33, of Lowell, charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine; and three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine; and
    • Richard Nguyen, a/k/a “Cheese,” a/k/a “Cheeseburger,” 29, of Lowell, charged with two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine.

    An indictment has also been unsealed against a sixth man currently serving a state prison sentence who will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date:

    • Isiah Lyons, a/k/a “Tank,” a/k/a “Rozay,” 29, of Lowell, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine.

    According to court records, today’s charges are a continuation of an investigation into the Asian Boyz gang that began in 2021 to disrupt the manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine pills impacting Lowell. It is alleged that a total of over 57,000 counterfeit Adderall pills, consisting of over 18 kilograms of a mixture or substance of methamphetamine, were seized from or purchased from the defendants named in the indictments unsealed today.

    Previously, in July 2023, nine members and associates of the Asian Boyz were arrested and charged with conspiracies for drug trafficking and transferring illegal firearms, include machinegun conversion devices. Of the nine defendants, five have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

    The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine each provide for a sentence of at least five year and up to life in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Greg C. Hudon, Superintendent of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pharmaceutical Executive Sentenced for Insider Trading

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BOSTON – A former executive of a global pharmaceutical company was sentenced today in federal in Boston for earning more than $250,000 by trading on material non-public information.

    Dishant Gupta, 41, of Hillsborough, N.J., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick to two months in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release. Gupta was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000 and forfeiture of $260,078. In October 2024, Gupta pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud.

    Gupta worked as the Director of Strategy and Operations in the Boston office of a global pharmaceutical company (Company A). In the spring of 2022, during the course of his employment at Company A, Gupta learned that Company A was negotiating to acquire certain assets of a smaller pharmaceutical company based in Boston (Company B), including its leading cancer drug, and that Company A later agreed to acquire Company B outright.

    While in possession of this material non-public information, and in violation of his fiduciary duties to Company A, Gupta acquired shares of Company B in his own and his wife’s brokerage accounts – in an effort to profit from the eventual public announcement of the transaction. Gupta purchased more than 300,000 shares of Company B over approximately two and a half months. Gupta then sold all the shares he had acquired after Company A announced the acquisition of Company B, earning more than $250,000.

    The Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil complaint against Gupta alleging violations of the securities laws.
        
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin A. Saltzman of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former soldier jailed over spying offences

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A former soldier who sparked a nationwide manhunt after escaping from prison has been jailed for spying offences.

    His conviction and sentencing follows an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, which found he had been sharing sensitive military information with Iranian agents.

    Daniel Khalife, 23 (27.09.01) was sentenced on Monday, 3 February at Woolwich Crown Court to a total of 14 years and three months’ imprisonment for espionage and terrorism offences. He was previously convicted of these offences in November 2024, following a trial at the same court.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command said: “This sentence reflects the gravity of the offences committed by Khalife. The threat to the UK from states such as Iran is very serious, so for a soldier in the Army to be sharing sensitive military material and information with them is extremely reckless and dangerous.

    “I’d like to reiterate my praise to all those who worked on this investigation – those who looked into Khalife’s activity in sharing information with the Iranians, but also the many colleagues from agencies and police forces who assisted us after his escape from prison.

    “It was thanks to a combination of fantastic support from the public, along with some brilliant police work that we were able to find and arrest Khalife after his escape and make sure he faced justice.

    “This outcome and sentence should serve as a warning to others that the illegal sharing of information in this way will be treated extremely seriously by security services and police, and we will use the full force of the law against those who put the UK’s security at risk.”

    An investigation into Khalife began in November 2021 after he anonymously contacted MI5 twice that month to say that he had established contact with Iranian agents and wanted to become a ‘double agent’. The details, however, were passed to police and they identified that Khalife was the person behind the calls and that he was a soldier in the Army based at Staffordshire Barracks.

    Khalife was arrested in January 2022, and police seized various devices and documents from his room. The ensuing investigation found Khalife was in possession of various sensitive documents and information – including details of soldiers who were attached to highly sensitive military units. They also found evidence that Khalife had made contact with Iranian agents and had passed sensitive military information to them over the preceding two-and-a-half years.

    Khalife was due to be charged with offences in January 2023, however he was reported as missing by his Army unit in early January 2023. When his room was searched, what appeared to be a potential improvised explosive device was found, along with a note, indicating that Khalife had left as he feared he was going to be charged when he returned on bail. On 26 January 2023, Khalife was spotted at a leisure centre in Staffordshire and was subsequently arrested and charged.

    In September 2023, while awaiting trial, Khalife escaped from HMP Wandsworth. Police were informed and following a three-day manhunt – which involved hundreds of officers from across the Metropolitan Police, as well as support from police forces across the country and colleagues from various other agencies including those at ports and borders – Khalife was found and arrested in Northolt.

    When he was giving evidence during his trial at Woolwich Crown Court, on 11 November, Khalife pleaded guilty to escaping from HMP Wandsworth.

    On 28 November, he was found guilty of passing on information to Iran, contrary to section 1 of the Official Secrets Act 1911, for which he was sentenced on Monday, 3 February to six years imprisonment.

    Khalife was also found guilty of eliciting or attempted to elicit information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, contrary to section 58A of the Terrorism Act 2000. He was sentenced to six years’ consecutive (consisting of five years custodial, with an additional year on licence).

    Khalife was also sentenced to two years and three months’ imprisonment for his prison escape – again to be served consecutively – meaning he was sentenced to a total of 14 years and three months. Khalife will also be subject to notification requirements under part 4 of the Counter Terrorism Act, 2008 for 15 years.

    Khalife was found not guilty by the jury of creating a bomb hoax at the Army barracks in Staffordshire.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Bill McLaughlin Named Thrive’s New CEO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thrive, a global technology outsourcing provider for cybersecurity, Cloud, and traditional managed service provider (MSP) services, today announced the long-planned leadership transition elevating Bill McLaughlin into the CEO role, effective immediately. McLaughlin succeeds Rob Stephenson, who has led Thrive for nearly a decade. Under Stephenson, Thrive has attained industry prominence, earned a reputation for excellence, and delivered a compounded annual growth rate above 30%. Stephenson will remain onboard as a member of Thrive’s leadership team, particularly focused on supporting McLaughlin and driving the company’s M&A strategy.

    “Bill came to Thrive over three and a half years ago with the plan to be my successor,” said Stephenson. “He has been running day-to-day sales and operations, is one of the most highly respected executives in our industry, and is responsible for much of Thrive’s success. It’s been a pleasure of a lifetime leading this company and there is nobody I would feel more confident in succeeding me than Bill McLaughlin. Under his leadership, Thrive will continue to set the pace for MSP and MSSP innovation and achievement.”

    With more than 20 years of experience in the managed services industry, McLaughlin brings deep knowledge and understanding of IT, customer success, and go-to-market strategy. Prior to joining Thrive as President in 2021, McLaughlin held senior leadership positions at companies like Kaseya, Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office, and NER Data Products, where he oversaw customer success, sales initiatives, and M&A activity.

    Throughout his time at Thrive, McLaughlin has partnered with leading organizations to ensure their digital transformations are secure, cost-effective, and future-ready. As President, he played a pivotal role in growing Thrive through acquisition – including the purchase of 11 companies over the past two years. Through its growth, Thrive has expanded the breadth and quality of its services, as well as its geographical footprint. The organization now has over 1,400 team members across the U.S., UK, Canada, and APAC regions.

    In January, the company received a strategic investment from Berkshire Partners and Court Square Capital Partners, supporting growth and continued opportunity in the outsourced IT space. As CEO, McLaughlin will continue to invest in Thrive’s team and capabilities as they serve their customers with excellence.

    “Thrive is redefining what it means to be a next-generation service provider – in terms of the solutions we deliver, the markets we serve, the problems we solve, and the way we take care of and upskill our people,” said McLaughlin. “While this is an exciting new chapter, our mission and vision remain the same: we’re going to keep delivering exceptional service and solutions to our customers, solving some of their most critical business problems – and we’re going to do it as a team.”

    To learn more about open positions at Thrive, visit the careers page.

    About Thrive 

    Thrive delivers global technology outsourcing for cybersecurity, Cloud, networking, and other complex IT requirements. Thrive’s NextGen platform enables customers to increase business efficiencies through standardization, scalability, and automation, delivering oversized technology returns on investment (ROI). They accomplish this with advisory services, vCISO, vCIO, consulting, project implementation, solution architects, and a best-in-class subscription-based technology platform. Thrive delivers exceptional high-touch service through its POD approach of subject matter experts and global 24x7x365 SOC, NOC, and centralized services teams. Learn more at www.thrivenextgen.com or follow us on LinkedIn.  

    Thrive Contact:  
    Amanda Maguire  
    thrive@v2comms.com   

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Digital Domain Holdings Limited to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Digital Domain Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Exchange: 547; OTCQX: DDHLY), a global leader in visual effects and transformative experiences, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Digital Domain Holdings Limited upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Digital Domain Holdings Limited begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “DDHLY.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for trading on OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    “We are pleased with the upgrade to the OTCQX Market, as it underscores our commitment to transparency and strengthens investor confidence,” says William Wong, Executive Director and the CEO of Digital Domain. “This milestone reflects our ongoing strategy to build trust and provide sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders.”

    About Digital Domain Holdings Limited
    Digital Domain is a pioneer in creating transportive experiences. Over the last 30 years, the company has solidified its position as a leader in the visual effects industry, expanding its expertise in virtual humans and visualization on a global scale. Digital Domain boasts an impressive legacy that includes contributions to hundreds of feature films and television episodes, advertisements, game cinematics, and groundbreaking immersive experiences. Renowned for its creative innovation in cutting-edge technology, Digital Domain has delivered exceptional artistry to Academy Award-winning films such as “Titanic,” “What Dreams May Come,” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.” The skilled artists at Digital Domain have collectively earned over 100 prestigious awards, including Academy Awards, Clios, BAFTA awards, and Cannes Lions.

    Digital Domain is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock code: 547) and is headquartered in Hong Kong. Digital Domain maintains operations in multiple cities, including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Montreal, Beijing, Shanghai, Hyderabad, and more.

    To learn more about Digital Domain, visit www.digitaldomain.com.

    Digital Domain PR Contact:

    Kavita Smith
    Director of Marketing Communications and PR
    kavita@d2.com

    Angela Yang
    Sr. PR Manager
    angela.yang@ddhl.com

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the EU (HOUS) constituted – Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament established a Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union on 18 December 2024. The committee’s primary objective is to propose solutions for decent, sustainable, and affordable housing for all European citizens. The Special Committee comprises 33 Members and will operate with a 12-month mandate.

    The constitutive meeting was held on 30 January 2025 in Brussels, where HOUS Members elected Ms Irene Tinagli (S&D, Italy) as Chair. The following Members were elected as Vice-Chairs, forming the Bureau:

    First Vice-Chair: Mr Dirk Gotink (EPP, Netherlands)
    Second Vice-Chair: Mr Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Greens, Spain)
    Third Vice-Chair: Mr Ciaran Mullooly (Renew, Ireland)
    Fourth Vice-Chair: Ms Regina Doherty (EPP, Ireland)

    For more information about the committee’s media activities, please the media centre.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS unaudited results for 4th quarter and 12 months 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fund manager’s comment

    Despite the challenging economic environment, EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS managed to increase both total rental income and portfolio EBITDA in 2024. The fund’s portfolio was expanded by two new logistics properties in the fourth quarter and we are also planning to expand in the nursing home segment. EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS is primarily a dividend share. The fund aims to distribute 1.1 euros of dividends per share for 2024. In the spring of 2025, the fund management plans to increase the financial leverage of investment properties that that are currently significantly below the financial leverage principles set out in the fund’s financing policy. While the usual leverage ratio of real estate funds in Europe is on average 50% of the market value of assets, EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS’s portfolio-wide LTV (Loan-to-value) was 40% at the end of 2024.

    For the first time since spring 2023, the weighted average interest rate on the fund’s bank loans has fallen below 5% by the end of the year. Due to the expected further decline in EURIBOR, the interest rate on the Fund’s loans will continue to decrease in 2025.

    The priority for 2025 is vacancy management. As of the end of the year, the portfolio’s total vacancy rate was 2.6%, with the office segment vacancy rate at 11.3%. This elevated vacancy in the office sector is primarily attributable to the ongoing renovation of the Menulio 11 office building in Vilnius, which alone accounts for 47% of the office segment’s total vacancy. In line with market expectations, the Menulio 11 office building fit-out will be changed to include smaller offices which are expected to be handed over to tenants in the first half of this year.

    After the balance sheet date, the tenant of the Laagri Hortes gardening center, which belongs to the fund’s subsidiary and was previously undergoing reorganization, filed for bankruptcy. Harju County Court accepted the tenant’s bankruptcy petition for processing, and the hearing is scheduled for March of this year. Given the strong market interest in the property, there are multiple alternatives for further action. The share of Laagri Hortes in the group’s consolidated real estate investments is less than 1%, and according to the group’s management, the tenant’s bankruptcy proceedings are not expected to cause a significant decrease in the fair value of the property. As of December 31, 2024, the free funds available in the subsidiary’s bank account cover the scheduled loan and interest payments for Laagri Hortes for the next 17 months.

    In November and December 2024, the fund carried out a secondary public offering of shares, raising a total of €11.8 million in capital at €19 per share.

    Financial overview

    EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS’ consolidated sales revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 8.314 million euros, an increase of 211 thousand euros (2.6%) compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS’ consolidated sales revenue for the first 12 months of 2024 was 32.238 million euros, an increase of 421 thousand euros (1%) compared to the previous year. The Group’s net rental income for the first 12 months of 2024 totalled 29.977 million euros, i.e. 369 thousand euros more than in 2023. The Group’s net profit for the same period was 13.564 million euros (2023: 1.0 million euros).

