Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NATIONAL LIVESTOCK MISSION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:22PM by PIB Delhi

    Food Safety and Standards Authority of India FSSAI has specified Standards for non-bovine milk (Goat, Camel and Sheep milk) in sub-regulation 2.1.2 of Food Safety and Standards (Food products Standards and Food Additives) Regulation,2011 (https://fssai.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/2_%20Chapter%202_1%20(Dairy%20products%20and%20analogues).pdf)

    The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, is implementing the National Livestock Mission (NLM) since 2021.The scheme is being implemented across the country. Under the entrepreneurship component of the scheme, NLM-Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP), a 50% capital subsidy, up to ₹50 lakh, is provided for the establishment of poultry, sheep, goat, pig, horse, camel, and donkey breeding farms, as well as feed and fodder units. Eligible entities include individuals, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), Farmer Cooperative Organizations (FCOs), and Section 8 companies. The details of the unit sizes eligible under the NLM Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP) are provided in Annexure-I.

    The subsidy amounts provided to individuals, FPOs, FCOs, SHGs, JLGs, and other stakeholders under this scheme at the national level, in Uttar Pradesh, and in the Sonipat District of Haryana are detailed in Annexure-II.

    In Uttar Pradesh, 145 NLM-EDP projects have been approved, with a total sanctioned subsidy of ₹32.91 crore. This initiative has generated employment for 846 individuals and benefited 5,978 farmers. It is also expected to contribute to an annual fodder production capacity of 28,000 MT, supporting the induction of 30,371 livestock and 2,200 poultry birds into the system. Detailed information is provided in Annexure-III.

    In Haryana, 13 NLM-EDP projects have been approved under the scheme, with a total sanctioned subsidy of ₹4.06 crore. This initiative has generated employment for 62 individuals and positively impacted 144 farmers. Additionally, the approved projects will contribute to an annual fodder production capacity of 2,400 MT and support the induction of 3,940 livestock and poultry birds into the system. Further details are provided in Annexure-IV.

    The objective of the National Livestock Mission (NLM) scheme is to increase the per animal productivity, genetic improvement and availability of quality feed and fodder. Further, the breed multiplication farm which are funded under the NLM-EDP programme will provide the farmers with improved germplasm which in turn will increase the productivity. The silage plants established by the entrepreneurs would help in getting affordable fodder for the small holding livestock farmers and also encourage the local farmers to take up cultivation of fodder. Therefore, in long term, the benefit accrued under NLM-EDP programme will help in enhancing the livestock productivity.

    Annexure-I

     

    The following activities of different unit size are eligible under NLM Entrepreneurship Scheme:

    1. Establishment of Parent Farm, Hatchery, brooder cum mother unit of Rural poultry birds with minimum 1000 parent layers for production of Hatching Eggs and Chicks.

     

    Poultry Unit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    1000 + 100

    ₹25 lakhs

     

    1. Establishment of sheep and goat breeding farm with minimum 100 female and 05 male and in its multiple as follows.

     

    Goat/ Sheep Unit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    100 +5

    ₹10 lakhs

    200+10

    ₹20 lakhs

    300+15

    ₹30 lakhs

    400+20

    ₹40 lakhs

    500+25

    ₹50 lakhs

     

    1. Establishment of Pig breeding farm with minimum 50 sow and 05 boar and 100 females and 10 males. The maximum subsidy ceiling for different components varies from Rs. 15.00 lakh to Rs. 30.00 lakh.

     

    Pig Unit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    50 Sows + 5 Boars

    ₹15 lakhs

    100 Sows + 10 Boars

    ₹30 lakhs

     

    1. Establishment of fodder value addition units such as preparation of Hay/Silage/Total Mixed Ration (TMR)/ Fodder Block and storage of fodder. The maximum subsidy ceiling is Rs. 50.00 lakh.

     

    1. Establishment of Camel, Horse and Donkey breeding farm

     

    Horse Unit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    10 mare/broodmare + 2     stallion

    ₹50 lakhs

     

    DonkeyUnit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    50 female+ 5 Male

    ₹50 lakhs

     

     

    CamelUnit Size (Female + Male)

    Max amount of capital subsidy

    10 female + 1 male

    (for pastorals)

    ₹3 lakhs

    10 female + 1 male

    ₹5 lakhs

    50 female + 5male

    ₹25 lakhs

    100 female + 10male

    ₹50 lakhs

    Annexure II

     

    Details of subsidy approved under NLM-EDP to the farmers, FPO, FCO, SHG, JLG in Uttar Pradesh and India:

    States

    Individual

    Cooperatives

    FPO

    FCO

    SHG

    Section 8

    JLG

    Total Approved Subsidy

    (Rs. In Cr)

    Uttar Pradesh

    143

    0

    1

    0

    0

    1

    0

    32.90

    Rest of India

    3129

    4

    6

    0

    1

    6

    4

    1065.72

    Grand Total

    3272

    4

    7

    0

    1

    7

    4

    1098.62

     

    Status of projects received in NLM EDP portal for Sonipat District of Haryana

    NLM EDP projects status in District Sonipat, Haryana

    Current Status

    Total Applications received in portal

    Total Project Cost (Rs In Lakhs)

    Total Subsidy Amount (Rs In Lakhs)

    Total Application received from Sonipat District of Haryana

    4

    328.4029

    154.5

    Eligible by State Government

    1

    25.3529

    10

    Rejected by the State Government

    1

    73.91

    30

    Returned to the applicant by the State Government

    2

    229.14

    114.5

    Annexure –III

    Details of Projects approved District- wise in Uttar Pradesh:

    Sl No.

    Districts

    Projects approved by the Department as on date

    Feed and Fodder

    Goat

    Piggery

    Poultry

    No of Approved Applications

    Total Project Cost

    (Rs. In Cr)

    Total Approved subsidy

    (Rs. In Cr)

    1.  

    Agra

    0

    2

     

     

    3

    2.56

    1.15

    1.  

    Aligarh

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    2.00

    0.93

    1.  

    Ambedkar Nagar

    1

    1

     

     

    2

    2.06

    0.70

    1.  

    Amethi

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.00

    0.34

    1.  

    Amroha

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    0.40

    0.15

    1.  

    Auraiya

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.00

    0.50

    1.  

    Ayodhya

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    1.56

    0.69

    1.  

    Azamgarh

    0

    3

     

     

    3

    2.20

    0.86

    1.  

    Baghpat

    0

    1

    1

     

    2

    0.80

    0.34

    1.  

    Banda

    1

    1

    1

     

    3

    1.60

    0.74

    1.  

    Bara Banki

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    1.60

    0.80

    1.  

    Bareilly

    0

    3

    2

     

    5

    3.28

    1.32

    1.  

    Bhadohi

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.15

    0.50

    1.  

    Budaun

    1

    2

     

     

    3

    1.86

    0.68

    1.  

    Bulandshahr

    0

    2

    1

    2

    5

    3.87

    1.74

    1.  

    Deoria

    0

    7

     

     

    7

    1.58

    0.57

    1.  

    Etah

    0

    0

    1

     

    1

    0.28

    0.14

    1.  

    Etawah

    0

    4

     

     

    4

    1.35

    0.55

    1.  

    Fatehpur

    0

    4

     

     

    4

    1.60

    0.71

    1.  

    Firozabad

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.30

    0.41

    1.  

    Gautam Buddha Nagar

    0

    0

    1

     

    1

    0.76

    0.30

    1.  

    Ghaziabad

    0

    2

    1

     

    3

    2.10

    0.95

    1.  

    Ghazipur

    0

    6

     

     

    6

    2.20

    1.03

    1.  

    Gorakhpur

    0

    10

     

     

    10

    5.39

    2.25

    1.  

    Hamirpur

    0

    3

     

     

    3

    1.81

    0.90

    1.  

    Hardoi

    1

    1

     

     

    2

    3.00

    0.64

    1.  

    Jalaun

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.20

    0.10

    1.  

    Jhansi

    1

    0

     

     

    1

    0.50

    0.25

    1.  

    Kanpur Dehat

    0

    5

    1

     

    6

    2.16

    0.85

    1.  

    Kanpur Nagar

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.25

    0.10

    1.  

    Kaushambi

    0

    4

    3

     

    7

    2.33

    1.05

    1.  

    Kheri

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.00

    0.49

    1.  

    Kushinagar

    0

    9

     

     

    9

    3.01

    1.25

    1.  

    Lucknow

    0

    3

    1

     

    4

    2.02

    0.92

    1.  

    Mahoba

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.45

    0.14

    1.  

    Mahrajganj

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    1.00

    0.50

    1.  

    Mainpuri

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.21

    0.09

    1.  

    Mathura

    0

    0

    1

     

    1

    0.79

    0.30

    1.  

    Mau

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.23

    0.07

    1.  

    Meerut

    0

    0

    2

     

    2

    1.20

    0.42

    1.  

    Mirzapur

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.22

    0.10

    1.  

    Muzaffarnagar

    0

    1

    2

     

    3

    2.35

    1.05

    1.  

    Pilibhit

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.21

    0.10

    1.  

    Prayagraj

    1

    1

     

     

    1

    1.12

    0.50

    1.  

    Rae Bareli

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.20

    0.10

    1.  

    Saharanpur

    0

    0

    1

     

    1

    0.30

    0.14

    1.  

    Shahjahanpur

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.71

    0.30

    1.  

    Shrawasti

    0

    1

     

     

    1

    0.40

    0.16

    1.  

    Siddharthnagar

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    0.50

    0.20

    1.  

    Sonbhadra

    0

    2

     

     

    2

    0.63

    0.30

    1.  

    Sultanpur

    0

    4

    1

     

    5

    2.50

    1.16

    1.  

    Unnao

    0

    5

     

     

    5

    3.00

    1.34

    1.  

    Varanasi

    1

    4

     

     

    5

    2.58

    1.07

     

    Grand Total

    7

    116

    20

    2

    145

    78.36

    32.91

     

    Annexure –IV

    Details of Projects approved District- wise in Haryana:

    Sl No.

    Districts

    Projects approved by the Department as on date

    Goat & Sheep

    Pig

    Feed & Fodder

    No of Approved Applications

    Total Project Cost

    (Rs. In Cr)

    Total Approved subsidy

    (Rs. In Cr)

    1.  

    Bhiwani

    2

     

     

    2

    1.99

    0.90

    1.  

    Charki Dadri

    2

    1

     

    3

    1.50

    0.75

    1.  

    Kurukshetra

     

     

    1

    1

    1.13

    0.50

    1.  

    Mahendragarh

    1

     

     

    1

    1.10

    0.50

    1.  

    Sirsa

    6

     

     

    6

    3.66

    1.41

     

    Grand Total

    11

    1

    1

    13

    9.38

    4.06

     

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2099684) Visitor Counter : 63

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MENACE OF STRAY ANIMALS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The issues related to stray animals like dogs and monkeys, and the incidents arising there from, and funds available with local bodies to prevent such incidents are under the domain of concerned State Governments. However, as per the data reported on Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (Integrated Health Information Platform) portal under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India by the states/UTs, the details for January 2024 to December 2024 of rural areas across the country is mentioned below-

    S.No.

    Type of biting animal

    Cases

    Deaths

    1

    Dog

    2195122

    37

    2

    Other animals including monkey

    504728

    11

     

    As per the data reported by States/UTs on Integrated Health Information Platform portal under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India for dog bite cases to the children less than 15 years of age is 519704 across the country, during Jan-Dec’2024.

    The issue of stray animals falls under the purview of State Governments concerned and therefore, local bodies are mandated to handle these incidents. However, the actions taken by the concerned Departments/ Ministries of Government of India to tackle such incidents are as follows :

    Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India:

    The Central Government has notified the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, to facilitate the management of the stray dog population. Animal Welfare Board of India also provides financial assistance to recognized animal welfare organizations for sheltering stray, injured, or sick animals in their facilities. Additionally, it supports the implementation of animal birth control programs in collaboration with local bodies. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) collaborates with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to develop comprehensive programs aimed at addressing safety concerns related to stray animals. These programs focus on preventive measures to ensure children’s safety. The AWBI has also issued several advisories and guidelines for the management of stray dogs.

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India:

    The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, issued an advisory on 25.07.2024 to all States and Union Territories regarding the implementation of recommendations made by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to prevent stray dog attacks on children.

    Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India:

    Under the Human Health component, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is implementing National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) since 12th Five-year plan in all States/UTs except for non-endemic areas (Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep) to prevent and control Rabies in the Country. Under the program following initiatives & preventive measures have been taken across the country by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for making rabies free India by 2030

    (i) The National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030 (NAPRE) was developed and launched on September 28, 2021, by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, focusing on Human Health and Animal Health. The implementation of the Human Health component is undertaken by the ‘National Centre for Disease Control’ under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with dedicated budgetary support, while the implementation of the Animal Health component is to be undertaken by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India.  As per Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2023, mass dog vaccination and dog population management are being done by the animal husbandry department in collaboration with local body authorities.

    (ii)Under the “National Health Mission”, the states are being supported for implementing the ‘National Rabies Control Program’ through budgetary support by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for Capacity building of the healthcare staff, procurement of anti-rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin, the printing of Information, education and communication (IEC) for rabies & dog bite prevention, for data entry support, review meetings, monitoring and surveillance, the establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics & Wound Washing facilities.

    • Training modules have been developed for medical officers and health workers. Over 1.19 lakh medical officers and paramedics trained in rabies prevention (from 2019-2023).
    • Anti-Rabies Vaccine & Anti-Rabies Serum provided free at government hospitals under National Health Mission’s National Free Drug Initiative.
    • To create the awareness to the public and healthcare professionals Dog bite protocols, Information, education and communication (IEC) materials, and training videos on the management of animal bite/dog bite cases for medical officers have been created and disseminated across the country.
    • Established 279 Model Anti-Rabies Clinics in the last three years in districts of the states for better treatment of dog bite victims.

    (iii) Strengthening of surveillance for Rabies:

    • Nine government diagnostic labs strengthened for rabies detection in states/UT
    • Human Rabies classified as a notifiable disease in 26 States/UTs following an advisory by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
    • Integration with Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (Integrated Health Information Platform) Portal for strengthened surveillance of animal/dog bites and rabies cases.

