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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Black History Month 2025

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 3, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month.
    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    This month, we pay homage to the rich history and contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our state and nation in countless ways through centuries of struggle and triumph. First proposed by scholar Carter G. Woodson in 1926, Black History Month lifts up the Black experience in a fuller telling of America’s story, and selects a theme to highlight facets of history that merit particular attention. 
     
    This year’s theme, Black Americans and labor, examines the intersection of employment and work with the Black American experience. From the atrocity of slavery to the rich legacy of Black entrepreneurship, the profound impact of Black labor in building and shaping our nation cannot be overstated.
     
    American and Californian history has no shortage of Black business owners, labor leaders, CEOs, workers, and more. From the first years of California’s statehood, we have been home to changemakers like Mary Ellen Pleasant, one of the first self-made Black millionaires in the country, who owned numerous businesses and used her money to help fund the Underground Railroad and other abolition work.
     
    Black communities and businesses have flourished throughout California. Altadena became the special community it is, home to a thriving middle-class community of professionals familiar with shattering glass ceilings. With twice the national Black homeownership rate, Altadena is home to scores of generational wealth and wide-reaching, beloved businesses. And as Altadena recovers from the devastation of the Eaton fires, we recognize, as a state, our responsibility to help support that recovery.
     
    Black Americans have always contributed to our shared communities, our state, and our nation. In every role, from labor leaders to essential workers to CEOs, Black Californians have helped make this state the fifth-largest economy in the world, a leader in workers’ rights, and a state that stands for and supports workers and work across the board.
     
    During Black History Month, let us reflect on our shared history, and draw inspiration from the progress made as we continue together on the path toward equality, liberty, and opportunity for all.
     
    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim February 2025, as “Black History Month.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 3rd day of February 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State

    Recent news

    Feb 2, 2025

    News What you need to know: At Governor Gavin Newsom’s directive, crews have been working around the clock to install nearly 60 miles of emergency protective materials in the recent Los Angeles-area burn scars. Los Angeles, California – As another storm system is…

    Feb 1, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES — As recovery efforts continue in the wake of the early January firestorm, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of additional state law enforcement resources to help Los Angeles maintain checkpoints and keep the Pacific Palisades…

    Feb 1, 2025

    News What you need to know: At the direction of Governor Newsom, the state is augmenting flood fighting and swift water resources across Northern and Central California to protect communities from the significant wet weather event expected through the upcoming days….

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State Accounting Department transitions to renewable energy equipment

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    State Accounting Department transitions to renewable energy equipment

    Posted on Feb 3, 2025 in Main

    HONOLULU – The state is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) is concluding a trial period using an electric lawnmower and has decided to move forward with obtaining more electric lawnmowers as the need arises, to replace an aging fleet.

    “This is in line with Hawai‘i’s commitment to achieve the nation’s first-ever 100 percent renewable portfolio standards (RPS), as stated in The Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. On Tuesday, Governor Green outlined new policy objectives and directives for the state of Hawaiʻi, including accelerating renewable development for neighbor island communities to hit 100% renewable portfolio standards from 2045 to 2035, setting a statewide goal of 50,000 distributed renewable energy installations (such as rooftop solar and battery systems) by 2030, and directing state departments to streamline and accelerate the permitting of renewable developments to reduce energy costs and project development timelines.

    In March 2024, DAGS’ Central Services Division (CSD) leased-to-own its first battery-powered mower. DAGS Director and Comptroller Keith Regan said, “It’s faster, quieter and more economical. By leasing the vehicle, we are given a free loaner if it breaks. Therefore, we don’t lose productivity waiting for a mower to be fixed.”

    CSD’s Grounds Maintenance Program services 115 sites across 98 acres statewide, including public office buildings, libraries, health centers and civic centers. CSD owns three diesel-powered mowers and two gas-powered mowers.

    It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower compared to $260 for an electric one. Administrator James Kurata estimates this saves the state about $6,500 a year. He added, “We’re pleased to be part of the solution to reduce our dependency on oil.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DAGS VNR: STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DAGS VNR: STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

    Posted on Feb 3, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND GENERAL SERVICES

    KA ʻOIHANA LOIHELU A LAWELAWE LAULĀ

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    KEITH A. REGAN

    COMPTROLLER

    KA LUNA HOʻOMALU HANA LAULĀ

     

    MEOH-LENG SILLIMAN

    DEPUTY COMPTROLLER

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOMALU HANA LAULĀ

     

    STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

    The Move Aligns with the Governor’s Goal to Achieve 100% Clean Energy

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Feb. 1, 2025

     

    HONOLULU — The state is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) is concluding a trial period using an electric lawnmower and has decided to move forward with obtaining more electric lawnmowers as the need arises, to replace an aging fleet.

     

    “This is in line with Hawai‘i’s commitment to achieve the nation’s first-ever 100 percent renewable portfolio standards (RPS), as stated in The Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative ,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. On Tuesday, Governor Green outlined new policy objectives and directives for the state of Hawaiʻi, including accelerating renewable development for neighbor island communities to hit 100% renewable portfolio standards from 2045 to 2035, setting a statewide goal of 50,000 distributed renewable energy installations (such as rooftop solar and battery systems) by 2030, and directing state departments to streamline and accelerate the permitting of renewable developments to reduce energy costs and project development timelines.

     

    In March 2024, DAGS’ Central Services Division (CSD) leased-to-own its first battery-powered mower. DAGS Director and Comptroller Keith Regan said, “It’s faster, quieter and more economical. By leasing the vehicle, we are given a free loaner if it breaks. Therefore, we don’t lose productivity waiting for a mower to be fixed.”

     

    CSD’s Grounds Maintenance Program services 115 sites across 98 acres statewide, including public office buildings, libraries, health centers and civic centers. CSD owns three diesel-powered mowers and two gas-powered mowers.

     

    It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower compared to $260 for an electric one. Administrator James Kurata estimates this saves the state about $6,500 a year. He added, “We’re pleased to be part of the solution to reduce our dependency on oil.”

     

    RESOURCES

    (Image courtesy: DAGS)

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/j4kg2i77h8u9cuylnrod8/ACPFQWK2a73-rTj5sS3DQ1o?rlkey=gvqhg1uj01uvgc5y773lddba5&st=10j9j0fs&dl=0

     

    (3 soundbites, b roll, stills for web, script)

    # # #

     

    DAGS’s electric lawnmowers

    Script and tease

     

    VO SOT:

    CG: More electric lawnmowers for State/ Honolulu

     

    The State is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services or “Dags” (said like one word) is ending a nearly one-year trial period using an electric lawnmower. It has decided to move forward with leasing more battery-powered mowers, to replace its aging fleet.

    This supports the Governor’s renewable energy policy. On Tuesday, Governor Green set new objectives for the state, including accelerating 100% renewable energy goals for neighbor islands– TEN years earlier, by 2035.

    DAGS cuts the grass at 115 sites across 98 acres statewide.

     

     

    “SOT Keith Regan” KEITH REGAN/ DAGS DIRECTOR AND COMPTROLLER

    0:15 We’re investing in electric mowers because we are trying to go green with the way we’re operating our equipment, and this is a good opportunity for us to leverage existing or new technology. 25

     

    “SOT James Kurata” JAMES KURATA/ DAGS CENTRAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR

    0:41We like it because it’s one, it’s quieter. It, it, it’s in line with the state’s initiative for greening or green initiatives to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, it reduces our maintenance costs with less moving or less moving parts. 0:59

     

     

    TRAILING VO

    It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower- compared to $260 for an electric one. Kurata (koo-ROT-ah) estimates this saves the State about $6,500 a year.

     

     

    TEASE:

    “SOT Keith Regan” KEITH REGAN/ DAGS DIRECTOR AND COMPTROLLER

    1:06 these mowers are clean, quiet, and effective.

    IT’S ELECTRIC! THE STATE’S MAKING THE SWITCH TO BATTERY-POWERED LAWNMOWERS. WHY IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR TAXPAYER DOLLARS. THAT’S NEXT.

     

    Diane Ako | Communications Officer

    Office of the Comptroller

    State Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS)

    Kalanimoku Building – 1151 Punchbowl Street #412

    Honolulu, HI 96813

    [email protected]

    Cell: 808-764-7256

    Desk: 808-586-0404

    Fax: 808-586-0775

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Could AI kill human creativity?

    Source: University of South Australia

    04 February 2025

    Artificial intelligence (AI) was designed to solve problems, enhance productivity, and push the boundaries of innovation. But since the rise of generative AI such as CHATGPT and DALL-E, people have had concerns about its potential to overshadow or replace key human skills.

    Now, University of South Australia researchers have explored the complex relationship between AI and human creativity finding that while AI can generate creative outputs, it fundamentally relies on human intervention.

    It’s a valuable finding that has significant implications for educational practices, job creation, and the future of work. And a relief for those concerned about AI rivalling human jobs.

    Yet it raises issues for employers and educators who need to better understand these disruptive technologies to enable their staff and students to meet their full potential.

    Generative AI technologies continue to expand, but the most popular are ChatGPT (the AI ‘wordsmith’) and DALL-E (the AI ‘artist’) which respectively produce swathes of human-sounding text, or instantly credible artwork at the simple press of a button. Recently, the two have been joined by their Chinese counterpart, DeepSeek.

