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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre constitutes committee for formulating framework on Repairability Index in Mobile and Electronics Sector

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Centre constitutes committee for formulating framework on Repairability Index in Mobile and Electronics Sector

    Committee to recommend robust framework for Repairability Index to empower consumers and promote sustainable practices within tech industry

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:14PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India has constituted a committee of experts under the chairmanship of Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary, DoCA to recommend a robust framework for Repairability Index and to empower consumers and promote sustainable practices within the tech industry. By developing Repairability Index, DoCA seeks to provide consumers with greater transparency of repair information for their products and foster a more sustainable technology industry.

    In a significant step towards promoting consumer rights and sustainability, the National Workshop on the Right to Repair in the Mobile and Electronics Sector convened on August 29, 2024 has brought together industry stakeholders to establish a consensus in terms of framework for evaluating components for repairability index, fostering longevity in product design, and democratizing access to repair information as well as the availability of spare parts even after products are discontinued.

    It is considered that mobile and electronics have the fastest-growing demand and shortest lifespan. During the deliberation in the workshop, it was widely accepted that the framework on Repairability Index aimed to provide consumers with essential information about product repairability besides seamless access to spare parts will enable informed purchasing decisions.

    Repairability Index will be a consumer-focused indexing that enables consumers to take a product related decision, based on its repairability. Further, it can standardize how repairability is assessed, making it easier for consumers to compare products based on repairability indexing thereby creating an ecosystem of informed choices across mobile and electronics products.

    By standardizing the assessment of repairability, the index will create an ecosystem where consumers can easily compare products and choose options that align with the ethos of mindful consumption of products and sustainability. Thus, enabling repair would not only ensure the availability of affordable repair options but will also improve consumer satisfaction by bridging the information gaps for repairing the products.

    Key components of the Repair Ecosystem include:

    1. Comprehensive Repair Information: Access to repair manuals/DIYs, diagnostics, and a list of necessary tools and parts.
    2. Accessible Spare Parts: Easily identifiable and timely delivery of spare parts.
    3. Affordable Tools: Inexpensive, widely available, and safe tools for consumers.
    4. Modular Design: Key components designed for independent access and modularity.
    5. Economic Feasibility: Ensuring that the cost of repair parts and labor is affordable for consumers.

     

    Taking into account the above necessities the committee is expected to recommend enabling framework for Policies/Rules/Guidelines which support repairability and integration of repairability index with the extant regulatory provisions in mobile and electronics sector to enhance consumer experiences in reusing the mobile and electronics products they own.

    The members of the Committee include: Shri Anupam Mishra, Joint Secretary, DoCA, senior representatives from MiETY and MSME, Shri Dr. Alok Kumar Srivastava, Director General NTH, Dr. ABS Shalini, Director, DoCA, Shri Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman – Indian Cellular Electronics Association, the stakeholders from companies namely: Shri Raj Shau, Sr. Director and Group leader – Samsung Electronics, Ms. Aditi Chaturvedi, Government Affairs and Policy Head for platform and Devices, Google India, Shri Vasudeep, Head – Enterprise Business (India Region) HMD Mobiles India Pvt. Ltd., Ms Pushpa Girimaji, Consumer Activist and other representatives from the companies. The committee will submit a comprehensive report including a framework for repairability index in Indian context by 15thNovember, 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India graces the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institution Assembly

    Source: Government of India (2)

    President of India graces the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institution Assembly

    Audits and evaluations by SAIs not only safeguard public funds but also enhance public confidence in governance: President Murmu

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 12:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu graced the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institution (ASOSAI) Assembly, being organised by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, in New Delhi today (September 24, 2024).

    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the CAG of India plays a key role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the country’s public finance. It was not without reason that the Indian Constitution vested the office of CAG with a wide mandate and complete autonomy. She was happy to note that the office of the CAG has lived up to the expectations of the Constitution-makers. It follows a strict code of ethical and moral conduct that ensures the highest order of probity in its functioning.

    The President said that the mandate of public sector audits has expanded beyond traditional auditing to include assessing the effectiveness of public welfare schemes and projects, ensuring that they serve all citizens equitably. She stated that in an increasingly technology-driven world, more and more public services are being delivered using technology. Audit, therefore, needs to keep up with technological evolution in order to be able to perform its oversight functions effectively.

    The President said that today, we are at a critical juncture where emerging digital technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, machine learning and geo-spatial technology are becoming the backbone of modern governance. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) serves as the foundation to support and enhance the functioning of the digital economy and services provided to citizens.  From digital identities to e-governance platforms, DPI has the potential to revolutionise the delivery of public services and goods, making them more accessible, efficient, and inclusive.

    The President said that in many parts of the world, women and vulnerable sections of the society have less access to digital technologies, fewer opportunities to develop digital skills, and are under-represented in the digital economy. This divide not only limits their ability to access essential services but also perpetuates inequality. This is where the role of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) becomes crucial. As auditors, they have the unique responsibility and opportunity to ensure that digital public infrastructure is designed and implemented in a way that is inclusive and accessible to all.

    The President said that the financial world is often beset by opaque accounting practices. In this setting, the role of independent Supreme Audit Institutions is to see that public resources are managed efficiently, effectively and with the utmost integrity. Audits and evaluations by SAIs not only safeguard public funds but also enhance public confidence in governance.

    The President said that The institution of CAG of India has a rich history of public auditing. She expressed confidence that SAI India, as hosts of the 16th ASOSAI Assembly, will have a lot to offer in the deliberations of the learned minds gathered in the Assembly. She congratulated SAI India for assuming the Chairmanship of ASOSAI for the period 2024 to 2027. She expressed confidence that under the able stewardship of the CAG of India, ASOSAI will reach new heights, fostering greater cooperation and innovation among the members.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurates 41st Indian Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurates 41st Indian Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi

    “ICG is India’s foremost guard ensuring security of our vast coastline”

    RM exhorts ICG to become a technology-oriented force to deal with conventional & future threats

    Reiterates Govt’s resolve to build an Aatmanirbhar Coast Guard; 31 ICG ships, worth over Rs 4,000 crore, being built by Indian shipyards

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 1:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 41st edition of Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on September 24, 2024. The three-day meeting serves as a vital forum for ICG Commanders to engage in meaningful discussions on strategic, operational & administrative matters in the backdrop of the evolving geopolitical landscapes and complexities of maritime security.

    Addressing the senior Commanders at the Coast Guard Headquarters, the Raksha Mantri described ICG as India’s foremost guard, ensuring the security of the country’s vast coastline through constant monitoring of the Exclusive Economic Zone, and prevention of illegal activities such as terrorism and trafficking of arms, drugs & humans. Commending the bravery & dedication with which the ICG personnel serve the nation in the times of distress, he paid tributes to the bravehearts who lost their lives in a recent operation near Porbandar.

    Shri Rajnath Singh termed the contribution of ICG in protecting the nation from internal disasters as unparalleled. He extolled its quick response during an oil spill off Chennai after Cyclone Michaung, which averted a major damage to the coastal ecosystem of the area.

    Sharing his vision to make ICG as one of the strongest Coast Guards, the Raksha Mantri emphasised the need to move forward from being a human-oriented to a technology-oriented force to deal with conventional as well as emerging threats in today’s unpredictable times. He underlined the importance of ultra-modern technology on maritime borders, stating that it acts as a force multiplier to further strengthen the security system of the country.

    “The world is going through a phase of technological revolution. In this era of Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technology and drones, the field of security is witnessing significant changes. Given the current geopolitical situation, maritime threats will increase in the future. We need to be alert and ready. The importance of manpower will always remain, but the world should know us as a technology-oriented Coast Guard,” Shri Rajnath Singh said.

    While the Raksha Mantri stressed on the benefits of incorporating latest technology, he exhorted the Commanders to remain wary of its negative side. He termed technology as a double-edged sword and called upon ICG to be proactive, vigilant and prepared to tackle the potential challenges.

    Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the commitment of the Government, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to modernise & bolster the Armed Forces and ICG with indigenous platforms & equipment. On the efforts being made to attain ‘Aatmanirbharta’, he stated that 31 ships for ICG, worth more than Rs 4,000 crore, are being built by Indian shipyards. He also highlighted the approvals accorded by the Defence Acquisition Council to enhance the capabilities of ICG, which include procurement of Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft, Software Defined Radios, Interceptor Boats, Dornier aircraft and Next Generation Fast Patrol Vessels. Asserting that the three Services are evolving themselves with changing times, the Raksha Mantri urged the ICG to continue improving itself, creating a unique identity, gaining expertise in its domain, and moving forward with renewed vigour.

    The Raksha Mantri also paid tributes to late ICG DG Rakesh Pal who passed away due to a heart attack in Chennai recently. He described him as a kind-hearted and capable officer whose untimely death, he said, is an irreparable loss.

    Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar and Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Dr Niten Chandra were among the senior officers present on the occasion.