    (iv)  The Rabies-Free Cities initiative has commenced in a phased manner, targeting Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities for rabies prevention and action plan preparation initially for 15 cities of 6 states.

    (v) Joint Steering Committees formed at national, state, and district levels to monitor National Rabies Control Programme progress.

    (vi) A dedicated Rabies helpline (15400) (

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Hungary, Canada, Korea and Poland suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Hungary, Canada, Korea and Poland suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Hungary, Canada, Korea and Poland suspended
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 4) that in view of notifications from the Ministry of Agriculture of Hungary, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and the General Veterinary Inspectorate of Poland about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in areas in Hungary, Canada and Korea; and outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza and highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in areas in Poland respectively, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the relevant areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     The relevant areas are as follows:     Hungary—-(1) Heves County(2) Pest CountyCanada—-Province of Ontario(3) Wellington CountyKorea—-Jeollanam-do Province(4) Damyang-gunGyeongsangnam-do Province(5) Geochang-gunChungcheongnam-do Province(6) Dangjin-siPoland—-Podkarpackie Region(7) Ropczycko-Sędziszowski DistrictŁódzkie Region(8) Zgierski DistrictWielkopolskie Region(9) Kolski District(10) Kępiński District(11) Kalisz DistrictLubuskie Region(12) Nowa Sól District     A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with Hungary for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 300 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Hungary; about 400 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Canada; about 80 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 21.9 million poultry eggs from Korea; and about 6 600 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland last year.     ​”The CFS has contacted the Hungarian, Canadian, Korean and Polish authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, February 4, 2025Issued at HKT 19:52

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE AHIDF

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:15PM by PIB Delhi

    The current status of the implementation of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) scheme in the Country, State-wise including Maharashtra may be seen at Annexure-I.

    The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) scheme has significantly benefited small and marginal farmers across various sectors, contributing to their economic empowerment and improved livelihoods. It is helping in creating better marketing infrastructure for the livestock products produced by the farmers, ensuring better quality, and providing access to the processing facilities for value addition benefiting the farmers for getting remunerative prices. Farmers/ entrepreneurs have been able to move from unorganized market to organized market.

    Individuals, Private companies, cooperatives, section 8 companies, MSMEs and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are eligible to avail the benefits of the Scheme. After merger of the AHIDF with the Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund(DIDF), the Dairy Cooperatives and dairy farmers have also been included thus availing benefits under the scheme. Under AHIDF, 131 Animal Feed Plants (for Poultry and Cattle) with a production capacity of 85.95 lakh metric tonnes per annum have been approved. This initiative will provide farmers with affordable, high-quality, and balanced feed and fodder, thereby enhancing health, productivity, and income from the farmers.

    The scheme has helped directly in generating employment for 60,000 people and indirectly 2,60,000 farmers have been benefited. Further, by providing access to improved infrastructure, technology, and markets, AHIDF has enabled farmers to increase their production and productivity. This has led to higher income for farmers, as they are able to produce good quality products and sell their products at better prices. So far, the total 366 projects have been approved with the cost of Rs 10367.90 crores under AHIDF.

    So far, under the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF)scheme, 366 projects have been approved for interest subvention out of the total 541 sanctioned projects. Out of the approved projects,160 projects have been taken by private companies contributing 43% of the total approved projects. Additionally, projects of 8 Cooperatives, 5 FPOs, 39 individuals, 153 MSMEs, and 1 section 8 company have also been approved.

    The merger of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) with the Dairy Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) has made dairy cooperatives eligible entities under the scheme. This has ensured that small- livestock farmers receive benefits through cooperative structures, which are designed to support equitable access and prevent exploitation by private players. Additionally, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are also recognized as eligible entities under the scheme, thereby empowering small-scale farmers by providing collective access to financial assistance. The numbers of dairy value addition infrastructure units and other categories established under the AHIDF so far, in the State of Maharashtra is annexed at Annexure – II.

    Primarily, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing a Livestock Health, and Disease Control Scheme to improve the animal health by way of implementation of prophylactic vaccination programme against various diseases of livestock and poultry, disease surveillance and strengthening of veterinary infrastructure.

    Additionally, The AHIDF scheme aims to strengthen the infrastructure of veterinary drugs and vaccines through establishment of 3 projects, producing 90 Lakhs Boluses, 400 Lakh No of Tablets, 60,000 Kg powder and 2.75 Lakh of liquid veterinary drugs and medicines 70 Lakhs Vials, and 3 Crores Injections.

    Also, by providing the balanced ration the health and productivity is improved which is ensured by the scheme as, 131 projects with the capacity of 85.95 Lakh metric tonnes per annum has been approvedunder AHIDF

    For ensuring the better germplasm of Livestock and Poultry, 77 projects of breed improvement (Poultry), and breed multiplication farms (Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Pig) have been approved under AHIDF

    As far as modern technology, digital solutions, and innovations in Animal Husbandry Infrastructure are concerned, the AHIDF scheme encompasses projects for establishing technologically assisted breed multiplication farms, modern dairy processing units, meat processing facilities, animal feed plants, veterinary drug and vaccine production units, and animal waste-to-wealth management systems. The adoption of innovative technologies and digitization in these units is revolutionizing the sector, particularly through environmentally controlled poultry farms and advanced livestock breeding units. Technologies such as automated feeding systems and smart sensors are enhancing efficiency and productivity, while waste management technologies are contributing to sustainability.

    Also, National Digital Livestock Mission an initiative by the Department to create digital platform for the livestock sector which will improve productivity, Disease control and traceability of animals

    The Start-ups and young entrepreneurs can avail the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) scheme under any of the eligible entities as Individuals, Private companies, section 8 companies, MSME, Farmer Producer’s organization (FPOs) and Dairy Cooperatives.

    Annexure-I.

     

    The current status of the implementation of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) scheme in the Country, State-wise including Maharashtra.

     

    S No

    State Name

    Approved Projects

    Project Cost (In Crores)

    Term Loan (In Crores)

    Interest Subvention Released (In Crores)

    1

    Maharashtra

    63

    1836.18

    1292.20

    39.76

    2

    West Bengal

    31

    492.58

    328.42

    9.67

    3

    Uttar Pradesh

    30

    776.00

    481.36

    19.60

    4

    Tamil Nadu

    29

    1294.62

    841.95

    33.90

    5

    Karnataka

    26

    741.16

    466.55

    22.92

    6

    Punjab

    26

    547.40

    329.67

    9.87

    7

    Haryana

    22

    484.29

    275.70

    11.44

    8

    Madhya Pradesh

    18

    712.32

    474.51

    19.90

    9

    Andhra Pradesh

    17

    260.29

    145.06

    4.92

    10

    Rajasthan

    17

    256.25

    168.58

    4.24

    11

    Telangana

    17

    959.87

    661.99

    29.34

    12

    Gujarat

    16

    944.53

    746.92

    17.67

    13

    Odisha

    13

    211.18

    139.88

    2.51

    14

    Jharkhand

    8

    145.48

    104.40

    4.61

    15

    Assam

    7

    91.37

    45.14

    1.99

    16

    Chhattisgarh

    7

    240.02

    191.00

    4.83

    17

    Bihar

    5

    195.66

    124.35

    10.60

    18

    Himachal Pradesh

    5

    63.01

    37.03

    0.12

    19

    Jammu& Kashmir

    3

    4.17

    2.60

    0.02

    20

    Kerala

    3

    11.87

    8.60

    0.22

    21

    Uttarakhand

    2

    95.12

    76.00

    2.51

    22

    Puducherry

    1

    4.55

    2.50

    0.00

    Grand Total

    366

    10367.94

    6944.41

    250.66

    Annexure-II

     

    The number of dairy and value addition infrastructure units established under the AHIDF in the State of Maharashtra:

    S No

    Category of Infrastructure

    Completed Projects

    1

    Dairy Processing & Value Addition

    21

     2.

    Breed improvement technology and breed multiplication farms

    5

    3.

    Animal feed plants (Cattle and Poultry feed)

    15

       4.

    Setting up of Veterinary vaccine and drug production Facilities

    1

    Grand Total

    42

     

    This information was given by the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Statement by Raksha Mantri on India-China Border and Patrolling Restoration

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on February 04, 2025 issued a tweet regarding certain remarks made in Parliament by Shri Rahul Gandhi about the statement of the Chief of the Army Staff on the situation along the India-China border.

    Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the Army Chief’s observations pertained to the temporary disturbance of traditional patrolling patterns by both sides along the border. He further emphasised that these patrolling practices have now been restored to their traditional pattern following the recent disengagement efforts. These details were previously shared in Parliament.

    The Raksha Mantri also clarified that the words attributed to the Army Chief in the parliamentary debate were never stated by him at any time. He underscored the importance of accuracy and responsible discourse on matters concerning national security.

    Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated that with respect to territorial issues, it is well documented that 38,000 sq. km of Indian territory in Aksai Chin has been under Chinese control since the 1962 conflict. Furthermore, 5,180 sq. km of territory was ceded by Pakistan to China in 1963. These historical facts remain an integral part of India’s territorial discourse.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Consumer Helpline emerges as the key point of redressal of consumer grievances; functions in 17 languages, has AI-based speech recognition system

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department has revamped, the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), which has emerged as a single point of access to consumers across the country for grievance redressal at the pre-litigation stage. The helpline is available in 17 languages, including Hindi, English, Kashmiri, Punjabi, Nepali, Gujarati, Marathi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Maithili, Santhali, Bengali, Odia, Assamese, and Manipuri, allowing consumers from all regions to register their grievances via the toll-free number 1915. These grievances can be submitted via the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM), an omni-channel, IT-enabled central portal, through various channels: WhatsApp (8800001915), SMS (8800001915), email (nch-ca[at]gov[dot]in), the NCH app, the web portal (consumerhelpline.gov.in), and the Umang app, offering convenience and flexibility to consumers.

    The helpline operates in a dedicated manner from 8 AM to 8 PM on all seven days of the week, except on national holidays. To enhance accessibility further, a call-back facility is available. An exclusive call center has been established to ensure prompt service.

    NCH proactively partners with companies who want to join the programme on a voluntary basis to offer efficient consumer complaint resolution.  This initiative gives the company an opportunity for better Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility by redressing Consumer Disputes at pre-litigation stage. The number of convergence partners has steadily increased from 263 companies in 2017 to 1038 companies till now.

    The technological transformation of the NCH has significantly boosted its call-handling capacity. The number of calls received by NCH has grown more than tenfold, from 12,553 in December 2015 to 1,55,138 in December 2024. This exponential growth reflects the rising confidence of consumers in the helpline. Similarly, the average number of complaints registered per month has surged from 37,062 in 2017 to 1,12,468 in 2024. Additionally, grievance registration via WhatsApp has gained momentum, with the percentage of complaints filed through the platform increasing from 3% in March 2023 to 18% in December 2024, demonstrating a growing preference for digital communication channels.

    In a significant move to further enhance grievance redressal, NCH has introduced AI-based Speech Recognition, a Translation System, and an AI enabled Chatbot as part of the NCH 2.0 initiative. These technological advancements aim to make the grievance filing process more seamless, efficient, and inclusive. The AI-powered Speech Recognition and Translation System enables consumers to file complaints through voice input in their local languages, reducing manual intervention. The AI enabled Chatbot provides real-time assistance, streamlining complaint-handling processes, and improving the overall user experience. These upgrades ensure that consumers from diverse linguistic backgrounds have equal access to the grievance redressal system.

    The website of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has also been upgraded to serve as the central point of access for consumers across India seeking grievance redressal at the pre-litigation stage. This website includes enhanced functionality, modern features, and improved navigation with a user-centric design. It incorporates advanced features, offering faster grievance resolution and a more efficient user experience.

    Average number of complaints registered during a month with the National Consumer Helpline, including other digital communication channels, is as per the table below:

     

    Financial Year

    Average number of dockets registered on monthly basis

    Apr’24 – Dec’24

    (2024- 25)

    1,13,551

    2023 – 2024

    1,02,976

    2022 – 2023

    83,832

    This information was given by the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri B.L. Verma in a written reply today in the Rajya Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chief Operations Officer, Royal Bhutan Army calls on Raksha Mantri in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Chief Operations Officer, Royal Bhutan Army calls on Raksha Mantri in New Delhi

    Shri Rajnath Singh reaffirms India’s readiness to enhance bilateral relationship in line with ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Chief Operations Officer (COO), Royal Bhutan Army (RBA) Lt Gen Batoo Tshering called on Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on February 04, 2025, and held discussions encompassing a variety of issues on bilateral relations. During the talks, Raksha Mantri reaffirmed India’s readiness to support Bhutan in capability enhancement for defence preparedness, including provisioning of defence equipment and assets to augment capacities of Bhutan, as per its national priorities and in line with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.

     

     

    On his part, Lt Gen Batoo Tshering appreciated Government of India’s continued support and thanked India in assisting Bhutan in augmenting its modern defence capacities and training of RBA. He also reaffirmed RBA’s firm commitment to work closely with India in realising the shared vision for peace and prosperity in the region.

     

     

    COO, RBA is on an official visit to India from February 02-05, 2025. The visit is part of continued high-level engagements between the two sides and has provided an opportunity to further deepen the bilateral defence & security relations.

    *******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ORGANISED IN NORTH- EAST ON TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO

    Source: Government of India (2)

    VARIOUS ACTIVITIES ORGANISED IN NORTH- EAST ON TENTH ANNIVERSARY OF BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO

    BIKE/ SCOOTY RALLY ORGANISED IN WEST TRIPURA DISTRICT

    SELF DEFENCE WORKSHOP FOR GIRL STUDENTS HELD IN MAJULI, ASSAM

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Women and Child Development is celebrating 10 years of the launch of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme. In observance of this, various activities were conducted across the North East region.

    A bike rally was organised in the West Tripura District, Tripura for girl students in the campus of the Umakanta Academy School. The rally highlighted the importance of empowering women and promoting gender equality.

    In another event, a self defence workshop was organised for girl students in the Majuli district of Assam. The workshop focussed on equipping the students with some essential defence skills.