    UniSA researcher Professor David Cropley says learning how AI can augment human skills is key to successfully adopting it.   

    “The future of work suggests that machines – AI, automation, and robots – will take over routine, algorithmic, predictable tasks, freeing up people to focus on unpredictable, non-algorithmic, and creative work,” Prof Cropley says.

    “However, if AI is capable of creativity, then this premise breaks down, and the future of work for humans is far less certain.

    “In our research we explored the relationship between AI and humans, finding that generative AI is not a replacement for human skills like creativity, but rather a supplement or a tool that we will need to manage.

    “It’s easy to understand through an example: if I prompt an AI art program like DALL-E2 to ‘produce an oil painting in the style of da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, showing a young woman scrolling through her mobile phone and looking bored’, it will create a picture, and does a good job of satisfying that prompt.

    “But this does not mean that the AI is creative. Yes, the resulting picture is novel and effective, but it’s not because AI had any special ability, but because I produced a creative prompt. The only thing the AI really did was save me the trouble of learning how to paint.”

    In Australia, the use of generative AI is rapidly growing with nearly 40% of employees using the technology for work purposes, and one in five doubling their use over the past year. Only 20% of employees believe their business is taking full advantage of generative AI.

    UniSA researcher Dr Rebecca Marrone says more research is needed to understand how AI can best support human skills.

    “A few years back there were wild claims that AI was truly creative and could rival the best human skills. But we’re starting to see a more moderate and reasoned point of view,” Dr Marrone says.

    “AI’s strengths lie in speeding up information-gathering and evaluating ideas based on predefined criteria. It swiftly handles routine and data-intensive tasks, and this lets people to engage more deeply with creative processes.

    “There’s no doubt that generative AI is very impressive, but whatever you generate – and the key word here is ‘you’ – it’s dependent on what you tell the AI to deliver.

    “AI does not operate independently; it’s literally prompted by a person, and we need to remember that.”

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:  Prof David Cropley E: David.Cropley@unisa.edu.au
    Dr Rebecca Marrone E: Rebecca.Marrone@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Humboldt — Humboldt RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 15-year-old female

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On February 2, 2025 RCMP received a report of a missing 15year-old female, Jayda Crowe.

    Jayda was last seen on February 2, 2025 at a residence in Jansen, Saskatchewan. She may also go by the name Jayda Pelletier.

    Jayda is described as:

    • Height: 5’5″
    • Weight: 120 lbs
    • Eye colour: brown
    • Hair colour and style: long brown hair
    • Last seen wearing: grey hoodie, red sweat pants and white Nike runners.
    • Other descriptors: Jayda may be travelling in a 4-door Ford Fusion that is dark in color. Jayda is not dressed for cold weather conditions.

    Jayda is known to travel to the Saskatoon area, but her current whereabouts are unknown.

    If you have seen Jayda or know where she is, contact Humboldt RCMP at 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: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 03.02.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    3 February 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 03.02.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 3 February 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 872,093 4.43
    CEUX – –
    BATE – –
    AQEU – –
    TQEX – –
    Total 872,093 4.43

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 3 February 2025 was EUR 3,867,209. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 236,903,084 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Syria, Israel, DRC – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press conference by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, on the Middle East and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    ———————————

    The Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix said, the fall of the Assad government in Syria and the “entry, presence and activities” of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in the area of separation, “has made it particularly challenging” for the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) and the Observer Group Golan (OGG).

    Briefing journalists in New York upon visiting Syria and Israel, Lacroix said, “I obviously reiterated our concern about the presence of the IDF in the area of separation. It’s clearly a violation of the 1974 agreement between Israel and Syria. I also indicated that UNDOF had received a number of complaints from the local inhabitants of particularly in the centre of the area of operations. And we, expressed the importance of addressing these concerns.”

    He said he had conveyed a message to both the Israeli government and Syria’s caretaker government, “to fully facilitate UNDOF’s mandated activities, including inspections in the respective, areas of limitation that are adjacent to the area of separation, ensure freedom of movement to UN personnel.”

    Turning to the DRC, Lacroix said, “the situation remains tense and volatile, with occasional shooting continuing within the city.”

    He said the UN Mission in the country’s (MONUSCO’s) positions “were again resupplied, which is critically important because in those positions, we do not only have MONUSCO personnel, but we have also, significant number of people basically, who have been seeking shelter in those bases.”

    The airport’s runways, the peacekeeping Chief noted, “is currently not operable” as it has “sustained significant damages in the recent fighting, and we cannot use it for now.”

    Lacroix underlined that “MONUSCO bases are under stress, but also in some cases, they have been under threat in terms of, you know, the presence of, disarmed FRDC soldiers. And I want to really again call for the respect, the full respect, of the inviolability of our UN premises.”

    He said, “we are concerned not only as far as the eastern DRC is concerned, but this has if you look at the past, some of this has the potential of triggering a wider regional conflict and therefore it is of the utmost important that all diplomatic efforts should be geared to avoiding this and bringing about this decision of hostilities.”

    Lacroix said, the rebel group M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militias “are about 60km, north of, Bukavu; seem to be moving quite fast. There is an airport, in the vicinity of where they are, I think, a few kilometres south, which is Kavumu.”

    He noted that Secretary-General António Guterres has spoken to Rwandan President Paul Kagame as well as Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi emphasising the importance of the protection of civilians and the safety and security of UN personnel.

    He said, I think, “the protection of respect to the safety and security of UN personnel, is an international obligation for all member states. And that applies to Rwanda, that applies to all.”

    Humanitarian organizations in Goma continue to assess the impact of the crisis, including the widespread looting of warehouses and the offices of aid organizations.

    The World Health Organization and partners conducted an assessment with the Government between 26 to 29 January and reported that 700 people have been killed and 2,800 people injured and that are receiving treatment in health facilities. These numbers are expected to rise as more information becomes available.

    In Goma itself, access to safe drinking water remains cut off, forcing people to rely on untreated water from Lake Kivu. Without urgent action, OCHA cautions that the risk of waterborne disease outbreaks will just continue to increase.

    For its part, the International Organization for Migration says today that several displacement sites, including on the outskirts of Goma – where over 300,000 have been displaced have been partially or completely emptied.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPjixm2GCPM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Palestine on the country – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Informal comments to the media by H.E. Mr. Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine to the United Nations, on Palestine.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDDT71joTqY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: VA Disability Compensation

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    VA disability compensation provides tax-free monthly payments to eligible Veterans with an illness or injury that was caused by, or got worse because of, their active military service.

    To learn more about how to file a claim, visit https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCV9kl_CL6w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Luján in the News Standing Up for New Mexicans, Holding the Trump Administration Accountable for Chaos and Confusion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) has been actively engaging in critical Senate hearings, holding nominees accountable to protect essential services and programs for New Mexicans and every American. Throughout these hearings, Senator Luján has emphasized the importance of nominees serving the public interest, rather than furthering political agendas.

    As a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation, and the Senate Committee on the Budget, Senator Luján has been at the forefront of pressing key nominees on their positions on working for the American people and upholding the law.

    RFK Jr. Confirmation Hearing

    In the nomination hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to become Secretary of Health and Human Services, Senator Lujánquestioned Mr. Kennedy on his understanding of the importance of Medicaid and pressed Mr. Kennedy for his commitment to protect Medicaid from cuts. Mr. Kennedy did not commit to not cutting Medicaid if asked to by the President.

    • NBC News – It’s ‘clear’ that RFK Jr. would be a ‘rubber stamp’ on Trump’s policy decisions: Democratic senator.

    Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joins Meet the Press NOW after pressing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his Senate confirmation hearing to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.

    • US News & World Report – 5 Key Takeaways From RFK Jr.’s First Senate Confirmation Hearing

    Kennedy Struggles on Medicare and Medicaid Questions: “President Trump has asked me to make it work better,” Kennedy said. “Most Americans are not happy with it. The premiums are too high, the deductibles are too high, and everybody’s getting sick or too much money is going to the insurance industry.” Democratic Sen. Ben Luján of New Mexico responded by citing statistics from state polling showing high levels of satisfaction with Medicaid.

    • Reuters – Kennedy says he will finalize rules that increase diversity in clinical trials

    Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the top U.S. health agency, told U.S. senators during his confirmation hearing on Wednesday that he would finalize regulations aimed at increasing the participation of diverse patient populations in clinical trials. Asked by Democratic Senator Ben Ray Lujan whether he would commit to finalizing the guidance on clinical trial diversity mandated by Congress, Kennedy replied, “Yes.”

    • The Daily Beast – RFK Jr. Completely Fumbles Basic Facts in Confirmation Hearing

    Kennedy also missed big when Sen. Ben Ray Lujánasked him to estimate how many babies are born in the U.S. each year on Medicaid. Kennedy, after conceding he had no clue, estimated 30 million. That is about eight times more than the overall number of births the U.S. had in total in 2023. About 1.4 million of those were on Medicaid, Luján informed Kennedy.