    During the course of the conference, the ICG Commanders will also interact with the Chief of Defence Staff, as well as the Chief of the Naval Staff and the Engineer-in-Chief. The discussions are designed to foster collaboration among the Services across the full spectrum of maritime security, while also promoting the growth and infrastructure development of ICG.

    The conference provides a platform for senior ICG leaders to meticulously evaluate key operational, material, logistical, HR development, training, and administrative initiatives undertaken over the past year. They will also deliberate on vital milestones essential for the protection of the maritime interests of the nation. The Commanders will assess ongoing ICG projects designed to bolster Indigenisation through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, harmonising with the Government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

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    VK/SR/Savvy

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVAL SHIP TALWAR ARRIVES IN MOMBASA, KENYA

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 23 SEP 2024 8:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate, INS Talwar, arrived in Mombasa, Kenya, on 22 Sep 24. The visit aims to strengthen ties further and reaffirm India’s commitment to constructive collaboration and mutual growth.

    During the ship’s stay in the harbour, personnel from both navies will engage in a wide range of professional interactions and cross-exchange visits to enhance cooperation and bolster interoperability.

    India and Kenya share a strong bond built on a foundation of centuries-old historical ties. As geographic neighbours linked by the Indian Ocean, the two nations cherish a natural partnership, further strengthened over the years by regular high-level visits, increasing trade and investment, and extensive people-to-people contact.

    Maritime cooperation between India and Kenya is guided by the Vision Statement ‘BAHARI’, meaning ‘Ocean’ in Swahili. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto released the Joint Vision Statement in December 2023 during the Kenyan president’s state visit to India.

    INS Talwar was commissioned on 18 June 2003 and is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command. Captain Jithu George commands the ship, which has a complement of approximately 300 personnel.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: State Capacity Building Workshop organised by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology organises for Chief Information Security Officers of Uttarakhand Government

    Source: Government of India

    State Capacity Building Workshop organised by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology organises for Chief Information Security Officers of Uttarakhand Government

    Training program will strengthen the cybersecurity posture of government departments;l by enhancing the cyber defense capabilities of state departments

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 11:23AM by PIB Delhi

    A three-day Cyber Security and Best Practices Workshop for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) of the Government of Uttarakhand is being held at the Civil Services Institute, Dehradun, from September 23-25, 2024 for 25 participants from 20+ state departments. The workshop is organized by the Information Technology Development Agency (ITDA), Department of IT, Government of Uttarakhand, in collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

    The workshop was inaugurated by Smt. Nitika Khandelwal, IAS, Director, ITDA, who highlighted the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding the digital infrastructure and e-governance services of the state. She emphasized the importance of building capacity among government officers to address the evolving cyber threats faced by government departments.

    NeGD’s Cybersecurity Training for CISOs

    This training program is part of the State Capacity Building Series initiated by NeGD, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity preparedness and resilience among state government officials. It focuses on strengthening the cybersecurity posture of government departments by providing CISOs with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and mitigate cyber risks effectively.

    Program Overview:

    The three-day workshop is designed to:

    • Raise awareness on key cybersecurity issues, governance, and risk management frameworks.
    • Equip participants with practical knowledge in network and cloud security, critical for securing state-level e-governance systems.
    • Provide in-depth sessions on data protection, application security, and endpoint security, ensuring the safeguarding of sensitive information across government platforms.
    • Train participants in developing and implementing Cyber Crisis Management Plans (CCMP), enabling departments to respond effectively to cybersecurity incidents.
    • Address identity and access management challenges, enhancing the secure use of digital systems within government departments.

    This hands-on, intensive training will equip over 25 participants from various departments with the tools to create a secure and resilient e-governance ecosystem.

    Key Highlights:

    • The workshop covers a wide array of cybersecurity topics, focusing on protecting critical government infrastructure and enhancing the cyber defense capabilities of state departments.
    • Participants will receive guidance on adhering to national cybersecurity frameworks and standards, ensuring compliance with CERT-In guidelines and relevant legal frameworks.
    • The training includes practical sessions aimed at improving the cybersecurity protocols and strategies adopted by government departments in Uttarakhand.

    The workshop will continue over the next two days, with additional sessions on cybersecurity audits, data governance, and incident response frameworks, further strengthening the participants’ capacity to secure government systems.

    This workshop marks an important step in building a robust cybersecurity framework for the Government of Uttarakhand. It is a part of NeGD’s ongoing efforts to enhance cybersecurity awareness and build capacities across state governments, contributing to the overall vision of a secure and digitally empowered India under the Digital India initiative.

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    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Driving Cleanliness: Sanju Devi’s Journey to Sanitation in Patna

    Source: Government of India

    Driving Cleanliness: Sanju Devi’s Journey to Sanitation in Patna

    How One Woman’s Courage Transforms Sanitation and Gender Roles in Her Community

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 11:37AM by PIB Delhi

    Driving Cleanliness: Sanju Devi’s Journey to Sanitation in Patna

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena / Saurabh Kalia

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi reviews institute research and development in drone application for fisheries management in ICAR-CIFRI, Kolkata today

    Source: Government of India

    Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi reviews institute research and development in drone application for fisheries management in ICAR-CIFRI, Kolkata today

    Drone based application should reach to the fish farmers for wider utilisation: Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi

    Secretary Dr. Likhi witnesses demonstration of Drone Technology in Fisheries Application at ICAR – Central lnland Fisheries Research Institute

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi visited ICAR- Central lnland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Kolkata today for reviewing the institute research and development in drone application for fisheries management. Scientists, State fisheries official, Fishermen and fisherwomen attended the event. During presentation senior officers from fisheries department from states, ministry of civil aviation, NAFED, NCDC, NERMARC, SFAC, retailers, start-ups, fisheries subordinate offices, State Government officials, FFPOs, cooperatives etc. are invited to join through virtual conference.

    During the drone demonstration, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi actively interacted with the fish farmers and fishers, listening to their experiences, success stories and the challenges they face in their daily operations. This interaction provided valuable insights into how modern technology, like drones, can address their needs, improve efficiency, and enhance productivity in the fisheries sector, while also offering a platform for them to voice their aspirations and concerns.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary said that pilot project undertaken by ICAR-CIFRI will open new horizon in fisheries section by providing an effective and promising alternative for transporting fresh fish with less time and minimum human involvement while minimizing stress to the fish. The research and development on fish transportation using drone technology with private partnership would also enable consumers and farmers to have better hygienic fresh fish in the supply chain system, he added.

    Dr. Likhi said that Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samridhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY) with an outlay of Rs 6000 crore was approved in February 2024 which aims to support formalization of the unorganized fisheries sector by creating a National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) for providing work-based identifies, fish farmers, fish vendors including the fisheries sector microenterprises and small enterprises by 2025. PM-MKSSY, through NFDP, will also facilitate access and incentivize uptake of institutional credit, purchase of aquaculture insurance, strengthen co-operatives to become FFPOs, adoption of traceability, performance grant for adoption of practices that will bring in value-chain efficiencies and safety and quality assurance and job creation, the Secretary added.

     

    The Secretary urged the ICAR-CIFRI and other stakeholders to take step for making these drone based applications reach to the fish farmers and ensure that all can have access to it. He also asked the Fisheries Department to document all these valuable demonstrations and send to the the Ministry so that they can be utilized for creating awareness among the fish farmers across the country.

    In the review meeting, Director, ICAR-CIFRI Dr. B. K. Das elaborately presented the institute achievements and progress made in drone-based technologies. Presentation on application of Drone Technology in fisheries was also made by a start-up.

    Different drone-based technologies viz. sprayer drone, feed broadcast drone and cargo delivery drone were demonstrated by ICAR-CIFRI and star-up companies among more than 100 fishermen and fisherwomen. The pilot project undertaken by ICAR-CIFRI will open new horizon in fisheries section by providing an effective and promising alternative for transporting fresh fish with less time and minimum human involvement while minimizing stress to the fish. The research and development on fish transportation using drone technology with private partnership would also enable consumers and farmers to have better hygienic fresh fish in the supply chain system.

    In Indian fisheries sector, the monitoring and management of aquatic resources faces numerous challenges that hinder effective and sustainable planning for the conservation of aquatic resources. Though the farming system is reforming every day to keep pace with the ever-increasing evolution of modern technologies, the systematic fish transportation for economical utilization of the landed fish lacks the proper scientific methodology, time efficiency and cost-effective means since it is an essential prerequisite for the appropriate development of our fishing and fish processing industries. The long time required for transportation over long distances from remote catch areas and the lack of handling and preservation can cause irreparable damage to the fish and even death, which incurs low market prices and huge losses to farmers.