    The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 22nd January, 2015 at Panipat, Haryana.

    BBBP aims to address the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and issues of women empowerment in India.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India rises to become the World’s 2nd largest mobile manufacturer; From 2 units in 2014, over 300 units are operational nationwide today: Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India rises to become the World’s 2nd largest mobile manufacturer; From 2 units in 2014, over 300 units are operational nationwide today: Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw

    From Imports to Independence: 99.2% of Mobile Phones sold in India now made locally, Manufacturing Value soars to ₹4,22,000 crore with exports crossing ₹1,29,000 Cr in 2024

    ‘Make in India’ has driven the domestic production of key electronics ranging from chargers, battery packs to camera modules, display modules etc.

    India is shifting gears by deepening the value chain of manufacturing with a strong focus on the development of semiconductor chips and finer components

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister’s ‘Make In India’ vision is helping India become a global manufacturing hub. The Make in India program within a decade of its launch is not only driving our self-reliance, and boosting production but also creating jobs. Sharing data in this regard the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Railways and Information & Broadcasting Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the remarkable transformation of India’s mobile and electronics manufacturing sector in the last decade.

    From Import to Independence: India’s rise in Mobile Manufacturing

    India has made significant progress in mobile and electronics manufacturing and become the world’s 2nd largest mobile manufacturing country. In 2014, India had only 2 mobile manufacturing units but fast forward to today, the nation boasts over 300 manufacturing units, underscoring a significant expansion in this vital sector.

    In 2014 -15 only 26% of the mobile phones which were being sold in India were made in India, the rest were being imported. It is worth mentioning that today, 99.2% of all mobile phones which are sold in India are made in India. The manufacturing value of mobile phones has surged from ₹18,900 crore in FY14 to a staggering ₹4,22,000 crore in FY24.

    More than 325 to 330 million mobile phones a year are being manufactured in India and on average there are about a billion mobile phones in use in India. Indian mobile phones have virtually saturated the domestic market and that’s there’s a substantial uptick in the exports of mobile phones. The exports, which were almost non-existent in 2014, have now surpassed ₹1,29,000 crore.

    A Decade of Job Creation in Electronics Manufacturing

    The sector’s expansion has also been a major employment driver, creating approximately 12 lakh direct and indirect jobs over the decade. These employment opportunities have not only uplifted the economic status of numerous families but also contributed to the socio-economic fabric of the country.

    The ‘Make in India’ initiative has been pivotal in achieving these milestones. It has enabled the domestic production of critical components and sub-assemblies such as chargers, battery packs, mechanics of all types, USB cables, and more complex components like Lithium Ion Cells,  speaker and microphones, display assemblies and camera modules.

    Looking forward, the focus will intensify on advancing deeper into the value chain, particularly in the production of components and semiconductors. This shift is part of a broader strategy to enhance self-reliance and establish India as a leading player in the global electronics market.

    Deepening the Value Chain: Advancing India’s Electronics Manufacturing

    Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that the focus is now on advancing deeper into the value chain, with an increased emphasis on fine components and semiconductor production, thereby ensuring the indigenous development of the electronic component ecosystem. This will bolster India’s stance as a leading electronics market globally.

    Between 1950 and 1990, restrictive policies stifled manufacturing. However, ‘Make in India’ is reversing that trend by moving deeper into the value chain and increasing the production of components and chips.

    The setting up a semiconductor manufacturing base in the country has been an important part of Make in India, which India has been attempting to achieve for over six decades. With the launch of the India Semiconductor Mission and the five major projects which have been approved, starting with Micron, the two projects by Tata Electronics, the one project by CG Power, and the last project by Keynes, a real manufacturing base of semiconductors in this country is being established in India.

    Make In India shaping the new economic era

    From toys to mobile phones, defence equipment to EV motors, production is shifting back to India. The ‘Make In India’ vision of the Prime Minister of India Sh. Narendra Modi is to make India a global manufacturing hub. The Make in India program is driving self-reliance, boosting production, and creating jobs, thereby contributing significantly to the nation’s economic fortitude.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Center has approved 04 Start-Ups in the field of Technical Textiles

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Center has approved 04 Start-Ups in the field of Technical Textiles

    03 education institutes to introduce Technical Textiles courses

    12 Skill Development Courses introduced to impart training across the value chain

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 5:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Ministry of Textiles chaired the 10th Empowered Programme Committee (EPC) meeting under the National Technical Textiles Mission, today at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.

    The committee has approved 04 Start-Ups with a grant of approx. INR 50 Lakhs, each, under the ‘Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)’ scheme. The approved Start-Up projects are focused on key strategic areas of Medical Textiles, Industrial Textiles and Protective Textiles.

    The committee has also approved a grant of approx. INR 6.5 Cr. to 03 Education Institutes to introduce courses in Technical Textiles under the ‘General Guidelines for Enabling of Academic Institutes in Technical Textiles’. IIT Indore and NIT Patna are amongst the list of approved institutes. The new institutes will introduce courses in Geotextiles, Geosynthetics, Protective Textiles, Sports Textiles etc. in their course curriculum.

    Further, 12 Skill Development Courses across Medical textiles, Protective Textiles, Mobile Textiles and Agriculture Textiles have also been approved by the committee. The courses were developed by 03 Textile Research Associations (SITRA, NITRA and SASMIRA) and intend to providing training to all focus groups of the technical textiles value chain.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Measures for Care of LGBTQ Community

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Various measures taken by Government for the LGBTQ care are as follows:

    1. Department of Food and Public Distribution (D/oF&PD) has issued an advisory to all the States and UTs, that as per existing provisions, enabling partners in a queer relationship are to be treated as a part of the same household for the purposes of ration card. Further, States/UTs have been asked to take necessary measures to ensure that partners in queer relationship are not subjected to any discrimination in the issuance of ration cards.
    2. Department of Financial Services (DFS) has issued an advisory that there are no restrictions for persons of the queer community to open a joint bank account and also to nominate a person in queer relationship as a nominee to receive the balance in the account, in the event of death of the account holder.
    3. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued letters to all stakeholders including all States/UTs to take measures to ensure the rights of LGBTQI+ community pertaining to healthcare, planning awareness activities, prohibition of conversion therapy, availability of sex reassignment surgery, changes in curricula, provision of tele consultation, sensitization and training various levels of staff and making of provision to claim the body when near relative/next of kin/family is not available.
    4. The Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also issued letter to the State Health Departments and other stakeholders on the subject of ensuring the health care access and reducing discrimination towards LGBTQI+ community.
    5. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has framed guidelines in respect of medical intervention required in infants/ children with disorders of sexual differentiation (intersex) to have medically normal life without complications.
    6. Ministry of Home Affairs has issued advisory to all states/UTs regarding prison visitation rights of the Queer Community and an advisory, on law & order measures to be taken to ensure that queer community do not face any threat of violence, harassment or coercion.
    7. For the welfare of Transgender Persons, ‘The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019’ was enacted. ‘The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights), Rules, 2020’ were notified for implementation of the provisions of the Act. A National Council for Transgender Persons (NCTP) has been setup for advising Government on policies, programmes, legislation and projects for transgender persons. The National Portal for Transgender Persons was made operational to issue Transgender certificates and identity cards to the Transgender applicants. Transgender Protection Cells (TPC) have been set up in 13 states to monitor cases of offences against transgender persons and to ensure timely registration, investigation and prosecution of such offences. Transgender Welfare Boards (TWB) are also setup in 19 states for the purpose of protecting their rights and interests of, and facilitating access to schemes and welfare measures. Ministry has issued ‘Equal Opportunities Policy for Transgender Persons’ to eradicating discrimination, promoting equal opportunities, and providing a workplace that respects the rights and dignity of transgender persons.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI B.L. VERMA, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Initiatives for the Empowerment of Divyangjans

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:58PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, marked International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2024 with launch of 16 groundbreaking initiatives to empower Divyangjan across India. Through these initiatives, the Department aim to ensure equal opportunities, accessibility and empowerment for every Divyangjan. Widespread awareness has been done through print, electronic, digital and social media platforms to ensure that Divyangjan across India including those in remote or underserved areas are informed about these initiatives.

     

    List of Initiatives:

    1. Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan: An online platform for empanelment of accessibility auditors for built environments was introduced, reflecting the government’s commitment to creating inclusive infrastructure
    2. Sugamya Bharat Yatra: A unique initiative in partnership with the Association for Persons with Disabilities, where Divyangjan will assess the accessibility of public spaces using the AI-enabled ‘Yes to Access’ app.
    3. Pathways to Access – Part 3 Compendium: The third installment of the series highlights key government documents on employment, financial services and healthcare for persons with disabilities, empowering them with knowledge and access to resources.
    4. High-Power Spectacles: Developed by CSIR-CSIO, these glasses cater to individuals with low vision, offering superior optical clarity and improving quality of life.
    5. Divyasha E-Coffee Table Book: ALIMCO’s e-book, launched to commemorate its 50- year journey, showcases inspiring stories and achievements in providing assistive devices to Divyangjan.
    6. Kadam Knee Joint: An indigenous innovation developed by IIT Madras and SBMT, offering enhanced mobility and durability, launched as a major leap in assistive technology.
    7. Awareness Generation and Publicity Portal: A digital platform for seamless application under the Awareness Generation and Publicity Scheme was inaugurated to enhance transparency and efficiency.
    8. Accessible Storybooks: In collaboration with NIEPVD and NBT, 21 accessible books in Braille, audio and large print formats were launched to promote inclusive education.
    9. Standard Bharti Braille Code: A draft for standardized Braille scripts in 13 Indian languages was introduced for public consultation, ensuring consistency and compatibility with Unicode standards.
    10. Braille Books Portal: An online submission portal for creating Braille books was unveiled, fostering inclusive education.
    11. MoU with Infosys BPM: A significant partnership to enhance employment opportunities for Divyangjan through the PM DAKSH portal’s Divyangjan Rozgar Setu initiative.
    12. Employability Skills Book: Released in 11 Indian languages, this book bridges the gap between education and employment for Divyangjan, promoting economic independence.
    13. Infosys Springboard Skill Programme: Infosys Springboard in collaboration with Yunikee offered courses to help deaf learners across India to develop skills across various fields and acquire marketable abilities.
    14. Google Extension for Persons with Hearing Impairment: SignUp Media and Yunikee partnered to provide robust, reliable, accessible source of sign language communication in entertainment, information and educational media for the Deaf community in India in accessing entertainment and other video content.
    15. E-Sanidhya Portal: Tata Power Community Development Trust and NIEPID, Secunderabad developed Tata E-Sanidhya Neuro-Diversity Platform as a specialized online and offline (digital) service designed to assist individuals with neuro-diversity conditions, particularly those affected by autism.
    16. Computer-Based Indian Intelligence Test by NIEPID, Secunderabad: NIEPID has developed an indigenous Indian Test of Intelligence, with the key strengths in its cultural relevance and sensitivity. The data from 4,070 children across different parts of India ensures that the test represents the Indian population accurately.

     

    The chapter IX of the RPwD Act 2016 provides for registration of institutes like NGOs, etc. that are working for the empowerment of persons with disabilities. It further states that the appropriate Government may within the limits of their economic capacity and development, grant financial assistance to registered institutions to provide services and to implement the schemes and programmes across the country including rural & semi-urban areas, in pursuance of the provisions of the said Act. Most of the initiatives launched are in collaboration with private sector and Non-Governmental Organizations to create an inclusive environment for Persons with Disabilities in the country. Such initiatives include launch of better aids and appliances for use of Divyangjan, MoUs with private companies to enhance employment opportunities for divyangjan, sharing codes for enhancing accessibility and Accessible Learning Materials etc.

    These 16 initiatives have been launched to ensure equal opportunities, accessibility and empowerment for every Divyangjan and to create an inclusive environment for Persons with Disabilities in the country. Periodic review and regular follow-ups with the stakeholders are done by the Department for holistic improvement towards the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. To address identified gaps, Department is focused on strict policy implementation and enforcement, alongside strengthening monitoring mechanisms.

    The Department launched National Disability Information Helpline Service (NDIHS) on Short Code-14456 in January 2024. The helpline provides round-the-clock telephonic assistance in English and Hindi through an Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) and call attendant support during working hours. NDIHS provides information about aids and assistive devices, Unique Disability ID (UDID) services, educational and economic empowerment programmes for persons with disabilities (PwDs), benefits, and concessions under Government schemes etc. Around 65,000 persons have been assisted through the helpline so far.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI B.L. VERMA, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY TO CONDUCT QUALITY ASSURANCE CONCLAVE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Quality Assurance (QA) Conclave, themed ‘Collaborative Quality Assurance: Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Defence’, is scheduled to be held on 07 Feb 25 at Manekshaw Convention Centre, New Delhi. Aimed to provide a strategic platform to advance India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, the conclave will serve as a pivotal forum to foster dialogue and strengthen cooperation between the Defence and Shipbuilding sectors.

    The conclave underscores the Government of India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, built on the principles of innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence. It emphasises the importance of Quality Assurance as a critical enabler in developing a robust, self-reliant Shipbuilding industry that meets world-class standards.

    As India’s Shipbuilding sector gears up to play a larger role in National Defence, the conclave will focus on harmonizing quality assurance practices to enhance efficiency, reliability, and performance. The event will bring together senior leaders from the Government, Industry, and Quality Assurance experts to discuss advanced approaches and strategies for achieving excellence in Shipbuilding Quality Assurance, ensuring our Naval platforms are equipped to meet the highest standards of operational readiness.

    The event will feature high-level discussions and expert presentations on the following topics: –

     

    (a)     Proactive Quality Control and Collaboration with Industry: Developing frameworks to enhance quality assurance through effective partnerships.

     

    (b)     Streamlining Type Tests and Risk Mitigation Strategies: Optimizing testing processes to ensure compliance and minimize risks.

     

    (c)     Balancing Quality Assurance and Timelines of Shipbuilding: Addressing the dual challenge of maintaining high-quality standards within demanding project schedules.

     

    (d)     Integrating Quality Assurance with Delay Mitigation Strategies: Exploring innovative approaches to align quality assurance with project delivery timelines.