    Howard Lutnick Confirmation Hearing

    In the nomination hearing for Howard Lutnick to become Secretary of Commerce, Senator Luján questioned Mr. Lutnick on whether he would commit to not cutting funding that has been awarded to connect thousands of New Mexicans to the internet. Despite Mr. Lutnick’s acknowledgement of the importance of broadband buildout, he would not commit to maintaining crucial support for broadband.  

    • NPR – Trump’s pick for Commerce Secretary is Howard Lutnick. Here’s what to know

    Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., asked: “If President Trump asks you to cut infrastructure funding as passed by this Congress in a bipartisan way … will you oppose that?” “I work for the president,” Lutnick said.

    • Roll Call – Commerce pick Lutnick defends tariffs, funding freeze

    Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., tried to pin Lutnick down on whether he would withdraw funding allocated by law if Trump asked him to. “I work for the President of the United States, and I’m here to execute his policies,” Lutnick said. “I think he agrees that broadband internet to America is important and that, efficiently, we deliver.” “I’ll slow down — if the President asked you to cut an infrastructure program, would you cut the program?” Luján asked. “We have a responsibility to communicate to each other for the people that we work for, it’s not just that you work for Donald Trump, sir. You work for the American people if you get this position.”

    • Politico – Frustration over Trump funding freeze dominates Lutnick confirmation hearing

    Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) asked him if he’d stop infrastructure money passed by Congress if he was ordered to. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) pressed if he would heed an unconstitutional order from Trump.“We’re asking simple questions. We had an incredible conversation in the office … a very respectful one,” a visibly frustrated Luján said. “It’s not just that you work for Donald Trump. Sir, you work for the American people.”

    Russel Vought’s Chaos and Confusion

    Senator Luján was joined by Budget Committee Ranking Member Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Budget Committee Democrats, to call out the threat of Russell Vought’s nomination to be Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Russell Vought would add to the Trump administration’s unprecedented chaos and confusion. Reporting shows that he worked behind the scenes to orchestrate the halt to all federal funding including grants and loans, upending trillions of dollars and creating cruel and unnecessary chaos for childcare centers, firefighters, domestic violence shelters, law enforcement, health care providers, seniors and veterans, and American families.

    • Roll Call – Vought nomination advances despite Democrats’ boycott

    Senate Budget Committee Republicans approved Russ Vought’s nomination to serve as President Donald Trump’s budget director on Thursday, overcoming the absence of Democrats on the panel who boycotted the markup.

    • Albuquerque Journal – Senate Democrats boycott Trump’s budget office director pick in wake of attempted funding freeze

    After an attempt this week by President Donald Trump’s budget office to freeze federal funding to determine if it aligned ideologically with his priorities, Senate Democrats, including Sen. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico, boycotted a budget committee vote for the president’s budget office pick, Russell Vought. Although the OMB memo has been rescinded, White House officials have said Trump’s executive order related to the Monday memo is still in effect, causing “more confusion, more chaos,” Luján said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Foreign Relations Committee Democrats To Secretary Rubio: Any Effort To Merge USAID Into The State Department Requires Congressional Approval, And Unauthorized Access Of USAID Classified Data Compromises Our National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    February 03, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Sunday joined Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and his Democratic colleagues on the Committee in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio declaring that any effort to merge USAID into the State Department requires Congressional approval, as well as demanding an explanation of recent developments at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), including reports that individuals who identified themselves as working for the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) accessed USAID’s main headquarters, American citizens’ data and classified spaces.  

    “Congress established the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as an independent agency, separate from the Department of State, to ensure that we can deploy development expertise and U.S. foreign assistance quickly, particularly in times of crisis, to meet our national security goals,” wrote the lawmakers. “For this reason, any effort to merge or fold USAID into the Department of State should be, and by law must be, previewed, discussed, and approved by Congress.”

    “We received reports that individuals who identified themselves as working for the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ (DOGE) accessed USAID’s main headquarters, including classified spaces,” continued the lawmakers. “The potential access of sensitive, even classified, files which may include the personally identifiable information (PII) of Americans working with USAID, and this incident as a whole raises deep concerns about the protection and safeguarding of matters related to U.S. national security.”

    “We request an immediate update about the access of USAID’s headquarters, including whether the individuals who accessed the headquarters were authorized to be there and by whom, whether all individuals who accessed classified spaces have active security clearances at the appropriate level, what they were seeking to access, if any PII of American citizens was breached, and whether any review is underway regarding potential unauthorized access to sensitive personnel information and classified materials,” concluded the lawmakers.

    U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and provided below.

    Dear Secretary Rubio:

    Congress established the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as an independent agency, separate from the Department of State, to ensure that we can deploy development expertise and U.S. foreign assistance quickly, particularly in times of crisis, to meet our national security goals. For this reason, any effort to merge or fold USAID into the Department of State should be, and by law must be, previewed, discussed, and approved by Congress. Congress has also made clear that any attempt to reorganize or redesign USAID requires advance consultation with, and notification to, Congress.

    Consistent with past precedent, we expect and welcome the Department of State’s and USAID’s engagement on any proposed organizational reforms, and other matters implicating congressional requirements

    While we continue to welcome such engagement, we write with deep concern about this weekend’s developments at USAID’s headquarters.

    We received reports that individuals who identified themselves as working for the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) accessed USAID’s main headquarters, including classified spaces. While some of the individuals purported to have security clearances, it is unclear whether those who accessed secure classified facilities had proper clearance or what they were seeking to access. We understand that the security guards present at the facility were threatened when they raised questions. As members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, we had not been notified of any such visit to USAID by DOGE or other agency officials. Following this incident, the senior management of the Office of Security, which secures USAID personnel and facilities and safeguards national security information, were placed on administrative leave. The potential access of sensitive, even classified, files, which may include the personally identifiable information (PII) of Americans working with USAID, and this incident as a whole, raises deep concerns about the protection and safeguarding of matters related to U.S. national security.

    We request an immediate update about the access of USAID’s headquarters, including whether the individuals who accessed the headquarters were authorized to be there and by whom, whether all individuals who accessed classified spaces have active security clearances at the appropriate level, what they were seeking to access, if any PII of American citizens was breached, and whether any review is underway regarding potential unauthorized access to sensitive personnel information and classified materials.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IICA ORGANIZES A CUSTOMIZED THREE DAYS TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME “ESG FOR BOARD MEMBERS” AT THE UNITED NATIONS REGIONAL OFFICE FOR ASIA AND PACIFIC, BANGKOK, THAILAND

    Source: Government of India (2)

    IICA ORGANIZES A CUSTOMIZED THREE DAYS TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME “ESG FOR BOARD MEMBERS” AT THE UNITED NATIONS REGIONAL OFFICE FOR ASIA AND PACIFIC, BANGKOK, THAILAND

    PROGRAMME COVERED KEY ASPECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL-SOCIAL-GOVERNANCE (ESG) CONSIDERATIONS IN BOARD DECISION MAKING AND IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON BOARD’S ACCOUNTABILITY

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 9:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The School of Business Environment, Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) organized a customized three days residential training and certification programme “ESG for Board Members” from Jan 30 – Feb 01 2025 at the United Nations Regional Office for Asia and Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand. This initiative is inspired by Dr. Ajay Bhushan Prasad Pandey, Director General & CEO, IICA conveying the importance of leadership buy-in for achieving Net-Zero and other relevant sustainability targets by embedding ESG in the corporate strategy aligned with global expectations from multiple stakeholders. The programme was inaugurated by Mr. Gerd Trogemann, Regional Manager, Global Policy Network and Regional Programme, Asia-Pacific, United Nations. 

    The programme covered key aspects of building a business case of Environmental-Social-Governance (ESG) considerations in Board decision making, it covered aspects of ESG’s Indian as well as global context, guided the participants on how to begin with ESG journey, embedding ESG in to corporate strategy, Impact of climate change and Board’s accountability, designing business models for resilience, Risk mitigation, evolving role of Board in corporate accountability, Stakeholders engagement for ESG success, Governance of CSR and role of Board, Public disclosures on ESG, Business and Human Rights due diligence, effective grievance redressal mechanisms, future trends impacting businesses, and essentials of becoming ESG Impact leaders.  

    The sessions were delivered by prominent experts and facilitators including Prof. Garima Dadhich, Dr. Harpreet Kaur, Ms Olga Nilova, Mr. Bharat Wakhlu, Ms Belinda Hlatshwayo, Ms Nusrat Khan, and Dr. Ravi Raj Atrey. On the third day, delegation from Thailand based companies presented their ESG journey, best practices and challenges faced in strategizing and implementing ESG, the Indian delegation of public and private companies had a peer learning exposure through this exercise. The programme has benefitted CMDs, Directors, Independent Directors, Board Members, and other sr. leaders from corporate both public and private in the realm of ESG, it provided a unique opportunity to the participants to not only contribute to sustaining businesses in today’s rapidly changing world but also to co-create a collaborative system of exchange of knowledge and ideas at elite level.

    IICA enjoys unique distinction of offering a credible  six months ESG Professional programme  contributing to build a cadre of ESG professionals and Impact leaders. As per the recommendations of the High Level Advisory Committee and keeping in view the needs of Board representatives, this capsule programme was launched by the School of Business Environment-IICA in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme Regional Office for Asia and Pacific.  