    In recent times, modern technology such as drone has tremendous potential to deliver vital goods to remote locations, overcoming access barriers and enabling faster delivery.  To explore the potential of drone technology in the fishery sector, the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of India assigned a pilot project on “Developing drone technology for live fish transport” to ICAR-CIFRI. The project will be carried out by ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Kolkata aiming to design and develop a 100 kg payload drone carrying live fish up to 10 km.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Textiles conducts comprehensive cleanliness and hygiene campaign under ‘Swachhata Hi Seva 2024’

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Textiles, through its various subordinate offices, attached, and autonomous bodies, is observing the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva 2024’ campaign under the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.” This initiative is a part of the nationwide cleanliness drive, inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for a cleaner and greener India.

    Jute Corporation of India

    The Jute Corporation of India (JCI) Regional Office in Nagaon took the lead by organizing a free health check-up camp for the Safai Mitras of the Nagaon Municipal Board. This initiative was a gesture of gratitude for the hard work and dedication of Safai Karamcharis, recognizing their essential role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in daily life.

    National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)

    At NIFT campuses, street plays, Nukkad Nataks, and reel-making competition skits were organized to raise awareness about cleanliness and hygiene. NIFT students performed with enthusiasm, energizing the campus with creative and impactful performances centered around the theme “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata.” These efforts inspired both students and staff to take concrete action towards a cleaner, greener India.

       

     

    Ministry of Textiles Headquarters

    At the Ministry of Textiles Headquarters, a special event under the theme “Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs” was organized. Masks and sanitizers were distributed to Safai Karamcharis to promote personal hygiene and protection, ensuring their health and well-being as they continue to play an indispensable role in keeping workplaces and public spaces clean.

    Textiles Committee

    The Textiles Committee launched a cyber hygiene drive across its headquarters and regional offices. As part of this initiative, antivirus software was installed, and awareness workshops were held to sensitize employees about cyber hygiene. Senior officers also inspected different sections and divisions, ensuring the cleanliness and beautification of the workplace. The initiative aimed to enhance office space management and ensure better cybersecurity practices.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA response to public comments by US Deputy Secretary of State Campbell on UNGA Resolution 2758 and cross-strait peace and stability

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan 3

    MOFA response to public comments by US Deputy Secretary of State Campbell on UNGA Resolution 2758 and cross-strait peace and stability

    Date：2024-09-20
    Data Source：Department of North American Affairs

    September 20, 2024 

    The US House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs held a hearing on “Great Power Competition in the Indo-Pacific” on September 18. In response to a question concerning the fact that Taiwan’s status was not mentioned in United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell agreed, pointing out that China was using the resolution as a diplomatic tool to falsely portray Taiwan’s status as illegitimate and that China was conflating its interpretation with its “one China principle” in order to suppress Taiwan. Deputy Secretary Campbell reaffirmed the unwavering US commitment to Taiwan and the long-standing US efforts to preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing that this was a bipartisan consensus. 
     
    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) welcomes and appreciates that yet another high-level US diplomat has publicly pointed out China’s misrepresentation of UNGA Resolution 2758 and reiterated bipartisan US support for maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The comments follow remarks made earlier by US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Mark Lambert and Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink. 
     
    MOFA is pleased that in addition to the United States, like-minded nations including Australia and the Netherlands have adopted friendly resolutions or motions stating that UNGA Resolution 2758 made no reference to Taiwan. MOFA calls on the international community to jointly take concrete actions to refute China’s misrepresentation of the resolution and oppose its spurious claims of there being an international consensus on its “one China principle.” Taiwan will continue to cooperate with the United States and other like-minded countries and together preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and throughout the Indo-Pacific.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Launches Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 to Protect the Health and Well-Being of India’s Youth

    Source: Government of India

    Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Launches Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 to Protect the Health and Well-Being of India’s Youth

    Every year around 13 lakh people lose their lives due to tobacco in India. Tobacco has become a fashion statement among the youth but it can lead to dangerous diseases like cancer: Shri Prataprao Jadhav

    “The development of the nation is closely linked to the health of its young population”

    Renowned celebrities, sportspersons and influencers like Aparshakti Khurana, Manu Bhaker, Navdeep Singh, Ankit Baiyanpuria, Gaurav Chaudhary and Janhvi Singh addressed the gathering and shared insightful views

    Posted On: 24 SEP 2024 3:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav launched the second edition of Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 at a hybrid event held at Lady Hardinge Medical College, here today. He also virtually inaugurated Tobacco Cessation Centres in medical institutions across India. The objective of the campaign is to protect the health and well-being of young people from the harmful effects of tobacco.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Prataprao Jadhav said that “every year around 13 lakh people lose their lives due to tobacco in India.” He also cautioned that “tobacco has become a fashion statement among the youth but it can lead to dangerous diseases like cancer.”

    Motivating the youth to prioritize their health over tobacco use, Shri Jadhav stated that “good health is intrinsically related to own as well as closed one’s happiness”. He also highlighted that the development of the nation is closely linked to the health of its young population and urged everyone to pledge to resist and quit tobacco. He also urged elders to take responsibility of ensuring the youth don’t fall into tobacco use.

    He stated that this year’s 60-day campaign prioritizes five key areas:

    1. Increasing public awareness about the dangers of tobacco, particularly among youth and rural communities;
    2. Improving compliance with the revised guidelines for Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) to keep schools and colleges free from tobacco;
    3. Strengthening the enforcement of tobacco control laws, especially COTPA 2003 and the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019, to limit youth access to tobacco;
    4. Promoting Tobacco-Free Villages, where communities work together to eliminate tobacco and create healthier environments; and
    5. Boosting social media outreach, using digital platforms to deliver strong messages about the harms of tobacco and the benefits of quitting to young people.

     

     

    All participants took the ‘Say No To Tobacco’ pledge to remain tobacco-free, followed by a photo session featuring students and celebrities. Renowned celebrities, sportspersons and influencers like Aparshakti Khurana, Manu Bhaker, Navdeep Singh, Ankit Baiyanpuria, Gaurav Chaudhary and Janhvi Singh addressed the gathering and shared insightful views.

      

     

    The event witnessed the launch of an educational video by WHO to be released in all schools, sensitizing young students on the detrimental effects of tobacco use. Three important guidelines- Health Workers Guide, SOPs for Villages to be Tobacco Free and the Guidelines for Law Enforcers for Effective Implementation of Tobacco Control Laws 2024 were launched during the occasion. A testimonial video by Voice of Tobacco Victims (VoTV), a group of cancer survivors sharing their experience of battling cancer due to tobacco use was also run at the event. A bike rally by two famous biking groups – Harley Owners Group and Delhi Bikers Breakfast Run was also flagged off during the event to spread awareness on the campaign.

    The event concluded with the Union Health Ministry officials urging all stakeholders to stay actively involved in the campaign by following its social media channels. The Ministry encouraged everyone to show their support by participating in the campaign’s activities and sharing updates on its progress, helping to amplify the message and reach a wider audience nationwide.

    Background:

    The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced the first Tobacco Free Youth Campaign last year, on May 31, 2023, in celebration of World No Tobacco Day. The campaign centered around four main strategies: raising public awareness about the dangers of tobacco, promoting the establishment of Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI), strengthening enforcement of Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2023, and creating Tobacco-Free Villages. The campaign was a huge success, with over 1,42,184 educational institutions and more than 12,000 villages declared tobacco-free. Additionally, COTPA 2003 was strictly enforced, with numerous challans issued.

    Building on this success, this year the Ministry launched the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0 with the aim to motivate young people to resist or quit tobacco use. The campaign will run for 60 days. It will focus on offering educational materials, promoting initiatives such as enforcement drives and IEC activities and establishment of tobacco free villages and educational institutions to encourage a tobacco-free lifestyle among young people across India.

    The Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0 also emphasizes a ‘whole of government’ approach through an increased partnership and coordination between seven ministries – Ministry of Education, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs and Ministry of Tribal Affairs as well as law enforcement units.

    The launch event of the campaign saw the in-person participation of over ­­500 people, and many participants joined online. Shri Apurva Chandra, Union Health Secretary; Smt. Puniya Salila Srivastava, Officer on Special Duty, MoHFW; Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, Smt. V Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary, MoHFW; Dr Sarita Beri, Director, Lady Hardinge Medical College; Dr. Roderico Ofrin, WHO Representative to India, senior officials from MoHFW, celebrities, influencers, among others. More than 300 school students from nearby Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI), NSS volunteers from My Bharat initiative and representatives from civil society organisations also participated in the event.