    The event seeks to promote a deeper understanding of the intersection between Quality Assurance and operational efficiency in warship building, present actionable insights and global best practices to mitigate risks and streamline processes, and foster collaboration among Defence organizations, Industry stakeholders and Policy makers to achieve shared objectives.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr Jitendra Singh briefed about the human rights concerns of the terrorism affected families of Jammu & Kashmir, notably and particularly the Kashmiri Pandits:

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr Jitendra Singh briefed about the human rights concerns of the terrorism affected families of Jammu & Kashmir, notably and particularly the Kashmiri Pandits:

    PM Modi’s commitment to the welfare of the people of J&K reflects in his over 35 visits to J&K in recent years:

    “Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, human rights governance has become a priority, with the Human Rights Commission playing an active and responsive role”, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    NHRC Member Priyank Kanungo calls on Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, and Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh was briefed today by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Member, Priyank Kanungo about the human rights concerns of the terrorism affected families of Jammu & Kashmir, notably and particularly the Kashmiri Pandits.

    Kanungo told the Minister that the National Human Rights Commission is very conscious of its responsibility to safeguard the human rights of every section of society, particularly those like the Kashmir Pandit community who suffered killings and hardship for three long decades, but were denied their due or justice by the earlier governments.

    National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Member, Priyank Kanungo calling on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh at New Delhi.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the nationalist credentials of the Kashmiri Pandit community and said that their welfare and concern have always been at the core of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s priorities.

    Emphasizing the longstanding and tragic history of the Kashmiri Pandit exodus, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated, “The plight of Kashmiri Pandits remains unique, as they were made refugees within their own country overnight.” He praised the Modi government’s commitment to the welfare of these families, citing the Prime Minister’s over 35 visits to J&K, which had played a significant role in implementing welfare initiatives, including the provision of separate accommodations for Pandit families and efforts to reintegrate them into the broader Kashmiri society.

    In addition to these welfare measures, Dr. Jitendra Singh also highlighted infrastructure developments in the region aimed at reducing physical and emotional distances. He pointed to expanded train networks and express corridors that have enhanced all-weather connectivity to ensure smoother travel and communication.

    The Minister expressed confidence in the government’s approach to improving the human rights situation in the region and assured that both the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances and Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) along with NHRC would collaborate effectively. He stated, “We will ensure an institutionalized mechanism to address citizens’ grievances, working in synergy with the NHRC to ensure that the citizens’ rights are safeguarded.”

    Dr. Jitendra Singh spoke of the role of human rights in governance, reiterating that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, human rights governance has become a priority, with the Human Rights Commission playing an active and responsive role. As a part of this, the DoPT seeks to integrate human rights values into its training programs for government officials.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh observed that sensitive officers, equipped with both emotional intelligence and intellectual capability, would be key to furthering the cause of human rights in India. These officers, once sensitized on human rights issues, could serve as patrons of human rights within their respective departments and communities, he added.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed delight and confidence in the appointment of Priyank Kanungo as a member of the National Human Rights Commission. He praised Kanungo for his commitment to the cause of the welfare and protection of human rights of citizens and recalled his earlier stint as Chairman of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).

    In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh wished that NHRC would continue to work together to ensure that the rights of every citizen are safeguarded.

    The National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) is a statutory body constituted on 12 October 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Ordinance of 28 September 1993. The NHRC is responsible for the protection and promotion of human rights, which is defined by the act as rights relating to life, liberty, equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution of India.

     

     *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI releases Recommendationson ‘the Frequency Spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz, and 42.5-43.5 GHz bands Identified for IMT’

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:50PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, Government of India, through its letterdated 02.08.2023, requestedTelecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to:-

     

    1. provide recommendations on applicable reserve price, band plan, block size, quantum of spectrum to be auctioned and associated conditions for auction of spectrum in 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3300 MHz, 26 GHz, 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz and 42.5-43.5 GHz bands for IMT.
    2. provide any other recommendations deemed fit for the purpose of spectrum auction in these frequency bands, including the regulatory/ technical requirements as enunciated in the relevant provisions of the latest NFAP/Radio Regulations of the ITU.

     

    On 01.09.2023, TRAI sent a response to DoT wherein regarding the existing spectrum bands viz. 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3300 MHz, and 26 GHz, TRAI reiterated its recommendation dated 11.04.2022, and stated that all available spectrum in the existing bands may be put to auction with the same band plan, block size and associated conditions. Further, TRAI informed DoT that itwould initiate a consultation process for providing recommendations in respect of the new referred spectrum bands viz. 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz, and 42.5-43.5 GHz bands.

    In this regard, TRAI issued a consultation paper on ‘Auction of Frequency Spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz, and 42.5-43.5 GHz bands Identified for IMT’dated 04.04.2024 for seeking comments and counter comments of stakeholders. In response, 12 stakeholders submitted comments, and four stakeholders furnished counter-comments. An Open House Discussion on the consultation paper was held through virtual mode on 10.07.2024.

    Based on the comments received from stakeholders during the consultation process, and on its own analysis, TRAI has finalized Recommendationson ‘the Frequency Spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz, 37.5-40 GHz, and 42.5-43.5 GHz bands Identified for IMT’. Salient points of these recommendations are given below:

    1. The frequency spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz and 37.5-40 GHz frequency ranges should be put to auction in the forthcoming spectrum auction.
    2. Owing to the non-availability of the device ecosystem in 42.5-43.5 GHz frequency range, it will be prudent that the frequency range 42.5-43.5 GHz is not put to auction in the forthcoming spectrum auction. DoT may send a separate reference for seeking the Authority’s recommendations for 42.5-43.5 GHz frequency range for IMT at an appropriate time.
    3. The Band plan n260 with TDD-based duplexing configuration should be adopted for 37-40 GHz frequency range.
    4. The frequency spectrum in the band n260 (37-40 GHz) should be auctioned with a block size of 100 MHz on LSA (Telecom Circle/ Metro) basis with a validity period of 20 years.
    5. The spectrum cap for the frequency band n260 (37-40 GHz) should be kept as 40% of the total spectrumput to auction and it should not be clubbed with 26 GHz band for the purpose of spectrum cap.
    6. The minimum roll-out obligations for the band n260 (37-40 GHz) should be similar to that prescribed in the NIA, 2024for 26 GHz band, and minimum roll-out obligations should be equally applicable for all telecom service providers i.e. existing as well as the new telecom service providers.
    7. In addition to the access service providers, Internet service providers (Category ‘A’ and Category ‘B’), and M2M service providers (Category ‘A’ and Category ‘B’)under the Unified License, should also be permitted to participate in the auction of spectrum for frequency band n260 (37-40 GHz).
    8. The recommended reserve price per MHz (Rs. in lakh) in 37-40 GHz band is as below:

    Name of LSA

    LSA Category

    Recommended Reserve price

    (Rs. in Lakh)

     Andhra Pradesh

    A

    49

     Assam

    C

    9

     Bihar

    C

    23

    Delhi

    Metro

    76

     Gujarat

    A

    43

     Haryana

    B

    11

     Himachal Pradesh

    C

    4

     J&K

    C

    3

     Karnataka

    A

    34

     Kerala

    B

    16

     Kolkata

    Metro

    27

     Madhya Pradesh

    B

    25

     Maharashtra

    A

    54

    Mumbai

    Metro

    67

     North East

    C

    3

     Odisha

    C

    10

     Punjab

    B

    17

     Rajasthan

    B

    21

     Tamil Nadu

    A

    39

     U. P. (East)

    B

    26

     U.P. (West)

    B

    25

     West Bengal

    B

    16

     

    1. For the payment terms– two options (i) upfront payment option and (ii) 20 equal annual instalments option, should be allowed for the assignment of spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz and 37.5-40 GHz spectrum bands.

     

    The availability offrequency spectrum in 37-37.5 GHz and 37.5-40 GHz frequency rangesto telecom service providers will enable setting up of high-capacity, low-latency communication networksfor advanced use cases.TRAI has recommended that in addition to the access service providers, Internet service providers and Machine-to-Machine service providers should also be permittedto participate in the auction.

    The Recommendations have been placed on the TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in). For any clarification/ information Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum and Licensing), TRAI may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907758.

     

    ****

    Samrat/Dheeraj : pibcomm[at]gmail[dot]com

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse: Secretary, Textiles

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse: Secretary, Textiles

    Secretary, Textiles compliments Industry bodies for the largest ever Global Textile Show

    Bharat Tex is a perfect example of industry- government collaboration: Secretary, Textiles

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:52PM by PIB Delhi

    Launches App and website for Bharat Tex 2025

    Building on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, Bharat Tex 2025 aims to further elevate its stature by attracting over 5,000 exhibitors, 6,000 international buyers from over 120 countries, and more than 1,20,000 visitors. The event will feature comprehensive pavilions, showcasing the entire textile value chain under one roof

     

    Union Textiles Secretary, Mrs. Neelam Shami Rao applauded textile industry bodies for their proactive efforts in organizing Bharat Tex 2025. Describing it as the largest and most comprehensive textiles event ever, she commended the commitment of textile Export Promotion Councils and other industry bodies for their relentless efforts and dedication in bringing the entire value chain of textiles under the Bharat Tex umbrella. She underlined that Bharat Tex will reaffirm the attractiveness of India as a reliable, sustainable sourcing destination as well as an investment destination at scale for textiles. The entire event is a testament to India’s commitment to becoming a global textile powerhouse, she added.

    The Secretary was speaking on the occasion of the unveiling of the Bharat Tex 2025 app and website at Udyog Bhawan.

     

    Bharat Tex 2025, organized by 11 major textile industry bodies and supported by the Ministry of Textiles, promises to be a landmark event showcasing the diversity, scale, and capability of India’s textile sector. The event spread over an area of 2.2 million square feet is expected to attract over 5,000 exhibitors, 6,000 international buyers from 120 countries, and more than 1,20,000 visitors. Exhibitors will showcase a wide range of products, including apparel, dyes & chemicals, machinery & equipment, home furnishings, technical textiles, handlooms, and handicrafts.

    The event will also feature over 70 conference sessions, roundtables, and master classes, with discussions led by nearly 100 international speakers. Topics such as sustainability, investments, manufacturing 4.0, and future fashion trends will dominate the agenda.

    Besides a global sized trade fair and expo and an international textiles conference, the textile extravaganza will also offer a wide range of activities, seminars, CEO roundtables, and B2B and G2G meetings. It will also feature strategic investment announcements, product launches, and collaborations poised to reshape the global textile industry. Attendees can look forward to live demonstrations, cultural events, and fashion presentations, designer and brand exhibitions and sustainability workshops, and expert talks. Bharat Tex 2025 aims to serve as a unique and consolidated platform to showcase India’s full textile value chain, while highlighting its strengths in fashion, traditional crafts, and sustainability initiatives. The event is an industry led initiative and will be organized jointly by the 11 Textile related Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and other industry bodies. It is supported by the Ministry of Textiles.

    Bharat Tex is being run on an advanced technology platform offering a one source engagement to visitors, exhibitors and buyers. The Bharat Tex app, is a part of the overall technology platform designed to facilitate seamless engagement, networking, and information dissemination for this largest global textile event. Designed to enhance user convenience by offering exhibitor profiles, session details, and interactive maps, it is a comprehensive tool for buyers, exhibitors, and visitors to explore the vast scale and diversity of India’s textile ecosystem, connect with global stakeholders, and stay informed about key events during and after the expo.

    The app allows users to explore the latest developments and technological advancements in the entire textile value chain covering fibers, yarns, apparels & fashions, home textiles, handlooms, technical textiles, and intelligent manufacturing. With easy access to venue maps, session details, and more, the app eliminates the need for paper guides, offering an efficient and eco-friendly experience. Available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the Bharat Tex 2025 app is an essential tool for attendees aiming to navigate the event efficiently to maximize their opportunities. With the launch of the Bharat Tex 2025 exhibitors, buyers, and visitors will have access to an easy-to-use platform, to access event information, develop networks, and plan their participation efficiently.

    ****

    Dhanya Sanal K

    Director(M&C)

    (Release ID: 2099638) Visitor Counter : 61

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Innovative drug delivery system could revolutionize treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 FEB 2025 4:26PM by PIB Delhi

    Researchers have developed an innovative “self-actuating” drug delivery system that could revolutionize the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by targeting inflammation directly within the joints so that therapeutic agents are released only when needed.

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects millions of people worldwide, causing chronic inflammation, debilitating pain, and irreversible joint damage. Traditional treatments often rely on systemic drug administration, which not only carries the risk of significant side effects but also requires frequent dosing due to the rapid clearance of drugs from inflamed joints and is a challenge for long-lasting, localized relief.

    Recognizing the need for a more efficient solution, researchers from Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali, an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have developed a smart system that responds directly to the biochemical signals in the inflamed synovial environment. By targeting specific inflammatory enzymes present in the joints, the system ensures that therapeutic agents are released only when needed, offering a more precise and safer treatment option for RA patients.

    The system uses specially designed microspheres loaded with methotrexate, a commonly used anti-rheumatic drug. These microspheres are engineered to sense inflammation in joints and release the drug only when needed, minimizing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes. Triggered by elevated levels of specific enzymes (MMP-2 and MMP-9) present during RA flare-ups, the formulation ensures targeted, on-demand drug delivery. In animal studies, it significantly reduced joint swelling, inflammation, and cartilage damage while promoting joint repair.

    The formulation used by the team led by Dr. Rahul Kumar Verma consists of polymer-lipid hybrid micro-composites, where the lipid component (soya lecithin) ensures high drug encapsulation efficiency, and the polymer component (gelatin) provides responsiveness to Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). The system leverages the unique biochemical signals present in the inflamed synovial microenvironment to release therapeutic agents precisely when needed. When exposed to these enzymes, the gelatin substrate is cleaved, triggering the release of the encapsulated drug in a controlled, pulsatile manner.

    This breakthrough published in the journal Biomaterial Advances could offer a safer, more effective alternative to current RA treatments by eliminating the need for frequent drug injections and reducing systemic toxicity. The system enhances drug effectiveness by improving bioavailability and retention in the affected joints, leading to longer-lasting relief with fewer doses. This means less pain, improved joint function, and slower progression of joint damage for patients. With its ability to respond to fluctuations in inflammation, this treatment provides a more personalized and efficient solution, making it a promising new option for RA patients looking for better, safer care.