     

    ****

    NB/AD

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: Millions of Devotees take the Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam, during the Third Amrit Snan held on Basant Panchami

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 9:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The third Amrit Snan on the occasion of Basant Panchami was successfully completed during the Mahakumbh 2025, at Prayagraj. Millions of devotees took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam. The Kumbh Mela showcases not only faith, trust, and devotion but also unity, equality, and cultural diversity in its purest form.

     

    According to statistics released by the State government, by 6 PM on Basant Panchami, a total of 2.33 crore devotees had taken a dip in the holy Triveni Sangam. Devotees from India and abroad, united by the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, participated in the sacred bathing ritual. Sadhu-sants, yogis, scholars, and devotees from various countries also took part in this divine event, making it a truly universal festival.

     

     

    The significance of this auspicious day prompted devotees to begin arriving at the Sangam area from the previous night. The event was made successful with the contribution of the Kumbh Mela administration, local administration, police, sanitation workers, volunteers, boatmen, and all government departments, ensuring the safe and smooth conduct of this historical event.

     

     

    Special cleanliness arrangements were made for the third Amrit Snan on Vasant Panchami, with the goal of maintaining a clean and safe environment. To achieve this, 15,000 sanitation workers and over 2,500 Ganga Seva Doots worked tirelessly. Special cleaning was also arranged for the paths leading to the akhadas to ensure the comfort of both saints and devotees. Quick Response Teams (QRT) were stationed throughout the area to ensure immediate cleanliness, swiftly removing waste from the mela grounds. Water sprinkling and cleaning of the Sangam were carried out with the help of boatmen and steamers.

    The Kumbh Mela 2025 has succeeded in promoting India’s cultural heritage on an international level. The event’s popularity and cultural significance are being recognized globally, with foreign devotees deeply impressed by Indian culture and traditions, experiencing both the sacred Ganga Snan and India’s religious and cultural practices.

     

    *****

    AD/VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy to Meet Saudi Minister Tomorrow for Strengthening Cooperation in Critical Minerals Sector

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 8:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Coal & Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, will hold a strategic meeting tomorrow with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim Alkhorayef, in New Delhi. The high-level discussion will focus on enhancing cooperation in the critical minerals sector and exploring new investment opportunities between the two nations.

    The meeting comes after the Union Minister’s recent participation in the Ministerial Round Table at the Future Minerals Forum 2025 in Riyadh, where he highlighted India’s commitment to securing critical minerals essential for Energy Transition & clean energy systems. He also invited global investors to explore India’s growing mining sector and held extensive discussions with ministers from Brazil, Italy, and Morocco to foster economic and technical cooperation.

    This engagement gains added significance following the Cabinet’s recent approval of the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM). Key discussions will center on fostering resilient mineral supply chains, investment in value-added processing, and technological collaborations to strengthen India-Saudi ties in the mineral resources sector.

    This strategic meeting underscores India’s proactive approach to developing international partnerships in the minerals domain, reaffirming its growing role as a global player in sustainable mineral development.

    ****

    Shuhaib T

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) officially comes into force as a full-fledged Treaty based Inter-governmental International Organization

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 7:14PM by PIB Delhi

    In a major development, the Framework Agreement on establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force. From 23rd January, 2025, the IBCA and its Secretariat have become a full-fledged treaty based inter-governmental international organization and international legal entity.

    To this effect, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India (the Depository of the Framework Agreement) has confirmed that five countries – Republic of Nicaragua, Kingdom of Eswatini, Republic of India, Federal Republic of Somalia and Republic of Liberia – have deposited the instruments of ratification/acceptance/approval, under the Article VIII (1) of the Framework Agreement.

    As of now, 27 countries including India have consented to join IBCA and several international/national organisations working in the field of wildlife conservation have also partnered with IBCA. The five countries mentioned above have signed the Framework Agreement to formally become members of the IBCA.

    About the IBCA

    The IBCA was launched by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 9th April,2023, during the event ‘Commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger’. The Union Cabinet, in its meeting held on 29th February 2024, approved the establishment of IBCA with headquarters in India. It was launched with the aim of conservation of seven big cats – Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar and Puma – with membership of all UN countries/the range countries harbouring the said species and non-range countries where historically these species are not found but interested to support big cat conservation.

    The IBCA was established by Government of India, through the nodal organisation viz., National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC), vide order dated 12th March, 2024. The primary objective of IBCA is to facilitate collaboration and synergy among stakeholders, consolidating successful conservation practices and expertise to achieve a common goal of conservation of big cats at global level. This unified approach, bolstered by financial support, aims to bolster the conservation agenda, halt the decline in big cat populations, and reverse current trends.

    IBCA envisages synergy through a collaborative platform for increased dissemination of gold standard big cat conservation practices, provides access to a central common repository of technical know-how and corpus of funds, strengthens the existing species-specific intergovernmental platforms, networks and transnational initiatives on conservation and protection and assists securing our ecological future and mitigate adverse effects of climate change.

    *****

    VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Sri Sandeep Poundrik chairs the Stakeholders’ Meeting to review the preparations of India Steel 2025 event

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 7:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Sri Sandeep Poundrik, chaired a high-level stakeholders’ meeting today to discuss the upcoming ‘India Steel 2025’ event, scheduled to take place on April 24-26, 2025. The meeting was attended by senior Government officials, Ambassadors of Nations important in the steel value chain and representatives of key States, Chairman and Managing Directors (CMDs) of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and senior officers of leading private industries also participated in the Meeting.

    The ‘India Steel 2025’ is an international exhibition-cum-conference aimed at providing a strategic platform for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and business leaders. The event will showcase India’s thriving steel sector while addressing key challenges and emerging opportunities shaping the industry’s future.

    Key Highlights of India Steel 2025:

    • Industry Participation & Coordination – Engaging key stakeholders to align on policy frameworks and industry growth strategies.
    • Roundtable Conferences – In-depth discussions on sector-specific topics, international collaboration, and emerging trends.
    • Exhibition & Innovation Showcase – Displaying cutting-edge technologies and innovations revolutionizing the steel industry.
    • Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM) – Facilitating trade opportunities and fostering new business engagements.
    • International & Diplomatic Engagement – Strengthening cooperation between domestic and global steel industry leaders.

    Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Highlighted India’s Role in the Global Steel Industry

    Speaking on the occasion, Sri Sandeep Poundrik emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach and India’s pivotal role in global steel production and consumption. He stated:

    “India’s steel demand is growing at a rate of 9% to 10%, the highest among major global economies. The industry stands at a crucial juncture, with significant advancements in green steel production and sustainability initiatives on the horizon. Strategic global partnerships will create new avenues for collaboration in raw material sourcing, technological innovation, and industry expansion.”

    ‘India Steel 2025’ will serve as a catalyst for collaboration, investment and technological advancements, reinforcing India’s leadership in the global steel sector. This initiative underscores strong commitment to industry growth, innovation and global competitiveness. All relevant stakeholders were encouraged to actively participate and contribute to discussions that will shape the future of steel sector.


    *********

    TPJ/NJ

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: In view of significant improvement in the air quality of Delhi-NCR, CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP revokes Stage-III of GRAP in the entire NCR with immediate effect

    Source: Government of India

    In view of significant improvement in the air quality of Delhi-NCR, CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP revokes Stage-III of GRAP in the entire NCR with immediate effect

    All actions under Stages II & I of GRAP to remain invoked in the entire NCR to ensure that the AQI levels do not rise further in the coming days

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

    In pursuance of the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Sub-Committee on Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) vide its order dated 29.01.2025 invoked GRAP Stage-III when the average AQI of Delhi started to exhibit a sharp increasing trend and breached the 350 mark on the same day.

    Today, Delhi’s average AQI has significantly improved as the AQI of the day clocked 286 today as per the AQI Bulletin provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), clearly indicating a downward trend. Noting a downward trend in the AQI levels of Delhi, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP met today to review the current air quality scenario in the region as well as the forecasts for meteorological conditions and air quality index made available by IMD/ IITM and accordingly take an appropriate call on the preventive/ restrictive actions under Stage-III of GRAP in place in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) since 29.01.2025.

    While comprehensively reviewing the overall air quality parameters of Delhi-NCR, the Sub-Committee observed as under:

    • Owing to improvement in mixing height and ventilation coefficient and much favourable meteorological conditions for dispersion of pollutants, the AQI of Delhi has shown a significant improvement.
    • The AQI of Delhi has been recorded as 286 for 03.02.2025 which is 64 points below the 350 mark to implement the Stage-III as per the extant directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. Further, the forecast by IMD predicts very light rain/ drizzle and favourable wind conditions in the days to come. 

    Therefore, keeping in view the disruptive nature of restrictions under Stage-III of GRAP, impacting a large number of stakeholders and public as well as considering the trend of improvement in the average AQI of Delhi and also the forecasts by IMD/ IITM indicating the likelihood of the average AQI of Delhi to stay in ‘Poor’/ lower end ‘Very Poor’ category in the coming days, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP today unanimously decided to revoke all actions under Stage-III of the extant schedule of GRAP in the entire NCR, with immediate effect.

