Category: KB

MIL-Evening Report: How are Australians adapting to climate change? Here are 729 ways
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tia Brullo, Research Fellow in Climate Change Adaptation, The University of Melbourne

Australia’s climate is changing. To avoid catastrophic disruptions from successive supercharged disasters, society must adapt. But change takes time and it’s not always clear how much progress we’re making.

We wanted to find out what Australia’s governments, industries and local groups are doing to adapt to climate change. Our work culminated in the Australian Adaptation Database, which captures more than 700 initiatives so far.

Standout examples from this first national stocktake include Ramblers Reef in Victoria – an artificial reef of rocks and shells 500 metres offshore that has helped reduce coastal erosion. In Adelaide, urban cooling and greening projects are transforming the city and suburbs across 17 councils .

Our project shows climate adaptation is happening in Australia, but there’s plenty of room for improvement. The more society can do now to prepare for change, the better off we’ll be in the long run.

Urban greening is helping to cool the city of Adelaide.
Ozitraveler, Shutterstock

What does climate change adaptation in Australia look like?

Australia is lagging behind many other nations when it comes to managing climate action. The federal government is yet to release its first national adaptation plan, while other countries are up to their third or fourth versions.

Why track Australia’s progress in climate adaptation? First, it enables progress to be reported efficiently to governments and international bodies such as the United Nations.

The database also helps people share knowledge. Anyone striving to improve their resilience to climate change can look to the database for ideas and inspiration.

The data was mainly gathered from conversations we had with people in state and territory government departments, local government associations, not-for-profit organisations and private companies across Australia.

On Wednesday, we will present the database at the opening of the national Climate Adaptation 2025 conference in Perth.

The project shows the vast range of ways Australians are preparing for a warmer world. Examples include:
- planting trees to cool cities such as Adelaide and rural towns such as Birchip in Victoria
- building artificial reefs to protect the coastline on the Bellarine Peninsula near Geelong
- changing land use on the Sunshine Coast and building levee banks to better manage flood risks in Roma, Queensland
- restoring and rejuvenating the environment to reduce the impact of drought in Mulloon, New South Wales or flood risk in Brisbane
- moving houses and businesses from hazardous locations such as Grantham in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley, and land swaps in South Murwillumbah.
Anyone can explore and search the database. It’s not an exhaustive record of all climate adaptation in Australia, but provides more detail than ever before. It’s constantly being updated as new examples are added.

But the database is only as good as the information we feed into it, so we need everyone to contribute. All you need to do is hit the “submit an entry” button on the homepage to get started.

Artificial reefs such as Ramblers Reef help slow erosion (ABC News)

The role of government: local, state and federal

Much work to date in climate adaptation has involved laying the foundations for practical actions.

For example, South Australia’s Climate Ready Coasts program aims to improve planning for coastal hazards. This joint effort between state and local governments make sense, given both have a role to play, and it helps ensure adaptation actions are efficient and coordinated.

At the federal level, the Australian government has focused on funding for national disasters such as the Future Drought Fund. Another example, the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, involves making roads, rail, bridges and other infrastructure more resilient to climate change.

Australia is yet to release its first National Adaptation Plan. This document is expected to clarify the federal role in climate adaptation.

The private sector

The private sector is beginning to adapt to climate change. Examples include:
- relocating wine grape production to more suitable climates
- creating new fireproof home designs
- improving building standards, so properties are more resilient to extremes
- preparing guidelines for the financial sector, to better manage the risk to investments
- planning more climate-resilient property developments
- adopting new farming technologies and supporting more regenerative agriculture.
Knowledge sharing and capacity building

We also found extensive efforts to communicate and share information about adapting to change.

Such activities include knowledge building for organisations and communities through workshops, training sessions and simulation games.

Examples include Western Australia’s “being waterwise in the home” tips, and Hobart’s Sparking Conversations, Igniting Action Program for bushfire preparedness. These activities help lay the groundwork for practical action.

Change is hard, but Australia is finally making some progress in climate adaptation.
Markus Spiske, Unsplash., CC BY

What’s next?

Our research shows the policy and governance mechanisms to drive adaptation are largely in place. The knowledge and networks to support meaningful action are gradually being developed.

But the next “heavy lifting” phase – putting plans into action – is yet to begin in earnest.

There’s a clear need to channel funding to those best placed to deliver frontline projects and programs, especially local governments and community organisations.

The Australian Local Government Association is calling for a A$400 million climate adaptation fund to support Australian councils to deliver place-based adaptation actions.

Last year, the Australian Council of Social Services called for a $2 billion investment in a national housing retrofit program to make Australia’s 670,000 low-income houses cooler in summer to reduce illness and death from extreme temperatures. Neither of these calls has been answered.

Let’s get moving

This research is part of a three-year project exploring how to encourage and promote best practice in adapting to climate change across Australia.

The next step is to measure progress around climate adaptation, which is difficult and rarely done – even though it’s required under the Paris Agreement.

The good news is Australia has made a start, but there is much more to do to ensure the wellbeing of our country through a changing climate.

Tia Brullo receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program Climate Systems Hub Project Number CS2.1

Elissa Waters receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program Climate Systems Hub Project Number CS2.1 and Australian Climate Service.

Jon Barnett receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program Climate Systems Hub Project Number CS2.1

Sarah Boulter receives funding from the National Environmental Science Program Climate Systems Hub.

– ref. How are Australians adapting to climate change? Here are 729 ways – https://theconversation.com/how-are-australians-adapting-to-climate-change-here-are-729-ways-256446
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
July 21, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Newspoll and Resolve give Labor big leads as parliament resumes after the election

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

With federal parliament to sit for the first time since the election on Tuesday, Newspoll gives Labor a 57–43 lead and Resolve a 56–44 lead. In Tasmania, Labor is a chance to gain a seat despite a 3% slide in their statewide vote.

A national Newspoll gave Labor a 57–43 lead (55.2–44.8 to Labor at the May federal election). Fieldwork dates and the sample size were not reported, but it’s likely to have been taken July 14–18 from a sample of about 1,200.

Primary votes were 36% Labor, 29% Coalition, 12% Greens, 8% One Nation and 15% for all Others. This is the lowest Coalition primary vote in Newspoll history that goes back to 1985, and about three points below the Coalition’s result at the election.

Anthony Albanese’s net approval was net zero, a ten-point improvement for him since the final pre-election Newspoll, with 47% both satisfied and dissatisfied. Liberal leader Sussan Ley’s first rating was -7 net approval, with 42% dissatisfied and 35% satisfied. Albanese led Ley as better PM by 52–32.

Here is the graph of Albanese’s net approval in Newspoll. While net zero is better than his negative ratings before the election, it’s a long way from his peak after winning the 2022 election.

The lack of a massive surge in net approval for Albanese indicates that Labor’s landslide was more about voters’ dislike for alternatives than their liking of Labor. Peter Dutton and Donald Trump were both big factors in the election result. A DemosAU poll I covered on Saturday had voters opposed by 71–19 to a PM like Trump.

Resolve poll

A national Resolve poll for Nine newspapers, conducted with unknown fieldwork dates from a sample of 2,311, gave Labor a 56–44 lead by respondent preferences, from primary votes of 35% Labor, 29% Coalition, 12% Greens, 8% One Nation, 8% independents and 8% others.

Albanese’s net approval was +3, with 45% giviing him a good rating and 42% a poor rating. In contrast to Newspoll, Sussan Ley’s first rating in Resolve was +9 (38% good, 29% poor). Albanese led Ley as preferred PM by 40–25.

Asked whether the next year will get better or worse, 28% thought it would be personally better and the same share thought it would be worse. Asked this question on the national outlook, by 42–25 respondents expected it to get worse.

By 33–32, respondents opposed the Liberal party having gender quotas, with Coalition voters opposed by 44–27. Men were opposed by 39–34, while women supported quotas by 30–27.

Labor was thought best to handle economic management by 31–30 over the Liberals. On keeping the cost of living low, Labor led by 30–26. The last time Labor led on economic management in Resolve’s monthly polls was July 2023, and the last time they led on cost of living was October 2023.

Tasmanian election updates

Since my election night article, the count has advanced from 63% to 73% of enrolled voters, with all pre-poll votes now counted. These additional votes have not had major impacts on the results.

Postals will be the largest number of outstanding votes still to be counted, but the Tasmanian Electoral Commission won’t begin the postal count until Thursday owing to legislative changes that require the TEC to ensure a postal voter hasn’t already voted by other means.

Postals must be received by 10am on July 29 to be included. In Tasmania the Hare-Clark distribution of preferences is done by hand, and will begin after the postal receipt deadline. The TEC expects to have final results by August 2.

Analyst Kevin Bonham has called 14 of the 35 seats for the Liberals, ten for Labor, five for the Greens and four for left-wing independents, leaving two undecided. In Lyons, the final seat is likely to be won by a Shooters, Fishers and Farmers candidate.

In Bass, there’s a complex fight for the last seat between Labor, the Liberals and the Shooters. Labor may benefit from having two candidates in the race who have nearly equal votes, possibly enabling them to win three seats when they only deserve two based on party totals.

If Labor wins the final Bass seat, they would gain a seat in an election where their statewide vote slid 3.1% to 25.9%.

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

– ref. Newspoll and Resolve give Labor big leads as parliament resumes after the election – https://theconversation.com/newspoll-and-resolve-give-labor-big-leads-as-parliament-resumes-after-the-election-261538

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology Graduates 383 Students

Source: APO – Report:

.