    Beyond arthritis, the technology holds promise for managing other inflammatory diseases, such as synovitis and inflammatory bowel disease. It could also pave the way for smart biomaterials in regenerative medicine and personalized treatments. Additionally, its potential use in veterinary medicine for managing arthritis in animals highlights its versatility.

     

     

    Figure: Schematic Representation of Study Design. Authors (L-R): Krishna Jadhav, Swarnima Negi, Rahul K. Verma (PI), Raghuraj Singh, and Agrim Jhilta

     

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration Announces Recipients of the Nation’s First Agricultural Innovation Grant to Continue Pennsylvania’s Legacy as a National Leader in Agriculture

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    February 03, 2025Mt. Joy, PA

    Shapiro Administration Announces Recipients of the Nation’s First Agricultural Innovation Grant to Continue Pennsylvania’s Legacy as a National Leader in Agriculture

    Governor Josh Shapiro announced recipients of $10 million in grants through the nation’s first Agricultural Innovation Grant Program. This funding will help Pennsylvania agricultural businesses adopt innovative technologies and practices to enhance conservation and implement clean energy solutions – boosting profits, protecting soil and water resources, and generating more clean, renewable energy.

    “Our farmers form the backbone of our economy here in Pennsylvania – they put food on our tables and in our stores and restaurants every day. If we want to compete and succeed as a Commonwealth, then we have to invest in them,” said Governor Shapiro. “We are announcing investments in game-changing projects that are fueling the future of farming in Pennsylvania – and giving farmers and ag producers the tools they need to get ahead. The future of our economic success and opportunity runs through our farmlands, and we are going to continue to invest in agricultural innovation in my Administration.”

    “As our farmers face increasing demands to feed a growing population while continuing their legacy of environmental stewardship, this fund will help power our farm and food businesses to meet those challenges,” said Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding. “These investments ensure that Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry can continue to thrive and innovate for years to come.”

    Speaker list:
    Mike Roth, Director of Innovation, PA Department of Agriculture
    Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Josh Brubaker, Owner & Manager, Brubaker Farms
    Chris Hoffman, President, PA Farm Bureau
    State Representative Paul Takac

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Unveils 2025-26 Budget Proposal to Cut Costs, Drive Economic Growth, Strengthen Public Safety, Fund Our Kids’ Education, and Continue to Get Stuff Done for Pennsylvanians

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    February 04, 2025Harrisburg, PA

    Governor Shapiro Unveils 2025-26 Budget Proposal to Cut Costs, Drive Economic Growth, Strengthen Public Safety, Fund Our Kids’ Education, and Continue to Get Stuff Done for Pennsylvanians

    Governor Josh Shapiro presented his 2025-26 budget proposal to the General Assembly and the people of Pennsylvania – a commonsense plan that builds on two years of progress, continues to solveproblems, and paves the way for a stronger, more competitive Pennsylvania. The Governor’s budget proposal places a special emphasis on workforce development; reduces health care, housing, and energy costs; invests in economic development; and continues bipartisan efforts to support Pennsylvania students – all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

    This budget will build on the foundation the Shapiro Administration has constructed over the past two years and move Pennsylvania forward as Governor Shapiro continues working across the aisle to get stuff done and ensure people across the Commonwealth have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.

    “Pennsylvania is on the rise, and this budget is a clear roadmap for tackling our challenges and building on the bipartisan foundation we’ve created over the last two years,” said Governor Shapiro. “My budget proposal is focused on solving problems for Pennsylvanians, expanding our workforce, cutting costs, investing in public safety and economic development – and so much more – to keep creating more opportunity for all Pennsylvanians. This budget strikes a balance by making historic investments while maintaining fiscal responsibility, continuing to cut taxes, and ensuring our Commonwealth’s surplus remains strong while we keep moving Pennsylvania forward. By working together with Democrats and Republicans in the General Assembly, we will continue to tackle the challenges we face and drive growth for a stronger, more prosperous Pennsylvania.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Phil Scott Lays Out Direction for Navigating National Politics

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott has directed his Administration to take a disciplined and measured approach to any major proposals coming from Washington, D.C. 

    In last week’s meeting of the Governor’s Cabinet, Scott asked his team to remain disciplined, thoughtful and factual when evaluating and responding to changes in federal policy. This includes taking time to fully assess each proposal and distinguish between what is rhetoric, and what is real, in terms of impacts to Vermont.

    “We cannot be in a constant state of fear, panic and disruption over the next four years,” Governor Scott said.

    The Governor noted that while there will be areas of disagreement, there may also be policy positions which could be beneficial to Vermont.

    “We need to stay focused on Vermont and remain disciplined as we distinguish between what is fact and what is rhetoric before we react to any change in federal policy or law. We will follow through on Vermonters’ priorities: housing, education, public safety, and affordability, and do our part to unite Americans by focusing on solutions and results, not the chaos and anger being used to divide us.”

    Governor Forms Decision Support Team on Potential Tariffs

    As a result of President Trump’s recent proposal on tariffs, Governor Scott has tasked Secretary of Commerce and Community Development Lindsay Kurrle with leading a multi-agency effort to assess the possible impacts on Vermont. While the tariffs have been paused for 30 days, the Decision Support Team will begin its work immediately, so Vermont is prepared for any further changes in policy.  

    “As I have said in the past, I am not a fan of increasing tariffs on our friends and close allies. And most Vermonters agree, a trade war with our largest trading partner, which could increase costs on already overburdened working families, seems like a bad idea,” Governor Scott said. “But we should be fair and take time to understand what problem the President intends to solve, the results he expects to get, and the risks he’s willing to take, before we cast judgement.  We need actual data and credible analysis to demonstrate disadvantages we are concerned about.”

    The Governor added, “while the President’s tariffs would undoubtedly be very disruptive, and the risk of higher prices has been well reported, I have directed my team to weigh the outcomes fairly and objectively,” he said.

    Governor Scott also charged the team with identifying options for mitigating short-term and long-term impacts on consumers and ratepayers, as well as opportunities for expanding any potential upside.

    “The Governor has asked for a tangible analysis of net impacts, not a knee jerk reaction to the idea of tariffs or the unfortunate friction trade federal policies create with our very good friends to the north and that is exactly what we’re going to provide,” Secretary Kurrle said.

    While the President has paused potential tariffs for 30 days, Kurrle said the team will continue reviewing the President’s proposals and she will update the Governor weekly and as necessary. 

    The interagency team includes:

    • Agency of Commerce and Community Development
    • Department of Labor
    • Agency of Agriculture 
    • Public Service Department

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: La Loche — La Loche RCMP asks public to report sightings of Darcy Herman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    La Loche RCMP is actively working to locate and arrest 28-year-old Darcy Herman, who is wanted on multiple warrants.

    Herman is wanted for charges including assault, failing to comply with a release order and failing to attend court.

    The release order and court appearances are in relation to charges including resisting a peace officer, uttering threats and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

    Investigators believe Herman is in the La Loche and/or Turnor Lake area and is actively evading arrest.

    They ask that members of the public report all sightings of Herman and information on his whereabouts.

    Herman is described as approximately 5’11” and 160 lbs. He has black hair and brown eyes. He typically has some facial hair. There is a tattoo of cursive writing on the left side of his neck.

    If you see him, do not approach him. Contact La Loche RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: GAMCO Investors, Inc. Reports Results for the Fourth Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Quarter End AUM of $31.7 billion
    • Operating Margin of 32.3% for the Fourth Quarter and 31.0% for 2024
    • Fourth Quarter Earnings of $0.70 per Share versus $0.66 per Share in the Fourth Quarter of 2023
    • 2024 Earnings of $2.65 per Share versus $2.38 per Share for 2023
    • $182.8 million in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Seed Capital, and Investments and No Debt
    • Board Authorizes 100% Increase of the Regular Quarterly Dividend
    • Repurchased 1.3 million Shares, or 3% of Outstanding Shares, During the Fourth Quarter of 2024 and Increased Buyback Authorization to 1.5 Million Shares

    GREENWICH, Conn., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GAMCO Investors, Inc. (“Gabelli”) (OTCQX: GAMI) today reported its operating results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    Financial Highlights

    (In thousands, except percentages and per share data)      
        Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
    U.S. GAAP          
    Revenue   $ 59,262     $ 57,313    
    Expenses     40,109       41,517    
    Operating income     19,153       15,796    
    Non-operating income     3,452       6,199    
    Net income     16,797       16,560    
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.70     $ 0.66    
    Operating margin     32.3 %     27.6 %  
               

    Giving Back to Society – $80 million since IPO

    Since our initial public offering in February 1999, our firm’s combined charitable donations total approximately $80 million, including $48 million through the shareholder designated charitable contribution program. Based on the program created by Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway, our corporate charitable giving is unique in that the recipients of Gabelli’s charitable contributions are chosen directly by our shareholders, rather than by our corporate officers. Since its inception in 2013, Gabelli shareholders have designated charitable gifts to approximately 350 charitable organizations.

    On August 6, 2024, Gabelli’s board of directors authorized the creation of a private foundation, headquartered in Reno, Nevada, to continue our charitable giving program with an initial contribution of $5 million.

    Revenue

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended    
        December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
       
    Investment advisory and incentive fees            
       Funds   $ 40,441   $ 37,748    
       Institutional and Private Wealth Management   15,057     13,712    
       SICAV     4 (a)   1,541 (a)  
          Total   $ 55,502   $ 53,001    
    Distribution fees and other income     3,760     4,312    
          Total revenue   $ 59,262   $ 57,313    
                 
    (a) Reflects change in reporting methodology. See AUM table.        

    The year over year increase in Funds revenues was primarily the result of higher average assets under management. The increase in Institutional and Private Wealth Management revenues was primarily the result of higher beginning of the quarter equity assets under management, which are generally used to calculate the revenues. The decrease in SICAV revenues reflects a change in the agreement for the merger arbitrage SICAV, an open-end fund available to non-U.S. shareholders, which became effective in December 2023. The change better aligns the financial arrangements with the services rendered by each party in managing the fund and did not have a material impact on the financial results. The decrease in distribution fees and other income was primarily the result of a decrease in equity mutual funds AUM that pay distribution fees.

    Expenses

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
    Compensation   $ 26,593   $ 27,316  
    Management fee     2,512     2,444  
    Distribution costs     5,634     5,848  
    Other operating expenses   5,370     5,909  
       Total expenses   $ 40,109   $ 41,517  
               
    • The lower compensation expense in the fourth quarter of 2024 reflected $2.9 million of waived compensation partially offset by increased fixed compensation of $1.4 million and increased variable compensation of $0.8 million.
    • The $0.1 million increase in management fee is attributable to the higher pre-management fee income of $0.7 million; and,
    • Other operating expenses this quarter were lower versus the fourth quarter of 2023 reflecting the change in the agreement for the merger arbitrage SICAV beginning in December 2023.

    Operating Margin

    The operating margin, which represents the ratio of operating income to revenue, was 32.3% for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with 27.6% for the fourth quarter of 2023.  

    Non-Operating Income

    (In thousands)   Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
    Gain from investments, net   $ 644     $ 3,529    
    Interest and dividend income     3,090       2,951    
    Interest expense (a)     (282 )     (281 )  
       Total non-operating income   $ 3,452     $ 6,199    
               
    (a) Related to GAAP accounting of finance lease.      

    Non-operating income decreased $2.7 million for the quarter, reflecting the lower mark-to-market net gains on our investment portfolio for the quarter slightly offset by an increase in interest and dividend income.

    Other Financial Highlights

    The effective income tax rate for the fourth quarter of 2024 was 25.7% versus 24.7% for the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Cash, cash equivalents, and investments were $182.8 million with no debt at December 31, 2024.

    Assets Under Management

    (In millions)   As of  
        December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
                   
    Mutual Funds   $ 8,078   $ 8,440   $ 7,973  
    Closed-end Funds     7,344     7,459     7,097  
    Institutional & PWM (a) (b)     10,700     10,984     10,738  
    SICAV (c)     9     9     631  
    Total Equities     26,131     26,892     26,439  
                   
    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund     5,552     5,268     4,615  
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income     32     32     32  
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income     5,584     5,300     4,647  
    Total Assets Under Management   $ 31,715   $ 32,192   $ 31,086  
                   
    (a) Includes $242, $278, and $370 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at December 31, 2024, September 30,  
    2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.            
    (b) Includes $237, $212, and $227 of 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund AUM at December 31, 2024,  
    September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.          
    (c) Includes $0, $0, and $620 of the SICAV AUM subadvised by Associated Capital Group, Inc. at December 31, 2024,  
    September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.          
                   

    Assets under management on December 31, 2024 were $31.7 billion, a decrease of 1.6% from the $32.2 billion on September 30, 2024. The quarter’s decrease consisted of net market depreciation of $0.2 billion, net outflows of $0.2 billion, and distributions, net of reinvestments, of $0.1 billion.

    Mutual Funds

    Assets under management in Mutual Funds on December 31, 2024 were $8.1 billion, a decrease of 4.3% from the $8.4 billion at September 30, 2024. The quarterly change was attributed to:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $27 million;
    • Net outflows of $209 million; and
    • Net market depreciation of $126 million.

    Closed-end Funds

    Assets under management in Closed-end Funds on December 31, 2024 were $7.3 billion, a decrease of 1.5% from the $7.5 billion on September 30, 2024. The quarterly change was comprised of:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $129 million;
    • Net inflows of $169 million, including the issuance of $150 million preferred shares, the issuance of $62 million common shares less the redemption of $30 million of preferred shares, and the repurchase of $13 million of common stock ; and
    • Net market depreciation of $155 million.

    Institutional & PWM

    Assets under management in Institutional & PWM on December 31, 2024 were $10.7 billion, a decrease of 0.9% from the $10.8 billion on December 31, 2023. The quarterly change was due to:

    • Net outflows of $345 million; and
    • Net market appreciation of $61 million.