    Further, all actions under Stages II & I of the extant schedule of GRAP shall however remain invoked and be implemented, monitored and reviewed by all agencies concerned in the entire NCR to ensure that the AQI levels do not rise further in the coming days. Agencies shall keep strict vigil and especially intensify measures under Stages II & I of the extant schedule of GRAP in order to obviate the need for re-implementation of Stage-III of GRAP actions in NCR.

    Construction and Demolition project sites etc. which have been issued specific closure orders on account of violations/ non-compliances of various statutory directions, rules, guidelines etc. under no circumstances shall resume their operations without any specific order to this effect from the Commission.

    While GRAP Stage-III is being revoked, keeping in view the winter season when weather conditions may not be always favourable and in order to ensure that the AQI levels do not slip further, citizens are requested to strictly adhere to the citizen charter under Stages II and I of the extant schedule of GRAP.

    The Sub-Committee, shall keep a close watch on the air quality scenario and review the situation from time to time for further appropriate decisions depending upon the air quality in Delhi and forecast for meteorological conditions and air quality index made available by IMD/ IITM.

    The comprehensively revised GRAP schedule is available on the Commission’s website, i.e., https://caqm.nic.in/

    *****

    VM

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bids for 11th Round and Second Attempt of 10th Round of Commercial Coal Mines’ Auction Opened Today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    The Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal today opened the bids for the 11th round of commercial coal mines’ auction. This round received unprecedented responses from the bidders. Bids have been received for 20 coal mines out of offered 27 coal mines.

    The online bids were decrypted and opened electronically in the presence of the bidders. Subsequently, sealed envelopes containing offline bid documents were also opened in the presence of bidders. Entire process was displayed on the screen for the bidders. Under this round, only 70 bids have been received online, however, 72 bids have been received in physical form.

    A total of 65 bids were received against 15 coal mines offered in the 11th round. Under 2nd Attempt of 10th round, a total of 7 coal mines were put up for auction and 5 bids received against 5 coal mines with each mine receiving 1 bid each.

     Mine-wise list of bids received online is as under:

    Sl No

    Name of Coal Mine

    Round

    No of Bids (Both Online and Offline)

    Type of coal mine

    1

    Seregarha

    11th Round

    6

    Non-Coking

    2

    Banai & Bhalumunda

    11th Round

    5

    Non-Coking

    3

    Saradhapur Jalatap East

    11th Round

    3

    Non-Coking

    4

    Margo East

    11th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    5

    Margo West

    11th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    6

    Jawardaha North

    11th Round

    2

    Non-Coking

    7

    jawardaha South

    11th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    8

    Namchik West

    11th Round

    4

    Non-Coking

    9

    Bandhak West

    11th Round

    15

    Non-Coking

    10

    Vijay Central

    11th Round

    8

    Non-Coking

    11

    Sahapur East

    11th Round

    6

    Non-Coking

    12

    Marwatola II

    11th Round

    5

    Non-Coking

    13

    Dahegaon Makardhokra IV

    11th Round

    3

    Non-Coking

    14

    Namchik East

    11th Round

    5

    Non-Coking

    15

    Senduri

    2nd Attempt-10th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    16

    Tandsi III & Tandsi III Extn.

    2nd Attempt-10th Round

    1

    Coking

    17

    Tangardihi North

    2nd Attempt-10th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    18

    Ustali North

    2nd Attempt-10th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

    19

    West of Baisi (Revised)

    2nd Attempt-10th Round

    1

    Non-Coking

     

    A total of 46 companies have submitted their bids in the auction process. More than 15 new companies including a Coal India subsidiary have participated for the first time under commercial coal mine auction. The list is as submitted below:

    S.No

    Name of the bidder

    No. of bids submitted

    1

    PCIL Power and holdings Limited

    1

    2

    Jindal Power Limited

    3

    3

    Bharat Aluminium Company Limited

    1

    4

    Adani Natural Resources

    1

    5

    Greta Energy Limited

    1

    6

    The Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation Limited

    2

    7

    Western Coalfields Limited

    2

    8

    Yajur Comtrade Private Limited

    1

    9

    PLR Projects Private Limited

    1

    10

    New Era Cleantech Solution Private Limited

    1

    11

    Gayatri Rebuild Private Limited

    2

    12

    Hind Unitrade Pvt Ltd

    1

    13

    Orissa Metaliks Pvt Ltd

    2

    14

    Rungta Sons Pvt Ltd

    3

    15

    SNB Minerals Ltd

    1

    16

    The commodity Hub

    1

    17

    Sunflag Iron and Steel

    1

    18

    JSW Steel Ltd

    1

    19

    Jharkhand Exploration and Mining Corporation Limited

    5

    20

    Orissa Alloy Steel Pvt Ltd

    2

    21

    JMS Commercial Coal Blocks Pvt Ltd

    3

    22

    RSPU Mining Pvt. Ltd

    2

    23

    Singhal Steel and Power

    1

    24

    Singhal Business Pvt Ltd

    1

    25

    Innovative Mines and Minerals Ltd

    2

    26

    Pra Nuravi Coal Mining Pvt Ltd

    2

    27

    Singur Sponge Iron Pvt Ltd

    1

    28

    NRSKS Mines and Minerals Pvt. Ltd.

    2

    29

    Kevitho Mining Pvt Ltd

    1

    30

    G.D. Mining Pvt Ltd

    1

    31

    Bendagoshi Mining Pvt Ltd

    1

    32

    TMC Minerals Pvt Ltd

    1

    33

    Mineware Advisors Private Limited

    1

    34

    Jindal Steel and Power Limited

    2

    35

    Sarda Energy and Mineral Ltd.

    2

    36

    Pioneer Aluminium Industries Limited

    1

    37

    Odisha Coal and Power Limited

    2

    38

    Damodar Valley Corporation

    2

    39

    AMPL Resources Pvt Ltd

    1

    40

    Godavari Commodities

    1

    41

    Laddugopal Comm. Pvt. Ltd.

    1

    42

    Asia Strategic Resources Pvt Ltd

    1

    43

    SMS Limited

    1

    44

    Jai Ambey Roadlines Pvt Ltd

    2

    45

    Lloyds Metal and Energy Pvt Ltd

    1

    46

    Ind Synergy Ltd

    1

    TOTAL

    70

    The participation of new companies in the commercial coal mine auction shows the interest of the companies towards the policy. The coal sector will continue to fuel the economy to become the third-largest economy in the world.

    The bids will be evaluated by a multi-disciplinary Technical Evaluation Committee and Technically Qualified Bidders will be shortlisted for participation in the electronic auction, to be conducted on MSTC portal.

    *****

    Shuhaib T

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ROBUST AND TIME-TESTED FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN INDIA AND RUSSIA SERVES AS A SHINING EXAMPLE OF COOPERATION AND DIPLOMACY FOR THE WORLD TO EMULATE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Source: Government of India

    ROBUST AND TIME-TESTED FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN INDIA AND RUSSIA SERVES AS A SHINING EXAMPLE OF COOPERATION AND DIPLOMACY FOR THE WORLD TO EMULATE: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER UNDERSCORES THE IMPORTANCE OF PARLIAMENTARY EXCHANGES IN DEEPENING BILATERAL TIES

    PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES FUNCTION AS “MINI PARLIAMENT” IN A NON-PARTISAN MANNER: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    OBSERVING PARLIAMENTARY PROCEEDINGS IN A MULTI-PARTY DEMOCRACY LIKE INDIA IS A GREAT LEARNING: H.E. MR. VYACHESLAV VOLODIN

    RUSSIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION CALLS ON LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 6:24PM by PIB Delhi

     Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla said today that robust and time-tested friendship between India and Russia serves as a shining example of cooperation and diplomacy for the world to emulate. Highlighting historic and deep-rooted friendship between the two countries, he noted that India-Russia bilateral ties are seen as very special at global stage. He observed that the relationship between the two nations are centuries old and that Russia has been India’s closest ally since independence.

    Shri Birla made these observations during the visit of a Russian Parliamentary delegation led by H.E. Mr. Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, to the Parliament House today.

    Congratulating Russia on a very fruitful and substantial chairmanship of the BRICS in 2024 and recalling his visit to the BRICS Parliamentary Summit in St. Petersburg in 2024, Shri Birla underscored the importance of such exchanges in strengthening parliamentary processes and deepening ties.

    He was happy to note that the Russian delegation had witnessed the proceedings of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, providing them with insights into India’s democratic functioning.

    Shri Birla also provided an overview of India’s Parliamentary Committee System, describing them as “Mini-Parliament” where budgetary matters and key issues are examined in detail. He emphasized that Committees function in a non-partisan manner, enabling thorough discussions that are often constrained in the larger House due to time limitations and the broad scope of issues.

    Referring to India’s 75th year as a Republic, Shri Birla reflected on the nation’s journey since independence and the visionary efforts of the Constitution’s founding fathers in securing equality for all citizens. He informed the visiting delegation about the progress made by India in these years, strengthening Constitutional values.

    Shri Birla further highlighted the robust cooperation between the Parliaments of India and Russia, citing frequent engagements at various levels, including multilateral platforms such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the BRICS Parliamentary Forum, and the G-20. He warmly recalled his participation in the BRICS Parliamentary Summit in St. Petersburg, where he had the opportunity to engage with Russian parliamentary leaders.