In its 18th commencement, Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology graduated 383 students, including 44% female graduates, in degree and diploma programs yesterday, 19 July.

The degree program graduates include 13 in Agricultural Engineering, 26 in Chemical Engineering, 30 in Civil Engineering, 39 in Computer Science and Technology, 27 in Electrical and Electronics Technology, 27 in Mechanical Technology, and 28 in Mining Technology.

The diploma program graduates include 23 in Automotive Technology, 28 in Computer Application, 18 in Computer Technology and Networking, 13 in Construction Technology, 23 in Electrical Technology, 24 in Electronics Technology, 26 in Mining Technology, 11 in Surveying, and 11 in Cooling System Technology.

Dr. Araya Zeray, Dean of the College, stated that since its establishment in 2004, the College has been providing higher education in eight fields of study in degree programs and nine in diploma programs, significantly contributing to the production of professionals who play a vital role in the country’s economic development.

Dr. Araya further noted that the College has 79 academic staff members—44 foreigners and 35 nationals. He also mentioned that as part of ongoing staff development efforts, 18 staff members are currently pursuing master’s and PhD programs abroad in Russia, China, India, Hungary, and Japan.

A representative of the graduates, commending the support of parents, lecturers, and the college community, expressed their commitment to live up to the expectations of the Government and people who provided them with the opportunity for higher education.

The honorary guest, Mr. Abraha Asfaha, Minister of Public Works, underlined the significance of engineering and technology in national economic development and called on the graduates to apply their knowledge practically in their respective workplaces.

Since its establishment, Mai-Nefhi College of Engineering and Technology has graduated 7,671 students in degree and diploma programs.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana: President Mahama flags off work on second phase of Blekusu sea defence project

Source: APO – Report:

.

President John Dramani Mahama was in Agavedzi on Saturday for a groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project.

The project, a significant initiative that will protect lives and livelihoods in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region, was met with palpable joy and deep gratitude from the chiefs and people of the Some and Aflao Traditional Areas, who gathered to witness the realisation of a long-awaited development.

The ceremony saw an emotional outpouring of appreciation, as community members sang praises and danced, celebrating the President’s commitment to addressing their decades-long struggle against severe tidal erosion.

Upon completion in four years, the project, which will protect an 8-kilometre stretch of coastline, is set to bring immense relief to the communities of Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutsinu, and Adina.

Messrs Amandi Holding Limited is the contractor and will deliver 37 groins, extensive dune restoration, reinforced embankments, and other critical shoreline defence structures.

President Mahama stated that the project is a comprehensive one that will extend beyond mere coastal protection.

“Aside from the coastal protection works, government has incorporated vital development projects to enhance the lives of the people in the affected area,” he noted.

These integrated initiatives include a modern fish market, cold storage and processing facilities for fisherfolk, dedicated spaces for fish drying and smoking, a car park, and a lorry station. Additionally, public sanitation facilities and a comprehensive waste collection system will be provided.

“The sea has taken a lot from this community. It has taken land, it has taken livelihoods, and it has taken our peace of mind. But today, I stand here to say no more will the sea consume our land”, the President said.

“We are here to reclaim what has been lost, to rebuild stronger, to offer our children a future where they are not forced to flee their homes because of rising tidal waves.”

President Mahama added that the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project and other ongoing infrastructure developments reflect his government’s strong dedication to building a better Ghana.

“This is not merely symbolic,” he asserted, “but a clear demonstration of what responsive leadership can do when it listens, when it cares, and when it acts.”

Phase I of the project, covering 4.3 kilometres of coastal defence works, commenced in 2015 under the Presidency of Mahama to mitigate the serious threat of tidal erosion in Ketu South.

While that phase offered significant relief, the President lamented, “Unfortunately, for nearly a decade after this, the second phase of the project stalled. Despite repeated appeals by residents, Members of Parliament, traditional authorities, and civil society, the project did not commence.”

The President specifically referenced the devastating tidal waves that pounded the communities in 2017 and again in 2021, recalling the harrowing images.

I can still picture the videos and photos showing the aftermath of these tidal waves,” he said, highlighting “the pain, the anxiety, the fear that was etched on the faces of our fellow citizens.”

He reaffirmed the pledge he made earlier this year during his visit to the Volta Region, promising swift action.

“And today, I am proud to say that this commitment is being fulfilled. Your cries have not been in vain. Your voices will no longer be ignored. Today is your day – a day of renewal and a day of reassurance.”

President Mahama also announced progress on the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) Programme, designed to enhance coastal resilience across the sub-region.

Currently awaiting approval, the WACA project is envisioned to extend coastal protection from where the Blekusu project ends, all the way to Aflao, securing Ghana’s vital 550-kilometre coastline, which supports countless livelihoods through fishing, trade, and tourism.

– on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 21, 2025
Microsoft alerts businesses, governments to server software attack

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Microsoft has issued an alert about “active attacks” on server software used by government agencies and businesses to share documents within organizations, and recommended security updates that customers should apply immediately.

The FBI said on Sunday it is aware of the attacks and is working closely with its federal and private-sector partners, but offered no other details.

In an alert issued on Saturday, Microsoft said the vulnerabilities apply only to SharePoint servers used within organizations. It said that SharePoint Online in Microsoft 365, which is in the cloud, was not hit by the attacks.

“We’ve been coordinating closely with CISA, DOD Cyber Defense Command and key cybersecurity partners globally throughout our response,” a Microsoft spokesperson said, adding that the company had issued security updates and urged customers to install them immediately.

The Washington Post, which first reported the hacks, said unidentified actors in the past few days had exploited a flaw to launch an attack that targeted U.S. and international agencies and businesses.

The hack is known as a “zero day” attack because it targeted a previously unknown vulnerability, the newspaper said, quoting experts. Tens of thousands of servers were at risk.

In the alert, Microsoft said that a vulnerability “allows an authorized attacker to perform spoofing over a network.” It issued recommendations to stop the attackers from exploiting it.
Microsoft has issued an alert about “active attacks” on server software used by government agencies and businesses to share documents within organizations, and recommended security updates that customers should apply immediately.

The FBI said on Sunday it is aware of the attacks and is working closely with its federal and private-sector partners, but offered no other details.

In an alert issued on Saturday, Microsoft said the vulnerabilities apply only to SharePoint servers used within organizations. It said that SharePoint Online in Microsoft 365, which is in the cloud, was not hit by the attacks.

“We’ve been coordinating closely with CISA, DOD Cyber Defense Command and key cybersecurity partners globally throughout our response,” a Microsoft spokesperson said, adding that the company had issued security updates and urged customers to install them immediately.

The Washington Post, which first reported the hacks, said unidentified actors in the past few days had exploited a flaw to launch an attack that targeted U.S. and international agencies and businesses.

The hack is known as a “zero day” attack because it targeted a previously unknown vulnerability, the newspaper said, quoting experts. Tens of thousands of servers were at risk.

In the alert, Microsoft said that a vulnerability “allows an authorized attacker to perform spoofing over a network.” It issued recommendations to stop the attackers from exploiting it.

In a spoofing attack, an actor can manipulate financial markets or agencies by hiding the actor’s identity and appearing to be a trusted person, organization or website.

Earlier, Microsoft said it is working on updates to 2016 and 2019 versions of SharePoint. If customers cannot enable recommended malware protection, they should disconnect their servers from the internet until a security update is available, it added.
In a spoofing attack, an actor can manipulate financial markets or agencies by hiding the actor’s identity and appearing to be a trusted person, organization or website.

Earlier, Microsoft said it is working on updates to 2016 and 2019 versions of SharePoint. If customers cannot enable recommended malware protection, they should disconnect their servers from the internet until a security update is available, it added.

July 21, 2025
Owen shines on debut as Australia beat Windies in first T20

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Mitchell Owen made an impressive debut as Australia beat West Indies by three wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match Twenty20 International series in Jamaica on Sunday.

Owen took a wicket with his medium pace bowling before returning to smash 50 off 27 balls as Australia chased down a 190-run target with seven balls to spare.

West Indies, who lost the preceding test series 3-0, got off to a strong start after being put into bat at Sabina Park.

Captain Shai Hope (55), Roston Chase (60) and Shimron Hetmyer (38) laid the platform for a 200-plus score but the late flourish they expected never materialised.

Andre Russell, who will quit international cricket after the second T20 on Tuesday, made only eight.

Australia’s Ben Dwarshuis (4-36) mowed down the middle and lower order as West Indies were forced to settle for a modest 189-8.

While Australia lost both their openers, captain Mitchell Marsh and Jake Fraser-McGurk, inside the powerplay they were propped up by a breezy 80-run stand by Cameron Green (51) and Owen.

Green belted five sixes in his 26-ball blitz, while Owen smacked six of them before holing out in the 17th over with Australia on the cusp of victory.

(Reuters)

July 21, 2025
ECB to host next three World Test Championship finals till 2031, ICC says

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will continue to host the biennial final of the World Test Championship for the next three editions till 2031, global governing body ICC said on Sunday.

The match, which crowns the world champions in the longest format of the sport, has been held in England since it was introduced, with Southampton hosting the first edition in 2021 and the two subsequent finals taking place in London.

“We are absolutely delighted that England and Wales has been chosen to host the next three ICC World Test Championship finals,” the ECB chief executive Richard Gould said.