    The consolidated net rental income margin was 93% in 2024 (2023: same), thus costs directly related to property management (including land tax, insurance, maintenance and improvement costs) and marketing costs accounted for 7% (2023: same) of sales revenue.
    The Group’s assets as of 31.12.2024 were 398.763 million euros (31.12.2023: 380.944 million euros), including the fair value of investment properties accounting for 94% of the assets (31.12.2023: the same). 
    Investment portfolio

    As of the end of 2024, the Group has 36 (31.12.2023: 35) commercial real estate investments, the fair value of which at the balance sheet date is 373.815 million euros (31.12.2023: 357.916 million euros) and the acquisition cost is 370.561 million euros (31.12.2023: 354.408 million euros). In addition to the investment properties owned by the Fund’s subsidiaries, the Group’s 50% joint venture owns the Palace Hotel in Tallinn, the fair value of which as of 31.12.2024 was 8.630 million euros (31.12.2023: 9.0 million euros).

    Investments in 2024

     The Group made investments in both new properties and the existing portfolio in 2024 totaling 21.6 million euros, including the acquisition of a logistics center in Tallinn, Härgmäe 8, by the Group’s subsidiary EfTEN Härgmäe OÜ in the autumn of 2024, paying a total of 8.8 million euros for the property, and the acquisition of a logistics center under development in Tallinn, Paemurru tee 3, by the Group’s subsidiary EfTEN Paemurru OÜ in the autumn of 2024, paying a total of 1.2 million euros for the property. In addition, the Group paid a total of 2.76 million euros for the development of the Paemurru logistics center in 2024.

    In 2024, the group completed the first phase of development at the Ermi nursing home in Tartu, where a total of 3.19 million euros were invested in the reporting year. In addition, construction on the C-building of the Valkla nursing home began, with investments reaching 788 thousand euros in 2024.

    Major investments in existing buildings were made in 2024 in the Saules Miestas shopping center, where the public areas were renovated for 1.8 million euros, and in the AirBaltic office building in Riga, where 665 thousand euros were invested in the building’s insulation work. Of the remaining investments, 1.6 million euros was spent on the reconstruction and modernization of rental spaces in various office buildings.

    Sales in 2024

    In September 2024, the Group sold the Tähesaju Hortes property for 4.675 million euros. Despite the payment difficulties of the tenant of the Tähesaju property, the Group earned nearly 300 thousand euros in net cash flow from the investment since its completion in 2018. The Group invested the funds received from the sale of the Tähesaju property in the acquisition of the Härgmäe logistics center.

    Rental income

    In 2024, the group earned a total of 31.076 million euros in rental income, which is 2% more than in 2023. Rental income increased the most in shopping centers. Rental income in the office segment decreased mainly due to the expiration of the lease agreement with the anchor tenant of the Menulio 11 office building in Vilnius and the related vacancy. In 2024, renovation works of the vacant rental premises in the Menulio 11 office building began, which are planned to be completed during 2025.
    The Group’s investment property vacancy rate per portfolio was 2.6% as of 31 December 2024 (unchanged from 31 December 2023). The highest vacancy rate was in the office segment (11.3%), where filling vacant rental properties has taken longer than previously expected.      

    Financing

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, two new subsidiaries of the fund, EfTEN Härgmäe OÜ and EfTEN Paemurru OÜ, signed loan agreements for the acquisition and development of real estate. In 2024, the fund’s subsidiaries EfTEN Autokeskus OÜ and EfTEN Jurkalne SIA extended the loan agreements concluded with the bank. The loan agreements of six subsidiaries of the group will expire within the next 12 months, the balance of which as of 31.12.2024 was 20,380 thousand euros. The LTV of the expiring loan agreements ranges from 27% to 48%, and the real estate investments have a stable rental cash flow, therefore, according to the group’s management, there will be no obstacles to extending the loan agreements.

    The weighted average interest rate of the Group’s loan agreements as of 31.12.2024 was 4.89% (31.12.2023: 5.91%) and the LTV (Loan to Value) was 40% (31.12.2023: 42%). All loan agreements of the Fund’s subsidiaries were linked to a floating interest rate in 2024.

    The Fund’s interest coverage ratio (ICR) for loans was 3.0 in 2024. Due to the increase in EURIBOR in the first half of 2024 and the increase in liabilities, the interest coverage ratio was 10% lower than in 2023.

    Information on shares

    In the last quarter of 2024, the fund carried out a share issue, during which 620,544 new shares were subscribed for at a price of 19 euros, of which the nominal value was 10 euros and the share premium was 9 euros. A total of 11.79 million euros was raised during the issue, including an increase in the fund’s share capital by 6.205 million euros and a share premium of 5.585 million euros. There were 0.159 million euros in expenses directly related to the issue. As of 31.12.2024, the fund had 11,440,340 shares.

    The net asset value (NAV) of EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS shares as of 31.12.2024 was 20.37 euros (31.12.2023: 20.21 euros). EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS’s net asset value per share increased by 0.8% in 2024. The fund distributed dividends in the total amount of 10.82 million euros in April 2024. Without the distribution the net asset value of EfTEN Real Estate AS shares would have increased by 4.9% in 2024.

    During 2024, the group has earned free cash flow of 11.109 million euros (2023: 11.314 million euros), of which 8.887 million euros (77.68 eurocents per share) could be considered gross dividends according to the fund’s dividend policy The fund’s management plans to refinance bank loans in the spring of 2025, where the LTV (Loan-to-Value) has fallen significantly below the fund’s financing policy threshold, and the operating cash flow exceeds loan and interest payments by more than twice. According to the management’s estimate, the refinancing would allow to increase the distributed dividend up to 1.1 euros per share (net).

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

      IV quarter 12 months
      2024 2023 2024 2023
    € thousands        
    Revenue 8,314 8,103 32,238 31,817
    Cost of services sold -337 -506 -1,569 -1,626
    Gross profit 7,977 7,597 30,669 30,191
             
    Marketing costs -203 -190 -692 -583
    General and administrative expenses -987 -978 -3,666 -3,546
    Profit / loss from valuation of investment properties 831 -7,759 -1,038 -13,941
    Other operating income and expense 1 -2 46 21
    Operating profit/loss 7,619 -1,332 25,319 12,142
             
    Profit / loss from joint ventures 53 -474 -118 -499
    Interest income 62 87 278 184
    Other finance income and expense -2,052 -2,277 -8,696 -7,970
    Profit before income tax 5,682 -3,996 16,783 3,857
             
    Income tax expense -2,222 -1,884 -3,219 -2,857
    Net profit for the reporting period 3,460 -5,880 13,564 1,000
    Net comprehensive profit for the reporting period 3,460 -5,880 13,564 1,000
    Earnings per share        
       – basic 0.32 -0.54 1.25 0.09
       – diluted 0.32 -0.54 1.25 0.09

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

      31.12.2024 31.12.2023
    € thousands    
    ASSETS    
    Cash and cash equivalents 18,415 14,712
    Short-term deposits 2,092 3,400
    Receivables and accrued income 2,055 2,360
    Prepaid expenses 138 106
    Total current assets 22,700 20,578
         
    Long-term receivables 154 214
    Shares in joint ventures 1,960 2,078
    Investment property 373,815 357,916
    Property. plant and equipment 134 158
    Total non-current assets 376,063 360,366
    TOTAL ASSETS 398,763 380,944
         
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY    
    Borrowings 25,625 16,907
    Liabilities and prepayments 3,245 3,417
    Total current liabilities 28,870 20,324
         
    Borrowings 123,795 130,849
    Other long-term liabilities 1,928 1,790
    Deferred income tax liability 11,097 9,283
    Total non-current liabilities 136,820 141,922
    Total liabilities 165,690 162,246
         
    Share capital 114,403 108,198
    Share premium 90,306 84,721
    Statutory reserve capital 2,799 2,749
    Retained earnings 25,565 23,030
    TOTAL EQUITY 233,073 218,698
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 398,763 380,944

    Marilin Hein
    CFO
    Phone +372 6559 515
    E-mail: marilin.hein@eften.ee

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Ami Bera Denounces Trump Administration’s Purge of FBI Officials

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ami Bera (D-CA)

    Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera (CA-06), Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released a statement denouncing the Trump administration’s purge of high-ranking FBI officials: 

    “I am deeply concerned by the abrupt and arbitrary dismissal of several top FBI officials—career civil servants with decades of experience protecting our nation from crime, cyber threats and terrorism. These individuals were not political appointees but seasoned professionals tasked with overseeing critical national security and criminal investigations.

    “Sweeping purges like this, without clear justification, risk undermining the FBI’s ability to protect the American people. The sudden removal of senior leaders disrupts ongoing operations, weakens institutional knowledge and leaves the American public more vulnerable to threats from criminals and terrorists who seek to harm our nation.

    “The American people deserve an FBI that is strong, independent and led by experienced professionals. The Trump administration must provide transparency regarding these dismissals and prioritize national security over political retribution.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HIGHLIGHTS OF UNION BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 12:42PM by PIB Delhi

    PART A

    Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt Nirmala Sitharaman presented Union Budget 2025-26 in the Parliament today. The highlights of the budget are as follows:

    Budget Estimates 2025-26

    • The total receipts other than borrowings and the total expenditure are estimated at ₹ 34.96 lakh crore and ₹ 50.65 lakh crore respectively.
    • The net tax receipts are estimated at ₹ 28.37 lakh crore.
    • The fiscal deficit is estimated to be 4.4 per cent of GDP.
    • The gross market borrowings are estimated at ₹ 14.82 lakh crore.
    • Capex Expenditure of ₹11.21 lakh crore (3.1% of GDP) earmarked in FY2025-26.

    AGRICULTURE AS THE 1ST ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana – Developing Agri Districts Programme

    • The programme to be launched in partnership with the states, covering 100 districts with low productivity, moderate crop intensity and below-average credit parameters, to benefit 1.7 crore farmers.

    Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience

    • A comprehensive multi-sectoral programme to be launched in partnership with states to address under-employment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy.
    • Phase-1 to cover 100 developing agri-districts.

    Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

    • Government to launch a 6-year “Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses” with focus on Tur, Urad and Masoor.
    • NAFED and NCCF to procure these pulses from farmers during the next 4 years.

    Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits

    • A comprehensive programme to promote production, efficient supplies, processing, and remunerative prices for farmers to be launched in partnership with states.

    Makhana Board in Bihar

    • A Makhana Board to be established to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana.

     

    National Mission on High Yielding Seeds

    • A National Mission on High Yielding Seeds to be launched aiming at strengthening the research ecosystem, targeted development and propagation of seeds with high yield, and commercial availability of more than 100 seed varieties.

    Fisheries

    • Government to bring a framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and High Seas, with a special focus on the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands.

    Mission for Cotton Productivity

    • A 5-year mission announced to facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple cotton varieties.

    Enhanced Credit through KCC

    • The loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme to be enhanced from ₹ 3 lakh to ₹ 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC.

    Urea Plant in Assam

    • A plant with annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons to be set up at Namrup, Assam.

    MSMEs AS THE 2ND ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Revision in classification criteria for MSMEs

    • The investment and turnover limits for classification of all MSMEs to be enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times respectively.

    Credit Cards for Micro Enterprises

    • Customized Credit Cards with ₹ 5 lakh limit for micro enterprises registered on Udyam portal, 10 lakh cards to be issued in the first year.

    Fund of Funds for Startups

    • A new Fund of Funds, with expanded scope and a fresh contribution of ₹ 10,000 crore to be set up.

    Scheme for First-time Entrepreneurs

    • A new scheme for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first-time entrepreneurs to provide term-loans upto ₹ 2 crore in the next 5 years announced.

    Focus Product Scheme for Footwear & Leather Sectors

    • To enhance the productivity, quality and competitiveness of India’s footwear and leather sector, a focus product scheme announced to facilitate employment for 22 lakh persons, generate turnover of ₹ 4 lakh crore and exports of over ₹ 1.1 lakh crore.

    Measures for the Toy Sector

    • A scheme to create high-quality, unique, innovative, and sustainable toys, making India a global hub for toys announced.

    Support for Food Processing

    • A National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management to be set up in Bihar.

    Manufacturing Mission – Furthering “Make in India”

    • A National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium and large industries for furthering “Make in India” announced.

    INVESTMENT AS THE 3RD ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    1. Investing in People

    Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0

    • The cost norms for the nutritional support to be enhanced appropriately.

    Atal Tinkering Labs

    • 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up in Government schools in next 5 years.

    Broadband Connectivity to Government Secondary Schools and PHCs

    • Broadband connectivity to be provided to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the Bharatnet project.

    Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme

    • Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme announced to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    National Centres of Excellence for Skilling

    • 5 National Centres of Excellence for skilling to be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip our youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing.

    Expansion of Capacity in IITs

    • Additional infrastructure to be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students.

    Centre of Excellence in AI for Education

    • A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education to be set up with a total outlay of ₹ 500 crore.

    Expansion of medical education

    • 10,000 additional seats to be added in medical colleges and hospitals next year, adding to 75000 seats in the next 5 years.

    Day Care Cancer Centres in all District Hospitals

    • Government to set up Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals in the next 3 years, 200 Centres  in 2025-26.

    Strengthening urban livelihoods

    • A scheme for socio-economic upliftment of urban workers to help them improve their incomes and have sustainable livelihoods announced.

    PM SVANidhi

    • Scheme to be revamped with enhanced loans from banks, UPI linked credit cards with ₹ 30,000 limit, and capacity building support.

    Social Security Scheme for Welfare of Online Platform Workers

    • Government to arrange for identity cards, registration on e-Shram portal and healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojna, for gig-workers.