     He also underlined the role of mutual trust and respect in further strengthening India-Russia relations, which have evolved into a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership encompassing political, strategic, and cultural cooperation. Stating that India and Russia enjoy vibrant ties in multilateral domain, he noted that the people-to-people ties between the two nations have provided a solid foundation for this comprehensive partnership. He expressed confidence that the current visit would further strengthen bilateral relations, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.

    H.E. Mr. Vyacheslav Volodin thanked Shri Birla for the warm welcome extended to his delegation. He said that observing parliamentary proceedings in a multi-party democracy like India was a great learning. He lauded the longstanding India-Russia partnership, which continues to be nurtured through the close ties shared by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin. Congratulating India on 75 years of Indian republic, Mr. Volodin also commended India’s remarkable economic growth, acknowledging the country’s emergence as a global power in last 75 years. Acknowledging the strong people-to-people ties between India and Russia, he hoped that India-Russia friendship reaches new horizons.

    Among others, the meeting was attended by Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, Smt. Aparajita Sarangi, Shri Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, Dr. Shashi Tharoor and Shri Utpal Kumar Singh, Secretary General, Lok Sabha.

    ***

    AM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nuclear Power in Union Budget 2025-26

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Civil nuclear energy will ensure a significant contribution to the country’s development in future.

    – Prime Minister Narendra Modi

    Introduction

    The Union Budget 2025-26 outlines a significant push towards nuclear energy as part of India’s long-term energy transition strategy. The government has set an ambitious target of 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, positioning nuclear energy as a major pillar in India’s energy mix. This development aligns with the broader objectives of Viksit Bharat, ensuring energy reliability and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. To achieve this goal, strategic policy interventions and infrastructure investments are being undertaken, with an emphasis on indigenous nuclear technology and public-private collaborations.

     

    Recognizing nuclear power as a critical component for achieving energy security and sustainability, the government has introduced the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat. This initiative aims to enhance domestic nuclear capabilities, promote private sector participation, and accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

    Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and R&D Initiatives

    A key highlight of the Union Budget 2025-26 is the launch of a Nuclear Energy Mission, which is focused on research and development (R&D) of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for this initiative, aiming to develop at least five indigenously designed and operational SMRs by 2033.

    Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat

    To facilitate the implementation of the Nuclear Energy Mission, amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act will be taken up by the parliament. These amendments are expected to encourage private sector investments in nuclear power projects.

     

    These legislative changes are expected to create a more conducive environment for investment and innovation in the nuclear sector. The mission aligns with India’s commitment to achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047, a milestone deemed essential for reducing carbon emissions and meeting future energy demands. As of January 30, 2025, India’s nuclear capacity is 8180 MW.

    The government will enter into partnerships with the private sector with the motive of:

    • Setting up Bharat Small Reactors,
    • Research & development of Bharat Small Modular Reactor, and
    • Research & development of newer technologies for nuclear energy.

    Bharat Small Reactors

    The government is actively expanding its nuclear energy sector by developing Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) and exploring partnerships with the private sector. BSRs are 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) with a proven safety and performance record. These reactors are being upgraded to reduce land requirements, making them suitable for deployment near industries such as steel, aluminium, and metals, serving as captive power plants to aid in decarbonization efforts.

    The plan involves private entities providing land, cooling water, and capital, while the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) handles design, quality assurance, and operation and maintenance, all within the existing legal framework. This initiative aligns with India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy generation by 2030 and meeting 50% of its energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030, as pledged at the COP26 Summit in Glasgow in 2021.

    In addition to BSRs, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for repurposing retiring coal-based power plants and meeting power needs in remote locations. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) also plans to introduce new nuclear reactors, including high-temperature gas-cooled reactors for hydrogen co-generation and molten salt reactors aimed at utilizing India’s abundant thorium resources.

    This strategic move signifies India’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing its civil nuclear energy program, with private sector participation playing a crucial role within the bounds of Indian laws and regulations.

    Bharat Small Modular Reactors

    India is actively exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a crucial part of its energy transition strategy, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions while ensuring energy security. SMRs, are advanced nuclear reactors with a power generation capacity ranging from less than 30 MWe to 300+ MWe, provide a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional large nuclear reactors. Given India’s growing energy demands and the need for reliable, low-carbon power, SMRs can play a transformative role in complementing renewable energy sources and stabilizing the grid. Their modular design allows for factory-based manufacturing, reducing construction timelines and costs, making them suitable for both on-grid and off-grid applications, including deployment in remote locations.

    India’s expertise in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) provides a strong foundation for the development and deployment of indigenous SMR designs. By integrating SMRs into its energy mix, India can address land constraints, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and enhance its ability to meet international climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015) which India ratified in October 2016.

    Government Initiatives for Enhancing India’s Nuclear Capacity

    India is actively enhancing its nuclear power capacity to meet growing energy demands and achieve environmental goals. The government has initiated steps to increase nuclear power capacity from the current 8,180 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031-32. This expansion includes the construction and commissioning of ten reactors, totalling 8,000 MW, across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, pre-project activities for ten more reactors have commenced, with plans for progressive completion by 2031-32. Further, the government accorded in-principle approval to set up 6 x 1208 MW nuclear power plant in cooperation with the USA at Kovvada in Srikakulam district in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

    A significant milestone was achieved on September 19, 2024, when the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project’s Unit-7 (RAPP-7), one of the country’s largest and third indigenous nuclear reactors, reached criticality, marking the beginning of controlled fission chain reaction. This event signifies India’s growing capability in building and operating indigenous nuclear reactors, contributing to a future powered by homegrown technology.

    Safety remains a cornerstone of India’s nuclear energy policy. India’s nuclear power plants operate with stringent safety protocols and international oversight. The radiation levels at Indian nuclear facilities are consistently well below global benchmarks, underscoring the country’s commitment to secure and sustainable nuclear energy. These efforts align with India’s broader strategy to provide clean and reliable energy, contributing to long-term energy security and environmental sustainability.

    Recent Developments in Nuclear Energy in India

     

    • A significant discovery of new deposit in India’s oldest Uranium Mine, the Jaduguda Mines, has been made in and around the existing mine lease area. This will increase the life of an otherwise depleting mine by more than fifty years.
    • First two units of the indigenous 700 MWe PHWR at Kakrapar, Gujarat (KAPS – 3 & 4) have started commercial operation in FY 2023-24.
    • Closed fuel cycle being the cornerstone of Indian nuclear power program, the country’s first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR 500 Mwe) achieved many of the milestones in 2024, viz., Primary Sodium filling in Main Vessel, purification of the filled sodium and commissioning of all the four Sodium pumps (2 Primary Sodium Pumps & 2 Secondary Sodium Pumps). Core loading was commenced with loading of first reactor control rod on 4th March 2024.
    • NPCIL and National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) have signed a supplementary Joint Venture agreement to develop nuclear power facilities in the country. The JV named ASHVINI will function within the existing legal framework of the Atomic Energy Act 1962 (amended in 2015) and will build, own, and operate nuclear power plants, including the upcoming 4×700 MWe PHWR Mahi-Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project.

    Conclusion

    The provisions for nuclear power in the Union Budget 2025-26 mark a transformative shift in India’s energy landscape. By promoting nuclear energy as a sustainable, scalable, and secure power source, the government aims to bolster energy security and meet the nation’s long-term economic and environmental goals. The Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat is poised to accelerate nuclear power development, positioning India as a global leader in advanced nuclear technology by 2047.

    Click here for pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MCA21 records 80.26 lakh form filings between April 2024 to January 2025 driving Ease of Doing Business with enhanced digital solutions

    Source: Government of India (2)

    MCA21 records 80.26 lakh form filings between April 2024 to January 2025 driving Ease of Doing Business with enhanced digital solutions

    On the newly developed MCA21 V3 platform, 53.08 lakh forms have been filed from April 1, 2024 to January 27, 2025 which is up from 47.72 lakh in the previous year

    MCA 21 has Strengthened Security, Improved Accessibility, and Increased Stakeholder Engagement

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

     MCA21 is the first Mission Mode e-Governance Project under National eGovernance Plan (NeGP). The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has been operating it from end-to-end for registry and incorporation related services of Companies & LLPs since 2006 and corporates have been making filings on this portal since then.  During the recent period from 01.04.2024 to 27.01.2025, a total of 80.26 lakh forms have been filed on the MCA21 portal, compared to 73.29 lakh forms filed during the corresponding period in the previous year. Also, on the newly developed MCA21 V3 platform, 53.08 lakh forms were filed from 01.04.2024 to 27.01.2025, as against 47.72 lakh forms filed during the same period in the preceding year indicating an overall increase in the number of filings, enhanced stakeholder engagement with the system as also the robustness & reliability of the MCA21 platform.

     The MCA21 V3 platform facilitates Ease of Doing Business, and has introduced web-based forms, enabling real-time validation of the data entered by stakeholders. Additionally, a user registration process has been implemented to enhance user identification and authentication. This process enables users to track the status of their filed forms and download challans and certificates directly from their application dashboard. To further support stakeholders, a live chat feature has been integrated into the helpdesk, providing real-time assistance and enhancing the overall user experience.