    Link for the Event: https://youtube.com/live/aosbWe7eNOY?feature=share

    Link for No Tobacco Pledge: https://pledge.mygov.in/say-no-to-tobacco/

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government appoints members to Council of Hong Kong Repertory Theatre Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government appoints members to Council of Hong Kong Repertory Theatre Limited
    Government appoints members to Council of Hong Kong Repertory Theatre Limited
    *****************************************************************************

         ​The Government announced today (September 24) that the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, has appointed or reappointed the following persons as Council members of the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre Limited for a period of two years, until the conclusion of the company’s Annual General Meeting in 2026. Mr Matt Fung Chi-ho (reappointment)Mr Irons Sze (reappointment)Mr Ivan Wong Siu-kei (reappointment)Ms Candy Chea Shuk-mui (new appointment)

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 18:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government recruitment activities in Beijing and Shanghai wrap up (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HKSAR Government recruitment activities in Beijing and Shanghai wrap up (with photos)
    HKSAR Government recruitment activities in Beijing and Shanghai wrap up (with photos)
    *************************************************************************************

         A series of recruitment activities organised by the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) in Beijing and Shanghai wrapped up today (September 24), attracting an online and in-person participation of over 1 800 Hong Kong people interested in applying for and learning about civil service posts in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government.     Five recruitment talks on the Administrative Officer (AO) and Executive Officer (EO) grades were held at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO), East China University of Political Science and Law, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Renmin University of China, and China University of Political Science and Law respectively. Most of the attendees were university students with immense interest in the AO and EO grades, and they were keen to ask questions on the relevant grades.     The CSB had specifically arranged for serving AO and EO colleagues who had studied or lived on the Mainland to share their work and personal experiences, and encourage university students to join the civil service. The Principal Assistant Secretary for the Civil Service (Administrative Service), Ms Yen Pun, and the Senior Principal Executive Officer (General Grades), Miss Iris Ma, also introduced the entry requirements, training programmes, examination and interview arrangements, as well as tips on preparing for examinations of the AO and EO grades at the seminars.     In addition, representatives of the CSB participated in the “Gathering with Hong Kong Students and Youth in East China Region to Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China” organised by the SHETO to introduce the AO and EO grades to the young participants. The aim was to enable them to know more about the work and career prospects of the grades concerned, and encourage them to apply for civil service posts in the HKSAR Government.     The CSB is currently conducting a joint recruitment exercise for the civil service grades of AO, EO II, Assistant Trade Officer II and Transport Officer II. The application deadline is October 4. Eligible applicants are encouraged to seize the opportunity to apply. For details, please visit the CSB’s website at www.csb.gov.hk.

     
    Ends/Tuesday, September 24, 2024Issued at HKT 18:38

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sep 23, 2024 HandyDART Workers Vote to Ratify Contract with Transdev

    Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

    Union Wins Pay Increases and Other Improvements

    Vancouver, BC  – HandyDART workers, members of ATU Local 1724-Vancouver, BC, voted to approve a strong collective bargaining agreement with contractor Transdev after reaching the deal last Friday.

    At a September 3 rally attended by ATU International President John Costa and allies, the more than 600 Metro Vancouver HandyDART workers walked off the job after Transdev refused to address the Union’s concerns over, wages, high worker turnover, and the skyrocketing use of taxis at HandyDART.

    “This is a great day for our members to ratify this contract,” said Local 1724 President/Business Agent Joe McCann “Our strike showed the power of fighting for our rights. We are thankful for the outpouring of support from our riders, fellow union members, and elected officials, many of whom walked our picket lines. After months of negotiations, this contract recognizes our members for the heroes they truly are.”

    The new contract includes significant wage increases that address the staffing shortages, and the Union was also able to push back on the use of taxis through creative language on shift scheduling and reporting.

    “It was inspiring to join our HandyDART members on their picket lines. This contract is a testament to their solidarity, resolve, and unity,” said ATU International President John Costa. “It is a win not only for our HandyDART workers but for the seniors and people with disabilities who rely on our members for safe and reliable transportation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Algernon Yau visits Singapore

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau met senior officials and business leaders in Singapore to deepen trade and economic ties, and explore collaboration opportunities during his visit from September 22 to 24.

    ​Mr Yau updated representatives from major business chambers of Singapore on Hong Kong’s latest developments and measures on assisting enterprises in setting up businesses in the city.

    They include the Singapore Business Federation, the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises of Singapore, the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

    He appealed to the Singaporean business sector to leverage Hong Kong’s unique advantages to explore the vast opportunities in the Mainland market, particularly the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    Yesterday, Mr Yau had a lunch meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade & Industry of Singapore Gan Kim Yong to discuss various trade and economic issues, and the regional economic landscape.

    Mr Yau thanked Singapore for supporting Hong Kong’s application for joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

    He noted that Hong Kong always treasures Singapore as a valuable economic partner both on its own and as a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) family.

    By joining the RCEP, Hong Kong can contribute to the wider and deeper economic co-operation and integration in the region, Mr Yau added.

    ​The commerce chief also paid a courtesy call on the Chinese Ambassador to Singapore Cao Zhongming to update him on Hong Kong’s latest situation. 

    ​Mr Yau then attended a dinner with Hong Kong entrepreneurs and executives working in Singapore to hear more about their work and lives.

    Today, ​he met Singapore Economic Development Board Chairman Png Cheong Boon to learn about Singapore’s latest developments and exchange views on investment promotion, saying he looked forward to further collaboration between Hong Kong and Singapore in different areas with a view to fostering even closer relations between the two economies.

    Noting that Hong Kong and Singapore have long been enjoying close and cordial bilateral trade and economic relations, Mr Yau highlighted that Singapore is Hong Kong’s fourth-largest trading partner and largest partner among the ASEAN member states in merchandise trade, as well as Hong Kong’s seventh-largest investor and sixth-largest destination of outward investment.

    The commerce chief will return to Hong Kong this evening.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Good employers lauded

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Labour Department today held a ceremony to commend good employers and launch its Good Employee Recognition Campaign.

    The department revealed that 1,596 organisations are signatories to the Good Employer Charter 2024, representing an increase of nearly 70% over the previous version. Among these organisations, 1,002 are authorised to use the “Supportive Family-friendly Good Employer” logo, which denotes commitment to promoting a family-friendly employment culture.

    Moreover, 318 organisations have been signatories for three consecutive terms of the charter, meaning they have consistently had good human resource management practices in place.

    At the ceremony, representatives from three signatories shared their experience in carrying out good human resource management and family-friendly employment practices.

    Meanwhile, employers are being encouraged to nominate employees for the inaugural Good Employee Recognition Campaign, launched to support the Good Employer Charter 2024.

    The campaign allows employers to show recognition and express gratitude for their employees’ contributions. Employers are assessed in terms of their abilities, attitude towards clients, adaptability, team spirit, and sense of belonging to the organisation.

    Nominated employees or teams accredited by the scheme’s panel of judges will each be awarded a Good Employee Commendation Certificate and a lapel pin in recognition of their outstanding performance and contribution.

    Speaking at the event, Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun thanked every good employer for implementing flexible work arrangements and offering assistance to employees to enable them to balance their work and personal lives. He said this was conducive to unleashing the potential of the local labour force.

    Mr Sun added that the current-term Government attaches great importance to improving employee benefits, promoting employment, and protecting occupational health and safety. He also expressed hope that different groups in society will continue to support the charter and the Good Employee Recognition Campaign, and work together to foster win-win labour relations, as well as a harmonious and inclusive community.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID and DFC Host Dialogue on Clean Energy Supply Chains as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development in Africa

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:‎

    Today, on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly, USAID Counselor Clinton White and DFC Deputy CEO Nisha Biswal co-hosted a side event on scaling clean energy supply chains in Africa can catalyze sustainable development and advance clean energy-led growth globally.  

    During the event, Senior Advisor to President Biden for International Climate Policy John Podesta and the DRC Minister of Mining Kizito Pakabomba discussed how to enhance collaboration to spur green industrialization in Africa, building on the success of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  

    Today’s event highlighted the vital role that clean energy supply chains play in driving sustainable development across Africa. Participants, including CEOs from clean energy manufacturing companies in Africa and in the United States underscored that by fostering partnerships among governments, the private sector, and civil society, we can harness Africa’s rich natural resources to build a clean energy industrial future that benefits all. The discussions not only focused on the opportunities presented by critical minerals but also addressed the imperative of ensuring that development is equitable, environmentally sustainable, and local. Participants agreed that there is an urgent need for collaboration across the private and public sector to scale clean energy supply chains.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USAID Joins PepsiCo, Unilever, Danone, McCormick & Company, and Nespresso to Launch Collaboration to Advance Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains

    Source: USAID

    Today, USAID joined consumer goods multinational companies PepsiCo, Unilever, Danone, McCormick & Company, and Nespresso in launching a new public-private partnership that aims to accelerate gender equality and enhance environmental sustainability in agricultural supply chains. The new initiative, Advancing Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains, aligns with the Women in the Sustainable Economy (WISE) initiative – a partnership launched by Vice President Kamala Harris in 2023 to bolster women’s economic security in sectors that address climate change. 

    With a planned, collective investment of $50 million to start – including over $11 million of USAID funding – this new agricultural supply chain initiative will help catalyze industry-level change through learning, scaling, and providing evidence on how supporting women in agricultural supply chains can help deliver environmental sustainability goals. The initiative will drive scale by bringing in new organizations and additional funds, with a total target of $90 million over the next five years. 