     

    1. Investing in the Economy

    Public Private Partnership in Infrastructure

    • Infrastructure-related ministries to come up with a 3-year pipeline of projects in PPP mode, States also encouraged.

    Support to States for Infrastructure

    • An outlay of ₹1.5 lakh crore proposed for the 50-year interest free loans to states for capital expenditure and incentives for reforms.

    Asset Monetization Plan 2025-30

    • Second Plan for 2025-30 to plough back capital of ₹ 10 lakh crore in new projects announced.

    Jal Jeevan Mission

    • Mission to be extended until 2028 with an enhanced total outlay.

    Urban Challenge Fund

    • An Urban Challenge Fund of ₹ 1 lakh crore announced to implement the proposals for ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, ‘Creative Redevelopment of Cities’ and ‘Water and Sanitation’, allocation of ₹ 10,000 crore proposed for 2025-26.

    Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat

    • Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to be taken up.
    • Nuclear Energy Mission for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) with an outlay of ₹20,000 crore to be set up, 5 indigenously developed SMRs to be operational by 2033.

    Shipbuilding

    • The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy to be revamped.
    • Large ships above a specified size to be included in the infrastructure harmonized master list (HML).

    Maritime Development Fund

    • A Maritime Development Fund with a corpus of ₹ 25,000 crore to be set up, with up to 49 per cent contribution by the Government, and the balance from ports and private sector.

    UDAN – Regional Connectivity Scheme

    • A modified UDAN scheme announced to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and carry 4 crore passengers in the next 10 years.
    • Also to support helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational, and North East region districts.

    Greenfield Airport in Bihar

    • Greenfield airports announced in Bihar, in addition to the expansion of the capacity of Patna airport and a brownfield airport at Bihta.

    Western Koshi Canal Project in Mithilanchal

    • Financial support for the Western Koshi Canal ERM Project in Bihar.

    Mining Sector Reforms

    • A policy for recovery of critical minerals from tailings to be brought out.

    SWAMIH Fund 2

    • A fund of ₹ 15,000 crore aimed at expeditious completion of another 1 lakh dwelling units, with contribution from the Government, banks and private investors announced.

    Tourism for employment-led growth

    • Top 50 tourist destination sites in the country to be developed in partnership with states through a challenge mode.

     

    1. Investing in Innovation

    Research, Development and Innovation

    • ₹20,000 crore to be allocated to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation initiative announced in the July Budget.

    Deep Tech Fund of Funds

    • Deep Tech Fund of Funds to be explored to catalyze the next generation startups.

    PM Research Fellowship

    • 10,000 fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support.

    Gene Bank for Crops Germplasm

    • 2nd Gene Bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines to be set up for future food and nutritional security.

    National Geospatial Mission

    • A National Geospatial Mission announced to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data.

    Gyan Bharatam Mission

    • A Gyan Bharatam Mission for survey, documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors to be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts announced.

    EXPORTS AS THE 4TH ENGINE OF DEVELOPMENT

    Export Promotion Mission

    • An Export Promotion Mission, with sectoral and ministerial targets, driven jointly by the Ministries of Commerce, MSME, and Finance to be set up.

    BharatTradeNet

    • ‘BharatTradeNet’ (BTN) for international trade to be set-up as a unified platform for trade documentation and financing solutions.

    National Framework for GCC

    • A national framework to be formulated as guidance to states for promoting Global Capability Centres in emerging tier 2 cities.

    REFORMS AS FUEL: FINANCIAL SECTOR REFORMS AND DEVELOPMENT

    FDI in Insurance Sector

    • The FDI limit for the insurance sector to be raised from 74 to 100 per cent, for those companies which invest the entire premium in India.

    Credit Enhancement Facility by NaBFID

    • NaBFID to set up a ‘Partial Credit Enhancement Facility’ for corporate bonds for infrastructure.

    Grameen Credit Score

    • Public Sector Banks to develop ‘Grameen Credit Score’ framework to serve the credit needs of SHG members and people in rural areas.

    Pension Sector

    • A forum for regulatory coordination and development of pension products to be set up.

    High Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms

    • A High-Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms to be set up for a review of all non-financial sector regulations, certifications, licenses, and permissions.

    Investment Friendliness Index of States

    • An Investment Friendliness Index of States to be launched in 2025 to further the spirit of competitive cooperative federalism anounced.

    Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

    • The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to decriminalize more than 100 provisions in various laws.

     

    PART B

     

    DIRECT TAX

     

    • No personal income tax payable upto income of Rs 12 lakh (i.e. average income of Rs 1 lakh per month other than special rate income such as capital gains) under the new regime.
    • This limit will be Rs 12.75 lakh for salaried tax payers, due to standard deduction of Rs 75,000.
    • The new structure will substantially reduce the taxes of the middle class and leave more money in their hands, boosting household consumption, savings and investment.
    • The new Income-Tax Bill to be clear and direct in text so as to make it simple to understand for taxpayers and tax administration, leading to tax certainty and reduced litigation.
    • Revenue of about ₹ 1 lakh crore in direct taxes will be forgone.

     

    • Revised tax rate structure

     

    • In the new tax regime, the revised tax rate structure will stand as follows:

     

    0-4 lakh rupees

    Nil

    4-8 lakh rupees

    5 percent

    8-12 lakh rupees

    10 percent

    12-16 lakh rupees

    15 percent

    16-20 lakh rupees

    20 percent

    20- 24 lakh rupees

    25 percent

    Above 24 lakh rupees

    30 percent

     

     

    • TDS/TCS rationalization for easing difficulties

     

    • Rationalization of Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) by reducing number of rates and thresholds above which TDS is deducted.
    • The limit for tax deduction on interest for senior citizens doubled from the present Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh.
    • The annual limit of Rs 2.40 lakh for TDS on rent increased to Rs 6 lakh.
    • The threshold to collect tax at source (TCS) on remittances under RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) increased from Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
    • The provisions of the higher TDS deduction will apply only in non-PAN cases.
    • Decriminalization for the cases of delay of payment of TCS up to the due date of filing statement.

     

     

    • Reducing Compliance Burden

     

    • Reduction of compliance burden for small charitable trusts/institutions by increasing their period of registration from 5 years to 10 years.

     

    • The benefit of claiming the annual value of self-occupied properties as nil will be extended for two such self-occupied properties without any condition.

     

    • Ease of Doing Business

     

    • Introduction of a scheme for determining arm’s length price of international transaction for a block period of three years.
    • Expansion of the scope of safe harbour rules to reduce litigation and provide certainty in international taxation.
    • Exemption of withdrawals made from National Savings Scheme (NSS) by individuals on or after the 29th of August, 2024.
    • Similar treatment to NPS Vatsalya accounts as is available to normal NPS accounts, subject to overall limits.

     

    • Employment and Investment

     

    Tax certainty for electronics manufacturing Schemes

     

    • Presumptive taxation regime for non-residents who provide services to a resident company that is establishing or operating an electronics manufacturing facility.
    • Introduction of a safe harbour for tax certainty for non-residents who store components for supply to specified electronics manufacturing units.

     

    Tonnage Tax Scheme for Inland Vessels

     

    The benefits of existing tonnage tax scheme to be extended to inland vessels registered  under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021 to promote inland water transport in the country.

     

     

    • Extension for incorporation of Start-Ups

    Extension of the period of incorporation by 5 years to allow the benefit available to start-ups incorporated before 1.4.2030.

     

     

    • Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs)

     

    Certainty of taxation on the gains from securities to Category I and Category II AIFs which are undertaking investments in infrastructure and other such sectors.

     

     

    • Extension of investment date for Sovereign and Pension Funds

     

    Extension of the date of making investments in Sovereign Wealth Funds and Pension Funds by five more years, to 31st March, 2030, to promote funding from them to the infrastructure sector.

     

     

    INDIRECT TAX

    Rationalisation of Customs Tariff Structure for Industrial Goods

    Union Budget 2025-26 proposes to:

    1. Remove seven tariff rates. This is over and above the seven tariff rates removed in 2023-24 budget. After this, there will be only eight remaining tariff rates including ‘zero’ rate.
    2. Apply appropriate cess to broadly maintain effective duty incidence except on a few items, where such incidence will reduce marginally.
    3. Levy not more than one cess or surcharge. Therefore Social Welfare Surcharge on 82 tariff lines that are subject to a cess, exempted.

    Revenue of about ₹ 2600 crore in indirect taxes will be forgone.

    Relief on import of Drugs/Medicines

    • 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD).
    • 6 lifesaving medicines to attract concessional customs duty of 5%.
    • Specified drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes run by pharmaceutical companies fully exempted from BCD; 37 more medicines added along with 13 new patient assistance programmes.

    Support to Domestic Manufacturing and Value addition

    • Critical Minerals :
      • Cobalt powder and waste, the scrap of lithium-ion battery, Lead, Zinc and 12 more critical minerals fully exempted from BCD.
    • Textiles:
      • Two more types of shuttle-less looms fully exempted textile machinery.
      • BCD rate on knitted fabrics revised from “10% or 20%” to “20% or ` 115 per kg, whichever is higher.
    • Electronic Goods:
      • BCD on Interactive Flat Panel Display (IFPD) increased from 10% to 20% .
      • BCD reduced to 5% on Open Cell and other components.
      • BCD on parts of Open Cells exempted.
    • Lithium Ion Battery:
      • 35 additional capital goods for EV battery manufacturing, and 28 additional capital goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing exempted.
    •  Shipping Sector: 
      • Exemption of BCD on raw materials, components, consumables or parts for the manufacture of ships extended for another ten years.
      • The same dispensation to continue for ship breaking.
    • Telecommunication: 
      • BCD reduced from 20% to 10% on Carrier Grade ethernet switches.

    Export Promotion

    • Handicraft Goods:
      • Time period for export extended  from six months to one year, further extendable by another three months, if required.
      • Nine items added to list of duty-free inputs.
    • Leather sector:         
      • BCD on Wet Blue leather fully exempted.
      • Crust leather exempted from 20% export duty.
    • Marine products:
      • BCD reduced from 30% to 5% on Frozen Fish Paste (Surimi) for manufacture and export of its analogue products.
      • BCD reduced from 15% to 5% on fish hydrolysate for manufacture of fish and shrimp feeds.
    • Domestic MROs for Railway Goods: 
      • Railways MROs to benefit similar to the aircraft and ships MROs in terms of import of repair items.
      • Time limit extended for export of such items from 6 months to one year and made further extendable by one year.

    Trade facilitation

    • Time limit for Provisional Assessment: 
      • For finalising the provisional assessment, time-limit of two years fixed, extendable by a year.
    • Voluntary Compliance:
      • A new provision introduced to enable importers or exporters, after clearance of goods, to voluntarily declare material facts and pay duty with interest but without penalty.
    • Extended Time for End Use:
      • Time limit for the end-use of imported inputs in the relevant rules extended from six months to one year.
      • Such importers to file only quarterly statements instead of a monthly statement.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SUMMARY OF UNION BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 12:36PM by PIB Delhi

    NO INCOME TAX ON AVERAGE MONTHLY INCOME OF UPTO RS 1 LAKH; TO BOOST MIDDLE CLASS HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS & CONSUMPTION

    SALARIED CLASS TO PAY NIL INCOME TAX UPTO ₹ 12.75 LAKH PER ANNUM IN NEW TAX REGIME

    UNION BUDGET RECOGNISES 4 ENGINES OF DEVELOPMENT – AGRICULTURE, MSME, INVESTMENT AND EXPORTS

    BENEFITTING 1.7 CRORE FARMERS, ‘PRIME MINISTER DHAN-DHAANYA KRISHI YOJANA’ TO COVER 100 LOW AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY DISTRICTS

    “MISSION FOR AATMANIRBHARTA IN PULSES” WITH A SPECIAL FOCUS ON TUR, URAD AND MASOOR TO BE LAUNCHED

    LOANS UPTO Rs. 5 LAKHS THROUGH KCC UNDER MODIFIED INTEREST SUBVENTION SCHEME

    FY-25 ESTIMATED TO END WITH FISCAL DEFICIT OF 4.8%, TARGET TO BRING IT DOWN TO 4.4% IN FY-26

    SIGNIFICANT ENHANCEMENT OF CREDIT WITH GUARANTEE COVER TO MSMEs FROM ₹ 5 CR TO ₹ 10 CR

    A NATIONAL MANUFACTURING MISSION COVERING SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE INDUSTRIES FOR FURTHERING “MAKE IN INDIA”

    50,000 ATAL TINKERING LABS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS IN NEXT 5 YEARS

    CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EDUCATION, WITH A TOTAL OUTLAY OF ₹ 500 CRORE

    PM SVANIDHI WITH ENHANCED LOANS FROM BANKS, AND UPI LINKED CREDIT CARDS WITH ₹ 30,000 LIMIT

    GIG WORKERS TO GET IDENTITY CARDS, REGISTRATION ON E-SHRAM PORTAL &  HEALTHCARE UNDER PM JAN AROGYA YOJANA

    ₹ 1 LAKH CRORE URBAN CHALLENGE FUND FOR ‘CITIES AS GROWTH HUBS’

    NUCLEAR ENERGY MISSION FOR R&D OF SMALL MODULAR REACTORS WITH AN OUTLAY OF ₹ 20,000 CRORE

    MODIFIED UDAN SCHEME TO ENHANCE REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY TO 120 NEW DESTINATIONS

    ₹ 15,000 CRORE SWAMIH FUND TO BE ESTABLISHED FOR EXPEDITIOUS COMPLETION OF ANOTHER 1 LAKH STRESSED HOUSING UNITS

    ₹ 20,000 CRORE ALLOCATED FOR PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION INITIATIVES

    GYAN BHARATAM MISSION FOR SURVEYAND CONSERVATION OF MANUSCRIPTS TO COVER MORE THAN ONE CRORE MANUSCRIPTS

    FDI LIMIT ENHANCED FOR INSURANCE FROM 74 TO 100 PER CENT

    JAN VISHWAS BILL 2.0 TO BE INTRODUCED FOR DECRIMINALISING MORE THAN 100 PROVISIONS IN VARIOUS LAWS

    UPDATED INCOME TAX RETURNS TIME LIMIT INCREASED FROM TWO TO FOUR YEARS

    DELAY IN TCS PAYMENT DECRIMINALISED

    TDS ON RENT INCREASED FROM ₹ 2.4 LAKH TO ₹ 6 LAKH

    BCD EXEMPTED ON 36 LIFESAVING DRUGS AND MEDICINES FOR TREATING CANCER, RARE AND CHRONIC DISEASES

    BCD ON IFPD INCREASED TO 20% AND ON OPEN CELLS REDUCED TO 5%

    BCD ON PARTS OF OPEN CELLS EXEMPTED TO PROMOTE DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING

    TO BOOST BATTERY PRODUCTION, ADDITIONAL CAPITAL GOODS FOR EV AND MOBILE BATTERY MANUFACTURING EXEMPTED

    BCD EXEMPTED FOR 10 YEARS ON RAW MATERIALS & COMPONENTS USED FOR SHIP BUILDING

    BCD REDUCED FROM 30% TO 5% ON FROZEN FISH PASTE AND 15% TO 5% ON FISH HYDROLYSATE

     

    Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament today. Here is the summary of her budget speech;

    PART A

     

    Quoting Telugu poet and playwright Shri Gurajada Appa Rao’s famous saying, ‘A country is not just its soil; a country is its people.’ – the Finance Minister presented the Union Budget 2025-26 with the theme “Sabka Vikas” stimulating balanced growth of all regions.