“It’s a testament to the passion that fans in this country have for this treasured format of the game and the willingness of supporters from around the world to travel here for these games.”

The 2025 final at Lord’s, where South Africa beat defending champions Australia, was attended by 109,227 people over four days and received 225 million digital views, the ICC said in a statement last month.

“Hosting these finals is a privilege, and we look forward to working with the ICC to build on the success of the previous editions,” Gould added.

(Reuters)

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Change in Financial Calendar – 21 July 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Oslo, 21^st of July – IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) hereby announces a change to the company’s financial calendar.

Postponement of Q2 2025 Report

The company informs that the publication of the quarterly report for the second quarter of 2025 is postponed from the originally scheduled date to Tuesday, August 27, 2025.

IDEX Biometrics’ reports and presentations are available on our website: www.idexbiometrics.com/investors

For further information, please contact:

Anders Storbråten, CEO and CFO, Tel: +47 416 38 582

E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

About IDEX Biometrics:

IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

About this notice:

This notice was issued by Kjell-Arne Besseberg, COO, on 21 July 2025 at 07:20 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.

The MIL Network –

July 21, 2025
Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

July 21, 2025
Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

July 21, 2025
Youth Spiritual Summit concludes in Varanasi with launch of Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat, concluded on Sunday at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration — a visionary roadmap to drive a nationwide youth-led movement against drug addiction

Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the summit brought together over 600 youth leaders from more than 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, along with academicians, experts, and government representatives. The event was a moment in India’s pursuit of a drug-free society by 2047, uniting spiritual strength with youthful resolve.

Over the course of four thematic plenary sessions, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the psychological and social impacts of substance abuse, the complexities of drug trafficking and supply chains, grassroots awareness strategies, and the critical role of spiritual and cultural institutions in prevention and rehabilitation. These deliberations culminated in the Kashi Declaration, which outlines a multi-dimensional and collaborative approach to drug de-addiction, rooted in India’s civilisational ethos and driven by youth leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, described the declaration as a collective Sankalp (resolve) arising from the reflections and dialogue of the summit. He emphasized that the document is not just a vision statement, but a shared commitment to national transformation.

The Kashi Declaration calls for treating substance abuse as a complex public health and societal challenge. It recommends a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, integrating efforts from spiritual, educational, technological, and cultural domains. The declaration proposes the formation of a Joint National Committee for coordination among ministries, annual progress reporting mechanisms, and a national platform to connect individuals affected by substance abuse with support services.

Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the unique role of spiritual organisations in this campaign, stating that Bharat’s spiritual legacy must now lead the charge in creating a drug-free generation. “Spiritual institutions will serve as the backbone of this Maha Abhiyan,” he said, urging collective action through community engagement.

Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, also addressed the summit, invoking the cultural sanctity of Kashi. He described the ancient city as the “cradle of Sanatan Chetna,” where discipline and values guide personal and national progress. He warned that a nation where 65% of the population is youth cannot afford to succumb to addiction, stressing that only a liberated and conscious youth can build a strong future.

The concluding session saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Virendra Kumar, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism; Anil Rajbhar, Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs; and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports.

The summit also marked a key step forward in the MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat) framework. Going forward, MY Bharat volunteers and affiliated youth clubs will spearhead pledge campaigns, awareness drives, and grassroots outreach across the country. The Kashi Declaration will act as a guiding document, and its progress will be reviewed at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.

July 21, 2025
All decisions in this country, a sovereign nation, are taken by its leadership-VP

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (2)

lign=”center”>There is no power on the planet to dictate India how to handle its affairs-VP
We work in tandem, we have mutual respect, diplomatic dialogues. But at the end of the day, we are sovereign, we take our own decisions-VP
Is it required to have wrestling sessions as to who said what?, VP expresses concern
Our object is not to just simply grow our economy, Our object is to develop the people-VP
Vice-President Addresses Officer Trainees of the Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) 2024 Batch

Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said that, “Don’t be guided by narratives outside. All decisions in this country, a sovereign nation, are taken by its leadership. There is no power on the planet to dictate India how to handle its affairs. We do live in a nation and nations that are a comity. We work in togetherness, we work in tandem. We have mutual respect, diplomatic dialogues. But at the end of the day, we are sovereign, we take our own decisions.”

https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946559722725007704

He underlined, “Is it required to play every bad ball? Is it required to have wrestling sessions as to who said what? One who scores good runs on the cricket pitch always leaves bad balls. They are tempting, but not attempted. And those who attempt, you have safe gloves of the wicket keeper and someone in the gully.”

“There will be challenges. Challenges will be to create divisiveness. For example, we have seen global conflagrations — two of them in particular, you know them. These have become open-ended. Look at the devastation of property, human lives, and their misery. And look at our calibration. We taught a lesson — taught it well. We chose Bahawalpur and Muridke, and then brought it to a temporary conclusion. ‘Operation Sindoor’ is not over — it continues. Some people ask the question — why was it stopped? We are a nation that believes in peace, nonviolence, a land of Buddha, Mahavira, and Gandhi. We do not wish to kill even living beings — how can we target human beings? The idea was to generate sanity, to generate a sense of humanity in the others”, he added.

https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946562875889463711

Addressing the officer trainees of Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) 2024 batch at the Vice-President’s Enclave today, Shri Dhankhar stated, “ Our demographic dividend is a global envy. 65% of our population is below 35 years of age. The median age of this country is 28, whereas that of China and the U.S. is around 38–39, and Japan, 48. Now, you are the chosen ones. You’ve got the opportunity to serve Bharat, home to one-sixth of humanity. And look at the area of your working. If you commit yourself, keeping into view our civilizational ethos, we are a unique nation. No nation can boast or claim to be closer to us — five thousand years of heritage, culture, legacy, knowledge, wisdom, repository. In such a situation — eighteen lakh acres? If you engage — which you are engaging, your seniors are engaging — you can define to the entire country, how to manage the estates, how to manage ecology, how to manage the environment, how to raise herbal gardens, what is sustainable development, how to protect and how to use modern technology.”

“One aspect about which I am slightly concerned. Development, civilian development, close to the proximity of your states, requires your sanction. That sanction often gets into the domain of discretion and suffers delay. I would urge — evolve a mechanism or a protocol. Let people know about it — what height they can have. Why should the system come into play? With the kind of technology we have, we should be fully aware. Why can’t we put it on one platform? This is the area — if your building is coming up here, height will be this. Yet agencies have to be hired. People have to pay for it. Delay takes place. Now you can take the lead. You will earn the goodwill of the people around”, he added.

https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946560846785917408

Expressing his concern over rising coaching centres in the country he stated, “Coaching is needed for skill. Coaching is needed to make you self-dependent. If for a limited number of seats, all over the country there are coaching centers vying with one another for advertisement space in newspapers. Not one — one page, two pages, three pages, sometimes four pages in a row. And what a spectacle — putting you boys and girls in photographs. No, this is not Bharat. We can’t have commodification and commercialisation. We have to believe in Gurukul. You have to come out of — youth has to come out of the silos. You have to know the opportunities elsewhere. Those opportunities are also very necessary for the development of the nation….I am not against anyone, but why should coaching become an integral part of education? After more than three decades, the nation has been blessed after getting input from stakeholders in hundreds of thousands, National Education Policy. Why coaching? Coach has to improve your skill. We can’t have people cramming and then getting through. We want thinking minds to get in and go there. Always bear that in mind”.

https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946561334973460885

Talking about ‘Viksit Bharat’ he stated, “ Our object is not to just simply grow our economy. Our object is to develop the people. Viksit Bharat is not our dream. It is not even our destination now. We are marching in that direction. Every day we are progressing towards that direction, and that’s a big challenge because 10 years of phenomenal development has given the people a taste of development. People of my generation never believed…there will be a toilet in the house, a gas connection in the house, internet connection, piped water, roads close by, school or health center, such world-class trains to travel. No. We never imagined. So the nation now has become globally the most aspirational nation in the world.”

https://x.com/VPIndia/status/1946550260601606602

Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Defence Secretary, Govt. of India, Shri S.N. Gupta, Director General, Defence Estates, Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Director, NIDEM and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Roadmap to rebuild trust in water sector unveiled in major new report
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Roadmap to rebuild trust in water sector unveiled in major new report

Sir Jon Cunliffe publishes final recommendations
A new integrated regulator for water, stronger consumer advocacy and 9 new regional water authorities to deliver on local priorities are among the final recommendations set out today (21 July) by the Independent Water Commission.

Chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, the Commission sets out 88 recommendations in its report to the UK and Welsh governments to transform the sector.

The report covers how the system is regulated, how to manage the competing demands on water, how water companies are governed and how critical water infrastructure is kept resilient both now and in the future.

It follows just under nine months of extensive engagement, analysis and research, including the 50,000+ responses submitted to the Commission’s Call for Evidence.