    In parallel, USAID also welcomed the Skoll Foundation as the newest partner to WISE through its support of the USAID-led Climate Gender Equity Fund – a public-private partnership with Amazon, Reckitt, the UPS Foundation, and the Visa Foundation that seeks to increase access to climate finance for women-led and women-benefiting organizations working at the forefront of climate action. Three of its newest grantees – Altree Capital, The Rallying Cry, and Villgro Philippines – were also announced. 

    Finally, Acumen, Germany, Heading for Change, the Republic of Cyprus, and the United Kingdom announced $339 million in new aligned commitments to advance the WISE Initiative through their independent efforts that advance WISE objectives. The Millennium Challenge Corporation, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and the U.S. Department of Energy announced $289 million in additional aligned U.S. government commitments to the WISE initiative. In all, today’s announcements total $681 million in direct and aligned commitments – bringing the collective commitment of 33 governments, corporations, foundations, and civil society organizations to a total of over $2 billion towards the WISE Initiative. 

    For more information about the WISE Initiative, please visit ClimateLinks or email wise@usaid.gov.

    Advancing Women for Resilient Agricultural Supply Chains Women in the Sustainable Economy WISE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman at Transforming Global Humanitarian Response for the 21st Century

    Source: USAID

    DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR ISOBEL COLEMAN: Thank you, Secretary [Antony] Blinken, Foreign Secretary [David] Lammy, Mr. [Ilan] Goldfajn, and Mr. [Børge] Brende for bringing us together today. 

    As you all have emphasized, every year, global humanitarian needs reach record highs. Today, more than 80 percent of the countries where USAID works, encompassing roughly two billion people, are fragile or conflict-affected states. 

    Our humanitarian assistance spending in response to crises has tripled in the last decade, while development assistance has been flat.  

    In other words, we’re dedicating more and more of our resources to responding to crises – instead of investing in long-term efforts to prevent them. 

    This is not sustainable.

    The solution requires all of us – humanitarian, development, and peace practitioners, governments, and the private sector – to more effectively meet the staggering global humanitarian needs while continuing to drive development gains. 

    This is why, in January, USAID launched an Agency-wide initiative to align our humanitarian, development, and peace efforts across our policy, planning, and programming – so that even while responding to crises, we are also making critical investments in long term stability and prevention. 

    We are taking practical steps to change the way we work, such as conducting an information campaign to increase the use of existing award flexibilities, aligning our humanitarian and development strategic planning processes, and co-hosting a global forum with the UK, Germany, the World Bank, UNICEF, and WFP on social protection in fragility and conflict.

    USAID is also leveraging funding from the Global Fragility Act to facilitate the kinds of private investment that can be so pivotal to preventing and more sustainably addressing global humanitarian needs. 

    Today, I am pleased to announce that we have partnered with the US Development Finance Corporation to create a new specialized unit to focus on identifying promising investment opportunities in fragile environments – where investments are often more complicated, riskier, and time-consuming. 

    We are eager to partner with you in catalyzing these critical investments, which align with so many of the goals we’ve discussed today. 

    I commend this group for your commitment to breaking down silos and identifying more sustainable and cost-effective ways to address the staggering global humanitarian needs we face today. 

    USAID is committed to advancing this agenda with you. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs bipartisan bills to address sideshows and street takeovers

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 23, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed four bills today to help law enforcement crack down on dangerous sideshows and street takeovers. These new laws will hold participants and organizers accountable by providing law enforcement with the tools to seize vehicles involved in these illegal activities.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom signed bipartisan legislation today to impose stricter penalties, increase accountability, and strengthen law enforcement’s ability to combat sideshows and street takeovers. These measures mark a step forward in improving road safety across California by addressing the rise of illegal street activities that endanger the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and communities. These new laws provide law enforcement with enhanced tools to more effectively deter illegal activities such as drifting, street racing, and blocking intersections during sideshows and street takeovers.

    “Sideshows are reckless, criminal activities that endanger our communities. We have seen too many people killed or hurt at these events. Today, we are sending a clear message to anyone considering participating in or attending a sideshow: stricter penalties are in place, including the potential loss of your vehicle.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Communities throughout California report increased sideshow activities and street takeovers. These dangerous events, where people race vehicles and shut down streets to perform stunts, can quickly turn deadly, often leading to accidents, spectator injuries, and other criminal activity, and block roadways and disrupt traffic flow, including access for emergency vehicles.

    Participants, organizers, and spectators be warned

    These new laws expand vehicle impoundment authority for law enforcement, including for spectators and those aiding in illegal speed contests and sideshows, while also standardizing terminology for “sideshows” and “street takeovers” statewide, and targeting reckless driving activities on highways and parking lots.

    Governor Newsom today strengthened California’s ability to improve road safety by signing the following bills:

    • AB 1978 by Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita) – Vehicles: speed contests
    • AB 2186 by Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-Palm Springs) – Vehicles: impoundment
    • AB 2807 by Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) – Vehicles: sideshows and street takeovers
    • AB 3085 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) – Vehicles: removal and impoundment

    Stronger enforcement. Serious penalties. Real consequences.

    Today’s signing follows the Governor’s recent signing of landmark legislation providing law enforcement and prosecutors with additional tools to arrest and prosecute criminals for smash-and-grabs, retail theft, auto burglaries, and other property crime. While California’s crime rate remains near historic lows, these laws help California adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable.

    Recent news

    Sep 23, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to develop a policy limiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026….

    Sep 23, 2024

    News What you need to know: California is launching a campaign to empower one million Californians to take climate action in their communities.  SACRAMENTO – During Climate Week, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new state initiative to mobilize one million…

    Sep 22, 2024

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills: AB 262 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Children’s camps: safety and regulation.AB 460 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – State Water…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor awards more than $7.4 million to continue disaster recovery after California’s severe winter storms in 2023

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of more than $7.4 million to support continued disaster-relief employment and workforce training for California residents affected by severe winter storms that occurred in late 2022 and early 2023. 

    On April 13, 2023, the department announced a National Dislocated Worker Grant of up to $22 million – with an initial award of $7.4 million – for the California Employment Development Department to provide people with temporary jobs focused on debris removal, water damage cleanup and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need after the storm. Funding also supports career and training services.

    Between Dec. 27, 2022, and Jan. 31, 2023, a series of winter storms and atmospheric rivers swept through California and caused damage in 51 of the state’s 58 counties. The storms produced flooding and mudslides, toppled trees, created sinkholes and damaged public and private lands. The Federal Emergency Management Agency issued a major disaster declaration on Jan. 14, 2023, enabling California to request federal assistance for recovery efforts. 

    Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, and supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, National Dislocated Worker Grants provide funding assistance to temporarily expand the service capacity of dislocated worker programs at the state and local levels when large, unexpected economic events cause significant job losses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs legislation to limit the use of smartphones during school hours

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 23, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to develop a policy limiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026.

    Sacramento, California – Building on his calls for school districts to restrict the use of smartphones on school campuses, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, to require every school district, charter school and county office of education to adopt a policy limiting or prohibiting the use of smartphones by July 1, 2026. Authored by Assemblymembers Josh Hoover, David Alvarez, Josh Lowenthal, and Al Muratsuchi, the bipartisan legislation will support the mental health, academic success, and social wellbeing of California’s students.

    “We know that excessive smartphone use increases anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues – but we have the power to intervene. This new law will help students focus on academics, social development, and the world in front of them, not their screens, when they’re in school.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “Reducing phone use in schools is essential for minimizing digital distractions and making space for stronger and more meaningful in-person connections. AB 3216 isn’t only about classroom instruction, it’s about protecting the mental health and social and emotional well-being of California’s kids.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    How we got here

    In 2019, Governor Newsom signed AB 272 (Muratsuchi) into law, which specified that school districts have the authority to regulate the use of smartphones during school hours. This legislation was a crucial first step in efforts to minimize distractions and foster a more conducive environment for our students to learn. In June, the Governor announced efforts to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day.
     

    Maintaining student safety

    The development of the policies will involve significant stakeholder participation to ensure they are responsive to the unique needs and desires of the local students, parents and educators and must allow students to use their phones in the case of an emergency, or in response to a perceived threat of danger, or as allowed by a teacher, administrator, doctor or the student’s individualized education program. 

    Why this matters

    Excessive smartphone use among youth is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 72% of high school and 33% of middle school teachers report cell phone distractions as a major problem. Common Sense Media found that 97% of students use their phones during the school day for a median of 43 minutes. Combined with the U.S. Surgeon General’s warning about the risks of social media, it is urgent to provide reasonable guardrails for smartphone use in schools.