    In line with this theme, the Finance Minister outlined the broad Principles of Viksit Bharat to encompass the following:

    a) Zero-poverty;

     b) Hundred per cent good quality school education;

    c) Access to high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare;

    d) Hundred per cent skilled labour with meaningful employment;

    e) Seventy per cent women in economic activities; and

    f) Farmers making our country the ‘food basket of the world’.

    The Union Budget 2025-2026 promises to continue Government’s efforts to accelerate growth, secure inclusive development, invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, and enhance spending power of India’s rising middle class. The Budget proposes development measures focusing on poor (Garib), Youth, farmer (Annadata) and women (Nari).

    The Budget aims to initiate transformative reforms in Taxation, Power Sector, Urban Development, Mining, Financial Sector, and Regulatory Reforms to augment India’s growth potential and global competitiveness.

    Union Budget highlights that Agriculture, MSME, Investment, and Exports are engines in the journey to Viksit Bharat using reforms as fuel, guided by the spirit of inclusivity.

     

    1st Engine: Agriculture

    Budget announced ‘Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana’ in partnership with states covering 100 districts to increase productivity, adopt crop diversification, augment post-harvest storage, improve irrigation facilities, and facilitate availability of long-term and short-term credit.

    A comprehensive multi-sectoral ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ programme will be launched in partnership with states to address underemployment in agriculture through skilling, investment, technology, and invigorating the rural economy. The goal is to generate ample opportunities in rural areas, with focus on rural women, young farmers, rural youth, marginal and small farmers, and landless families.

    Union Finance Minister announced that Government will launch a 6-year “Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses” with special focus on Tur, Urad and Masoor. Central agencies (NAFED and NCCF) will be ready to procure these 3 pulses, as much as offered during the next 4 years from farmers.

    The Budget has outlined measures to Comprehensive Programme for Vegetables & Fruits, National Mission on High Yielding Seeds, and a five year Mission for Cotton Productivity amongst other measures to promote agriculture and allied activities in a major way.

    Smt. Sitharaman announced the increase in loan limits from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh for loans taken through Kisan Credit Cards under modified interest subvention scheme.

     

    2nd Engine: MSMEs

    Finance Minister described MSMEs as the second power engine for development as they constitute for 45% of our exports. To help MSMEs achieve higher efficiencies of scale, technological upgradation and better access to capital, the investment and turnover limits for classification of all MSMEs enhanced to 2.5 and 2 times, respectively. Further, steps to enhance credit availability with guarantee cover have also been announced.

    The Finance Minister also announced the launch of a new scheme for 5 lakh women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes first-time entrepreneurs. This will provide term loans up to Rs. 2 crore during the next 5 years.

    Smt. Sitharaman announced that the Government will also implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys representing the ‘Made in India’ brand. She added that the Government will set up a National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium and large industries for furthering “Make in India”.

    3rd Engine: Investment

    Defining Investment as the third engine of growth, the Union Minister prioritized investment in people, economy and innovation. 

    Under the investment in people, she announced that 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs will be set up in Government schools in next 5 years.

    Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced that broadband connectivity will be provided to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the Bharatnet project.

    She said Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme will be implemented to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    Five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip our youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing.

    A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of 500 crore.

    Budget announced that Government will arrange for Gig workers’ identity cards, their registration on the e-Shram portal and healthcare under PM Jan Arogya Yojana.

    Under the investment in Economy, Smt Sitharaman said Infrastructure-related ministries will come up with a 3-year pipeline of projects in PPP mode.

    She added that an outlay of Rs 1.5 lakh crore was proposed for the 50-year interest free loans to states for capital expenditure and incentives for reforms.

    She also announced the second Asset Monetization Plan 2025-30 to plough back capital of Rs 10 lakh crore in new projects.

    The Jal Jeevan Mission was extended till 2028 with focus on the quality of infrastructure and Operation & Maintenance of rural piped water supply schemes through “Jan Bhagidhari”.

    Government will set up an Urban Challenge Fund of Rs.1 lakh crore to implement the proposals for ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, ‘Creative Redevelopment of Cities’ and ‘Water and Sanitation’.

    Under the investment in Innovation, an allocation of ₹20,000 crore is announced to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation initiative.

    Finance Minister proposed National Geospatial Mission to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data which will benefit urban planning.

    Budget proposes Gyan Bharatam Mission, for survey, documentation and conservation of  more than 1 crore manuscripts with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors. A National Digital Repository of Indian knowledge systems for knowledge sharing is also proposed.

    4th Engine: Exports

    Smt. Sitharaman defined Exports as the fourth engine of growth and said that jointly driven by the Ministries of Commerce, MSME, and Finance; Export Promotion Mission will help MSMEs tap into the export market. She added that a digital public infrastructure, ‘BharatTradeNet’ (BTN) for international trade was proposed as a unified platform for trade documentation and financing solutions.

    The Finance Minister mentioned that support will be provided to develop domestic manufacturing capacities for our economy’s integration with global supply chains. She also announced that government will support the domestic electronic equipment industry for leveraging the opportunities related to Industry 4.0. A National Framework has also been proposed for promoting Global Capability Centres in emerging tier 2 cities.

    The government will facilitate upgradation of infrastructure and warehousing for air cargo including high value perishable horticulture produce.

    Reforms as the Fuel

    Defining Reforms as the fuel to the engine, Smt. Sitharaman said that over the past 10 years, the Government had implemented several reforms for convenience of tax payers, such as faceless assessment, tax payers charter, faster returns, almost 99 per cent returns being on self-assessment, and Vivad se Vishwas scheme. Continuing with these efforts, she reaffirmed the commitment of the tax department to “trust first, scrutinize later”.

    Financial Sector Reforms and Development

    In a demonstrated steadfast commitment of the Government towards ‘Ease of Doing Business’, the Union Finance Minister proposed changes across the length and breadth of the financial landscape in India to ease compliance, expand services, build strong regulatory environment, promote international and domestic investment, and decriminalisation of archaic legal provisions.

    The Union Finance Minister proposed to raise the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit for the insurance from 74 to 100 per cent, to be available for those companies that invest the entire premium in India.

    Smt. Sitharaman proposed a light-touch regulatory framework based on principles and trust to unleash productivity and employment. She proposed four specific measures to develop this modern, flexible, people-friendly, and trust-based regulatory framework for the 21st first century, viz.:

    1. High Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms
    • To review all non-financial sector regulations, certifications, licenses, and permissions.
    • To strengthen trust-based economic governance and take transformational measures to enhance ‘ease of doing business’, especially in matters of inspections and compliances
    • To make recommendations within a year
    • States will be encouraged to be onboarded

     

    1. Investment Friendliness Index of States
    • An Investment Friendliness Index of States will be launched in 2025 to further the spirit of competitive cooperative federalism.

     

    1. Mechanism under the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC)
    • Mechanism to evaluate impact of the current financial regulations and subsidiary instructions.
    • Formulate a framework to enhance their responsiveness and development of the financial sector.

     

    1. Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0
    • To decriminalise more than 100 provisions in various laws.

    Fiscal Consolidation

    Reiterating the commitment to stay the course for fiscal consolidation, the Union Finance Minister stated that the Government endeavours to keep the fiscal deficit each year such that the Central Government debt remains on a declining path as a percentage of the GDP and the detailed roadmap for the next 6 years has been detailed in the FRBM statement. Smt. Sitharaman stated that the Revised Estimate 2024-25 of fiscal deficit is 4.8 per cent of GDP, while the Budget Estimates 2025-26 is estimated to be 4.4 per cent of GDP.

    Revised Estimates 2024-25

    The Minister said that the Revised Estimate of the total receipts other than borrowings is ₹31.47 lakh crore, of which the net tax receipts are ₹25.57 lakh crore. She added that the Revised Estimate of the total expenditure is ₹47.16 lakh crore, of which the capital expenditure is about ₹10.18 lakh crore.

    Budget Estimates 2025-26

    For FY 2025-26, the Union Finance Minister stated that the total receipts other than borrowings and the total expenditure are estimated at ₹34.96 lakh crore and ₹50.65 lakh crore respectively. The net tax receipts are estimated at ₹28.37 lakh crore.

    PART B

    Reposing faith on middle class in nation building, the Union Budget 2025-26 proposes new direct tax slabs and rates under the new income tax regime so that no income tax is needed to be paid for total income upto ₹ 12 Lakh per annum, i.e. average income of Rs 1 Lakh per month, other than special rate income such as Capital Gain. Salaried individuals earning upto ₹ 12.75 Lakh per annum will pay NIL tax, due to standard deduction of ₹ 75,000. Towards the new tax structure and other direct tax proposals, Government is set to lose revenue of about ₹ 1 lakh crore.

    Under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government has taken steps to understand the needs voiced by the people. The direct tax proposals include personal income tax reform with special focus on middle class, TDS/TCS rationalization, encouragement to voluntary compliances along with reduction of compliance burden, ease of doing business and incentivizing employment and investment.

    The Budget proposes revised tax rate structure under the new tax regime as follows;

    Total Income per annum

    Rate of Tax

    ₹ 0 – 4 Lakh

    NIL

     ₹ 4 – 8 Lakh

    5%

    ₹ 8 – 12 Lakh

    10%

    ₹ 12 – 16 Lakh

    15%

    ₹ 16 – 20 Lakh

    20%

    ₹ 20 – 24 Lakh

    25%

    Above ₹ 24 Lakh

    30%

    To rationalize TDS/TCS, Budget doubles limit for tax deduction on interest earned by senior citizens from the present ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 1 Lakh. Further, TDS threshold on rent has been increased to ₹ 6 Lakh from ₹ 2.4 Lakh per annum. Other measures include, increasing of threshold to collect TCS to ₹ 10 Lakh and continuing with higher TDS deductions only in non-PAN cases. After the decriminalization of delay in payment of TDS, delay in TCS payments has now been decriminalized.

    Encouraging voluntary compliance, Budget extends time-limit to file updated returns for any assessment year, from the current limit of two years, to four years. Over 90 Lakh taxpayers paid additional tax to update their income. Small charitable trusts/institutions have been given the benefit by increasing their period of registration from 5 to 10 years, reducing compliance burden. Further, tax payers can now claim annual value of two self-occupied properties as NIL, without any condition. Last budget’s Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme has received a great response, with nearly 33,000 tax payers having availed the scheme to settle their disputes. Giving benefits to senior and very senior citizens, withdrawals made from National Savings Scheme Accounts on or after 29th of August, 2024 have been exempted. NPS Vatsalya accounts also to get similar benefits.

    For ease of doing business, Budget introduces a scheme for determining arm’s length price of international transaction for a block period of three years. This is in line with global best practices. Further, self harbor rules are being expanded to provide certainty in international taxation.

    To promote employment and investment, a presumptive taxation regime is envisaged for non-residents who provide services to a resident company that is establishing or operating an electronics manufacturing facility. Further, benefits of existing tonnage tax scheme are proposed to be extended to inland vessels. To promote start-up ecosystem, period of incorporation has been extended for a period of 5 years. To promote investment in the infrastructure sector, Budget extends the date of making investment in Sovereign Wealth Funds and Pension Funds by five more years, to 31st March, 2030.

    As part of rationalization of Customs tariffs of industrial goods, Budget proposes to; (i) Remove seven tariffs, (ii) apply appropriate cess to maintain effective duty incidence, and (iii) levy not more than one cess or surcharge.

    As relief on import of Drugs/Medicines, 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines for treating cancer, rare diseases and chronic diseases have been fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD). Further, 37 medicines along with 13 new drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes have been exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD), if supplied free to patients.