Key recommendations include:

Single integrated water regulators. The report recommends a single water regulator in England and a single water regulator in Wales. In England this would replace Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and water-environment related functions from the Environment Agency and Natural England. In Wales, Ofwat’s economic responsibilities would be integrated into Natural Resources Wales. Water is a complex sector responsible for the second-largest infrastructure programme in the UK. Water companies will spend £104 billion on investment and operation over the next 5 years. Climate change, population growth and economic development will put huge pressure on water systems over the coming decades. The current regulatory landscape is fragmented and overlapping and fully joined-up regulation is essential for the system to meet the demands of the future and ensure that private water companies act in the public as well as the private interest. A powerful, single regulator for water would simplify the system, reduce duplication, close regulatory gaps and ensure a much stronger “whole-firm” view of each company.* It would also improve investor confidence through a more stable regulatory regime. In making this recommendation, the Commission has looked closely at other regulatory models such as Ofcom.**

Eight new regional water system planning authorities in England and one national authority in Wales. As part of a radical overhaul of water system planning, the report recommends devolving current planning responsibilities and transferring resources from the regulators to 9 new regional water authorities. These would be responsible for developing water investment plans that reflect local priorities and voices. They would streamline existing planning processes and be empowered to direct funding and ensure accountability from all sectors that impact water. They would be independent and include representation from local councils, public health, environment, agriculture and consumers, among others.

Greater consumer protection. The Commission sets out proposals to improve affordability and customer service. That includes upgrading the consumer body CCW into an Ombudsman for Water to give stronger protection to customers and a clearer route to resolving complaints. It then proposes transfer responsibility for consumer advocacy to Citizens Advice. The Commission also recommends the introduction of a national social tariff to provide consistent support for low-income customers who need support to pay their bills. This will help address the widely different levels of support currently in place, with caps on bills varying by £100s in different parts of the country.

Stronger environmental regulation. The report recommends significant improvements to areas such as Operator Self-Monitoring through greater digitalisation, automation, third-party assurance and inspections. It proposes stronger regulation on abstraction, sludge, drinking water standards and water supply. After one of the driest springs on record, it recommends compulsory water metering, changes to wholesale tariffs for industrial users and greater water reuse and rainwater harvesting schemes. It also sets out where environmental legislation needs updating and why, including proposals for a new long-term and legally binding target for the water environment.

Tighter oversight of water company ownership and governance. The Commission recommends new powers for the regulator to block changes in water company ownership – for example, where investors are not seen to be prioritising the long-term interests of the company and its customers – as well as potential new ‘public benefit’ clauses in water company licences. It recommends that the regulator set “minimum capital” requirements so that companies are less reliant on debt and more financially resilient. On investment, the report sets out proposals to improve investor confidence, including government direction to the regulator to support stability and predictability for long-term investors.

Public health reforms: The report covers legislative reforms to better manage public health risks in water, recognising the many people who swim, surf and enjoy other water-based activities. These include a) new public health objectives in water quality legislation b) senior public health representation on regional water planning authorities and c) legislative changes to address emerging pollutants such as PFAS, micropollutants and microplastics.

Fundamental reset of economic regulation. More detail is set out on the Commission’s recommendation for a new ‘supervisory’ approach to economic regulation, supporting tailored decisions and earlier interventions in water company oversight. The report also makes recommendations on the Price Review process, including changes to ensure companies are investing in and maintaining assets and to help attract long-term, low-risk investment.

Clear strategic direction. A new long-term National Water Strategy should be published by both the UK and Welsh governments. This should have a minimum horizon of 25 years, with interim milestones on a 5 and 10 year basis. It should be cross-sectoral, with a clear framework for managing the many demands on water. A set of ministerial priorities specifically for the water industry should also be issued to regulators every five years, replacing the current Strategic Policy Statement (SPS). A clear long-term strategy will help drive the right outcomes for consumers, growth and the environment and support long-term investment planning.

Infrastructure & asset health reforms. The report sets out a marked step change in how water infrastructure is managed, monitored and delivered – essential for safeguarding the provision of water and wastewater management for future generations. That includes new requirements for companies to map and assess their assets and new resilience standards that are forward-looking and applied consistently across the industry.

Sir Jon Cunliffe said:

Restoring trust has been central to our work. Trust that bills are fair, that regulation is effective, that water companies will act in the public interest and that investors can get a fair return.

Our recommendations to achieve this are significant. They include the management of the whole water system, regulation of the water industry, the governance and financial resilience of water companies and a stronger voice for local communities and water customers.

In this report I have considered what is best for the long-term future of water. This is a complex sector with a highly integrated system, responsible for the second-largest infrastructure programme in the UK.

Resetting this sector and restoring pride in the future of our waterways matters to us all. In countless conversations in the last nine months I have been struck by the urgent need and passion for change. Doing this will require hard work, strong leadership and sustained commitment. But it can and must be done.

I am grateful to all to all those who have contributed generously and constructively to our work with their time, expertise and challenge.

The final report also shares recommendations on implementation, including which reforms can be delivered in the short-term and which require new primary legislation.

As set out in the Terms of Reference, the Commission has operated independently of UK and Welsh Ministers.

Sir Jon Cunliffe has been supported by an expert Advisory Group, with leading voices from areas including the environment, public health, consumers, economics and investment.

Notes to editors

The full report is available here: Independent Water Commission final report

Sir Jon Cunliffe was appointed on 22 October 2024 to lead the Independent Water Commission. His Terms of Reference were published on gov.uk.

The Commission launched an eight-week Call for Evidence on 27 February 2025. The Commission’s interim report was published on 3 June.

*The Commission has looked in detail at the challenges within the existing regulatory framework. The existing model of multiple regulators makes it difficult for the regulatory system to come to a clear, overall view of a water company’s performance and the challenges it faces. Enforcement action in some areas has been described as duplicative. Elsewhere, there are gaps in the oversight of asset health and monitoring water infrastructure delivery. There is an inherent complexity in the current system whereby the EA, NRW and the DWI set the requirements that determine much of water company costs, while Ofwat subsequently determines the revenues companies can receive from water bills to cover those costs.

**Ofcom was established through combining five existing regulators into one. Further detail is covered in Chapter 4 of the final report.

***Social tariff variability: Evidence returned via the Commission’s Call for Evidence set out the differing levels of support a low-earner would receive under 2024/25 rates depending on where they lived. For example, a single parent with one child, working part-time and receiving Universal Credit with an income under £19,000 per year would have an annual water bill capped at £91.12 in Portsmouth, compared to £364 in Bradford.

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Published 21 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 21, 2025

MIL-OSI: WISeKey and SEALSQ Confirm New Cross-Border Center of Excellence for the 4th Industrial Revolution Activated Between La Line and Gibraltar

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WISeKey and SEALSQ Confirm New Cross-Border Center of Excellence for the 4th Industrial Revolution Activated Between La Line and Gibraltar

Gibraltar/La Línea – July 21, 2025 – WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey” or “Company”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, and its subsidiary, SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) (“SEALSQ”), a company that focuses on developing and selling Semiconductors, PKI, and Post-Quantum technology hardware and software products today announced that a transformative initiative launched several years ago to establish LLG4IRir.com a Cross-Border Deeptech Center of Excellence (the “Center”) for the 4th Industrial Revolution is now being formally activated, following the historic agreement between Spain and the United Kingdom on Gibraltar’s post-Brexit border status.

Strategically located near Gibraltar Airport, this innovative Center will act as a shared technological and industrial hub bridging La Línea de la Concepción (Spain) and Gibraltar (UK). It aims to provide a collaborative platform for companies working in advanced technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, the Internet of Things, AI, Space, Cybersecurity, and Semiconductors, aiming to position the region as a global epicenter of innovation.

The recent UK–EU agreement facilitates the free and secure movement of people and goods across the border, unlocking opportunity for the Company to realize the full potential of this ambitious project and enabling seamless cooperation between the two jurisdictions.

Meetings held with the Gibraltar government and the Mayor of La Línea have resulted in unanimous support for the project. The Center is recognized as a mutually beneficial opportunity: Gibraltar-based companies will gain access to European Union technology legislation and platforms, while Spanish businesses located at the Center will benefit from cooperation with Gibraltar and potential partnerships with African innovation ecosystems, reinforcing the region’s status as a tri-continental innovation gateway.

First Milestone: Manufacturing Plant for Post-Quantum Communication Devices
Under the LLG4IR.com cross-border framework, the first physical installation is planned to be a secure manufacturing facility in La Línea dedicated to producing post-quantum-ready communication devices. These devices are intended to form the foundation of a secure communications infrastructure designed to operate seamlessly with satellite constellations, providing quantum-resilient, end-to-end communications across industries.

This facility is also expected to host the initial manufacturing operations for WISeSat.Space, WISeKey’s secure space communication platform. Production would begin as soon as the site becomes operational, establishing La Línea as a new hub for secure aerospace and telecommunications manufacturing.

In parallel, SEALSQ has allocated a dedicated budget to develop its first post-quantum communication device manufacturing plant, confirming its commitment to secure, satellite-linked, next-generation technologies. This plant will produce devices that connect directly with WISeSat.Space’s satellite constellation, delivering resilient, quantum-secure data flows critical to sectors such as defense, logistics, healthcare, and energy.

Additionally, WISeKey and SEALSQ have signed a memorandum of understanding with the regional port authority to implement Smart Container Technology, allowing maritime cargo containers, even in mid-sea transit, to connect directly with satellites. This will enable real-time, secure, blockchain-verifiable logistics tracking, bolstering supply chain transparency and resilience on a global scale.