    SICAV

    Assets under management were $9 million in the GAMCO All Cap Value sleeve and the GAMCO Convertible Securities sleeve on December 31, 2024 versus $11 million in those sleeves at December 31, 2023.

    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund

    Assets under management in our 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund (GABXX) on December 31, 2024 were $5.6 billion, up from $5.3 billion at September 30, 2024.

    The Gabelli Growth Fund – Up 35.8% For 2024

    The Growth team of Howard Ward, CFA, and John Belton, CFA, commented on The Gabelli Growth Fund’s 2024 performance:

    “The environment remained favorable for growth stocks in 2024, underpinned by a resilient economy and the start of a Federal Reserve interest rate cutting cycle. Earnings growth accelerated for many US companies, aided by healthy consumer spending trends, robust technology investments, and continued cost discipline. Artificial Intelligence (AI) remained a key stock market theme, as capital expenditure plans across the hyperscale cloud computing group reached astronomical levels, and given a host of new AI-centric business models which have started to take shape. To date, this technology appears to be making some of the strongest companies, stronger, and to that end we maintained positions in many of the largest AI beneficiaries including NVIDIA, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet and Meta Platforms. This group remains a cornerstone of our portfolio, and as of year-end more than half of the portfolio’s assets are invested across the Technology Sector as a whole. Outside of the Megacap Tech group, top performers to performance this year included Eli Lilly (boosted by continued success across an industry-leading incretin drug portfolio), ServiceNow (which is an early leader in AI software commercialization) and Intuitive Surgical.”

    The Gabelli Gold Fund – Up 15.2% For 2024

    Portfolio manager Caesar Bryan commented on The Gabelli Gold Fund’s 2024 performance:

    “Gold performed strongly for the second consecutive year largely driven by overseas central bank purchases. However, gold equities underperformed the gold price. Recently the rise in the gold price has not been fully reflected in the profit margins of gold mining companies. This has largely been due to cost pressures emanating from a variety of sources, exacerbated by covid. But we believe the market may be too pessimistic concerning both cost pressures which are diminishing and enhanced revenues from a higher gold price. Gold equities are inexpensive relative to their history and on an absolute basis. But a catalyst is needed to alter investor perception. This could be gold backed ETFs adding ounces reflecting a recovery in investor interest in the sector, a decline in other asset markets which may highlight gold as a portfolio diversifier, increased takeover activity or simply continued strength in the gold price. Some of our smaller gold producers such as Lundin Gold and Wesdome Gold Mines, had stellar returns. Among our larger producers Kinross and Agnico Eagle contributed significantly to performance. We continue to favor mid capitalization gold producers with good assets that trade at a big discount to some of the larger producers.”

    The Gabelli Small Cap Growth Fund

    We utilize our own in-house team of over 40 industry equity analysts and portfolio managers to analyze the stocks in the fund, using our bottom-up research-intensive process and, more importantly, our accumulated and compounded knowledge of selected industry sectors. We use GAPIC – gather, array, project, interpret, and communicate data daily. We have consistently applied our Private Market Value with a Catalyst approach to help generate our long-term returns since the inception of the fund in 1991.

    ETFs

    In 2024, Gabelli Growth Innovators (NYSE: GGRW), managed by Howard Ward and John Belton, generated a 41.8% total return, the Gabelli Financial Services Opportunities ETF (NYSE: GABF), led by Macrae Sykes, produced a 44.6% total return, and the Gabelli Commercial Aerospace & Defense ETF (NYSE: GCAD), managed by Lieutenant Colonel G. Anthony (Tony) Bancroft, USMCR returned 22.2%. The firm launched its first active ETF, the Gabelli Love Our Planet & People ETF (NYSE: LOPP) in January 2021 to extend the tax benefits of owning exchange traded funds to our investors. Since the initial launch, the Gabelli platform has steadily grown the differentiated suite of ETFs. We are pleased with the client adoption progress and excited about this growth area of the market and positioning of these unique funds supported by our investment team. To accelerate the growth of these funds, each of the funds (with the exception of GGRW) has fee and expense waivers on the first $25 million of assets, whereas LOPP has a fee and expense waiver for the first $100 million of assets under management.

    Assets Under Administration

    (In millions)   As of  
        December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
                   
    Teton-Keeley Funds (a)   $ 809   $ 883   $ 964  
    SICAV     408     431      
    Total Assets Under Administration $ 1,217   $ 1,314   $ 964  
                   
    (a) Includes $242, $278 and $370 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at  
         December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.  
                   

    AUA on December 31, 2024 were $1.2 billion, a slight decline from the $1.3 billion at September 30, 2024.

    Return to Shareholders

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, Gabelli returned to shareholders $86 million in the form of a special dividend of $2.00 per share totaling $50.5 million that was declared in the third quarter of 2024, the repurchase of 1,304,358 shares for $34.4 million at an average investment of $26.37 per share, and a regular quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share totaling $1.0 million. From January 1, 2025 to February 4, 2025, the Company has repurchased 12,971 shares at an average price of $23.95 per share for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $0.3 million. On February 4, 2025, the board of directors increased the buyback authorization to 1.5 million shares.

    On February 4, 2025, Gabelli’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, an increase of 100%, which is payable on March 25, 2025 to class A and class B shareholders of record on March 11, 2025.

    Balance Sheet Information 

    As of December 31, 2024, cash, cash equivalents, and U.S Treasury Bills were $116.5 million and investments were $66.3 million, compared with cash, cash equivalents, and U.S. Treasury Bills of $160.8 million and investments of $44.1 million as of December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2024, stockholders’ equity was $136.6 million compared to $181.0 million as of December 31, 2023. The decline in stockholders’ equity resulted from the payment of $59.5 million in dividends, $49.3 million of stock buybacks, offset partially by $64.4 million in net income.

    Symposiums/Conferences

    • On November 4th and 5th, we hosted the 48th Annual Automotive Aftermarket Symposium at the Encore at Wynn in Las Vegas. The symposium featured presentations from senior management of leading automotive and trucking companies, with a lineup that enabled investors to understand everchanging dynamics within the automotive industry.
       
    • On November 15th, we hosted the 6th Annual Healthcare Symposium in connection with Columbia Business School.
       
    • On December 5th, we hosted the 2nd Section 852(b)(6) Conference.
       
    • In addition to the above, we hosted the following during 2024:
       
      • 34th Pump, Valve & Water Systems Symposium
      • 30th Aerospace & Defense Symposium
      • 18th Omaha Research Trip
      • 16th Media & Entertainment Symposium
      • 15th Specialty Chemicals Symposium
      • 10th Waste & Environmental Services Conference
      • 2nd PFAS Symposium

    We are hosting the following symposiums and conferences in 2025:

    About Gabelli

    Gabelli is best known for its research-driven value approach to equity investing (known as PMV with a CatalystTM). Gabelli conducts its investment advisory business principally through two subsidiaries: Gabelli Funds, LLC (24 open-end funds, 14 closed-end funds, 5 actively managed ETFs, and a SICAV) and GAMCO Asset Management Inc. (approximately 1,400 institutional and private wealth separate accounts). Gabelli serves a broad client base including institutions, intermediaries, offshore investors, private wealth, and direct retail investors. In recent years, Gabelli has successfully integrated new teams of RIAs by providing attractive compensation arrangements and extensive research capabilities. As we stated in the past, Gabelli continues to look for new acquisitions / lift-outs and will pay finder’s fees for successful opportunities.

    Gabelli offers a wide range of solutions for clients across Value and Growth Equity, Convertibles, actively managed ETFs, sector-focused strategies including Gold and Utilities, Merger Arbitrage, Fixed Income, and 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market.

    CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Our disclosure and analysis in this press release, which do not present historical information, contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements convey our current expectations or forecasts of future events. You can identify these statements because they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” and other words and terms of similar meaning. They also appear in any discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, future performance of our products, expenses, the outcome of any legal proceedings, and financial results. Although we believe that we are basing our expectations and beliefs on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of what we currently know about our business and operations, the economy, and other conditions, there can be no assurance that our actual results will not differ materially from what we expect or believe. Therefore, you should proceed with caution in relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance.

    Forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, some of which are listed below, that are difficult to predict and could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from any future results or outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may cause our actual results to differ from our expectations include risks associated with the duration and scope of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic resulting in volatile market conditions, a decline in the securities markets that adversely affect our assets under management, negative performance of our products, the failure to perform as required under our investment management agreements, and a general downturn in the economy that negatively impacts our operations. We also direct your attention to the more specific discussions of these and other risks, uncertainties and other important factors contained in our Annual Report and other public filings. Other factors that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not undertake to update publicly any forward-looking statements if we subsequently learn that we are unlikely to achieve our expectations whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Gabelli Funds, LLC is a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the fund before investing. The prospectus, which contains more complete information about this and other matters, should be read carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, please call 800 GABELLI or visit www.gabelli.com
    Fitch rating drivers include: credit quality, interest rate risk, liquid assets, maturity profiles, and the capabilities of the investment advisor

    Active Transparent Exchange-Traded Funds
    GABELLI FINANCIAL SERVICES OPPORTUNITIES: GABF

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

    • Shares of this ETF are bought and sold at market prices (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the fund.
    • Buying or selling ETF shares may require additional fees such as brokerage commissions, which will reduce returns.
    • These traditional risks may be even greater in challenging or uncertain market conditions.
    • Financial service companies operate in heavily regulated industries, which are subject to change. The underlying securities are subject to credit and interest rate sensitivity risk, which could affect earnings. Additionally, since financial services firms are correlated to GDP, a decline in the economic environment could impact profitability.

    Active Exchange-Traded Funds
    GABELI LOVE OUR PLANET & PEOPLE: LOPP
    GABELLI GROWTH INNOVATORS: GGRW
    GABELLI COMMERCIAL AEROSPACE & DEFENSE: GCAD

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
    These ETFs are different from traditional ETFs. Traditional ETFs tell the public what assets they hold each day. These ETFs do not. This may create additional risks for your investment. For example:
    • You may have to pay more money to trade the ETFs’ shares. These ETFs will provide less information to traders, who tend to charge more for trades when they have less information.
    • The price you pay to buy ETF shares on an exchange may not match the value of an ETF’s portfolio. The same is true when you sell shares. These price differences may be greater for these ETFs compared to other ETFs because they provide less information to traders.
    • These additional risks may be even greater in challenging or uncertain market conditions.
    • The differences between these ETFs and other ETFs may also have advantages. By keeping certain information about the ETFs undisclosed, these ETFs may face less risk that other traders can predict or copy its investment strategy. This may improve the ETFs’ performance. If other traders are able to copy or predict the ETFs’ investment strategies, however, this may hurt the ETFs’ performance. For additional information regarding the unique attributes and risks of these ETFs, see the ActiveShares prospectus/registration statement.

    You should consider the ETFs’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before you invest. The ETFs’ Prospectus is available from G.distributors, LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member firm, and contains this and other information about the ETFs, and should be read carefully before investing.

    GABF
    Financial services companies operate in heavily regulated industries, which are subject to change. The underlying securities are subject to credit and interest rate sensitivity risk, which could impact earnings. Additionally, since financial services firms are correlated to GDP, a decline in the economic environment could impact profitability.

    GGRW
    Securities of growth companies may be more volatile since such companies usually invest a high portion of earnings in their business, and they may lack the dividends of value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market.

    GCAD
    Government aerospace regulation and spending policies can significantly affect the aerospace industry because many companies involved in the aerospace industry rely to a large extent on U.S. (and other) Government demand for their products and services.

    LOPP
    The application of the Adviser’s socially responsible criteria will affect the Fund’s exposure to certain issuers, industries, sectors, regions, and countries, and may impact the relative financial performance of the Fund.

    Money Market Fund
    Investment in the fund is neither guaranteed nor insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any government agency. Although the fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it cannot guarantee it will do so. The fund’s sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the fund at any time. You could lose money by investing in the fund.

    Growth
    Securities of growth companies may be more volatile since such companies usually invest a high portion of earnings in their business, and they may lack the dividends of value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market.

    As of December 31, 2024, GAMI and affiliates owned less than one percent of all stocks mentioned in the Growth Fund.

    Gold
    Investments related to gold and other precious metals and minerals are considered speculative and are affected by a variety of worldwide economic, financial, and political factors. Investing in foreign securities involves risks not ordinarily associated with investment in domestic issues. Funds concentrating in specific sectors may experience greater fluctuations in value than funds that are more diversified. Not FDIC Insured. Not Bank Guaranteed. May Lose Value.

    As of December 31, 2024, GAMI and affiliates owned less than one percent of all stocks mentioned in the Gold Fund.

    Small Cap
    Small capitalization stocks are subject to significant price fluctuations and business risks. The stocks of smaller companies may trade less frequently and experience more abrupt price movements than stocks of larger companies; therefore, investing in this sector involves special challenges.

    Returns represent past performance and do not guarantee future results. Investment returns and the principal value of an investment will fluctuate. When shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data presented. Visit www.gabelli.com for performance information as of the most recent month end.