    To support Domestic Manufacturing and Value Addition, BCD on 25 critical minerals, that were not domestically available, were exempted in July 2024. The Budget 2025-26 fully exempts cobalt powder and waste, scrap of lithium-ion battery, Lead, Zinc and 12 more critical minerals. To promote domestic textile production, two more types of shuttle-less looms added to fully exempted textile machinery. Further, BCD on knitted fabrics covering nine tariff lines from “10% to 20%” revised to “20% or ₹ 115 kg, whichever is higher”.

    To rectify inverted duty structure and promote “Make in India”, BCD on Interactive Flat Panel Display (IFPD) increased to 20% and on Open cells reduced to 5%. Further to promote manufacture of Open cells, BCD on parts of Open Cells stands exempted.

    To boost manufacturing of Lithion-ion battery in the country, 35 additional capital goods for EV battery manufacturing, and 28 additional capital goods for mobile phone battery manufacturing added to the list of exempted capital goods. Union Budget 2025-26 also continues exemption on BCD on raw materials, components, consumables or parts for ship building for another ten years. Budget also reduced BCD from 20% to 10% on Carrier Grade ethernet switches to make it at par with Non-Carrier Grade ethernet switches.

    For export promotion, Budget 2025-26 facilitates exports of handicrafts, fully exempts BCD on Wet Blue leather for value addition and employment, reduce BCD from 30% to 5% on Frozen Fish Paste and reduce BCD from 15% to 5% on fish hydrolysate for manufacture of fish and shrimp feeds.

    Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said that Democracy, Demography and Demand are key pillars of Viksit Bharat journey. She said that the middle class gives strength of India’s growth and the Government has periodically hiked the ‘Nil tax’ slab in recognition to their contribution. She said the proposed new tax structure will substantially boost consumption, savings and investment, by putting more money in the hands of the middle class.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AGRICULTURE IS THE FIRST ENGINE FOR INDIA’S DEVELOPMENT JOURNEY: BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    AGRICULTURE IS THE FIRST ENGINE FOR INDIA’S DEVELOPMENT JOURNEY: BUDGET 2025-26

    MAKHANA BOARD TO BE ESTABLISHED IN BIHAR

    NATIONAL MISSION ON HIGH YIELDING SEEDS TO BE LAUNCHED

    SECOND GENE BANK WITH 10 LAKH GERMPLASM LINES TO BE SET UP

    FIVE- YEAR MISSION FOR COTTON PRODUCTIVITY ANNOUNCED

    KISAN CREDIT CARD LOAN LIMIT RAISED FROM Rs. 3 LAKH TO Rs. 5 LAKH

    12.7 LAKH METRIC TONS UREA PLANT TO BE SET UP AT NAMRUP, ASSAM

    ANDAMAN & NICOBAR AND LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS WILL BE THE SPECIAL FOCUS OF THE NEW FRAMEWORK FOR SUSTAINABLE HARNESSING OF FISHERIES

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 1:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Emphasizing ‘Agriculture as the first engine’ for India’s development journey, Union Budget 2025-26 tabled in Parliament today by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, announced a slew of measures to spur Agricultural Growth and Productivity, thereby benefitting the Annadata.

    Announcing the Government’s decision to establish a Makhana Board in Bihar, Smt. Sitharaman said it will improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana as well as support the people engaged in these activities to be organized into Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). She added that the Board will provide handholding and training support to makhana farmers and also work to ensure they receive the benefits of all relevant Government schemes.

    The Minister stated that a National Mission on High Yielding Seeds will be launched with an aim to strengthen the research ecosystem, targeted development and propagation of seeds with high yield, pest resistance and climate resilience, and commercial availability of more than 100 seed varieties released since July 2024.

    To provide conservation support to both public and private sectors for genetic resources and ensure future food and nutritional security, the Minister said that the second Gene Bank with 10 lakh germplasm lines will be set up.

    Announcing the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’, Smt. Sitharaman highlighted that the five-year mission will facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple cotton varieties. She said the mission will benefit lakhs of cotton growing farmers as the best of science & technology support will be provided to farmers. Aligned with the Government’s integrated 5F vision for the textile sector, the Minister remarked that the mission will help in increasing incomes of the farmers as well as ensure a steady supply of quality cotton for rejuvenating India’s traditional textile sector.

    Noting the importance of Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) in facilitating short term loans for around 7.7 crore farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers, the Minister announced the enhancement of loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme from Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC.

    Smt. Sitharaman announced the setting up of Urea plant with annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tons at Namrup, Assam. This, she said will further augment urea supply and help to achieve Atmanirbharta in urea production, along with the recently reopened three dormant urea plants in the Eastern region.

    Highlighting that India ranks second-largest globally in fish production and aquaculture with the Seafood exports valued at Rs. 60 thousand crore, the Union Minister remarked that the Government will bring in an enabling framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and High Seas, with a special focus on the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands, which will unlock the untapped potential of the marine sector.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 50,000 ATAL TINKERING LABS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS IN NEXT 5 YEARS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    50,000 ATAL TINKERING LABS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS IN NEXT 5 YEARS

    BHARATIYA BHASHA PUSTAK SCHEME TO PROVIDE DIGITAL-FORM INDIAN LANGUAGE BOOKS

    ALLOCATION OF RS 20,000 CRORE TO IMPLEMENT PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

    PROVISION OF 10,000 FELLOWSHIPS FOR TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN IITs AND IISC UNDER PM RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP SCHEME

    5 NATIONAL CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE FOR SKILLING TO EQUIP YOUTH FOR “MAKE FOR INDIA, MAKE FOR THE WORLD” MANUFACTURING

    CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EDUCATION WITH TOTAL OUTLAY OF RS 500 CRORE

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 1:09PM by PIB Delhi

    While presenting the Union Budget 2025-26 in the Parliament today, the Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman proposed various development measures for nurturing innovation.

    The Union Finance Minister announced to set up Fifty thousand Atal Tinkering Labs in Government schools in next 5 years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds. The Union Budget also proposes to provide Broadband connectivity to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the Bharatnet project.

    On higher education, the Union Budget 2025-26 states that total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded.

    With the aim to help students understand their subjects better, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed to implement a Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    The Union Finance Minister also announced to set up five National Centres of Excellence for skilling with global expertise and partnerships to equip youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing. The partnerships will cover curriculum design, training of trainers, a skills certification framework, and periodic reviews.

    The Union Budget also announced to set up a Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education with a total outlay of Rs 500 crore.

    While presenting the Budget, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced to allocate Rs 20,000 crore to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation. In the next five years, under the PM Research Fellowship scheme, provision of ten thousand fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support is also proposed in the Budget.

    ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A HIGH-LEVEL COMMITTEE FOR REGULATORY REFORMS TO BE SET UP FOR REVIEW OF ALL NON-FINANCIAL SECTOR REGULATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND PERMISSIONS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    A HIGH-LEVEL COMMITTEE FOR REGULATORY REFORMS TO BE SET UP FOR REVIEW OF ALL NON-FINANCIAL SECTOR REGULATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND PERMISSIONS

    GOVERNMENT TO LAUNCH AN INVESTMENT FRIENDLINESS INDEX OF STATES IN 2025

    JAN VISHWAS BILL 2.0 TO BE BROUGHT TO DECRIMINALIZE MORE THAN 100 PROVISIONS IN VARIOUS LAWS

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 1:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Finance & Corporate Affairs Minister presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in the Parliament today.

    Regulatory Reforms

    In her Budget speech, the Union Finance Minister said that the Government is determined to ensure that the regulations must keep up with technological innovations and global policy developments. A light-touch regulatory framework based on principles and trust will unleash productivity and employment. Through this framework, regulations will be updated that were made under old laws.

    To develop this modern, flexible, people-friendly, and trust-based regulatory framework appropriate for the twenty-first century, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman proposed four specific measures:

    High Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms

    A High-Level Committee for Regulatory Reforms will be set up for a review of all non-financial sector regulations, certifications, licenses, and permissions, the Union Finance Minister added. The committee will be expected make recommendations within a year. The objective is to strengthen trust-based economic governance and take transformational measures to enhance ‘ease of doing business’, especially in matters of inspections and compliances. States will be encouraged to join in this endeavour.  

    Investment Friendliness Index of States

    Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman added that an Investment Friendliness Index of States will be launched in 2025 to further the spirit of competitive cooperative federalism.

    FSDC Mechanism

    Under the Financial Stability and Development Council, a mechanism will be set up to evaluate impact of the current financial regulations and subsidiary instructions, the Union Finance Minister said. It will also formulate a framework to enhance their responsiveness and development of the financial sector.

    Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

    Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman informed that the Government will now bring up the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 to decriminalize more than 100 provisions in various laws. In the Jan Vishwas Act 2023, more than 180 legal provisions were decriminalized.

    In the last ten years in several aspects, including financial and non-financial, our Government has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to ‘Ease of Doing Business’, the Union Finance Minister said.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Empowering Rural Communities

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Flagship Schemes Driving Growth

     

    The Government of India has launched several flagship schemes aimed at fostering inclusive rural development, poverty alleviation, and livelihood enhancement. These initiatives, implemented under the Ministry of Rural Development and other key departments, address critical areas such as employment generation, housing, infrastructure, skill development, and social welfare.

    Mahatma Gandhi NREGA

    The vision of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA is to enhance the livelihood security of rural households across the country by providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. Mahatma Gandhi NREGA recognizes the importance of strengthening the livelihood resource base of the poor by reaching the most vulnerable sections of rural areas, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, women-headed households, and other marginalized groups.

    Mission Antyodaya

    Adopted in Union Budget 2017-18, Mission Antyodaya is a convergence and accountability framework aiming to bring optimum use and management of resources allocated by 26 Ministries / Department of the Government of India under various programmes for the development of rural areas. It is envisaged as state-led initiative with Gram Panchayats as focal points of convergence efforts.

    Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission

    The DAY-NRLM scheme is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower rural women and enhance their livelihoods by fostering community institutions that provide crucial financial, technical, and marketing resources. It emphasizes social inclusion through Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) and facilitates access to government schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission and Poshan Abhiyan, ensuring multi-sectoral convergence. 

     

     

    Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana –Gramin

    The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin was launched on 20th November 2016, aiming to provide housing for the poorest segments of society. Beneficiaries are selected through a rigorous three-stage validation process that includes the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC 2011) and Awaas+ (2018) surveys, Gram Sabha approvals, and geo-tagging. This ensures that aid reaches the most deserving individuals.

    Sl. No.

    Key Parameter Indicators

    Status as on 31.01.25

    1

    Target

    3,79,37,139

    2

    Beneficiaries Registered

    3,70,94,350

    4

    House Sanctioned

    3,31,96,085

    5

    House Completed

    2,69,47,215

    PMAY-G Progress

    Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

    The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), was launched by the Govt. of India to provide connectivity to unconnected Habitations as part of a poverty reduction strategy. Govt. of India is endeavoring to set high and uniform technical and management standards and facilitating policy development and planning at State level in order to ensure sustainable management of the rural roads network.

    PMGSY Progress

    National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP)

    The National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) is a welfare programme being administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. This programme is being implemented in rural areas as well as urban areas. NSAP represents a significant step towards the fulfilment of the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Constitution of India which enjoin upon the State to undertake within its means a number of welfare measures. These are intended to secure for the citizens adequate means of livelihood, raise the standard of living, improve public health, provide free and compulsory education for children etc.

     

    Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)

    The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) announced the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) on Antyodaya Diwas – 25th September 2014. DDU-GKY is a part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), tasked with the dual objectives of adding diversity to the incomes of rural poor families and cater to the career aspirations of rural youth.

    Cumulative progress till 2024-25

    Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs)

    RSETIs are managed by Banks with active co-operation from the Government of India and State Government. These are Dedicated institutions designed as to ensure necessary skill training and skill up gradation of the rural BPL youth to mitigate the unemployment problem. After successful completion of the training, they will be provided with credit linkage assistance by the banks to start their own entrepreneurial ventures.

    Namo Drone Didi

    On 15th August, 2023, the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced the launch of the “Namo Drone Didi” Yojana which aimed to empower women by hand holding them into a sustainable business model where they can increase their income by more than Rs 1 Lakh, and transforming the modern farming ecosystem with drone technology.

    Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA)

    The scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on 21.04.2018 for implementation from Financial Year 2018-19 to 2021-22. The primary aim of RGSA was to strengthen PRIs for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with main thrust on convergence with Mission Antyodaya and emphasis on strengthening PRIs in 117 Aspirational districts.

    The Government of India’s flagship rural development schemes have played a transformative role in enhancing livelihoods, improving infrastructure, and fostering socio-economic inclusion. By prioritizing employment generation, housing, skill development, and financial empowerment, these initiatives have significantly contributed to rural prosperity.

    References

    https://nreganarep.nic.in/netnrega/MISreport4.aspx

    https://dashboard.rural.nic.in/dashboardnew/ddugky.aspx

    https://nsap.nic.in/

    https://omms.nic.in/dbweb

    https://namodronedidi.php-staging.com/about-scheme

    Click here for pdf file 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UNION EDUCATION MINISTER LAUDS HISTORIC BUDGET 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    UNION EDUCATION MINISTER LAUDS HISTORIC BUDGET 2025-26

    TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HAS REACHED ₹128,650 CRORE, MARKING A 6.22% INCREASE OVER BE 2024-25.