A Quantum Corridor for Europe’s Digital Sovereignty
The Center is a vital node in the expanding Post-Quantum Corridor, a high-tech European network being developed by SEALSQ and WISeKey to enable secure, quantum-resilient infrastructure from chip to satellite. This strategic corridor connects key technology hubs including:

•        La Línea de la Concepción
•        Gibraltar
•        Malaga Technology Park
•        Murcia – home of the QUANTIX Semiconductor Center
•        Aix-en-Provence – SEALSQ Semiconductor R&D Center and Operational Headquarters
•        Grenoble – IC’ALPS Advanced Chip Development Lab
•        Geneva – WISeKey and SEALSQ Global R&D and Cybersecurity Centers

The Quantum Corridor will also integrate leading universities across the region to foster academic–industry collaboration and talent development. It will provide a dynamic environment for quantum, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity companies to work together, co-developing the secure, intelligent technologies of the future, from next-generation encryption to space-based AI systems and quantum processors.

In the coming weeks, SEALSQ will engage a leading international consulting firm to develop a comprehensive business and technology integration plan for the Cross-Border Center. This strategic study will guide the implementation of the project, from infrastructure to ecosystem development. It will be aligned with existing studies already underway in Gibraltar focused on shared prosperity, helping to shape a unified master plan for the successful and coordinated execution of the initiative on both sides of the border.

Public and Private Funding Synergies
The project will benefit from grants and allocation of funding available for this type of strategic activity, particularly those supporting innovation, digital infrastructure, and cross-border cooperation. This public support will be complemented by investment from the private sector on a pari passu basis, ensuring a balanced and sustainable funding model that drives both economic development and technological leadership.

“Think of the Center as an aircraft carrier for innovation,” said Carlos Moreira, CEO of WISeKey. “Companies can land, refuel with knowledge and infrastructure, and take off again stronger. Instead of each company reinventing the wheel, they plug into a common ecosystem, just like plugging into the electricity grid.”

The LLG4IR.com Cross-Border Center of Excellence will serve as a launchpad for collaborative research, startup incubation, international joint ventures, and workforce training programs, aligned with the long-term strategies of the European Union, the United Kingdom, and key private-sector stakeholders.

Further announcements regarding the Center’s commissioning, founding partners, and investment roadmap will follow in the coming weeks.

About WISeKey
WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

Disclaimer
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

Press and Investor Contacts

WISeKey International Holding Ltd
Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
Chairman & CEO
Tel: +41 22 594 3000
info@wisekey.com

WISeKey Investor Relations (US)
The Equity Group Inc.
Lena Cati
Tel: +1 212 836-9611
lcati@theequitygroup.com

The MIL Network –

July 21, 2025

Sensex, Nifty open flat amid India-US trade deal uncertainty

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

India’s benchmark indices opened on a cautious note Monday, as uncertainty surrounding the India-US trade deal weighed on investor sentiment and capped early gains.

The Nifty rose 30.60 points, or 0.12 per cent, to open at 24,999, while the Sensex added 160.80 points, or 0.20 per cent, to start at 81,918.53. However, both indices quickly gave up their gains. By 9:20 am, the Sensex had slipped 50 points, or 0.05 per cent, to 81,714, and the Nifty was down 17 points, or 0.07 per cent, at 24,951.

Analysts attribute the weak start to investor unease over the lack of progress in the fifth and latest round of India-US trade negotiations.

“The failure to reach a breakthrough in the trade talks is pushing countries to pursue multilateral FTAs to reduce reliance on the US,” said Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert. “The final signing of the India-UK FTA this week will symbolize a broader shift towards multilateralism in a post-Pan-Americana world.”

India and the UK had concluded negotiations on their FTA in May. Bagga stressed the need for India to deepen trade ties through new and existing FTAs, especially with ASEAN countries, where current terms favor imports over exports.

Adding to the market pressure are concerns over a lackluster Q1 earnings season and ongoing uncertainty around US tariff policies. A potential US-India tariff deal is being closely watched as a possible trigger for market recovery.

Another factor influencing sentiment is the flood of primary market activity. With several large IPOs and qualified institutional placements (QIPs) lined up, investors are diverting funds away from the secondary market. Promoters and private equity firms continue to dilute stakes, adding to the supply overhang.

Meanwhile, a potentially positive development could emerge on the policy front. The NITI Aayog has reportedly recommended allowing automatic approvals for Chinese investments of up to 24 per cent in Indian companies, a move that could revive Chinese capital inflows and signal India’s openness to alternatives beyond the US.

On the NSE, all major broad-market indices were under pressure. The Nifty 100 dropped 0.13 per cent, Nifty Midcap 100 slipped 0.10 per cent, and Nifty Smallcap 100 fell by 0.10 per cent.

Sectorally, only Nifty Media, Nifty Metal, and Nifty Realty showed gains. The rest lagged, with Nifty Auto down 0.37 per cent, Nifty FMCG lower by 0.32 per cent, Nifty IT falling 0.67 per cent, and Nifty PSU Bank declining the most, by 0.70 per cent.

“The Nifty 50 did not perform well last week, ending down by 181 points. Back-to-back bearish candles indicate that sellers are in control, which could push prices further down,” said Sunil Gurjar, SEBI-registered analyst and founder of Alphamojo Financial Services. “A breakdown below 25,250 would signal a strong downtrend. The 24,650 level could act as crucial support. If breached, it may confirm further downside. That said, prices remain above key moving averages, hinting at underlying strength.”

(With inputs from ANI)
@918920982302

July 21, 2025
Over three lakh perform Amarnath Yatra in 18 days

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Over 300,000 yatris have undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra in the 18 days since it began on July 3. With 20 days still left for the yatra’s conclusion on August 9, the figure is likely to exceed the official estimate of 3.5 lakh this year.

Officials said that as of Sunday, 3.07 lakh pilgrims had ‘darshan’ inside the holy cave shrine.

“Another batch of 3,791 yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas today for the Valley in two escorted convoys. The first convoy of 52 vehicles carrying 1,208 yatris to the Baltal base camp left at 3:33 a.m., while the second convoy of 96 vehicles carrying 2,583 yatris to the Pahalgam base camp left at 4:06 a.m.,” officials said.

J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), visited the Baltal base camp on Sunday. The L-G chaired a meeting of officials to review the arrangements made for the smooth conduct of the yatra. He had lunch with the yatris at one of the ‘Langars’ at Baltal and also interacted with them. The L-G expressed satisfaction with both the security and other arrangements made for the yatra.

This year, the Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on July 10. The Chhari Mubarak was taken to Pahalgam by a group of seers led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its seat at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.

In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple, where the Bhumi Pujan was held. It was then taken back to its seat at the Dashnami Akhara building. It will begin its final journey towards the cave shrine from the Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4 and will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the yatra.

Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, as this takes place after the cowardly attack of April 22 in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam. An additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and the local police. The Army has deployed over 8,000 specially trained commandos to secure the passage of the yatris.

This year, the yatra started on July 3 and will end after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

Yatris approach the holy cave shrine, situated 3,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, from either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot over four days. Those using the shorter Baltal route trek 14 km to reach the shrine and can return to the base camp the same day after having darshan.

No helicopter services are available to yatris this year due to security reasons.

The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe the structure symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

(IANS)

July 21, 2025
Calm reported in Syria’s Sweida, Damascus says truce holding

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Residents reported calm in Syria’s Sweida on Sunday after the Islamist-led government announced that Bedouin fighters had withdrawn from the predominantly Druze city and a U.S. envoy signalled that a deal to end days of fighting was being implemented.

With hundreds reported killed, the Sweida bloodshed is a major test for interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, prompting Israel to launch airstrikes against government forces last week as it declared support for the Druze.Fighting continued on Saturday despite a ceasefire call.

Interior Minister Anas Khattab said on Sunday that internal security forces had managed to calm the situation and enforce the ceasefire, “paving the way for a prisoner exchange and the gradual return of stability throughout the governorate”.

Reuters images showed interior ministry forces near the city, blocking the road in front of members of tribes congregated there. The Interior Ministry said late on Saturday that Bedouin fighters had left the city.

U.S. envoy Tom Barrack said the sides had “navigated to a pause and cessation of hostilities”. “The next foundation stone on a path to inclusion, and lasting de-escalation, is a complete exchange of hostages and detainees, the logistics of which are in process,” he wrote on X.

Kenan Azzam, a dentist, said there was an uneasy calm but the city’s residents were struggling with a lack of water and electricity. “The hospitals are a disaster and out of service, and there are still so many dead and wounded,” he said by phone.

Another resident, Raed Khazaal, said aid was urgently needed. “Houses are destroyed … The smell of corpses is spread throughout the national hospital,” he said in a voice message to Reuters from Sweida.

The Syrian state news agency said an aid convoy sent to the city by the government was refused entry while aid organised by the Syrian Red Crescent was let in. A source familiar with the situation said local factions in Sweida had turned back the government convoy.

Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported on Sunday that Israel sent urgent medical aid to the Druze in Sweida and the step was coordinated with Washington and Syria. Spokespeople for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Foreign Ministry and the military did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Druze are a small but influential minority in Syria, Israel and Lebanon who follow a religion that is an offshoot of a branch of Shi’ite Islam. Some hardline Sunnis deem their beliefs heretical.

The fighting began a week ago with clashes between Bedouin and Druze fighters. Damascus sent troops to quell the fighting, but they were drawn into the violence and accused of widespread violations against the Druze.

Residents of the predominantly Druze city said friends and neighbours were shot at close range in their homes or in the streets by Syrian troops, identified by their fatigues and insignia.