    The security and confidentiality of information submitted through the MCA21 portal are ensured by adhering to established data security standards, including the MEITY guidelines, CERT-In regulations, ISO 27001, and Information Security Protocols. Multi-factor authentication has been introduced to verify the identity of users accessing the system. Additionally, measures such as masking private information from public view have been implemented to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the data.

    The Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Harsh Malhotra stated this in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    NB/AD

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unlocking Creativity through Trailer Making Competition; Creators to get a chance to develop compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Unlocking Creativity through Trailer Making Competition; Creators to get a chance to develop compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library

    Enthusiasm soars with over 3200 registrations so far with an opportunity for aspiring creators and professionals to seize the chance before the March 31st deadline

    Delhi Roadshow of Trailer Making Competition ignites creativity at GTB4CEC; Fuels aspirations of budding filmmakers

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Trailer Making Competition Delhi Roadshow took centre stage at Gurutegh Bahadur 4th Centenary Engineering College (GTB4CEC) last week, marking a key stop in a series of roadshows leading up to the grand finale of the nationwide Trailer Making Competition.

    Organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and Reskilll, with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Netflix as the creative partner, GTB4CEC as the academic partner, this initiative provided an unparalleled platform for participants to explore the art of storytelling and video editing.

    A Platform for Creativity and Innovation

    Unlocking Creativity: Trailer Making Competition, powered by Netflix Fund for Creative Equity as part of the WAVES 2025, is a competition designed to inspire and equip aspiring filmmakers. This unique initiative offers students the chance to create compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library. It featured an intensive 3-month cohort to equip participants with in-depth skills in video editing, storytelling, and trailer production.

     

    Participants in the Trailer Making Competition will receive various recognitions and rewards based on their performance. Every participant who submits a valid trailer will be awarded a Certificate of Participation. The top 50 entrants will receive a Certificate of Excellence along with exclusive recognition from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and Netflix.

    Furthermore, the top 20 contenders will be honoured with a trophy, exclusive merchandise, and the unique opportunity to attend the WAVES, showcasing their achievements and connecting with industry leaders.

    Registrations are ongoing and will close on 31st March 2025. Till now, around 3200 registrations from around the globe have been done. The general profiles of participants range from college students i.e. aspiring content creators and video editors to working professionals jumping on their hobby or applying using their ongoing venture as editors and creators.

    Registration link: https://reskilll.com/hack/wavesficci/signup

    Delhi Roadshow at GTB4CEC

    Roadshows across the country, including the Delhi Roadshow at GTB4CEC, have been pivotal in inspiring and nurturing creative talent.

     

    Key Highlights of the Delhi Roadshow

    • Hands-On Workshops:

    Participants received practical training in green screen editing, color correction, and advanced video editing techniques.

    • Creative Challenge:

    Attendees crafted engaging trailers based on provided themes, showcasing their storytelling and technical abilities.

    • Industry Insights:

    A panel of experts evaluated the trailers and shared valuable feedback to help participants refine their craft.

    • Showcase of Talent:

    The roadshow celebrated the creativity of budding filmmakers and editors, building momentum as they prepare for the grand finale.

    The event featured Dhruv Mathur, Senior Video Editor at Reskill, as the key speaker, who shared his expertise in video editing and provided guidance to participants on mastering storytelling techniques.

    The Road Ahead

    The Trailer Making Competition and its roadshows aim to identify and nurture the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers. With the cohort completed, participants are now set to compete for prestigious awards and industry recognition at the grand finale during the Waves Summit.

    The Delhi Roadshow was a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and video editing, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to this nationwide competition.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Women-led StartUps from India making global mark, says Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Women-led StartUps from India making global mark, says Jitendra Singh

    Women entrepreneurship holds the promise to realise the Viksit Bharat goal, says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Indian women increasingly assuming leadership role in development sectors under the Modi regime: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said here today that some of the women-led StartUps from India are making a global mark.

    Not only this, the Minister said, even in difficult sectors like the Space, women-led projects have been hailed worldwide and cited the example of India’s Solar mission “Aditya L1” which is led by Nigar Shaji who became known as ISRO’s “Sunny Lady”.

    Dr Jitendra Singh said, women-led development is a key priority of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance agenda with the vision that women-led startups will place India on the global map in the years to come and our women entrepreneurs have the potential to realise that goal.

    Speaking to a delegation of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry – Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO), led by its YFLO Delhi President Dr. Payal Kanodia, Dr. Jitendra Singh said, the Prime Minister has laid out the vision of Indian startups leading the global innovation race, with women-led businesses at the forefront across sectors. He also said, from 2014 onwards, women empowerment has got a practical meaning with many of the welfare schemes including entrepreneurship promoting schemes like PM MUDRA and PM Vishwakarma schemes largely benefiting the women workforce. He further said, women entrepreneurship is being promoted in a big way under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

     

    A delegation of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry – Ladies Organisation (FICCI-FLO) calling on Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in New Delhi.

     

    The Union Minister further said, the paradigm shift in women empowerment has enabled our womenfolk to increasingly assume leadership role in every sphere of life and every profession, moving away from a long-held participatory role.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also told the delegation that nearly 70 percent of the youth who have availed financial assistance under PM Mudra Yojana are women to set up their own means to earn livelihoods for themselves, and become job providers for others. He also asked the delegation to contribute at its best to realize the vision of Prime Minister Modi’s a developed India by 2047, adding that the government has taken upon itself to scale up capacity building of its youth population including the young women.

    The Union Minister further told, the exclusive asset of India, the traditional artisans and craftsmen, has been brought into the mainstream with the launch of PM Vishwakarma by the Prime Minister. He said, the traditional artisans and craftsmen are as integral as anything in Indian society who have kept alive the centuries old traditions and crafts of the country but were never taken care of since independence. He further said, it was only possible under the Modi regime that this integral part of the society is supported and skilled now with the launch of the new scheme and under this Scheme the Government is not only providing free training to the beneficiaries but also giving them stipend during the training period with no liability on parents of the artisans and craftsmen.

     

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also said, the Modi Government has taken many revolutionary steps to provide employment avenues to its youth populace by launching various schemes and also by revolutionizing the work culture in the country by combining the best features of Indian tradition with modernity keeping in view the diversity of the country.

    ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chhattisgarh Governor meets Prime Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Ramen Deka met the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle on X posted:

    “Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Ramen Deka, met Prime Minister @narendramodi.

    @GovernorCG”

    *****

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2099215) Visitor Counter : 38

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unlocking Creativity through Trailer Making Competition; Students get a chance to create compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library

    Source: Government of India

    Unlocking Creativity through Trailer Making Competition; Students get a chance to create compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library

    Enthusiasm soars with over 3200 registrations so far with an opportunity for aspiring creators and professionals to seize the chance before the March 31st deadline

    Delhi Roadshow of Trailer Making Competition ignites creativity at GTB4CEC; Fuels aspirations of budding filmmakers

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Trailer Making Competition Delhi Roadshow took centre stage at Gurutegh Bahadur 4th Centenary Engineering College (GTB4CEC) last week, marking a key stop in a series of roadshows leading up to the grand finale of the nationwide Trailer Making Competition.

    Organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and Reskilll, with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Netflix as the creative partner, GTB4CEC as the academic partner, this initiative provided an unparalleled platform for participants to explore the art of storytelling and video editing.

    A Platform for Creativity and Innovation

    Unlocking Creativity: Trailer Making Competition, powered by Netflix Fund for Creative Equity as part of the WAVES 2025, is a competition designed to inspire and equip aspiring filmmakers. This unique initiative offers students the chance to create compelling trailers, drawing from Netflix’s extensive content library. It featured an intensive 3-month cohort to equip participants with in-depth skills in video editing, storytelling, and trailer production.

     

    Participants in the Trailer Making Competition will receive various recognitions and rewards based on their performance. Every participant who submits a valid trailer will be awarded a Certificate of Participation. The top 50 entrants will receive a Certificate of Excellence along with exclusive recognition from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and Netflix.

    Furthermore, the top 20 contenders will be honoured with a trophy, exclusive merchandise, and the unique opportunity to attend the WAVES, showcasing their achievements and connecting with industry leaders.

    Registrations are ongoing and will close on 31st March 2025. Till now, around 3200 registrations from around the globe have been done. The general profiles of participants range from college students i.e. aspiring content creators and video editors to working professionals jumping on their hobby or applying using their ongoing venture as editors and creators.

    Registration link: https://reskilll.com/hack/wavesficci/signup

    Delhi Roadshow at GTB4CEC

    Roadshows across the country, including the Delhi Roadshow at GTB4CEC, have been pivotal in inspiring and nurturing creative talent.

     

    Key Highlights of the Delhi Roadshow

    • Hands-On Workshops:

    Participants received practical training in green screen editing, color correction, and advanced video editing techniques.

    • Creative Challenge:

    Attendees crafted engaging trailers based on provided themes, showcasing their storytelling and technical abilities.

    • Industry Insights:

    A panel of experts evaluated the trailers and shared valuable feedback to help participants refine their craft.

    • Showcase of Talent:

    The roadshow celebrated the creativity of budding filmmakers and editors, building momentum as they prepare for the grand finale.