    50,000 ATAL TINKERING LABS IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS IN NEXT 5 YEARS

    ALL GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOLS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY UNDER BHARAT NET IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS

    BHARATIYA BHASHA PUSTAK SCHEME TO PROVIDE DIGITAL-FORM INDIAN LANGUAGE BOOKS

    ALLOCATION OF RS 20,000 CRORE TO IMPLEMENT PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

    IITs STARTED AFTER 2014 TO GET NEW INFRASTRUCTURE FOR 6,500 MORE STUDENTS
    PROVISION OF 10,000 FELLOWSHIPS FOR TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN IITS AND IISC UNDER PM RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP SCHEME

    5 NATIONAL CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE FOR SKILLING TO EQUIP YOUTH FOR “MAKE FOR INDIA, MAKE FOR THE WORLD” MANUFACTURING

    CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EDUCATION WITH TOTAL OUTLAY OF RS 500 CRORE

    ‘GYAN BHARATAM MISSION’ TO PRESERVE OVER 1 CRORE MANUSCRIPTS

    NATIONAL DIGITAL REPOSITORY OF INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS FOR KNOWLEDGE SHARING TO BE SET UP

    Posted On: 01 FEB 2025 9:15PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan lauded the Budget 2025-26, emphasizing it as a budget that takes everyone together and prioritizes welfare, well-being, and empowerment of all citizens while firmly placing India on the path to achieving the goal of developed India by 2047. The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for a visionary and futuristic Budget.

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said that this Budget is aiming to cater to the comprehensive requirements, right from childhood to youth, who would be leading from the front in realizing the Viksit Bharat agenda in 2047 and beyond.

    He further stated that the Budget announcements encompass today’s entire youth demographic, who will lead the nation for the next 25 years. This will strengthen the Bhartiya Gyan Parampara within our education system and foster a global community, he added.

    The Minister highlighted that the Budget 2025-26 emphasizes investing in people and facilitating all-round development of India’s human capital. He noted that with “Gareeb, Yuva, Annadata, and Naari” as the pillars, this budget would uplift sentiments of the poor and middle class, accelerate spending, catalyze investments, and spur growth. He emphasized that it would remove regional imbalances, build rural prosperity, nurture research, innovation and entrepreneurship, invigorate the education and skilling landscape, and lead to employment-led development.

    The Minister expressed gratitude for continuing with bigger and bolder investments in education, skilling, research, and innovation, stating that this budget represents another big leap towards empowering India’s population with more opportunities for world-class education and building capacities of human capital.

    The Minister informed that the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Education has reached ₹128,650 crore, marking a 6.22% increase over BE 2024-25.

    Union Education Minister informed that Fifty thousand Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) will be set up in Government schools in next 5 years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds. With this, students of all Government secondary schools will have access to ATL. The Union Budget also proposes to provide Broadband connectivity to all Government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas under the BharatNet project, he added.

    Shri Pradhan informed that the total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded, he further added.

    Shri Pradhan said that with the aim to help students understand their subjects better, it is proposed to implement a Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education.

    The Union Minister also informed that five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be set up with global expertise and partnerships to equip youth with the skills required for “Make for India, Make for the World” manufacturing. The partnerships will cover curriculum design, training of trainers, a skills certification framework, and periodic reviews.

    Shri Pradhan highlighted that the fourth AI Centre of Excellence in Education, envisioned in the Budget 2025-26, aims to revolutionize India’s educational system from pre-primary to professional and research levels. By harnessing artificial intelligence, it seeks to address disparities and inefficiencies, ensuring equitable and high-quality education across the nation. This Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Education will be established with a total outlay of ₹500 crore, he added

    The Minister informed the allocation of Rs 20,000 crore to implement private sector driven Research, Development and Innovation. In the next five years, under the PM Research Fellowship scheme, provision of ten thousand fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc with enhanced financial support is also proposed in the Budget, he added.

    The Minister informed that a Gyan Bharatam Mission for survey, documentation and conservation of our manuscript heritage with academic institutions, museums, libraries and private collectors will be undertaken to cover more than 1 crore manuscripts. A National Digital Repository of Indian knowledge systems for knowledge sharing will also be set up.

    D/o School Education & Literacy

    • The Budget Allocation for the FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78572 Cr is the highest ever for the Department of School Education & Literacy.
    • There has been an overall increase of ₹ 5074 Cr (7%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of School Education and Literacy in the FY 2025-26 from BE 2024-25. As compared to RE of FY 2024-25, there has been an increase of ₹ 11,000 Cr (16.28 %).
    • The highest ever Budget Allocation may be seen in the Autonomous Body of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) at Rs. 9,503 Cr. Allocation in KVS has increased by ₹ 201.17 Cr as compared to Budget allocation of FY 2024-25. There has been an increase of ₹ 776 Cr (9%) as compared to RE of FY 2024-25.
    • Budget Allocation of FY 2025-26 in Flagship Schemes have increased i.e Samagra Shiksha (by ₹ 3750 Cr), PM-POSHAN (by ₹ 32 Cr) and PM-SHRI (by ₹ 1450 Cr) with respect to Budget Allocation (BE) of FY 2024-25. As compared to RE 2024-25, allocation in Samagra Shiksha has increased by ₹ 4240 Cr (11%), allocation in PM-POSHAN has increased by ₹ 2500 Cr (25 %) and allocation in PM-SHRI has increased by ₹ 3000 Cr (66%).
    • Out of the overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 of ₹ 78,572 Cr, the Scheme allocation is ₹ 63,089 Cr and Non-Scheme Allocation is ₹ 15,483 Cr.
    • Increase in Scheme Allocation in BE 2025-26 is ₹ 5284 Cr (9.14 %) as compared to BE 2024-25. As compared to RE 24-25, increase in Scheme Allocation is ₹ 10248 Cr (19%) and non-Scheme allocation has increased by ₹ 752 Cr (5%) in BE 2025-26.
    • Fifty thousand (50,000) Atal Tinkering Labs (ALT) will be set up in Government schools in next five years to cultivate the spirit of curiosity and innovation, and foster a scientific temper among young minds.
    • Broadband connectivity will be provided to all Government secondary schools under BharatNet project in the next three years.

    Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education

    • The overall Budget Allocation in FY 2025-26 is Rs. 50077.95 Cr out of which Scheme allocation is Rs. 6990.88 Cr and Non- Scheme allocation is Rs. 43087.07 cr.
    • There has been an overall increase of Rs. 2458.18 Cr (5.16%) in the Budget Allocation of Department of Higher Education in the FY 2025-26 with respect to FY 2024-25.

    Allocations to Major Autonomous Bodies under Higher Education

     

    • The total Allocation of Autonomous Bodies in 2025-26 increased to Rs. 42732 Cr from Rs. 39777.40  in 2024-25. There is increase of 7.42%
    • Allocation in Central Universities has been kept at Rs. 16691.31 Cr, against Rs. 15928 Cr in 2024-25 which is  Rs 763.31 Cr more i.e.  4.79 % increase.
    • UGC has been allocated Rs.3335.97 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 2500 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 835.97 Cr more i.e. 33.44 % increase.
    • IITs have been allocated Rs. 11349.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 10324.50 Cr in 2024-25 which is Rs. 1024.50 Cr more i.e. 9.92% increase.
    • For NITs, Rs.5687.47 Cr has been allocated in FY 2025-26, against Rs.5040 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 647.47 Cr i.e. 12.85% increase.
    • Deemed Universities have been allocated Rs.604 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.596 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 8 Cr i.e. 1.34% increase.
    • IIMs have been allocated Rs.251.89 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs. 212.21 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 39.68 Cr i.e. 18.70% increase.
    • IIITs have been allocated Rs.407.00 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.315.91 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 91.09 Cr i.e 28.83 % increase.
    • Grants for Promotion of Indian Languages have been allocated Rs.347.03 Cr in 2025-26, against Rs.310.10 Cr in 2024-25 increasing the allocation by Rs. 36.93 Cr i.e. 11.91% increase.                                                                                 

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  • MIL-OSI Global: Donald Trump’s tariff wallop demonstrates the brute power of an imperial presidency

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Daniel Drache, Professor Emeritus, Department of Politics, York University, Canada

    As promised, United States President Donald Trump has imposed punishing tariffs on all exports from Canada and Mexico, leading to retaliatory tariffs from Canada.

    Canada’s closest ally has torn up the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade deal negotiated only seven years ago. The rationale behind what the Wall Street Journal editorial board has called “the dumbest trade war in history” isn’t even clear.

    The pessimistic view is that if Canada doesn’t give Trump everything he wants, he will bulldoze the country with more tariffs, sanctions on banks, enhanced border inspections and even a travel ban — everything he recently threatened to do to Colombia.

    Canada’s political class is scrambling because the U.S. has long been a cultural sibling and an economic partner. But now it is toxic, threatening and untrustworthy. Will Canada sign another trade deal with Trump in office? The chances recede the longer the tariffs remain in place.

    Iron-fisted

    It’s never been more clear that Trump is obsessive, seldom a bluffer and always iron-fisted. He seems to have planned and executed this tariff bomb to cause maximum pain and chaos. Now he says the European Union is next on his list.

    Trump is counting on his new majorities in U.S. Congress to ram through his radical right populist agenda, forcing other countries to play a role in his melodrama.

    In response to Trump’s charge that the U.S. subsidizes Canadian trade, former Conservative prime minister Stephen Harper pointed out that half of America’s imported oil comes from Canada, and its price is significantly discounted due to a lack of pipeline capacity. “It’s actually Canada that subsidizes the United States in this regard,” Harper said.

    Nevertheless, Trump’s preferred foreign policy tactic is to hit first with economic sanctions and negotiate later. With his near total grip on U.S. government, he can now achieve all his aims through tariffs.



    Read more:
    Canada-U.S. tariff war: How it will impact different products and industries

    The imperial presidency

    Trump’s vision for his imperial presidency is organized around an old idea: the revenue tariff. Before income taxes, border tariffs were the primary source of income for government. But back then, government did a lot less.

    For example, America’s 19th-century navy of wooden sailing ships was purchased with tariffs. But it would be impossible to fund modern-day health care, student loans and $13 billion aircraft carriers with tariff revenues.

    A recent study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics shows the math doesn’t add up. Tariffs are levied on imported goods and are worth about US$3 trillion. American income tax is levied on incomes and are worth more than US$20 trillion. Government would have to be much smaller, and tariffs would have to be so high they would choke American trade, for tariffs to make economic sense.

    And yet Trump has a broad mandate. In the summer of 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Trump v. United States that presidents require a broadly defined “presumptive immunity from prosecution for … official acts.”

    This decision has given Trump the legal clout to force the entire federal government to answer to the president himself.



    Read more:
    US Supreme Court immunity ruling ideal for a president who doesn’t care about democracy

    War against democracy

    Trump is using his vast new mandate to wage multiple wars simultaneously. These wars against the guardrails of liberal democracy require the punishment of his enemies inside his own party.



    Read more:
    Canada should be preparing for the end of American democracy

    Republicans who have voted against Trump legislation during his first term faced high-profile challenges in the primaries as he funded their opponents. Today, the war is waged against those who are insufficiently loyal, including the highest ranks of the Coast Guard and the FBI.

    The war against the administrative state involves the mass firing of independent inspectors, federal lawyers and thousands of civil servants to be replaced by foot soldiers personally loyal to the leader.

    The Trump administration has sent out “deferred resignation” notices that invite the entire civil service to resign. This is the tactic Trump’s key adviser, Elon Musk, implemented at X, and it suggests a wave of firings will soon begin.

    Nonsensical trade war

    The trade war against Canada and Mexico is peculiar because neither country has expressed any willingness to abolish the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which is among the achievements of Trump’s first administration.

    Nevertheless, the paranoid Trump seems to be convinced that he got a raw deal in 2018, and so he wants to scrap the whole treaty and negotiate something tougher that brings more jobs home.

    In 2024, the cars that were ranked most “American” in terms of their content and final assembly were made by Tesla, Honda and Volkswagen. By comparison, the best-selling the Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck ranked No. 43 on the list. What Trump considers American and non-American isn’t clear, even to voters.

    A new Bank of Canada forecast predicts that American tariffs may reduce Canadian GDP by six per cent. The federal government is planning an enormous bailout package to compensate for widespread job losses like the one offered to businesses and individuals during the pandemic.

    Unsurprisingly, Trump divides Canada’s leadership. Alberta and Saskatchewan have publicly criticized the Team Canada approach. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith refused to sign the joint federal/provincial statement and played to her secessionist base.



    Read more:
    Why Alberta’s Danielle Smith is rejecting the Team Canada approach to Trump’s tariff threats

    Even so, former Alberta premier Jason Kenney recognizes the peril, arguing that Alberta needs to “be prepared to retaliate … we can’t be wusses about this; we have to have a spine.”

    What’s next?

    Canada is an export-led economy based on natural resources. Its strength lies not in refusing to buy California wine or Florida orange juice. Its main sources of leverage are oil and gas, potash and uranium, rare earth minerals, timber products and hydroelectric power. But of all these, oil, uranium, and hydro-electric power are Canada’s biggest guns.

    It’s not yet clear how effective the Canadian government’s strategy will be. Previous rounds of retaliation after the steel and aluminum tariffs in Trump’s first term did not drive him to the negotiating table. It’s also unclear what the CEOs of Canada’s branch-plant multinational corporations will do when their loyalties are divided between Trump and Canada.

    Furthermore, it’s anyone’s guess how much the dissent of western Canadian premiers has hurt Canada’s case with Trump. Certainly, his preferred tactic is to divide and conquer.

    Finally, it’s unclear if Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s “Captain Canada” approach will earn the respect or disdain of Republicans — although, ultimately, it doesn’t matter what the rest of the American political class thinks because Trump and his inner circle are calling all the shots.

    In practical terms, there is little Canada can do to address the false accusations that it’s complicit in the illicit drug trade and in migrants crossing the border into the U.S. Facts don’t matter to Trump. He will eventually come up with a demand, and if Canada doesn’t give in, he will ramp up the economic pain.