Sharaa on Thursday promised to protect the rights of Druze and to hold to account those who committed violations against “our Druze people”.

He has blamed the violence on “outlaw groups”.

While Sharaa has won U.S. backing since meeting President Donald Trump in May, the violence has underscored the challenge he faces stitching back together a country shattered by 14 years of conflict, and added to pressures on its mosaic of sectarian and ethnic groups.

COASTAL VIOLENCE

After Israel bombed Syrian government forces in Sweida and hit the defence ministry in Damascus last week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had established a policy demanding the demilitarisation of territory near the border, stretching from the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to the Druze Mountain, east of Sweida.

He also said Israel would protect the Druze.

The United States however said it did not support the Israeli strikes. On Friday, an Israeli official said Israel agreed to allow Syrian forces limited access to the Sweida area for two days.

A Syrian security source told Reuters that internal security forces had taken up positions near Sweida, establishing checkpoints in western and eastern parts of the province where retreating tribal fighters had gathered.

On Sunday, Sharaa received the report of an inquiry into violence in Syria’s coastal region in March, where Reuters reported in June that Syrian forces killed 1,500 members of the Alawite minority following attacks on security forces.

The presidency said it would review the inquiry’s conclusions and ensure steps to “bring about justice” and prevent the recurrence of “such violations”. It called on the inquiry to hold a news conference on its findings – if appropriate – as soon as possible.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights said on July 18 it had documented the deaths of at least 321 people in Sweida province since July 13. The preliminary toll included civilians, women, children, Bedouin fighters, members of local groups and members of the security forces, it said, and the dead included people killed in field executions by both sides.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, another monitoring group, has reported a death toll of at least 940 people.

Reuters could not independently verify the tolls.

(Reuters)

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China and EU to hold 25th China-EU leaders’ meeting in Beijing /detailed version-1/

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, July 21 (Xinhua) — According to an agreement between China and the European Union (EU), European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit China on July 24. Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with them, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in Beijing on Monday.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman added that Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the two EU leaders will jointly chair the 25th China-EU leaders’ meeting. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Total length of rural highways in China to reach 4.64 million km by end of 2024

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, July 21 (Xinhua) — The total length of rural highways in China will reach 4.64 million km by the end of 2024, Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei said Monday at a press conference on the country’s achievements in transportation development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Goods from Belarus were imported to Xinjiang for the first time through the border trade zone located at the Khorgos checkpoint.

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

BEIJING, July 21 (Xinhua) — A batch of crystal goblets from Belarus cleared customs and entered the Horgos border trade zone in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on Saturday, becoming the first batch of goods imported from Belarus to Xinjiang under the trade regime in the zone, filling a gap in direct trade between the region and Belarus, according to the press service of the Horgos city government.

These goods from Belarus weigh more than 3 tons and cost 340 thousand yuan (approximately 47.54 thousand US dollars) include 25 items, said a representative of the border trade zone at the Khorgos checkpoint, adding that the zone is focused on importing specific goods from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Russia and other countries to expand the range of imported products.

According to the city’s Commerce Bureau, in the first six months of this year, more than 3,820 tons of goods were imported through the border trade zone located at Horgos Port, with the trade volume exceeding 42.9 million yuan, bringing in 429,200 yuan in revenue for local merchants.

To date, there have been 60 Chinese and foreign trading shops registered in the zone, as well as more than 4,000 local traders on the Chinese side. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: One dead, one missing after emergency at construction site in central China

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

CHANGSHA, July 21 (Xinhua) — One construction worker was killed and another is missing after four people were trapped during underground work at a construction site in Changsha, capital of central China’s Hunan Province, on Sunday afternoon, local authorities said Monday.

Four construction workers were trapped in a manhole while carrying out inspection work on a pipeline at a construction site on Xinchang Road in Tianxin District of Changsha city at around 4:50 p.m. on Sunday, the district emergency management department said.

As a result of emergency measures, three workers were rescued and hospitalized. Two of them are in stable condition, and one died from his injuries. One person is still missing. Search operations are ongoing.

Work is underway to eliminate the consequences of the incident and investigate its causes. -0-

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Charges – Aggravated assault – Katherine
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Northern Territory Police have charged a 19-year-old male after an aggravated assault in Katherine over the weekend.

He was arrested by investigators from Strike Force Cerberus and has since been charged with:
- 1x Aggravated Robbery
- 3x Aggravated Assault
- 2x Going armed in public
- 1x Theft
- 1x Breach of Bail
He was remanded to appear in Katherine Local Court today.

MIL OSI News –
July 21, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: In a world first, The Hague wants to arrest Taliban leaders over their treatment of women – what happens next?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yvonne Breitwieser-Faria, Lecturer in Criminal Law and International Law, Curtin University

Earlier this month, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan.

The court’s Pre-Trial Chamber II cited reasonable grounds for believing supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada and chief justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani were guilty of “ordering, inducing or soliciting the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds.”

The warrants – the first ever on charges of gender persecution – are being hailed as an “important vindication and acknowledgement of the rights of Afghan women and girls”.

But will they improve the plight of women and girls in Afghanistan, given the Taliban does not recognise the court or its jurisdiction?

The signs are not good with the Taliban denying the allegations and condemning the warrants as a “clear act of hostility [and an] insult to the beliefs of Muslims around the world”.

Erased from public life

Strict rules and prohibitions have been imposed on the Afghan people since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

Women and girls have been singled out for even worse treatment by reason of their gender.

According the warrants, the Taliban has

severely deprived, through decrees and edicts, girls and women of the rights to education, privacy and family life and the freedoms of movement, expression, thought, conscience and religion.

Women are banned from public places and girls from attending school once they turn 12.

Zahra Nader is the editor-in-chief of newsroom Zan Times which investigates human rights violations in Afghanistan. She says Afghan women and girls are being silenced, restricted and stripped of their basic human rights.

It is this discriminatory system of control of woman and girls in Afghanistan that is at the core of the court’s prosecution.

The warrants also accuse the Taliban of persecuting

other persons who don’t conform with the Taliban’s ideological expectations of gender, gender identity or expression; and on political grounds against persons perceived as ‘allies of girls and women.

This is the first time an international tribunal or court has confirmed crimes against humanity involving LGBTQIA+ victims. This marks an important milestone in the protection of sexual minorities under international law.

Crimes against humanity

International law clearly spells put the offences which constitute crimes against humanity.

The aim is to protect civilians from serious and widespread attacks on their fundamental rights. Different definitions of crimes against humanity have been included in the statutes of a handful of international tribunals and courts.

The definition under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court is the most comprehensive. It includes severe deprivation of personal liberty, murder, enslavement, rape, torture, forced deportation or apartheid.

Specifically, the Taliban leaders are accused under Article 7(1)(h) of the Rome Statute, which states:

Persecution against any identifiable group or collectivity on political, racial, national, ethnic, cultural, religious, gender […] or other grounds that are universally recognised as impermissible under international law.

Physical and direct violence is not necessary for persecution on “gender […] grounds” to be established. Systemic and institutionalised forms of harm, which can be the imposition of discriminatory societal norms, are sufficient.

Women and girls are often disproportionately affected by Taliban policies and rules. But proving gender-based crimes have occurred is not enough. Discriminatory intent must also be established.

The Taliban has been open about its religious beliefs and interpretations, suggesting a clear intention to persecute on the grounds of gender.

Not just symbolic

As with other cases, the court relies on the cooperation of states to execute and surrender those accused.

The interim government in Kabul which was formed after the US-led invasion in 2001 became a party to the Rome Statute in 2003. Afghanistan remains legally obligated to prosecute perpetrators of these crimes – it must accept the Court’s jurisdiction in the matter.

The Purple Saturdays Movement, an Afghan women-led protest group, is warning the arrest warrants must be more than just symbolic. Any failure to prosecute would likely result in an escalation of human rights violations:

The Taliban has historically responded to international pressure not with reform, but by intensifying such repressive policies.

Hopeful step

It is important to note the strict policies and widespread abuses targeting women and girls in Afghanistan are ongoing, despite the intervention by the International Criminal Court.

The court’s Office of the Prosecutor is stressing its commitment to pursuing “effective legal pathways” to bring the Taliban leadership to account. The Afghan Women’s Movement in Exile wants an independent international judicial committee established to monitor and accelerate the legal process.

It is not yet clear if the warrants will actually lead to arrest and prosecution in The Hague. But we know this is possible. A prime example being the the arrest earlier this year of former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte.

At the very least, the arrests warrants are a hopeful step towards accountability for the Taliban and justice for the women and girls of Afghanistan.

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

– ref. In a world first, The Hague wants to arrest Taliban leaders over their treatment of women – what happens next? – https://theconversation.com/in-a-world-first-the-hague-wants-to-arrest-taliban-leaders-over-their-treatment-of-women-what-happens-next-261008

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: In a world first, The Hague wants to arrest Taliban leaders over their treatment of women – what happens next?

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Yvonne Breitwieser-Faria, Lecturer in Criminal Law and International Law, Curtin University

Earlier this month, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan.

The court’s Pre-Trial Chamber II cited reasonable grounds for believing supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada and chief justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani were guilty of “ordering, inducing or soliciting the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds.”

The warrants – the first ever on charges of gender persecution – are being hailed as an “important vindication and acknowledgement of the rights of Afghan women and girls”.

But will they improve the plight of women and girls in Afghanistan, given the Taliban does not recognise the court or its jurisdiction?