    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries              
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)        
    (in thousands, except per share data)              
        Three Months Ended  
        December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
     
    Revenue:              
      Investment advisory and incentive fees   $ 55,502     $ 53,829     $ 53,001    
      Distribution fees and other income     3,760       3,717       4,312    
         Total revenue     59,262       57,546       57,313    
    Expenses:              
      Compensation     26,593       22,566       27,316    
      Management fee     2,512       2,517       2,444    
      Distribution costs     5,634       6,033       5,848    
      Other operating expenses     5,370       4,801       5,909    
        Total expenses     40,109       35,917       41,517    
    Operating income     19,153       21,629       15,796    
    Non-operating income:              
      Gain from investments, net     644       3,370       3,529    
      Interest and dividend income     3,090       2,947       2,951    
      Interest expense     (282 )     (290 )     (281 )  
      Charitable giving contribution           (5,000 )        
        Total non-operating income     3,452       1,027       6,199    
    Income before provision for income taxes     22,605       22,656       21,995    
    Provision for income taxes     5,808       5,822       5,435    
    Net income   $ 16,797     $ 16,834     $ 16,560    
                   
    Earnings per share attributable to common            
    stockholders:              
      Basic   $ 0.70     $ 0.69     $ 0.66    
      Diluted   $ 0.70     $ 0.69     $ 0.66    
                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:              
      Basic     23,971       24,263       25,038    
      Diluted     23,971       24,263       25,038    
                   
      Shares outstanding     22,930       24,235       24,906    
                   
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries          
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (Unaudited)      
    (in thousands)          
           
        December 31,   December 31,  
        2024   2023  
    Assets          
      Cash and cash equivalents   $ 17,254   $ 61,801  
      Short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills     99,216     99,025  
      Investments in securities     36,855     19,998  
      Seed capital investments     29,452     24,044  
      Receivable from brokers     3,103     4,562  
      Other receivables     21,246     21,178  
      Deferred tax asset and income tax receivable     7,553     8,927  
      Other assets     9,509     9,896  
         Total assets   $ 224,188   $ 249,431  
               
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity          
      Income taxes payable   $ 196   $ 17  
      Compensation payable     38,489     23,399  
      Accrued expenses and other liabilities     48,929     45,036  
        Total liabilities     87,614     68,452  
               
      Stockholders’ equity     136,574     180,979  
         Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 224,188   $ 249,431  
               
      Shares outstanding     22,930     24,906  
               
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries                    
    Assets Under Management                      
    By investment vehicle                      
    (in millions)                      
          Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
          December 31,   September 30,   December 31,   September 30,   December 31,  
           2024     2024     2023    2024    2023   
    Equities:                      
    Mutual Funds                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 8,440     $ 8,035     $ 7,546            
      Inflows     211       175       153            
      Outflows     (420 )     (415 )     (451 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (209 )     (240 )     (298 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (126 )     652       744            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (27 )     (7 )     (19 )          
      Total increase (decrease)     (362 )     405       427            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 8,078     $ 8,440     $ 7,973     -4.3 %   1.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     25.5 %     26.2 %     25.6 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 8,447     $ 8,177     $ 7,593     3.3 %   11.2 %  
                             
    Closed-end Funds                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,459     $ 7,052     $ 6,727            
      Inflows     212       25       16            
      Outflows     (43 )     (32 )     (63 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     169       (7 )     (47 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (155 )     540       544            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (129 )     (126 )     (127 )          
      Total increase (decrease)     (115 )     407       370            
    Assets under management, end of period     7,344     $ 7,459     $ 7,097     -1.5 %   3.5 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     23.2 %     23.2 %     22.8 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 7,610     $ 7,260     $ 6,785     4.8 %   12.2 %  
                             
    Institutional & PWM                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 10,984     $ 10,436     $ 10,034            
      Inflows     62       87       63            
      Outflows     (407 )     (373 )     (371 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (345 )     (286 )     (308 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     61       834       1,012            
      Total increase (decrease)     (284 )     548       704            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 10,700     $ 10,984     $ 10,738     -2.6 %   -0.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     33.7 %     34.1 %     34.5 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 11,085     $ 10,905     $ 10,005     1.7 %   10.8 %  
                             
    SICAV                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 9     $ 9     $ 622            
      Inflows                 82            
      Outflows                 (110 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)                 (28 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)                 37            
      Total increase (decrease)                 9            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 9     $ 9     $ 631     0.0 %   -98.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.0 %     0.0 %     2.0 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 9     $ 9     $ 628     0.0 %   -98.6 %  
                             
    Total Equities                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 26,892     $ 25,532     $ 24,929            
      Inflows     485       287       314            
      Outflows     (870 )     (820 )     (995 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (385 )     (533 )     (681 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (220 )     2,026       2,337            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (156 )     (133 )     (146 )          
      Reclassification to AUA                            
      Total increase (decrease)     (761 )     1,360       1,510            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 26,131     $ 26,892     $ 26,439     -2.8 %   -1.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     82.4 %     83.5 %     85.1 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 27,151     $ 26,351     $ 25,011     3.0 %   8.6 %  
                             
                             
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries                    
    Assets Under Management                      
    By investment vehicle – continued                      
    (in millions)                      
          Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
          December 31,   September 30,   December 31,   September 30,   December 31,  
           2024     2024     2023    2024    2023   
    Fixed Income:                      
    100% U.S. Treasury fund                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 5,268     $ 5,159     $ 4,217            
      Inflows     1,656       1,245       1,424            
      Outflows     (1,440 )     (1,205 )     (1,088 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     216       40       336            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     68       69       62            
      Total increase (decrease)     284       109       398            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,552     $ 5,268     $ 4,615     5.4 %   20.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.5 %     16.4 %     14.8 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 5,415     $ 5,246     $ 4,418     3.2 %   22.6 %  
                             
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32            
      Inflows                            
      Outflows                            
      Net inflows (outflows)                            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)                            
      Total increase (decrease)                            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.1 %     0.1 %     0.1 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
                             
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 5,300     $ 5,191     $ 4,249            
      Inflows     1,656       1,245       1,424            
      Outflows     (1,440 )     (1,205 )     (1,088 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     216       40       336            
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     68       69       62            
      Total increase (decrease)     284       109       398            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,584     $ 5,300     $ 4,647     5.4 %   20.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.6 %     16.5 %     14.9 %          
    Average assets under management   $ 5,447     $ 5,278     $ 4,450     3.2 %   22.4 %  
                             
    Total AUM                      
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32,192     $ 30,723     $ 29,178            
      Inflows     2,141       1,532       1,738            
      Outflows     (2,310 )     (2,025 )     (2,083 )          
      Net inflows (outflows)     (169 )     (493 )     (345 )          
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     (152 )     2,095       2,399            
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (156 )     (133 )     (146 )          
      Reclassification to AUA                            
      Total increase (decrease)     (477 )     1,469       1,908            
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 31,715     $ 32,192     $ 31,086     -1.5 %   2.0 %  
    Average assets under management   $ 32,598     $ 31,629     $ 29,461     3.1 %   10.6 %  
                             
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries            
    Assets Under Management              
    By investment vehicle              
    (in millions)              
          Twelve Months Ended    
          December 31,   December 31,      
           2024     2023    % Change  
    Equities:              
    Mutual Funds              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,973     $ 8,140        
      Inflows     751       711        
      Outflows     (1,626 )     (1,616 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (875 )     (905 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     1,023       772        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (43 )     (34 )      
      Total increase (decrease)     105       (167 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 8,078     $ 7,973     1.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     25.5 %     25.6 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 8,173     $ 8,035     1.7 %  
                     
    Closed-end Funds              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 7,097     $ 7,046        
      Inflows     281       41        
      Outflows     (226 )     (130 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     55       (89 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     700       654        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (508 )     (514 )      
      Total increase (decrease)     247       51        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 7,344     $ 7,097     3.5 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     23.2 %     22.8 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 7,274     $ 7,058     3.1 %  
                     
    Institutional & PWM              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 10,738     $ 10,714        
      Inflows     340       241        
      Outflows     (1,701 )     (1,739 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (1,361 )     (1,498 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     1,323       1,522        
      Total increase (decrease)     (38 )     24        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 10,700     $ 10,738     -0.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     33.7 %     34.5 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 10,891     $ 10,670     2.1 %  
                     
    SICAV              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 631     $ 867        
      Inflows           357        
      Outflows     (2 )     (624 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (2 )     (267 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)           31        
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )            
      Total increase (decrease)     (622 )     (236 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 9     $ 631     -98.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.0 %     2.0 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 9     $ 694     -98.7 %  
                     
    Total Equities              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 26,439     $ 26,767        
      Inflows     1,372       1,350        
      Outflows     (3,555 )     (4,109 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (2,183 )     (2,759 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     3,046       2,979        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (551 )     (548 )      
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )            
      Total increase (decrease)     (308 )     (328 )      
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 26,131     $ 26,439     -1.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     82.4 %     85.1 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 26,347     $ 26,457     -0.4 %  
                     
                     
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries            
    Assets Under Management              
    By investment vehicle – continued              
    (in millions)              
          Twelve Months Ended    
          December 31,   December 31,      
           2024     2023    % Change  
    Fixed Income:              
    100% U.S. Treasury fund              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 4,615     $ 2,462        
      Inflows     5,796       5,498        
      Outflows     (5,122 )     (3,536 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     674       1,962        
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     263       191        
      Total increase (decrease)     937       2,153        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,552     $ 4,615     20.3 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.5 %     14.8 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 5,140     $ 3,823     34.4 %  
                     
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 32     $ 32        
      Inflows                  
      Outflows                  
      Net inflows (outflows)                  
      Market appreciation (depreciation)                  
      Total increase (decrease)                  
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     0.1 %     0.1 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %  
                     
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 4,647     $ 2,494        
      Inflows     5,796       5,498        
      Outflows     (5,122 )     (3,536 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     674       1,962        
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     263       191        
      Total increase (decrease)     937       2,153        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 5,584     $ 4,647     20.2 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management     17.6 %     14.9 %      
    Average assets under management   $ 5,172     $ 3,855     34.2 %  
                     
    Total AUM              
    Beginning of period assets   $ 31,086     $ 29,261        
      Inflows     7,168       6,848        
      Outflows     (8,677 )     (7,645 )      
      Net inflows (outflows)     (1,509 )     (797 )      
      Market appreciation (depreciation)     3,309       3,170        
      Fund distributions, net of reinvestment     (551 )     (548 )      
      Reclassification to AUA     (620 )            
      Total increase (decrease)     629       1,825        
    Assets under management, end of period   $ 31,715     $ 31,086     2.0 %  
    Average assets under management   $ 31,519     $ 30,312     4.0 %  
                     
    Contact: Kieran Caterina
      Chief Accounting Officer
      (914) 921-5149
       
      For further information please visit
      www.gabelli.com 

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67be43da-4ba8-4a8b-adfc-6568958b2c5f
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/184b5374-0f9b-4bf5-a782-689155142d7e

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat CEO Jeff Thompson to Present at TD Cowen’s 46th Annual Aerospace & Defense Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”) (“Red Cat”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, today announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Thompson, will present at TD Cowen’s 46th Annual Aerospace & Defense Conference on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

    Thompson’s presentation is scheduled from 1:20 PM to 2:00 PM ET in Track 2 (Salon II, Conference Level) at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City in Arlington, VA. He will discuss Red Cat’s latest advancements in drone technology and the company’s strategic initiatives within the aerospace and defense sectors.

    TD Cowen’s 46th Annual Aerospace & Defense Conference, taking place February 11-13, 2025, brings together industry leaders for a series of presentations, fireside chats, and panel discussions. Moderated by members of the TD Cowen research team, the event will highlight key trends shaping the aerospace and defense industries.

    Investors and attendees interested in scheduling a one-on-one meeting with Mr. Thompson are encouraged to contact the Company through the investor relations section of the Red Cat website.

    About Red Cat Holdings, Inc.

    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a Family of Systems. This includes the Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red.

    About TD Securities

    As a leading corporate and investment bank, TD Securities offers a wide range of integrated capital markets products and services. Our corporate, government, and institutional clients choose us for our innovation, execution, and experience.

    With more than 7,100 professionals operating out of 34 cities across the globe, we help clients meet their needs today and prepare for tomorrow. Our services include underwriting and distributing new issues, providing trusted advice and industry-leading insight, extending access to global markets, and delivering integrated transaction banking solutions.

    TD Cowen is a division of TD Securities. As part of TD Securities’ broader suite of integrated capital markets products and services, our offering includes investment banking, research, sales and trading, prime brokerage, outsourced trading, and commission management services.

    We are growth-oriented, people-focused, and community-minded. As a team, we work to deliver value for our clients every day.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Video: That lake ice is snow joke! #Icebreaker #greatlakes #Manitoulin

    Source: US Coast Guard (video statements)

    Last month the U.S. Coast Guard cutters Bristol Bay (WTGB 102) and Neah Bay (WTGB 105), along with the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Samuel Risley, broke the freighter Manitoulin free from the ice, allowing the ship to continue its travels.

    The U.S. Coast Guard continues to conduct icebreaking missions throughout the Great Lakes to ensure maritime safety and protect our nation’s maritime transportation system.

    Follow @uscggreatlakes for more posts and imagery out of the Great Lakes Region!

    #greatlakes #USCG #coastguard #breaktheice

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqqzEKTHtQQ

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Canada: BC Coroners Service shares 2024 data into unregulated drug toxicity deaths

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Reporting from the BC Coroners Service shows the continued impact of unregulated drug toxicity in communities throughout the province in 2024, with 2,253 lives lost last year.

    The cumulative number of unregulated drug deaths represents a 13% decrease from the number of deaths in 2023 and is less than the annual figure from any of the previous three years. The rate of death in 2024 was 40 per 100,000 people, compared with 47 per 100,000 in 2023, 45 per 100,000 in 2022 and 44 per 100,000 in 2021.

    “The information collected by our coroners during their investigations into unregulated drug toxicity deaths, indicates a decline in fatalities over the last several months of 2024. This is consistent with reporting from other jurisdictions in Canada and internationally,” said Dr. Jatinder Baidwan, chief coroner. “This doesn’t mitigate the fact that 2,253 members of our communities died in 2024, leaving behind grieving loved ones, friends, colleagues and teammates. Our thoughts are with all of those many, many people who have been touched by this crisis.”

    In 2024, about seven in every 10 decedents were between the ages of 30 and 59, and nearly three-quarters were male. The rate of death among females in 2024 is 20 per 100,000. This is an increase of 65% from 2020 (13 per 100,000) and a slight reduction from 2023 (21 per 100,000).

    As in years prior, the drug-toxicity crisis affected cities of all sizes in 2024. By Local Health Area, the highest rates of death per 100,000 were in Vancouver-Centre North (422), Lillooet (116), Greater Campbell River (109), Terrace (109) and Prince George (103).  

    Fentanyl and its analogues continue to be the primary driver of unregulated drug toxicity deaths in B.C., detected in 78% of expedited toxicological testing in 2024. Cocaine (52%), fluorofentanyl (46%), methamphetamine (43%) and bromazolam (41%) were the other most common substances detected in expected toxicology. It’s important to note that the data from the report is preliminary and subject to change as additional toxicology results are received and investigations are concluded.