    Supporting smartphone free classrooms

    Assemblyman Josh Hoover: “I appreciate the leadership of Governor Newsom and our bipartisan coalition of legislators that worked together to make the Phone-Free Schools Act a reality. AB 3216 is a major victory for protecting and improving the mental health and academic outcomes of students across California,” said Assemblyman Josh Hoover. “Research continues to demonstrate the potential harms of smartphone use among children. The growing use of these devices in a child’s everyday life can contribute to lower test scores, anxiety, depression, and even suicide. I am proud our state is taking action to limit the use of smartphones during the school day and protect kids from these harms.”

    Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee: “I thank the Governor for signing AB 3216. California school districts should place limits on student smartphone use on campus during school hours, unless approved by teachers or administrators for academic, emergency, or other purposes.  In 2019, I authored Assembly Bill 272, to encourage school districts to consider such limits.  Since then, growing research shows excessive smartphone use not only interfering with learning but also contributing to teenage anxiety, depression, and cyberbullying.  All school districts should develop their own appropriate policy to balance appropriate student use of smartphones at school with curbing the impact of excessive smartphone use on a student’s educational, social, and emotional well-being.”

    State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: “AB 3216 represents an important opportunity to address the mental health of our students by restricting smartphones in schools. I have directly engaged with our students, parents, and educators as we have explored the need for this important change.  I will continue to make sure that we hear the voices of our young people, their families, and our hardworking school staff as we implement smartphone restrictions across the state.”

    Statewide efforts to support youth mental health

    California is transforming our entire mental health and substance use disorder system, with a special focus on youth. For the youngest Californians, Governor Newsom developed the Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health to provide every Californian aged 0-25 with increased access to mental health and substance use disorder supports. The Master Plan also includes the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), a historic investment by the State of California that takes a “whole child” approach to address the factors that contribute to the mental health and well-being of our children and youth.

    Recent news

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    Sep 22, 2024

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    Sep 21, 2024

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Will Seek $45 Million in Additional Welfare Relief for Hawaiʻi Families

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA

    GOVERNOR GREEN WILL SEEK $45 MILLION IN ADDITIONAL WELFARE RELIEF FOR HAWAIʻI FAMILIES

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    September 23, 2024

    The state of Hawai‘i will implement rule changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that are expected to generate an additional $45 million in benefits for Hawai‘i’s struggling families.

    The changes — prompted by a recent study by the University of Hawai‘i Economic Research Organization (UHERO) — mean that an extra 13,000 to 14,000 households will be eligible for an average of $3,200 a year in SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps.

    “This is going to provide a huge relief for our working-class families who are struggling with Hawai‘i’s highest-in-the-nation cost of living,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. “In identifying a critical opportunity for our SNAP program, UHERO’s research team is enabling us to make much-needed changes to our social welfare system so that families living from paycheck to paycheck can afford to put more food on their tables.”

    In Hawai‘i, SNAP is one of the largest welfare programs available to low-income families. Currently, a family of four can receive as much as $1,759 a month in SNAP benefits. In a typical month, the total value of SNAP benefits in Hawai‘i exceeds $60 million.

    For decades, the SNAP eligibility criteria were controlled by the federal government. Following changes to the program in 2000, states were given more flexibility to adjust the eligibility rules by establishing a program of “broad-based categorical eligibility” (BBCE). Through BBCE, states were able to eliminate asset limits, which prevented households with high savings from receiving SNAP benefits. BBCE also allows states to raise limits on the amount of income households can receive and still qualify for SNAP.

    According to UHERO, eliminating another income criteria known as the “net income limit” will expand the number of Hawaiʻi households receiving SNAP benefits by 13,000 to 14,000. (“Net income” in the SNAP program is defined as the total monthly household income after deducting certain non-food household expenses like rent, utilities, medical costs, childcare costs and others. Before BBCE, households needed to have a net income below the federal poverty line to qualify for SNAP benefits.)

    Also according to UHERO, eliminating this limit will add little overhead: The state only needs to pay half of the additional administrative costs associated with the additional SNAP cases that would result. In 2019, Hawai‘i’s share of SNAP administrative costs was only about 5.6% of the amount of SNAP benefits that the state paid out to Hawai‘i families.

    “This decision has far-reaching implications,” said Dylan Moore, a co-author of the UHERO report. “This change may further increase benefit payments by making it easier for households to understand whether they are eligible for SNAP.”

    The Hawai‘i Public Health Institute’s Social Impact Policy Manager Nate Hix co-authored the report.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:   
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Phone: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected]

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: **UPDATE** News Release – Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    **UPDATE** News Release – Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    Posted on Sep 23, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION

    KA ‘OIHANA HOʻOMALU KALAIMA A HOʻOPONOPONO OLA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    TOMMY JOHNSON

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HO‘OKELE

     

     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Sept. 23, 2024

    UPDATE: Missing Work Furlough Inmate arrested, returned to custody

    HONOLULU — O‘ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) work furlough inmate Bobby M. Cotton is back in custody after sheriff’s deputies arrested him at The Queen’s Medical Center Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.

    Cotton, 51, failed to return to OCCC Module 20 from his job-seeking pass by 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024. Sheriffs and the Honolulu Police Department were notified.

    Cotton sought medical care at Queen’s Saturday and someone recognized him. Sheriffs were called and sheriff’s deputies subsequently arrested him at the hospital. He was returned to custody at OCCC at approximately 2:25 p.m. Saturday.

    Cotton is serving time for second-degree robbery. He may now face an additional second-degree escape charge. Second-degree escape is a Class C felony that is punishable by up to five years in prison, if convicted.

    Cotton is a community custody inmate in the work furlough program with pass privileges. Community custody is the lowest classification status.

    ### 

    Media Contact:

    Rosemarie Bernardo

    Public Information Officer

    Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

    Office: 808-587-1358

    Cell: 808-683-5507

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: https://dcr.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News release on CRB found in Waikoloa

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News release on CRB found in Waikoloa

    Posted on Sep 23, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

    ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KIAʻĀINA
                                                                            

    SHARON HURD
    CHAIRPERSON

    HAWAI`I BOARD OF AGRICULTURE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                               

    NR24-28

    September 21, 2024

    COCONUT RHINOCEROS BEETLE FOUND IN WAIKOLOA TRAP

    HONOLULU – A single coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) has been found in a trap this week by the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) during routine monitoring in Waikoloa on Hawai‘i Island. This is the first detection of CRB on the island since October 2023 when a Waikoloa resident reported finding a total of six grubs (larvae) in a decaying palm tree stump. The trap that the CRB was found in this week is located about 200 yards from the earlier detection.

    HDOA set 30 traps around Waikoloa and has been conducting routine monitoring with the assistance of volunteer area residents. The Big Island Invasive Species Committee has set additional traps, as has the University of Hawai‘i, whose traps have cameras that allow real-time monitoring.

    The pheromone traps are used for early detection of infestations. The traps do not attract all CRB in the area and are not effective as an eradication method. Surveillance for CRB has been ongoing on all islands, including traps at airports, harbors and other strategic locations.

    HDOA and CRB Response teams are now focusing on eradication efforts in the area where the beetle was found. Initial surveys in the immediate area did not detect obvious signs of CRB damage in palm trees.

    “CRB surveillance on Hawai‘i Island has been ongoing and early detection is key to prevent the establishment of breeding populations,” said Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawai‘i Board of Agriculture. “We ask everyone to keep an eye out for CRB, especially in their compost and mulch piles which are major breeding grounds of the beetle.”

    Residents on all islands are asked to be vigilant when purchasing mulch, compost and soil products, and to inspect bags for evidence of entry holes. An adult beetle is about 2-inches long, all black and has a single horn on its head. CRB grubs live in decomposing plant and animal waste. Adult CRB prefer to feed on coconut and other larger palms and are a major threat to the health of these plants.

    Residents may go to the CRB Response website at:  https://www.crbhawaii.org/ to learn more about how to detect the signs of CRB damage and how to identify CRB life stages. Reports of possible CRB infestation may also be made to the state’s toll-free Pest Hotline at (808) 643-PEST (7378).

    The CRB is a large scarab beetle that was first detected on O‘ahu in 2013. The beetle has since been detected in many neighborhoods on O‘ahu and was detected on Kaua‘i in May 2023, where collaborative eradication efforts continue. CRB grubs were found in Kīhei, Maui, in November 2023, but have not been detected on the island since.

    CRB is a serious pest of palm trees, primarily coconut palms, as the adult beetles bore into the crowns of the palms to feed on the trees’ sap. New unopened fronds are damaged in this way and when fully opened, may break and fall unexpectedly. If CRB kill or damage the growing point of the palm, the tree may die. Secondary fungal or bacterial pathogens may also attack the wounds caused by CRB, thereby killing the tree as well. Tree mortality after CRB attack has been reported to be anywhere from 10 percent to 50 percent. Dead trees then become a safety hazard as they may fall unexpectedly after the trunk rots, potentially resulting in bodily injury or property damage.