    The event featured Dhruv Mathur, Senior Video Editor at Reskill, as the key speaker, who shared his expertise in video editing and provided guidance to participants on mastering storytelling techniques.

    The Road Ahead

    The Trailer Making Competition and its roadshows aim to identify and nurture the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers. With the cohort completed, participants are now set to compete for prestigious awards and industry recognition at the grand finale during the Waves Summit.

    The Delhi Roadshow was a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and video editing, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to this nationwide competition.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) signs MoU with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

    Source: Government of India

     Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) signs MoU with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

    The MoU aims to develop a digital programme which focusses on experiential learning aimed at promoting financial literacy for school children

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:44PM by PIB Delhi

    An MoU has been signed between Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) and Strategic Educational Professionals Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), for developing a digital programme which focusses on experiential learning aimed at promoting financial literacy for school children. It is envisaged to provide this content to select schools, including rural schools, through a pilot project. This programme envisages delivery of this program through training of school teachers.

    The Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Harsh Malhotra stated this in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    NB/AD

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dedication of India’s First Ferret Research Facility, Launch of GARBHINI-DRISHTI, & Execution of Technology Transfer Agreement between THSTI and Sundyota Numandis Probioceuticals Pvt. Ltd.

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:42PM by PIB Delhi

    India’s commitment to cutting-edge biomedical research and innovation took a significant leap forward today with the dedication of the nation’s first Ferret Research Facility, the launch of the GARBH-INi-DRISHTI data repository, and the execution of a key technology transfer agreement. The events, held at the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in the NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana, were presided over by Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Director General, Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council and Secretary, Department of Biotechnology on 3rd Feb 2025.

    The newly inaugurated THSTI Ferret Research Facility, a state-of-the-art establishment adhering to the highest biosafety and research standards, marks a pivotal moment in India’s fight against infectious and non-communicable diseases. This pioneering facility will serve as a crucial resource for vaccine development, therapeutic testing, and research into emerging infectious diseases, significantly bolstering India’s pandemic preparedness strategy and positioning the nation at the forefront of global scientific endeavors.

    Dr. Gokhale also launched GARBH-INi-DRISHTI, the DBT Data Repository and Information Sharing Hub at THSTI. This groundbreaking platform, developed under the GARBH-INi program, provides access to an unprecedented wealth of clinical data, images, and biospecimens collected from over 12,000 pregnant women, newborns, and postpartum mothers. As one of South Asia’s largest maternal and child health databases, GARBH-INi-DRISHTI will empower researchers worldwide to conduct transformative research aimed at improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Its foundation lies in collaborative efforts across India’s leading research institutions and hospitals, representing a powerful synergy of expertise.

    Furthering the drive to translate research into tangible benefits, THSTI executed a Technology Transfer Agreement with M/s Sundyota Numandis Probioceuticals Pvt. Ltd. This agreement facilitates the commercialization of THSTI’s innovative, genetically defined synthetic microbial consortium, Lactobacillus crispatus. Isolated from the reproductive tracts of women enrolled in the GARBH-INi cohort, this consortium holds immense promise for nutraceutical applications, promoting overall health and well-being through targeted microbiome-based interventions.

    Prof. GanesanKarthikeyan, Executive Director of THSTI, highlighted the institute’s strategic role in shaping India’s biotech ecosystem, emphasizing its contributions to fostering a robust environment for research and commercialization.

    Dr. Gokhale lauded THSTI’s commitment to translational research, recognizing the Ferret Facility as a landmark achievement placing India among select nations with such capabilities. He commended the development of GARBH-INi-DRISHTI, emphasizing its potential to empower researchers nationwide in improving birth outcomes. Dr. Gokhale also underscored the importance of technology transfer agreements in driving the biomanufacturing ecosystem and applauded THSTI’s efforts in forging industry partnerships for commercialization. These combined initiatives represent a powerful confluence of scientific advancement, data-driven research, and industry collaboration, propelling India towards a healthier and more prosperous future.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bengaluru scientists developed a novel alloy-based catalyst for the efficient generation of green hydrogen

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

    A new efficient alloy-based catalyst developed for improved hydrogen production through electrolysis of water into hydrogen and oxygen, can pave the path towards a solution for clean energy production.

    This innovative approach using high-entropy alloy (HEA), could reduce reliance on expensive materials like platinum for clean energy production.

    Typically, alloys are metallic substances composed of two or more elements, that are prepared by adding relatively small amounts of secondary elements to a primary metal. High Entropy Alloys (HEAs), on the other hand, are advanced materials that contain multiple elements (usually five or more) in almost equal concentrations. Here, the entropic (state of disorder) contribution to the total free energy overcomes the enthalpic (sum of internal energy and the product of its pressure and volume) contribution and, thereby, stabilizes the alloy formation. These HEAs are known for their versatility and potential to replace commercial catalysts in water-splitting applications. In this context, preparation of single-phase HEA nanoparticles devoid of any impurity phases by bottom-up chemical synthetic methods is highly challenging.

    Researchers at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have developed a novel high-entropy alloy (HEA) catalyst called PtPdCoNiMn (consisting of Platinum, Palladium, Cobalt, Nickel and Manganese). The selection of these constituent metals was based on guidelines designed and developed by Dr. Prashant Singh, a Staff Scientist from AMES National Laboratory, USA. Once the final composition was identified, the CeNS researchers prepared the HEA via two different approaches – electrodeposition at room temperature and atmospheric pressure and (chemical synthesis under high temperature and pressure in a given solvent called solvothermal processes.  

    For the electrodeposition, the choice of solvent and the deposition potential was optimized for developing the HEA. In the solvothermal method, through a series of optimization steps the researchers carefully selected the right solvent and reducing agent in precise ratios to control the reaction rate and synthesis process. These methods allowed the production of alloys with two, three, four, or all five elements in either single-phase or multi-phase forms. The PtPdCoNiMn HEA catalyst, created by combining platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and manganese (Mn), resulted in efficient hydrogen production with minimal energy loss, high durability, and long-term stability. Theoretical studies indicated the optimal binding of reaction intermediates on the catalyst surface to be the reason for the superiority of the developed HEA over commercial catalysts for hydrogen generation.

    As the HEA catalyst used seven times less platinum than commercial catalyst and offered better catalytic efficiency than pure platinum, it could be a viable alternative to conventional catalysts. These HEAs also displayed good performance in practical settings, including alkaline seawater, maintaining stability and efficiency for over 100 hours without degradation.

    This advancement could pave the way for cleaner, more affordable hydrogen production, benefiting industries and renewable energy technologies. The research was funded by India’s Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), of which the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is the administrative Department. Two papers from the research were recently published in the journals Advanced Functional Material and Small.

    Figure a) Hydrogen generation from HEA electrodeposited on carbon paper in a three-electrode system. Figure b) A comparison plot of the hydrogen generation performance of electrodeposited HEA (HEA-ED), HEA prepared using solvothermal method (HEA-ST) and commercial Pt/C.

    From L to R: Dr. Ashutosh Singh, Prof. B. L. V. Prasad and Ms. Athira Chandran.

     

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Steps by Government for Door-to-Door gas supply through pipeline

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Providing Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections is a part of the development of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network and the same is carried out by the entities authorised by Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB). PNGRB has authorized 307 Geographical Areas (GAs) covering almost 100% of total geographical area of the country spread over around 733 districts in 34 states/UTs for the development of CGD network. PNGRB has authorised 11 Geographical Areas (GAs) (including 3 GAs spread over Bihar and Jharkhand) covering entire state of Jharkhand for development of CGD network.

    Government has taken various steps to enable growth of CGD sector in the country. These interalia include

    • allocating domestic natural gas to CGD sector
    • notification for supply of domestic gas through available mode (including cascade mode) for PNG purpose.
    • Grant of Public Utility Status to CGD Projects.
    • Guidelines for the use of PNG in Defence residential area/unit lines.
    • Guidelines to Public Sector Enterprises to have provisions of PNG in their respective residential complexes.
    • CPWD and NBCC to have provisions of PNG in all Government Residential Complexes.

    In addition, Government conducts regular interactions and meetings with State Governments for the development of CGD network in respective States and address challenges in this regard.

    This information was given by THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS SHRI SURESH GOPI, in a written reply in Raya Sabha today

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION FROM RUSSIA CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 5:28PM by PIB Delhi

    A parliamentary delegation from the Russian Federation, led by H.E. Mr Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, called on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 3, 2025).

    Welcoming the delegation to India, the President said that exchanges of this nature among public representatives not only foster stronger cooperation but also allow the partnership to remain contemporary and updated. She stated that the positive impact of regular contacts is also evident in the broader ‘India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’, which continues to benefit significantly from the ongoing interaction at various levels.

    The President noted that at the leadership level, there is regular interaction between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. The level of cooperation between our parliaments has also been very good. She said that mechanisms like the Inter-Parliamentary Commission have played an important role in facilitating cooperation. She emphasised on special attention to closer interaction between women and youth parliamentarians of India and Russia.

    The President shared with the delegation that she had inaugurated the New Delhi World Book Fair, where Russia is the Focus Country. She said that this Fair gives Indian readers a wonderful opportunity to get to know the rich literary heritage of Russia. She urged for stronger engagements in cultural and artistic domains. 

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