    Since the public health emergency was first declared in April 2016, the lives of at least 16,047 people in B.C. have been lost to unregulated drug toxicity.

    Learn More:

    November and December 2024 unregulated drug toxicity deaths: https://app.powerbi.com/view?r=eyJrIjoiMDEwZjVlNmQtYWE2YS00YWZkLWE2MzEtNzE5MTdhNjhkMTE3IiwidCI6IjZmZGI1MjAwLTNkMGQtNGE4YS1iMDM2LWQzNjg1ZTM1OWFkYyJ9

    Youth Unregulated Drug Toxicity Deaths, 2019-2023: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/statistical/youth_unregulated_drug_toxicity_deaths_in_bc_2019-2023.pdf

    BC Coroners Service Death Review Panel: An Urgent Response to a Continuing Crisis: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/death-review-panel/an_urgent_response_to_a_continuing_crisis_report.pdf

    B.C. Ministry of Health mental-health and substance-use supports: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

    BC Centre on Substance Use: https://www.bccsu.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Frontline police boosted

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police resources allocated to investigating youth crime, domestic and family violence, cybercrime and retail theft are being significantly boosted.

    More than 70 police officers are being redirected to a range of key frontline areas that will provide the most benefit to the community and enhance public safety and well-being.

    The majority of the resources – 51 positions – have become available following successful programs such as the introduction of Police Security Officers in custody management areas, the civilianisation of some roles and the rationalisation of some small police stations.

    Additional government funding has also delivered another 20 positions.

    As part of the major initiative Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens has revealed the formation of a new Youth and Street Gangs Task Force to enhance SAPOL’s response into youth crime in South Australia.

    The new task force will see the current Operation Meld and Operation Mandrake initiatives merged – with an additional 13 police officers added to its ranks.

    An additional nine officers will be allocated to investigate financial and cybercrime and eight added to the successful Operation Measure anti-shoplifting initiative.

    Regional communities will also benefit with 14 new positions assigned to volume crime teams and another 13 family and domestic violence investigation officers.

    SAPOLs growing reliance on airborne policing operations has also resulted in 14 permanently appointed tactical flight officers who will contribute significantly to community safety and provide vital support to frontline officers involved in a variety of taskings.

    Commissioner Stevens said while many of the positions will be filled immediately, others will be filled as resources become available.

    “We are focusing resources on frontline roles and doing what matters most in areas that will have the most impact, the most benefit in responding to public concerns over safety and emerging crime trends,’’ he said.

    “These include areas that both proactively investigate and respond to cybercrime incidents, youth crime, family violence, retail theft and our increasing reliance on airborne law enforcement operations.

    “With the growing imbalance between our resources and demand, we will continue to look for opportunities to rationalise services to deliver similar frontline services where they matter the most.’’

    The Youth and Street Gangs Task Force will continue the work of Operations Meld and Mandrake by responding to the evolving nature of youth street gangs by providing specialist investigative and intelligence skills.

    Besides responding to specific incidents, SAPOL is working to break the cycle of criminality and recruitment of young members through interagency collaboration and community engagement.

    “Youth crime is not just about the criminality, but the recruitment of younger members, so the task force provides an opportunity to break this cycle,” Commissioner Stevens said.

    “This permanent task force will disrupt and reduce the criminal activities of a target group of offenders, particularly focusing on crimes of violence that pose a significant risk to community safety.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tifton, Georgia, Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, Ga. – A Tifton resident faces up to 40 years in federal prison for distributing kilograms of Mexico-sourced methamphetamine after he was caught with a pound of methamphetamine while wearing an ankle monitor for a prior drug trafficking charge and attempted to flee from deputies.

    Travarious Deshawn Mike, 29, of Tifton, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine before U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner on Feb. 3. Mike faces a maximum of 20 years in prison per count, to be followed by at least three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “The defendant was transporting large quantities of methamphetamine from an Atlanta source into the Tifton community. Even after his initial arrest, he willfully continued to violate the law and traffic dangerous drugs into Southwest Georgia,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker. “Our office collaborates closely with local, state and federal law enforcement to ensure that repeat offenders who are causing significant harm in the Middle District of Georgia are stopped and held accountable for their actions.”

    “This investigation resulting in the seizure of meth, heroin and firearms is a clear reminder of the dangerous networks we continue to dismantle,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “The GBI remains committed to disrupting drug trafficking and criminal activity, especially those tied to dangerous sources of supply. This is a significant step in protecting our communities.”

    According to court documents and statements referenced in court, GBI agents recorded Mike providing methamphetamine during a controlled buy utilizing a confidential informant (CI) on Aug. 15, 2022, at the Church’s Chicken in Tifton. A court-authorized tracking device monitored by the GBI captured Mike departing Tifton for Atlanta on Aug. 30, 2022. GBI agents observed Mike travel to two Mexican restaurants for brief periods, then immediately begin to travel back down I-75 towards Tifton. Crisp County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies initiated a traffic stop on his vehicle after it observed a defective brake light and a window tint violation. A CCSO trained K9 made a positive alert on Mike’s car. During a search of the vehicle, agents seized 502 grams of heroin in Mike’s bookbag.

    At the same time, GBI requested the Tifton Police Department’s (TPD) assistance to conduct surveillance on Mike’s Tifton residence. TPD initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle leaving Mike’s residence, locating 8,068 grams of 67.9% pure methamphetamine. The occupant was a drug courier delivering the narcotics from a Mexican source of supply near Atlanta to Mike and had made the trip before. GBI executed a court-authorized search warrant at Mike’s residence that same day and found four semiautomatic pistols, a revolver, rounds of ammunition, methamphetamine and a set of digital scales. A vehicle parked outside Mike’s residence and belonging to a co-defendant contained 783 grams of 80% pure methamphetamine, 168 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, 97 oxycodone/fentanyl pills, seven grams of crack cocaine, plastic baggies and a digital scale. Interviews, evidence and text messages on seized cell phones belonging to Mike and co-defendants revealed that Mike was purchasing methamphetamine from a Mexican source of supply based in the metro Atlanta area. Mike subsequently bonded out of jail.

    On June 5, 2024, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) observed a white Dodge Charger driven by Mike commit a traffic violation in Monroe County, Georgia. MCSO deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Mike tried to escape and reached speeds over 125 mph. During the pursuit, Mike discarded a brick-shaped package out the window, which burst into a white crystal-like substance. Other MCSO officers secured the scene where the substance was discarded, finding approximately one pound of methamphetamine. Mike lost control of the vehicle and crashed onto the side of the highway. He attempted to flee on foot but was immediately apprehended. At the time of his arrest, Mike was wearing an ankle monitor and advised that he was out on bond for another drug trafficking incident.

    The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the Tifton Police Department, the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid is prosecuting the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southbridge Man Convicted of Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Southbridge man has been convicted by a federal jury for his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed cocaine and fentanyl throughout the North Shore and Central Massachusetts areas.

    Ismael Maysonet, 40, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for June 4, 2025. In September 2022, Maysonet was charged along with 21 other co-conspirators.

    “Ismael Maysonet was a member of a large-scale drug trafficking organization that pumped fentanyl and cocaine into the communities of Massachusetts. We will continue to target and dismantle these groups to keep our communities safe and hold drug traffickers accountable,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “My office is committed to prosecuting all drug traffickers who prey on the vulnerable and addicted in our communities. We will continue to root out, arrest and prosecute those who violate our drug laws.”

    “Those who choose to distribute fentanyl and cocaine endanger their customers as well as the general public. Maintaining public safety requires that they be prosecuted aggressively,” said Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division. “We work closely each day with our law enforcement partners to target those who seek to profit from the sale of these substances.”

    “Postal inspectors are committed to ensuring the U.S. Postal Service is not a mechanism to distribute deadly fentanyl and other illicit narcotics,” stated Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Let today’s verdict serve as a reminder that postal inspectors, along with our law enforcement partners, remain steadfast in our resolve to combat the flow of illicit drugs impacting our communities.”

    In and around August 2021 through August 2022, Maysonet was identified as a member of a Southbridge-based DTO who distributed cocaine and fentanyl to retail customers and other drug dealers at the request of the leaders of the DTO, Jonathan Pizarro Gonzalez and Isaac Gonzalez. The DTO regularly used the United States mail to conduct drug trafficking activities. Specifically, the DTO obtained large quantities of cocaine through packages mailed from Puerto Rico to addresses used by the DTO and mailed packages containing fentanyl to recipients in Florida and elsewhere. On multiple occasions Maysonet was observed retrieving packages that were delivered by the United States mail that were known to contain drugs. Throughout the investigation, Maysonet was heard over intercepted calls discussing drug trafficking, payments and pickups, as well as the packaging of fentanyl in an electronic device to be mailed to Florida. Approximately nine kilograms of cocaine from packages sent through the mail and 800 grams of fentanyl were seized from various DTO members over the course of the investigation.

    Both Jonathan Pizarro Gonzalez and Isaac Gonzalez pleaded guilty in January 2025 and are scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2025 and May 12, 2025, respectively.  

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence offive5 years and up to life in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    U.S. Attorney Foley, DEA Acting SAC Belleau and USPIS INC Larco-Ward made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service, Massachusetts State Police, Southbridge Police Department, Lawrence Police Department, Essex County Sherriff’s Department and Worcester County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Disbarred Queens Attorney Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison for Defrauding Clients

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Falsely Held Himself Out as a Trusted Attorney in the Korean-American Community

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, disbarred attorney Hyun W. Lee, also known as “Michael Lee,” was sentenced by United States District Judge Pamela K. Chen to 54 months in prison for wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud his real estate clients and their counterparties of funds held in his attorney escrow account.  As part of the sentence, Lee was ordered to pay the government $3.27 million in forfeiture and restitution to the victims in the amount of $3.29 million.  Lee pleaded guilty to wire fraud in December 2023.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence.

    “The defendant was disbarred from the practice of law for reprehensible misconduct, but that severe penalty did not deter him from continuing to abuse the trust of clients, so it is my hope that he will get the message after serving a term of imprisonment for his crimes,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “It is particularly egregious that Lee committed these crimes by holding himself out as a trusted lawyer to clients within the Korean-American community in Queens, where many immigrants have little experience with the legal system and place an enormous amount of trust in the hands of individuals like the defendant who profess to represent their interests in legal proceedings.”

    Mr. Durham thanked the Queens County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this matter.

    Lee was an attorney licensed by the State of New York admitted to practice in 2003.  He maintained an office in Flushing, Queens, where he represented buyers and sellers in connection with the purchase and sale of real property.  On March 11, 2020, Lee was disbarred as a result of charges brought by the Grievance Committee that he had engaged in a pattern and practice of misappropriating client and third-party funds.  As a result, Lee was not permitted to accept funds from clients and third parties.

    Between February 2018 and May 2023, Lee induced clients and counterparties to entrust funds to him for the purchase of real estate based on misrepresentations that he would release the funds deposited into his escrow account.  Instead, Lee misappropriated these funds and used them for his own benefit, which included gambling at casinos and to pay expenses at a restaurant that he was a part-owner.  Lee misrepresented that he was an attorney authorized to represent clients in connection with the purchase and sale of real estate, and to receive and hold funds in his escrow account in connection with real estate transactions. 

    In furtherance of the scheme, Lee misled clients about the status of funds held in his escrow account by fabricating documents leading them to believe their funds were secure.  While documentation Lee showed to clients reflected a balance in Lee’s escrow account of nearly $3 million, in reality Lee had depleted the escrow account down to only approximately $25,000.  Lee failed to honor requests by clients and their counterparties to release funds from his escrow account, falsely claiming that he was in the process of working out an equitable distribution of funds that remained. In reality, Lee had already spent virtually all of the funds in the account.

    Victims who suffered losses as a result of the conduct of Lee, or other New York lawyers who engage in misconduct, may be eligible to receive compensation by filing a claim with the Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection, which may be reached by calling (800) 442-3863 or e-mailing info@nylawfund.org

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hiral D. Mehta is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Special Agent Martin Sullivan.

    The Defendant:

    HYUN W. LEE (also known as “Michael Lee”)
    Age:  51  
    Closter, New Jersey

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-465 (PKC)

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Terren S. Peizer, through Humanitario Capital LLC, Acquires Proportionate Voting Shares and Proportionate Voting Share Warrants of Inspire Semiconductor Holdings Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DORADO, Puerto Rico and VANCOUVER, British Columbia , Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — This news release is issued by Terren Peizer (“Mr. Peizer”) pursuant to the early warning requirements of Canada’s National Instrument 62-104 and National Instrument 62-103 with respect to proportionate voting shares (“PVS”) and proportionate voting share warrants (“PVS Warrants”) of Inspire Semiconductor Holdings Inc. (the “Issuer”).

    Mr. Peizer announces that, through his wholly owned corporation, Humanitario Capital LLC. (“Humanitario”), he has acquired PVS and PVS Warrants in connection with the conversion (the “Conversion”) of a C$10,000,000 loan made to the Issuer pursuant to a loan agreement dated September 23, 2024. The issuance of the securities described hereby was entirely contingent upon the delisting of the Issuer’s subordinate voting shares (“SVS”) from the TSX Venture Exchange which occurred on December 31, 2024.

    Pursuant to the Conversion, Humantario was issued 740,740.74 PVS and 740,740 PVS Warrants representing approximately 26.78% of the issued and outstanding SVS on a basic basis and approximately 42.25% of the issued and outstanding SVS on a partially-diluted basis, after giving effect only to the exercise of the PVS Warrants held by Humanitario.

    Each PVS is convertible at the option of the holder in 100 SVS pursuant to the Issuer’s articles. Each of the foregoing percentages assumes the conversion of all issued and outstanding PVS to SVS.

    Mr. Peizer (through Humanitario) acquired the Shares for investment purposes and may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease his beneficial ownership, control, or direction over securities of the Issuer through market transactions, private agreements, treasury issuances, exercise of warrants, or otherwise.

    For further information and to obtain a copy of the early warning report filed under applicable Canadian provincial and territorial securities legislation in connection with the transactions described herein, please go to the Issuer’s profile on the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or contact the Company at invest@inspiresemi.com

    The MIL Network