    Welcome to the post-liberal world order.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Donald Trump’s tariff wallop demonstrates the brute power of an imperial presidency – https://theconversation.com/donald-trumps-tariff-wallop-demonstrates-the-brute-power-of-an-imperial-presidency-247524

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Intel Committee Vice Chair Warner on the FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement on reports that Trump administration is forcing out a large number of senior Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) personnel:

    “At a time when we are facing a multitude of threats to the homeland – from terrorism and espionage to drug trafficking and Salt Typhoon – it is deeply alarming that the Trump administration appears to be purging dozens of the most experienced agents who are our nation’s first line of defense.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd Statement on Release of NC Native Keith Siegel From Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) released the following statement after North Carolina native Keith Siegel was released from Gaza:
    “We are overjoyed for Keith Siegel and his loved ones that the long nightmare that began on October 7, 2023 is finally over. Keith is now reunited with his wife and family, fulfilling the prayers of millions across the United States and around the world. Thank you to President Trump for delivering the decisive pressure that brought us to this day. I would also like to thank the U.S. State Department and Intelligence community, as well as the governments of Israel, Egypt, and Qatar for their efforts.
    “I remain committed to securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, especially the six Americans. They must not–and will not–be forgotten. I will continue to work to bring the terrorists who committed these acts to justice for their heinous crimes.”
    Senator Budd has been working for the release of American hostages since October 2023:
    On October 25, 2023, Senator Budd first spoke about the hostage situation in Gaza on the Senate floor, where he announced his intention “to hold all humanitarian aid to Gaza until each and every American hostage is home and is safe.”
    On November 6, 2023, Senator Budd met with Qatari Ambassador Meshal Al Thani in Senator Budd’s Washington, D.C. office. In that meeting, he strongly urged the Qatari government to use their leverage on Hamas leaders currently residing in Doha to immediately release all hostages, and hold those same Hamas leaders accountable once the hostage situation is fully resolved.
    On November 26, 2023, Senator Budd reacted to the release of Keith Siegel’s wife, Aviva, saying, “While we are encouraged by the government of Qatar’s efforts to mediate the release of some of the hostages, we renew our call to their government to exert pressure on Hamas leadership to release each and every hostage immediately and unconditionally.”
    On November 28, 2023, Senator Budd spoke on the Senate floor and called out Qatar for its continued hosting of Hamas terrorist leaders, saying, “We need to tell our friends in Doha loudly and clearly: Qatar is accepting a significant liability with its pro-Hamas policy.”
    On December 13, 2023, Senator Budd sent a holiday message of support to the hostages and their families in a speech on the Senate floor, saying, “I want every one of these family members to know that our country is behind them, we support them, and we are praying for them.”
    On January 10, 2024, Senator Budd returned from a congressional delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East, which included stops in Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and Bahrain. The focus of the delegation’s meetings across the region was on securing the release of hostages. 
    On the trip, Senator Budd and his colleagues toured one of the communities devastated by the October 7th massacre by Hamas terrorists. He personally spoke with former hostage Aviva Siegel, and met with top Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad Director David Barnea.
    Senator Budd then met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the Prime Minister of Qatar, to whom Senator Budd sent a strong message that Qatar must do more to secure the immediate and safe release of all of the hostages.
    On January 15, 2024, Senators Budd and Joni Ernst (R-IA) published an op-ed marking the 100th day of captivity for the hostages, writing, “As long as Americans remain captive to these barbaric thugs, the latter is the victor. Allowing Americans to suffer under the yoke of terrorists is a win for evil around the world and a boon for Iran’s proxies.”
    On January 25, 2024, Senator Budd spoke on the Senate floor and delivered a sharp message to the government of Qatar: “Our patience has run out. Time is up. Either pressure Hamas leaders to release the hostages now, or expel them from your land. It’s that simple. The United States of America will be watching.”
    On March 7, 2024, Senators Budd and Tillis invited the family of Keith Siegel to be their guests at the president’s State of the Union Address. Keith’s sister Lucy and niece Hanna accepted the Senators’ invitation.
    On March 15, 2024, Senator Budd joined a joint statement from Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Jim Risch (R-ID), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, as well as five other Senators stating, “If Hamas refuses reasonable negotiations, there is no reason for Qatar to continue hosting Hamas’ political office or any of its members in Doha.”
    On March 26, 2024, Senator Budd and Senator Ernst issued a joint statement calling on the State of Qatar to immediately expel all members of Hamas’ political office currently residing in Doha.
    On April 9, 2024, Senator Budd introduced the ‘Reviewing Qatar’s Major Non- NATO Ally Status Act’, which would require the Secretary of State to formally certify that Qatar has expelled or agreed to extradite to the United States any individuals bearing responsibility for the terror attack on October 7, 2023. If the Secretary of State cannot make this certification in good faith, then the President is required to immediately terminate the designation of the State of Qatar as a major non-NATO ally.
    On April 10, 2024, Senator Budd attempted to invoke unanimous consent on the Senate floor to pass the ‘Reviewing Qatar’s Major Non- NATO Ally Status Act’, but was blocked. He said, “The time for talking is over, and the time for action is now. If we don’t see action, then Qatar must face consequences. At the end of the day, this bill represents another step towards securing the freedom of our fellow Americans.”
    On May 7, 2024, Senators Budd and Ernst returned from a congressional delegation (CODEL) to the Middle East, which included stops in Israel, Iraq, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
    On the trip, Senators Budd and Ernst received first-hand updates on the state of the hostage negotiations from top U.S. and Israeli officials including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They also hosted the families of American hostages, including the family of North Carolina native, Keith Siegel. 
    On July 31, 2024, Senator Budd released a statement after Hamas’s political leader was killed, saying that it “sends a clear and resounding message to terrorists that those who kill and kidnap Americans will ultimately face justice.”
    On September 1, 2024, Senator Budd released a statement condemning the Hamas murder of American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin along with five other Israeli hostages, saying, “This is yet another act of cold-blooded barbarism from Hamas terrorists. It must not be excused or downplayed. The U.S. government must leave no stone unturned until all those responsible for Hersh’s kidnapping and murder are brought to justice, and until we bring every American hostage home.”
    On October 7, 2024, Senator Budd disclosed that the Biden administration had ignored a bipartisan request from Senator Budd and 11 other Senators to authorize a reward of up to $25 million for information that brings Hamas leaders to justice.
    On October 17, 2024, Senator Budd released a statement after Israeli Defense Forces killed Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023 attacks, saying, “[Sinwar] was a terrorist leader who had American blood on his hands. To the remaining Hamas leaders: release the hostages, renounce terrorism, and recognize Israel’s right to exist. There is no future for Hamas or its ideology.”
    On November 8, 2024, Senator Budd joined a letter to the Department of Justice and Department of State requesting an immediate freeze on the assets of Hamas officials living in Qatar, the extradition of several senior Hamas officials currently residing in Qatar, and that Qatar end its hospitality of Hamas’ senior leadership.
    On November 8, 2024, Senator Budd released a statement after the State of Qatar decided to expel the remaining Hamas terrorist leadership from Doha, calling the move, “welcome, but long overdue.” 
    On November 22, 2024, Senator Budd, along with Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker and Senator Joni Ernst, released a statement calling on Turkey to extradite the Hamas terrorist leaders who fled there after being expelled from Qatar.
    On December 2, 2024, Senator Budd released a statement after the Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that U.S.-Israeli citizen Omer Neutra was killed by Hamas terrorists during the October 7, 2023 attacks. His body remains in Gaza, saying in-part, “this news is further proof of the true evil of Hamas terrorists. The U.S. government must not relent until all those responsible for Omer’s murder are brought to justice, and until we bring every American hostage home.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Chicago Announces Capture of Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez

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

    This image is a screenshot of the updated FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive poster for Arnoldo Jimenez, who was captured on January 30, 2025.

    The FBI is announcing the capture of Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez after he was taken into custody without incident in Monterrey, Mexico on January 30.

    FBI Chicago, FBI San Antonio, the FBI’s Legal Attaché in Mexico City, and the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois collaborated to locate Jimenez. He was later arrested by agents of the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), in conjunction with Interpol. Jimenez
    will remain in custody pending extradition proceedings.

    “The FBI is extremely appreciative of the Burbank Police Department, our law enforcement partners in Mexico, and the public for their tremendous investigative efforts and collaboration in the capture of Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez,” said Douglas S. DePodesta, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Chicago Field Office. “The FBI will use all of its available resources to bring criminals to justice, no matter how much time has passed or where they may be in the world.”

    “The apprehension of Arnoldo Jimenez was the result of the tireless teamwork by the FBI and Burbank Police Department, and we would like to commend the professionalism and dedication of everyone involved,” said Deputy Chief William Casey of the Burbank Police Department. “The FBI and Burbank Police Department were committed to bringing justice for Estrella Carrera and her family.”

    On May 13, 2012, Estrella Carrera was found deceased in the bathtub of her apartment less than 48 hours after getting married. Jimenez was charged with first-degree murder by the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, and a state warrant was issued for his arrest on May 15, 2012. A federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, on May 17, 2012, after Jimenez was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

    Jimenez was the 522nd person to be placed on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, which was established in March of 1950. Additional information concerning Jimenez and the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list can be found by visiting fbi.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Riverside County Man Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison for Producing Sexually Explicit Images of Children He Met Online

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SANTA ANA, California – A Riverside County man was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison for catfishing a preteen girl he met on an online gaming platform and persuading her to send him sexually explicit photos of herself and, later, of her five-year-old relative.

    John Matthew Piecuch, 64, of Hemet, was sentenced by United States District Judge John W. Holcomb, who scheduled a May 1, 2025, restitution hearing in this matter.

    Piecuch pleaded guilty in July 2024 to one count of production of child pornography. He has been in federal custody since August 2021.

    “Online games and platforms can allow child predators to hide behind fake identities and lure children into sharing private information,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally. “It is critical that we hold these predators accountable and convey a message of zero tolerance for those who prey on our youth. I also urge parents everywhere to monitor their children’s online activity to ensure their health and safety.”

    Piecuch met on Roblox, an online gaming platform, an individual identified in court documents as “Minor Victim 1,” a 12-year-old-girl. Piecuch told the victim he was a 13-year-old boy.

    In January 2021, Piecuch and Minor Victim 1 texted each other, during which time he persuaded her to send him sexually explicit images of herself. Piecuch also persuaded Minor Victim 1 to take and send him sexually explicit photographs of Minor Victim 2, a five-year-old girl, her relative.

    Minor Victim 1’s mother saw some of the text messages between her daughter and Piecuch on the girl’s mobile device, which prompted her to contact law enforcement, according to court documents.

    Once he completes his prison sentence, Piecuch will remain on supervised release for the rest of his life.

    The FBI investigated this matter in conjunction with the Carroll County (Maryland) Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant United States Attorney Sonah Lee of the Riverside Branch Office is prosecuting this case

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  • MIL-OSI Security: San Diego Sheriff’s Deputy Charged with Civil Rights Violation and Obstruction of Justice

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – A two-count indictment was unsealed in federal court today charging San Diego Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremiah Manuyag Flores with violating the civil rights of a man in pretrial custody at the San Diego Central Courthouse by using excessive force that caused serious injuries and then writing a false report to cover up his illegal actions.

    Flores is charged with depriving the individual – identified in the indictment as 57-year-old J.P. – of his right to due process of law under the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and of falsifying a record in a federal investigation.

    The indictment alleges that Flores was assigned to the Court Services Bureau at the San Diego Central Courthouse on August 29, 2024, and was escorting J.P. to a holding cell following a court hearing. At the time, J.P.’s legs were chained and his hands were cross-chained to his waist.  At one point, Flores grabbed the back of J.P.’s shirt with both hands and pushed him faster down the hallway leading to the holding cell.

    When Flores and J.P. arrived at the open door to the holding cell, Flores forcefully shoved J.P. into the cell from behind with both hands, causing J.P. to smash into the bench and walls and collapse to the ground, the indictment said. Flores stated, “What? Nothing happened,” and failed to immediately report the incident to his supervisor and prepare an official report, both of which are violations of the San Diego Sheriff’s Office’s Use of Force Policy.

    According to the indictment, another deputy found J.P. over two hours later lying in the same position in his holding cell with a head wound and a pool of blood on the floor.  As a result of Flores’ actions, J.P. suffered a spinal injury for which he underwent surgery and remained hospitalized for months.

    The indictment said that more than an hour after J.P. was discovered in his holding cell, Flores falsely claimed in an incident report that “no force was used” in placing J.P. into the cell, though he knew that he had, indeed, used force against the detainee.

    “The vast majority of law enforcement personnel are dedicated public servants committed to following the rule of law and protecting our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath.  “But when a choice is made to cross the line and violate someone’s civil rights, this office will stand on behalf of the victim, and all those who wear the badge with honor, to uphold the public’s trust.”

    “Law enforcement officers work tirelessly every day to protect the public, always striving to be professional, honest, and ethical,” said San Diego FBI Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The alleged action of the defendant not only violates the oath he swore as a law enforcement officer to protect and serve, but also erodes citizen confidence and trust in our profession.”

    Flores made his initial appearance in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge David D. Leshner. He entered pleas of not guilty to both charges and was released on a $25,000 personal appearance bond with special conditions that he surrender his passport and his personally owned firearms. The next scheduled court appearance is a motion hearing and trial setting before U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez on March 10, 2025, at 2 p.m.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Askins.

    DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number 25cr0254-LL                                          

    Jeremiah Manuyag Flores                               Age: 44                                   La Jolla, CA

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 242

    Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison and $250,000 fine

    Falsification of Records in a Federal Investigation – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1519

    Maximum penalty:  Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    San Diego County Sheriff’s Office (Homicide Unit)

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Pleads Guilty in Relation to Fentanyl Poisoning Death of Another Marine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Wisconsin man pleaded guilty today to a felony drug offense for his actions surrounding a 2020 fentanyl transaction that resulted in the death of a U.S. Marine.