    CRB is a major pest of palms in India, the Philippines, Palau, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Nukunono, American and Western Samoa and Guam. It is still not known exactly how the beetles arrived in Hawai‘i.

    ###

    Media Contact:
    Janelle Saneishi, Public Information Officer
    Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
    Phone: 808-973-9560
    Cell: 808-341-5528
    [email protected]
    http://hdoa.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Biographical notices

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Karen Mollica (BA Honours [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 after completing internships in Guyana and Costa Rica.

    Karen Mollica (BA Honours [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 after completing internships in Guyana and Costa Rica. Her early assignments included serving as coordinator of the Landmine Action Team and as a case officer for several West and Central African countries. She then worked at the Canadian International Development Agency, serving as First Secretary at the High Commission in South Africa and as Counsellor and Head of Cooperation at the Embassy in Jordan. Upon her return to headquarters in 2019, she was appointed Director of Policy, Planning and Operations for Latin America and the Caribbean, a position she held until 2022. Most recently, she served as Director and Senior Ministerial Advisor in the Office of the Minister of International Development and Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy to the Holy See.

    Ajit Singh (BA [Communications], University of Winnipeg, 2003; BA Honours [Political Science], University of Winnipeg, 2004; MA [International Law], United Nations University for Peace, 2006; JD, Osgoode Hall Law School, 2012) has lived, studied and worked in a multilingual environment in 6 countries on 4 continents. He joined the Government of Canada in 2008 after working in media, education, the United Nations and civil society organizations. He then practised private law in Toronto and was called to the Ontario Bar as a barrister. In 2013, he joined the Privy Council Office in the Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat. He subsequently worked at the Foreign and Defence Policy Secretariat, where he was responsible for relations with Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and Latin America, as well as legal files. In 2017, he joined Global Affairs Canada as Deputy Director in the Foreign Policy Planning Division, where he led the Foreign Ministers’ Events team during Canada’s G7 Presidency in 2018. He then worked in the Conflict Prevention, Stabilization and Peacebuilding Division. In 2021, he joined the Department of National Defence as Director of Operations. He returned to the Privy Council Office in 2022, this time to become the first person to hold the position of Director of International Crisis Response.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC – Holding(s) in Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TR-1: Standard form for notification of major holdings

    NOTIFICATION OF MAJOR HOLDINGS (to be sent to the relevant issuer and to the FCA in Microsoft Word format if possible) i
     
    1a. Identity of the issuer or the underlying issuer of existing shares to which voting rights are attached ii: Middlefield Canadian Income PCC
    1b. Please indicate if the issuer is a non-UK issuer (please mark with an “X” if appropriate)
    Non-UK issuer X
    2. Reason for the notification (please mark the appropriate box or boxes with an “X”)
    An acquisition or disposal of voting rights  
    An acquisition or disposal of financial instruments X
    An event changing the breakdown of voting rights  
    Other (please specify) iii:      
    3. Details of person subject to the notification obligation iv
    Name Saba Capital Management, L.P.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) New York, United States
    4. Full name of shareholder(s) (if different from 3.) v
    Name Saba Capital Arcadia Master Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Bluebird Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Income & Opportunities Fund
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    Name Saba Capital CEF Opportunities 1, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital CEF Special Opportunities Master Fund 2, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Saba Capital Income & Opportunities Fund II
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    Name Saba Capital Master Fund, Ltd.
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) Cayman Islands
    Name Stone Ridge Archimedes Sub-Master (Red) LP
    City and country of registered office (if applicable) United States
    5. Date on which the threshold was crossed or reached vi: 20/09/2024
    6. Date on which issuer notified (DD/MM/YYYY): 23/09/2024
    7. Total positions of person(s) subject to the notification obligation
      % of voting rights attached to shares (total of 8. A) % of voting rights through financial instruments
    (total of 8.B 1 + 8.B 2)    		 Total of both in % (8.A + 8.B) Total number of voting rights held in issuer (8.A + 8.B) vii
    Resulting situation on the date on which threshold was crossed or reached 0.000000 11.190668 11.190668 11916635
    Position of previous notification (if
    applicable)    		 0.000000 10.206889 10.206889  
    8. Notified details of the resulting situation on the date on which the threshold was crossed or reached viii
    A: Voting rights attached to shares
    Class/type of
    shares
    ISIN code (if possible)    		 Number of voting rights ix % of voting rights
    Direct
    (DTR5.1)    		 Indirect
    (DTR5.2.1)    		 Direct
    (DTR5.1)    		 Indirect
    (DTR5.2.1)
    GB00B15PV034 0 0 0.000000 0.000000
             
             
    SUBTOTAL 8. A 0 0.000000%
     
    B 1: Financial Instruments according to DTR5.3.1R (1) (a)
    Type of financial instrument Expiration
    date x    		 Exercise/
    Conversion Period xi    		 Number of voting rights that may be acquired if the instrument is
    exercised/converted.    		 % of voting rights
             
             
             
        SUBTOTAL 8. B 1    
     
    B 2: Financial Instruments with similar economic effect according to DTR5.3.1R (1) (b)
    Type of financial instrument Expiration
    date x    		 Exercise/
    Conversion Period xi    		 Physical or cash
    Settlement xii    		 Number of voting rights % of voting rights
    Total Return Swap 08/17/2024   Cash 11916635 11.190668
               
               
          SUBTOTAL 8.B.2 11916635 11.190668%
     
    9. Information in relation to the person subject to the notification obligation (please mark the
    applicable box with an “X”)
    Person subject to the notification obligation is not controlled by any natural person or legal entity and does not control any other undertaking(s) holding directly or indirectly an interest in the (underlying) issuer xiii  
    Full chain of controlled undertakings through which the voting rights and/or the
    financial instruments are effectively held starting with the ultimate controlling natural person or legal entity (please add additional rows as necessary) xiv    		 X
    Name xv % of voting rights if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold % of voting rights through financial instruments if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold Total of both if it equals or is higher than the notifiable threshold
    Boaz Weinstein      
    Saba Capital Management GP, LLC     11.190668%
           
           
           
     
    10. In case of proxy voting, please identify:
    Name of the proxy holder  
    The number and % of voting rights held  
    The date until which the voting rights will be held  
     
    11. Additional information xvi

    JTC Fund Solutions (Jersey) Limited, Secretary
    Place of completion Jersey
    Date of completion

    24-Sep-2024

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sailor in the Spotlight – HM1 Jose Navarro

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Sicily (Sept. 4, 2024) – Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jose Navarro, 25, from Bremen, Indiana, joined the Navy in 2016 to be part of something bigger than himself. He arrived at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in March 2023.

    “I show up and take care of my Sailors, day in, day out,” said Navarro, who was recently selected as U.S. Naval Medical Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Sigonella’s Senior Sailor of the Quarter. According to his leadership, Navarro has demonstrated exceptional leadership and worth ethic as the Human Resources department leading petty officer.

    Four junior Sailors have benefitted from Navarro’s mentorship; two have been promoted and two have earned college degrees. He has also managed more than 1,000 pieces of correspondence, more than 100 permanent change of station transfer transactions, ten awards boards, five awards ceremonies, and one command physical readiness assessment as the command fitness leader.

    “Petty Officer Navarro’s dedication and achievements exemplify his outstanding performance in his leadership role,” said Lt. Julius C. Wiseman III, human resources department head, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella. “Furthermore, he recently achieved the milestone of graduating with a Master of Healthcare Administration from Louisiana State University Shreveport.”

    In addition to his administrative duties, Navarro holds several collateral duties, including: serving as Morale, Welfare and Recreation president; supply officer; assistant command fitness leader; and command, pay and personnel administrator. Navarro feels these roles help the command improve and help Sailors.

    “Serving means making sacrifices to help others,” said Navarro.

    Navarro’s proudest achievement in the Navy is promoting quickly and proving to himself that he can get what he wants if he works hard for it.

    U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    NAS Sigonella provides consolidated operational, command and control, administrative, logistical and advanced logistical support to U.S. and other NATO forces. The installation’s strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.

    For more news and information from NAS Sigonella, visit https://cnreurafcent.cnic.navy.mil/Installations/NAS-Sigonella/ or https://www.facebook.com/nassigonella/.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: RAIR Technologies Accepted to Prestigious Denarii Labs Accelerator

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Wilmington, DE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RAIR Technologies, the leading open-source platform for building Web3 applications, today announced it has been accepted into the protocol-agnostic Web3 tokenomics accelerator Denarii Labs, powered by leading Web3 advisory and early-stage VC RedBeard Ventures and mentorship directly from Futureverse. RAIR Technologies will use the comprehensive 12-week program to help refine its tokenomics as it begins to raise more funding and strengthen core technologies like the RAIRprotocol. 