The signs are not good with the Taliban denying the allegations and condemning the warrants as a “clear act of hostility [and an] insult to the beliefs of Muslims around the world”.

Erased from public life

Strict rules and prohibitions have been imposed on the Afghan people since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

Women and girls have been singled out for even worse treatment by reason of their gender.

According the warrants, the Taliban has

severely deprived, through decrees and edicts, girls and women of the rights to education, privacy and family life and the freedoms of movement, expression, thought, conscience and religion.

Women are banned from public places and girls from attending school once they turn 12.

Zahra Nader is the editor-in-chief of newsroom Zan Times which investigates human rights violations in Afghanistan. She says Afghan women and girls are being silenced, restricted and stripped of their basic human rights.

It is this discriminatory system of control of woman and girls in Afghanistan that is at the core of the court’s prosecution.

The warrants also accuse the Taliban of persecuting

other persons who don’t conform with the Taliban’s ideological expectations of gender, gender identity or expression; and on political grounds against persons perceived as ‘allies of girls and women.

This is the first time an international tribunal or court has confirmed crimes against humanity involving LGBTQIA+ victims. This marks an important milestone in the protection of sexual minorities under international law.

Crimes against humanity

International law clearly spells put the offences which constitute crimes against humanity.

The aim is to protect civilians from serious and widespread attacks on their fundamental rights. Different definitions of crimes against humanity have been included in the statutes of a handful of international tribunals and courts.

The definition under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court is the most comprehensive. It includes severe deprivation of personal liberty, murder, enslavement, rape, torture, forced deportation or apartheid.

Specifically, the Taliban leaders are accused under Article 7(1)(h) of the Rome Statute, which states:

Persecution against any identifiable group or collectivity on political, racial, national, ethnic, cultural, religious, gender […] or other grounds that are universally recognised as impermissible under international law.

Physical and direct violence is not necessary for persecution on “gender […] grounds” to be established. Systemic and institutionalised forms of harm, which can be the imposition of discriminatory societal norms, are sufficient.

Women and girls are often disproportionately affected by Taliban policies and rules. But proving gender-based crimes have occurred is not enough. Discriminatory intent must also be established.

The Taliban has been open about its religious beliefs and interpretations, suggesting a clear intention to persecute on the grounds of gender.

Not just symbolic

As with other cases, the court relies on the cooperation of states to execute and surrender those accused.

The interim government in Kabul which was formed after the US-led invasion in 2001 became a party to the Rome Statute in 2003. Afghanistan remains legally obligated to prosecute perpetrators of these crimes – it must accept the Court’s jurisdiction in the matter.

The Purple Saturdays Movement, an Afghan women-led protest group, is warning the arrest warrants must be more than just symbolic. Any failure to prosecute would likely result in an escalation of human rights violations:

The Taliban has historically responded to international pressure not with reform, but by intensifying such repressive policies.

Hopeful step

It is important to note the strict policies and widespread abuses targeting women and girls in Afghanistan are ongoing, despite the intervention by the International Criminal Court.

The court’s Office of the Prosecutor is stressing its commitment to pursuing “effective legal pathways” to bring the Taliban leadership to account. The Afghan Women’s Movement in Exile wants an independent international judicial committee established to monitor and accelerate the legal process.

It is not yet clear if the warrants will actually lead to arrest and prosecution in The Hague. But we know this is possible. A prime example being the the arrest earlier this year of former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte.

At the very least, the arrests warrants are a hopeful step towards accountability for the Taliban and justice for the women and girls of Afghanistan.

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

– ref. In a world first, The Hague wants to arrest Taliban leaders over their treatment of women – what happens next? – https://theconversation.com/in-a-world-first-the-hague-wants-to-arrest-taliban-leaders-over-their-treatment-of-women-what-happens-next-261008

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Waikato medical school gets green light

Source: New Zealand Government

A new medical school will be established at the University of Waikato as part of the Government’s plan to build a stronger health workforce, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti say.

“Cabinet has approved the business case for the new school, which will have a strong focus on primary care and rural health,” Mr Brown says.

“With $82.85 million in Government funding and over $150 million from the University, supported by philanthropic investment, this is a substantial commitment to education and regional development in the Waikato.

“Today’s decision will enable the University of Waikato to begin construction on new teaching facilities later this year and start planning for clinical placements, while giving more students the opportunity to study medicine in New Zealand.”

The school will offer a graduate-entry programme, providing a flexible new pathway into medicine that helps attract a broader range of students and build a stronger, more diverse workforce.

“It’s an innovative model that supports our focus on strengthening primary care, making it easier for people to see their doctor – helping Kiwis stay well and out of hospital.

“It also builds on the University’s recent additions of nursing, pharmacy, and midwifery programmes, demonstrating a strong and growing commitment to developing New Zealand’s health workforce.”

A full cost-benefit analysis was presented to Cabinet before any proposal was finalised, as part of the National – ACT coalition agreement.

Mr Brown says the school builds on the Government’s record investment in the health system and workforce.

“Today’s announcement adds 120 doctor training places each year, starting in 2028 – a significant boost to our long-term pipeline of homegrown medical workforce.

“This is on top of the 100 additional medical training places that are being added over the term of this Government across the University of Auckland and University of Otago.”

Dr Reti says the decision represents a significant step forward for both the University of Waikato and the wider region.

“This is a major milestone for the University and a real boost for tertiary education in the Waikato.

“It strengthens the University’s position as a leader in education, training, and research, and creates new academic and economic opportunities for Hamilton, the Waikato, and rural communities.

“By expanding access to medical training, we’re creating new opportunities for students from across the region and beyond, while also helping to future-proof the local workforce.

“This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking initiative this Government wants to see from our universities – investing in regional growth, building local capability, and delivering on the needs of rural communities.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: CJB Crypto opens a new era of XRP mining: green mining, easy to earn passive income

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

London, UK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

As the global cryptocurrency market expands, UK-based cloud mining platform CJB Crypto has released its new mobile app, redefining the way users can participate in cryptocurrency mining. The launch brings a seamless experience to users who want to earn passive income through XRP, Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Litecoin and other mainstream digital assets – without having to own hardware or technical expertise.
Unlike traditional mining that requires expensive mining machines and continuous maintenance, CJB Crypto adopts a mobile-first mining approach, allowing users to mine through cloud infrastructure hosted in global data centers. Users only need a smartphone to register, activate mining contracts and receive daily returns.

Against the backdrop of the continued rise in the global cryptocurrency market, CJB Crypto officially launched a new user incentive plan for XRP mining, with “zero threshold, high returns” as the core, to help new and old users easily participate in digital currency mining. With its innovative reward mechanism, flexible contract selection and transparent profit model, the platform quickly became the focus of the industry.
Sign up and get $10, the first step to “earn money while lying down”
In order to lower the threshold for user participation, CJB Crypto has launched a “Registration Reward” program for new users: after completing the registration, you can get $10 experience points, which can be directly used to purchase cloud computing contracts and start XRP mining income. This benefit not only allows novice users to experience platform services at zero cost, but also demonstrates CJB Crypto’s confidence in its own technology and profitability.
Sign in at $0.6 per day, with a stable and uninterrupted income
CJB Crypto breaks the traditional mining platform’s “passive waiting for income” model and launches a daily sign-in reward mechanism. Users only need to log in to the platform and sign in every day to get an additional $0.6 cash reward. The income will be credited in real time and can be withdrawn or reinvested. This design not only improves user stickiness, but also makes “small continuous income” possible, which is especially suitable for investors who pursue stable income.
Invite friends to enjoy tiered rewards, up to 4.5% profit bonus
In order to encourage users to share digital wealth opportunities, CJB Crypto now launches an affiliate program where you can get commissions by recommending friends to invest in you. You can start making money without investing, for example: if the friend you recommend successfully purchases a $10,000 package, you can get a $300 commission. After inviting a certain number of active referrals, you will receive a one-time fixed bonus of up to $30,000. No matter how many referrals you make, your income potential is unlimited!
Diversified contract options to meet the needs of users at all levels
CJB Crypto is deeply involved in the field of cloud computing power, providing contracts for mainstream currencies such as BTC, ETH, FIL, XRP, USDT, and has designed a variety of solutions based on user risk preferences and capital scale:
Novice contract: starting from $10, suitable for small-scale trials;
Robust contract: period 5-30 days, daily return 1.35%-1.5%
High-yield contracts: 45-day to 60-day cycles, with daily returns as high as 1.68%-2.0%

Technology ensures safety, and income is transparent and traceable
CJB Crypto uses multiple encryption technologies and hot and cold wallet separation storage solutions, and is audited by a third-party organization to ensure the security of user assets and data. The platform’s income is automatically settled daily, and users can view the computing power operation status and income details in real time through the APP or official website, truly realizing the “visualization of the mining process.”
User evaluation and market recognition
Since its launch, CJB Crypto has attracted more than 7 million users worldwide, and its “low threshold + high flexibility” model has been widely praised. A user from the United States reported: “Through sign-in and invitation rewards, I can earn an additional $500 per month. Through contract mining, I have truly achieved passive income.”
Act now to seize the digital wealth opportunity
Starting today, visit the CJB Crypto official website to complete the registration, you can unlock a $10 bonus, participate in the sign-in invitation event, and experience the new mining mode of “multiple income superposition”. Whether you are a novice in cryptocurrency or a veteran player, CJB Crypto will become your ideal partner for digital asset layout.
About CJB Crypto
CJB Crypto is the world’s leading compliant cloud mining service platform, relying on self-built mining farms and joint mining pool computing power to provide users with safe and efficient digital currency mining solutions. The platform adheres to the concept of “user first” and is committed to lowering the threshold for industry participation through technological innovation and promoting the development of inclusive finance.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

The MIL Network –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study on age of smartphone ownership and mental health outcomes

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

July 21, 2025

A study published in Journal of Human Development and Capabilities looks at the age of smartphone ownership and mental health outcomes.