    Anthony Ruben Whisenant, 24, pleaded guilty in United States District Court to the use of a communication facility – a cellphone – in committing a felony drug offense.

    United States District Judge Dolly M. Gee is scheduled to sentence Whisenant on May 7, at which time he will face a maximum sentence of four years in federal prison.

    “Fentanyl continues to claim the lives of too many in our community,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Our office remains committed to holding accountable those responsible for circulating fentanyl and other dangerous substances in our district and threatening the health and safety of our residents.”

    According to court documents, in May 2020, Whisenant was an active-duty lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps stationed aboard Camp Pendleton in Oceanside when he ordered pills marketed as oxycodone – but which actually contained fentanyl – for a fellow U.S. Marine, identified in court papers as “L.M.”

    Whisenant contacted the drug dealer, Gustavo Jaciel Solis, 28, based on an advertisement Solis shared via his Snapchat account, according to court documents. L.M. drove Whisenant and another U.S. Marine, Ryan Douglas White, 27, from Camp Pendleton to collect the drugs from Solis later that same day. The three Marines then drove to a party in Compton where L.M. ingested some of the pills purchased from Solis and died shortly after. At the direction of Whisenant, White flushed the remaining pills down a toilet before first responders arrived.

    Solis was charged in 2020, along with Whisenant and two other civilian co-conspirators, with being part of a drug ring that distributed narcotics to civilians and members of the Marine Corps, and White was charged as an accessory after the fact.

    Solis was arrested in July 2020, at which time investigators seized narcotics and several firearms – including a 9mm “ghost gun” – from his residence. Solis pleaded guilty in April 2022 to two federal drug trafficking offenses: participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy and distributing fentanyl resulting in death. His sentencing is pending, and he faces a maximum sentence of life.

    White pleaded guilty in December 2024 to one count of misprision of a felony for his knowledge of the fatal drug transaction and his attempts to hinder law enforcement’s investigation. His sentencing is scheduled for June 6, at which time he will face a maximum sentence of 3 years.

    A superseding indictment filed in September 2020 named two other defendants: Jordan Nicholas McCormick, 29, of Palmdale, and Jessica Sarah Perez, 25, of Pacoima.

    McCormick allegedly supplied provided LSD, ecstasy, cocaine and oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl to co-conspirators. McCormick has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to go to trial on April 22.

    Perez distributed narcotics including fentanyl and cocaine to the conspiracy’s civilian customers. She pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and was sentenced in September 2022 to pay a $100 fine and placed on probation for two years.

    This matter was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Castañeda of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Utqiagvik man sentenced to 15 years for producing child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FAIRBANKS, Alaska – An Utqiagvik man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison and will serve 10 years on supervised release for producing child pornography.

    According to court documents, a detective with a local law enforcement agency, acting in an undercover capacity and posing online as a 13-year-old girl, operated an account with a social media application known to law enforcement to be utilized by individuals seeking sexual encounters with minors. On Nov 6, 2023, the undercover detective received a message from Billy Ray Okpeaha Jr., 25.

    Between Nov. 6, 2023, and Jan. 18, 2024, Okpeaha and the undercover detective engaged in online exchanges that included Okpeaha’s requests that the undercover detective send him explicit content, the defendant sending a photo of his genitals to the undercover detective, and discussions about meeting each other in person and sexual interactions if an in-person meet occurred. Okpeaha sent the address of the hotel he was staying at and requested the undercover detective meet him at his hotel room.

    Okpeaha made plans to meet the undercover detective for a sexual encounter on Jan. 22, 2024. He was arrested that day at an apartment in Utqiagvik. Investigators seized and searched his electronic devices, which contained child sexual abuse materials, including visuals of a known minor victim. The known minor victim was interviewed and confirmed sending images of child sexual abuse material at Okpeaha’s request.

    Okpeaha was initially released on pre-trial supervision following his arrest but fled his transitional living facility. He was re-arrested in Coldfoot, Alaska, allegedly attempting to evade supervision and capture.

    On Sept. 4, 2024, Okpeaha pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a child – production of child pornography.

    “Crimes against children are among the most heinous offenses, inflicting lasting harm on vulnerable victims. Mr. Okpeaha deliberately targeted innocent children in a rural village for his own sexual gratification, exposing a clear and present danger to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Our office will continue to work closely with law enforcement partners to identify, apprehend and vigorously prosecute anyone who attempts to exploit or target the children of Alaska.” 

    “The defendant used the Internet to commit child exploitation crimes in Alaska and was found to be in possession of CSAM on his devices,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This investigation and sentencing demonstrate the severity of the defendant’s crimes, and our commitment to prevent further victimization and ensure online predators are brought to justice.”

    The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated this case as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the North Slope Borough Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Vosacek prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Arizona Couple Pleads Guilty to $1.2B Health Care Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    An Arizona couple pleaded guilty for causing over $1.2 billion of false and fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare and other health insurance programs for expensive, medically unnecessary wound grafts that were applied to elderly and terminally ill patients.

    According to court documents, Alexandra Gehrke, 39, and her husband, Jeffrey King, 46, both of Phoenix, conspired with others to orchestrate the massive scheme. Gehrke ran two companies, Apex Medical LLC and Viking Medical Consultants LLC, that contracted with medically untrained “sales representatives” to locate elderly patients, including hospice patients, who had wounds at any stage and order amniotic wound grafts from a specific graft distributor. Gehrke instructed and financially incentivized the sales representatives to order grafts only in sizes 4×6 centimeters or larger, even if the wound was much smaller, to maximize health insurance reimbursement. Gehrke, through companies she owned and controlled, received over $279 million in illegal kickbacks from the distributor of the grafts in exchange for the orders. Gehrke in turn paid the sales representatives tens of millions of dollars in unlawful kickbacks. Gehrke then referred the patients to a company co-owned by King, which contracted with nurse practitioners to apply the grafts. King’s company fraudulently billed Medicare, TRICARE (the health care program for U.S. service members and their families), CHAMPVA (the health care program for spouses and children of permanently disabled veterans), and commercial insurance plans for the grafts. Gehrke and King, who had no medical training, directed the nurse practitioners to suspend their own medical judgment and apply all grafts ordered by the sales representatives, even when medically unreasonable and unnecessary, which resulted in the application of grafts to infected wounds, wounds that had already healed, and wounds that were not responding to the grafts.

    From November 2022 through May 2024, Gehrke, King, and others, through companies they owned, operated, and controlled, submitted $1,212,005,778 in false and fraudulent claims to health insurance plans. This included over $960 million in false and fraudulent claims to the federal health care programs — Medicare, TRICARE, and CHAMPVA. The federal and private health care insurers paid $614,990,420 based on the false and fraudulent claims.

    In their plea agreements, Gehrke and King agreed to pay restitution in the amounts of $614,990,420 and $605,690,110, respectively. They also agreed collectively to forfeit over $410 million in funds that they obtained from the fraud. To date, the government has seized nearly $100 million in assets that Gehrke and King accumulated from the scheme, including bank account balances exceeding $68 million, four luxury vehicles valued over $980,000, $22 million of life insurance annuities, and jewelry and precious metals.

    Gehrke pleaded guilty on Oct. 24, 2024, to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 11 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. King pleaded guilty on Jan. 31 to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Gary M. Restaino for the District of Arizona; Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of the FBI Atlanta Field Office; Deputy Inspector General Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Director Kelly Mayo of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS); and Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) South Central Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI, HHS-OIG, DCIS, and VA-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Hospital Administrator Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison in Identity Theft Scheme that Spanned Three Decades

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Victim Falsely Prosecuted, Jailed, and Forcibly Medicated with Psychotropic Drugs

    An Iowa hospital administrator who lived under a false identity for more than 30 years and caused the false imprisonment, involuntary hospitalization, and forced medication of his victim was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison.

    Matthew David Keirans, age 59, from Hartland, Wisconsin, received the prison term after an April 1, 2024, guilty plea to one count of false statement to a national credit union administration insured institution and one count of aggravated identity theft.

    Evidence presented at hearings in the case established that Keirans and his identity theft victim worked together at a hotdog cart in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in the late 1980s.  Keirans assumed the victim’s identity and, for the next three decades, used that identity in every aspect of his life.  Keirans obtained several false documents in the victim’s name, including a Kentucky birth certificate.

    In 2013, Keirans obtained employment as a high-level administrator in an Iowa City hospital.  Keirans provided the hospital with false identification documents during the hiring process, including a fictitious I-9 form, social security number, date of birth, and other identification documents in his victim’s name.  After getting hired, Keirans worked for the hospital remotely from his residence in Wisconsin.  Keirans’ access to, and roles in, the system architecture of the hospital’s computer infrastructure were “the highest it could be,” and Keirans “was the key administrator of critical systems.”

    Between March 2014 and May 2022, Keirans repeatedly obtained vehicle and personal loans from two credit unions in the Northern District of Iowa using the victim’s name, social security number, and date of birth.  Keirans obtained nine loans with a total value of over $250,000 from the credit unions.  Keirans also obtained various lines of credit from other lenders in the victim’s name and with his personal identifiers.

    Keirans also maintained deposits at a national bank in the victim’s name.  In August 2019, the victim, who was homeless at the time, entered the branch of the national bank in Los Angeles, California, and told a branch manager that he had recently discovered that someone was using his credit and had accumulated large amounts of debt.  The victim stated that he did not want to pay the debt and wished to close his accounts at the bank.  The victim presented the bank with his true social security card, as well as an authentic State of California identification card.  Due to the large amount of currency in the accounts, the branch manager asked the victim a series of security questions, which the victim was unable to answer.  The national bank then called the Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”).

    LAPD officers spoke with Keirans on the telephone, who stated he lived in Wisconsin and did not give anyone in California permission to access his bank accounts.  After faxing the LAPD a series of phony identification documents, the LAPD arrested Keirans’ victim on two felony charges.  After Keirans requested his victim’s prosecution, the victim was charged in Keirans’ name and held without bail at the Los Angeles County Jail.

    In the ensuing months, Keirans contacted the LAPD and Los Angeles District Attorney (LADA) numerous times requesting updates on the victim’s prosecution.  Meanwhile, Keirans’ victim continued to assert throughout the California criminal proceedings that he was not Keirans.  A California state court judge ultimately found Keirans’ victim was not mentally competent to stand trial and ordered Keirans’ victim to a California mental hospital.  The California state court also ordered Keirans’ victim to receive psychotropic medication. 

    In March 2021, Keirans’ victim pled “no contest” to the two felony charges in exchange for a “time-served” sentence, a $400 fine, and immediate release from custody.  In total, Keirans’ victim spent 428 days in county jail and 147 days in the mental hospital as a result of Keirans’ false reports to the LAPD and LADA.  The state court also ordered Keirans’ victim to “use only their true name, Matthew Keirans” in the future.

    After his release from jail and hospital, Keirans’ victim made numerous attempts to regain his identity.  For his part, Keirans continued to make false reports and statements to law enforcement officials in Wisconsin and California.  The State of California billed the victim over $118,000 for the costs of his “care” in the mental hospital between October 20, 2021, and March 15, 2021.

    In January 2023, after learning where Keirans was employed, the victim contacted the Iowa City hospital’s security department about Keirans.  The hospital referred Keirans’ complaint to a local law enforcement agency, which assigned an experienced detective, Ian Mallory, to investigate the victim’s complaint.  The detective conducted an investigation and, over the course of the ensuing months, unraveled Keirans’ identity theft scheme.  Among other things, the detective obtained DNA evidence that conclusively proved that Keirans was not the son of an elderly man in Kentucky, as Keirans had claimed, but that Keirans’ victim was the man’s son. 

    During an interview with the detective in July 2023, Keirans initially insisted that the victim was “crazy” and “needed help and should be locked up.”  After the detective presented Keirans with the results of the DNA testing, however, Keirans confessed to the three-decade identity theft scheme.  Keirans also admitted to providing fraudulent documents to authorities in Los Angeles from his residence in Wisconsin to aid in the arrest, prosecution, and incarceration of the victim.  A California court ultimately exonerated the victim after Keirans pled guilty in federal court.

    Keirans was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Keirans was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment and fined $10,000.  He was ordered to make $6,191 in restitution the victim and ordered to repay $10,000 in court-appointed attorney fees.  Keirans must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    At the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Williams said Keirans’ crime was “egregious,” “callous,” and “Kafkaesque.”  Chief Judge Williams stated Keirans “weaponized the criminal justice system to achieve his goals.”  Chief Judge Williams praised the “remarkable and exceptional work” of the Iowa detective.

    “Matthew Keirans spent decades pretending to be someone he was not, all the while knowing that his victim was suffering,” said United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax.  “Keirans used his victim’s identity to live his life, obtain loans, and lines of credit.  When the victim tried to clear his name of Keirans’ debts, Keirans deliberately and calculatedly lied to police officers and prosecutors in California in order to keep his victim locked up, unable to live his life, and to keep his own secret safe.  Today, Keirans has been held responsible for his actions and will spend years in prison.” 

    “I would like to thank Detective Mallory for his tenacious work on this case,” said University of Iowa Police Chief Lucy Wiederholt.  “His persistence in finding the facts highlights our commitment to helping victims of crime.”

    “The FBI is committed to working with our local law enforcement partners wherever we can to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution,” said Eugene Kowel, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge. “The FBI commends the University of Iowa Police Department’s tenacity in bringing Keirans’ fraudulent crimes to an end, and we remain dedicated to holding individuals like Keirans accountable when they break the laws of our country and impose harm on victims.”

    Keirans is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.  

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Iowa Police Department.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-1020.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

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