    The Denarii Labs accelerator empowers Web3 innovators from conceptualization to execution with unparalleled expertise in crafting, refining and executing tokenomics and launch strategies over the course of its 12-week accelerator program. The accelerator’s very selective due diligence process ensures it only chooses and nurtures the best early-stage companies, sending a strong signal to the market.

    “We couldn’t be more proud to be accepted into this unique and elite program for the Web3 industry,” said Ed Prado, CEO of RAIR Technologies. “Denarii Labs will allow us to drill down on our tokenomics before we significantly expand both the technology and our partner base.”

    The Denarii Labs accelerator tailors members’ tokenomics to align with their business and marketing goals, including whitepaper creation, technical and development checks, and investor readiness with mentorship from Insomnia Labs, GSR, Tao Tao, Coinbase and Omniscia.  The program also offers top-notch legal and regulatory advice from the accelerator’s partners at leading technology business law firm Fenwick & West.

    RAIR Technologies last year participated in Sony’s accelerator, which eventually led to RAIR Technologies being announced as an infrastructure partner for Soneium, the blockchain recently announced by Sony.

    RAIR Technologies is paving the way for a more inclusive and collaborative future in the realm of decentralized application development. Among its offerings is the RAIRprotocol, which has been in active development since 2019 as an investor-backed, heretofore proprietary enterprise SaaS product. To learn more about RAIR Technologies visit https://rair.info.

    ABOUT RAIR TECH
    RAIR Technologies enables enterprises to seamlessly navigate asset creation, DRM security, royalty tracking, and marketplace trade and execution within a secure white-label environment. RAIR is driving innovation with its open-source RAIRprotocol. RAIRprotocol fosters scalability and innovation through a distinctive token licensing model that allows full access to the underlying RAIR Technologies source code.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PayMate Announces Intent to Acquire DigiAsia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Valuing DigiAsia at US $400 Million

    Introduces PayMate in Indonesia with Immediate Market Share Expansion, Targeting 2025 Public Listing

    MUMBAI, India and NEW YORK, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PayMate India (“PayMate”), a leading provider of B2B payments and services with reputable investors such as Visa & Lightbox, today announced that it has entered into a binding term sheet (the “Proposed Transaction”) for the potential acquisition of DigiAsia Bios Pte Ltd., Singapore, a leading Fintech-as-a-Service (FaaS) company in Indonesia and a fully owned subsidiary of DigiAsia Corporation (NASDAQ: FAAS) (“DigiAsia”).

    Under the terms of the Proposed Transaction, an enterprise valuation of US $400 Million for DigiAsia’s business has been determined. Additionally, post the Proposed Transaction, PayMate intends to invest up to US $25 Million in cash, the aggregate financing structure and terms will be finalized in mutual agreement. PayMate and DigiAsia will continue joint due diligence on both entities, identification of the right transaction structure, entering into definitive agreements and the necessary corporate and regulatory approvals of PayMate and DigiAsia which is expected to take up to 60 days. Subsequent to the closing of the Proposed Transaction, PayMate intends to initiate proceedings to list the combined entity in India.

    About PayMate

    PayMate India Ltd – a leading digital B2B payments company that empowers businesses of all sizes to enhance financial efficiency and streamline B2B payments. The platform simplifies and digitizes B2B payment processes, optimizing working capital, and ensuring timely supplier payments. PayMate’s solutions encompass Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Invoice Discounting, Cross Border and Embedded Finance. In FY24, PayMate processed USD 10.5 billion in transactions, serving over 522,000 customers worldwide. With a strong presence in India, CEMEA, and APAC regions, PayMate is the trusted partner for businesses seeking to streamline payment processes.

    For more information, visit https://paymate.in/ or follow us on LinkedIn.

    About DigiAsia

    DigiAsia is a leading Fintech as a Service (FaaS) provider operating a B2B2X model offering its complete Fintech solution in emerging markets. DigiAsia’s fintech architecture offers small and medium business enterprises (SMEs) comprehensive embedded finance APIs to streamline processes across the commerce value chain of distributors and customers. DigiAsia’s embedded fintech solutions equally address democratizing digital finance access that supports financial inclusion of underbanked merchants and consumers in emerging markets resulting in growth for enterprise business. The suite of B2B2X solutions provided by DigiAsia include, but are not limited to, cashless payments, digital wallets, digital banking, remittances and banking licenses. DigiAsia has recently established a strategic initiative to develop its embedded FaaS enterprise solution with AI capabilities in Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East, with plans for global expansion. For more information, please visit DigiAsia’s Corporate website here or Investor Relations website here.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “project”, “targets”, “optimistic”, “confident that”, “continue to”, “predict”, “intend”, “aim”, “will” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements concerning DigiAsia and the Company’s operations, financial performance and condition are based on current expectations, beliefs and assumptions which are subject to change at any time. DigiAsia cautions that these statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially depending on a variety of important factors such as government and stock exchange regulations, competition, political, economic and social conditions around the world including those discussed in DigiAsia’s Form 20-F under the headings “Risk Factors”, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Business Overview” and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. All forward-looking statements are applicable only as of the date it is made and DigiAsia specifically disclaims any obligation to maintain or update the forward-looking information, whether of the nature contained in this release or otherwise, in the future.

    PayMate Contact DigiAsia Company Contact:
       
    Vishvanathan Subramanian Subir Lohani
       
    Wholetime Director & Chief Financial Officer Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer
       
    91-22-2661 6178 646-480-0142
       
    Email: corporate@paymate.co.in Investor Contact:
       
      MZ North America
       
      Email: FAAS@mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: From AI Bounties to DEX 3.0: Orderly Network’s Pioneering Presence at TOKEN2049

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Web 3.0 liquidity layer, Orderly Network, proudly sponsored this year’s Singapore edition TOKEN2049, one of the most prestigious events for global leaders in the Web3 space. As a key player in Web3 trading, Orderly Network showcased its vision and cutting-edge innovations throughout the week across multiple events, highlighting its work in the convergence of AI and DeFi, and providing thought leadership into the evolving landscape of decentralized trading and the potential role these technologies may play in the future of Web3.

    A key meeting of minds in the emerging AI meets DeFi space, Orderly Network and Google Cloud teamed up last Tuesday, 17 September to host a cast of decision-makers and crypto KOL’s at their highly anticipated ‘Bounty Bash’ event. This collaborative initiative marked the announcement of the Orderly Network x Google Cloud Bounty – Unleashing the Power of AI Trading Agents program, developed in partnership with Google Cloud and Empyreal. The program is designed to empower developers to build AI agents capable of autonomously trading on Orderly’s decentralized infrastructure, contributing to the future of Web3 trading and decentralized finance by making it easier than ever for new users to gain results and confidence trading.

    A key highlight in the week was the keynote presentation of Orderly Network Co-Founder Ran Yi at the TOKEN2049 event. Entitled ‘DEXs 3.0 and the Transition from CEX to DEX’, in his address, Ran shared key insights into the evolution of DEXs and the forward path toward greater adoption. As a TradFi and DeFi veteran, Ran’s discussion explored his unique perspective on how the future of DEXs lies in combining the strengths of CEXs—such as intuitive user experiences, deep liquidity, high performance, and lower trading costs—with the inherent benefits of DEXs, including transparency, permissionless access, interoperability, and decentralized governance.

    This keynote presentation built on an overarching theme for the week – how centralized and decentralized worlds can work together to grow the space by producing more compelling solutions for users.

    At Caladan’s Liquidity Day event, in a panel discussion aptly named ‘The CEX and DEX Transition’, Ran had delved into the growing convergence between centralized and decentralized trading platforms. Discussing the potential for building a powerful DEX that could rival Binance in the decentralized space, he further emphasized the importance of fostering innovation while maintaining user trust and security.

    At Morph Consumer Day, Ran joined a star-studded cast that included well-known trader and Orderly supporter Nani XBT on stage to discuss ‘The Future of Consumer DeFi & Stablecoins’. In this session, Ran delved into the growing convergence between centralized and decentralized trading platforms, examining the role of DeFi and stablecoins in shaping the next generation of consumer-facing financial services.

    To conclude a week of engaging discussions and transformative ideas, Orderly Network also co-hosted the official TOKEN2049 afterparty, AFTER2049, joining forces with several other prominent projects in celebrating the successes of the event and fostering deeper connections within the community.

    Supporting imagery can be found here

    For more information on the Orderly Network and its innovative solutions for liquidity, please visit https://orderly.network/

    About Orderly Network

    Orderly Network is a cloud liquidity infrastructure for Web3 trading. Built on omnichain architecture, Orderly enables deep liquidity for any asset across multiple blockchains. Focused on a future of DeFi that’s open to all, Orderly empowers developers to fluidly create a comprehensive array of financial products for any level of trader, without the risks of wrapped asset movement through cross-chain bridging.

    Learn more at orderly.network

    For PR enquiries related to this release, please contact pr@orderly.network

    Official Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord | LinkedIn

    The MIL Network –