Prof Pete Etchells, Professor of Psychology and Science Communication, Bath Spa University, said:

“It’s difficult to fully assess this study, as there are very limited methodological and analytical details provided. While we are given a generalised overview of the Global Mind Project, there is no standardised methods section detailing how variables of interest were measured or operationalised, no demographic information, and no detailed outline of the analytic methods used. This makes it hard to assess the quality of the research conducted.

“The study averages a wide range of factors relating to mental health into a single composite score, and correlates this what appears to be a self-report measure of age of first smartphone ownership. The findings suggest some sort of negative relationship – i.e. that the younger the initial age of smartphone ownership, the worse the composite mental health score is. However, it’s not clear from the reported data the strength of these relationships, nor why ownership at age 5-6 is compared with an averaged ownership between age 13-18.

“The study then moves on to talk about age of access to social media accounts and potential associations to factors such as poor family relationships and cyberbullying, although again it’s not clear how these were measured. A series of regression analyses are then put in the context of access to AI-power social media environments, but I don’t quite see what this means or how it was measured. Later, AI-powered digital environments are mentioned, which is again a different concept that isn’t clearly defined.

“Given the correlational nature of the study, along with unclear definitions of key variables of interest and lack of methodological details, I was therefore surprised to see the paper end with a series of digital policy recommendations for under-13s. While some of these (e.g. digital literacy training) are sensible, it is not clear how they are informed by the study itself. This appears to be another study in a long line of papers that are based on correlational self-report data, and I’m not convinced that more studies along these lines are adding anything new to our understanding of digital technology effects. There is a wealth of complex and interacting factors that will impact on the initial age of smartphone ownership, access to social media and mental health, but it’s not clear how these are accounted for in this study. I would therefore be reluctant to suggest that there are any useful policy implications for this work.”

Prof Chris Ferguson, Professor of Psychology, Stetson University, said:

“I honestly wasn’t at all impressed with this study. First, the survey is both online and self-report, both qualities likely to bias the results. I took the survey myself (so now I’m a participant, I guess) and found it to be crude. The survey does not appear to be a well-validated clinical measure of mental health and there are no checks for unreliable responding. Self-report measures of mental health are now well-known to be unreliable and these questions only touch on mental health in crude non-diagnostic ways. Online samples are often unreliable, and don’t generalize to individuals who spend less time online. The analyses are merely descriptive without proper controls. The language of the study is inappropriately strong for such a crude correlational design lacking proper controls.”

‘Protecting the Developing Mind in a Digital Age: A Global Policy Imperative’ by Tara Thiagarajan et al. was published in Journal of Human Development and Capabilities at 5:01 UK time on Monday 21^st July.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/19452829.2025.2518313

Declared interests

Prof Pete Etchells: Pete Etchells is the author of Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time (and how to spend it better).

Prof Chris Ferguson: No conflicts of interest to declare.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI China: PLA honors 12 as ‘most beautiful revolutionary soldiers’ ahead of Army Day 2025-07-21 11:44:06 China has honored 12 military officers and soldiers as “the most beautiful revolutionary soldiers of the new era” as the country prepares to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army on Aug 1.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
loading…

MIL OSI China News –
July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Starbucks China partners with Envision to reduce supply chain emissions

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

Starbucks China announced a strategic partnership with green technology leader Envision Group on July 18 to develop a comprehensive carbon reduction model across the coffee chain’s supply network.

Executives from Starbucks China and Envision Group pose during the announcement of their carbon reduction partnership at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Starbucks China]

The partnership, unveiled at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, will use a digital carbon management platform to track emissions from Starbucks’ direct and indirect suppliers over the next three years. The platform aims to measure carbon footprints across thousands of Starbucks China products and then develop customized decarbonization strategies for suppliers throughout the supply chain.

The collaboration expands an existing partnership between the companies focused on sustainable store operations. Starbucks China said the partnership reflects its long-term commitment to the Chinese market and shared development values.

“After 26 years of deep roots in China, sustainability has become integral to every Starbucks store and every cup of coffee,” said Molly Liu, CEO of Starbucks China. “We look forward to collaborating in depth with Envision to move the supply chain behind our coffee toward sustainability together with Starbucks.”

Liu said she hopes suppliers will apply decarbonization practices developed for Starbucks to broader operations, potentially driving green transformation across the food and beverage retail industry.

“Today’s strategic partnership announcement represents our shared commitment to the planet’s future,” said Zhang Lei, Envision founder and chairman. “The warmth of coffee mirrors the warmth of technology. As a zero-carbon technology partner, Envision will help Starbucks build a greener, more sustainable supply chain to create a better world and more aromatic coffee.”

The companies have already implemented sustainable technologies across more than 7,500 Starbucks stores in China. Starbucks stores nationwide use Envision’s smart IoT operating system to track energy consumption in real time. The system adjusts to individual store operations and peak business hours to optimize energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

At the Starbucks China Coffee Innovation Park in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, Envision installed a comprehensive zero-carbon energy system. The facility uses solar panels, energy storage technology, electric vehicle charging stations, and a digital energy management platform, combined with renewable electricity sourcing. The integrated systems aim to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs and cut carbon emissions across the coffee innovation campus.

The booth of Starbucks China at the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, July 18, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

Starbucks and Envision said the technology deployments at Starbucks facilities show how digital systems and green technology can transform supply chain operations, prompting the expanded partnership between the companies.

Fu Baozong, deputy director of the International Cooperation Center at the National Development and Reform Commission, said he was pleased to see Starbucks partnering with Envision to establish a benchmark for green development through their supply chain decarbonization model.

The partnership demonstrates the pivotal role of anchor enterprises in driving sustainable development, Fu said. He noted that under China’s carbon neutrality goals, all industries are pursuing green and low-carbon transformation.

Suppliers account for about 70% of Starbucks’ total carbon emissions, making upstream supply chain decarbonization a critical challenge. Starbucks said it is addressing supply chain emissions while optimizing its own operations to lead industry-wide low-carbon transformation.

Over the next three years, Starbucks and Envision will develop a supply chain carbon management platform for Starbucks China based on Envision’s EnOS Ark Carbon Management System. The platform will expand to all direct suppliers and key indirect suppliers, measuring carbon footprints across thousands of Starbucks products to create customized decarbonization plans.

Starbucks will provide carbon emissions data across all operational areas for suppliers in food, dairy, logistics and packaging sectors, the company said.

In dairy operations, which represent Starbucks’ largest emissions source, the company and Envision have developed a digital tool for sustainable dairy management in China. Pilot farms are implementing measures including renewable energy adoption, feed formula adjustments and precision feeding to manage carbon footprints and improve emission reduction strategies.

The two companies said they hope their partnership will influence industry-wide decarbonization practices. Using models from their green stores and innovation park, Starbucks and Envision will share expertise with supply chain partners, the companies said.

MIL OSI China News –

July 21, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Defence Cuts – Govt wrong to cut another 255 civilian Defence jobs at time of rising risks
Source: PSA

– 255 civilian roles across NZDF to go

– 10% of civilian workforce downsized in last year

– Another 46 roles proposed to go

The Government is fooling itself if cutting 10% of the civilian workforce is how you build a modern, combat ready defence force at a time of rising security risks.

NZDF today confirmed final decisions that will see 255 roles cut across the force, making a total of one in ten roles axed in the last year (including voluntary redundancies). This is down from the original proposal of 347 roles in March. 46 further roles may go depending on the outcome of additional consultation.

“This is incredibly shortsighted when a modern defence force needs a well-resourced civilian workforce to support our men and women in uniform,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.

The cuts include roles in the army, air force, strategy, health and safety, Defence College, Joint Defence Services, Joint Support Group, financial, Chief of Staff office and Veterans Affairs.

“This is all about saving money, not strengthening security. It doesn’t make any sense when tensions are rising across the Asia Pacific area and in Europe. It was only a few months ago that a warship from China was in the Tasman Sea.”

NZDF told staff today it was facing a tough fiscal environment which has forced it to make deep cuts in a number of areas to save money including:

“cancelling some training activities and major exercises”

“reducing flying hours, sea days and other training”

“pausing property maintenance”

“The Government is investing in military equipment and technology which is a good thing but is blind to the fact that civilian defence workers, like engineers, IT specialists and many others are needed to support this.

“All these cuts to jobs will do is increase already heavy workloads, leading to more stress and burnout, and forcing those in uniform to pick up the work of the civilian workers. That is not what they signed up to do and won’t help NZDF improve retention.

“Civilian workers are the backbone of Defence, yet the Government continues to disrespect their vital role. It’s the wrong choice.”

Previous statement

20 March More damaging cuts to Defence civilian workforce shows hypocrisy of Govt promise

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
July 21, 2025

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Erased from public life

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July 21, 2025

Source: PSA