NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Military Contractor Pleads Guilty for Deleting Text Messages in Antitrust Division Investigation

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, a Federal Judge accepted a guilty plea to destruction of records in a federal investigation from a former employee of a contractor that provided operation and maintenance services to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for U.S. military installations in South Korea.

    According to the information filed in the Western District of Texas, in or about July 2021, David Cruz, 37, deleted text messages with Hyuk Jin Kwon and Hyun Ki Shin. Kwon and Shin were separately charged ‌for fraud and conspiring to rig bids and fix prices on millions of dollars in maintenance and repair subcontracting work provided to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in South Korea and remain fugitives. At Kwon’s suggestion, Cruz deleted text messages after receiving a litigation hold notice from his employer requiring him not to destroy or delete communications. Cruz then covered up the deletion of those text messages after being specifically advised by his employer that there was an ongoing federal investigation.

    In the deleted text messages, Cruz discussed with Kwon and Shin the need to get additional bids from their competitor to satisfy the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s competitive bidding requirements for subcontract work. Kwon had previously told Cruz that Cruz should contact him instead of requesting bids directly from Kwon’s competitors.

    “The Procurement Collusion Strike Force’s commitment to safeguard taxpayer dollars from collusion and fraud is unwavering,” said Director Daniel Glad of the Justice Department’s Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF). “The Antitrust Division will not hesitate to prosecute individuals who unlawfully impede our investigations by destroying or covering up evidence.”

    “Bid rigging and other acts of fraud against the U.S. Army not only undermine the integrity of critical procurement efforts but also put our Soldiers at risk by providing them capabilities and services which do not meet the high standards necessary to maintain peak lethality,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael DeFamio of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID), Far East Field Office. “Army CID is grateful for the collaborative efforts of our federal partners at the FBI and the Department of Justice, and we will continue to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who attempts to defraud the U.S. Government, regardless of where they are in the world.”

    “The Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) is steadfast in its mission to protect taxpayer funds from fraud and collusion,” said Special Agent in Charge Stanley Newell of DCIS’ Transnational Field Office. “We are equally committed to relentlessly pursuing those who attempt to obstruct our investigations through the destruction or concealment of evidence.”

    “Mr. Cruz knowingly destroyed records that were part of an ongoing criminal investigation and has now acknowledged his crime” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI is committed to holding accountable military contractors who flout the bidding process and intentionally destroy evidence of their guilt.”

    Destruction of records in a federal investigation carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section, Army CID, DCIS, and the FBI investigated the case.

    Assistant Chief Daniel E. Lipton and Trial Attorney Daniel P. Chung of the Antitrust Division prosecuted the case with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Devlin for the Western District of Texas.

    In November 2019, the Justice Department created the PCSF, a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government — federal, state and local. To learn more about the PCSF, or to report information on bid rigging, price fixing, market allocation and other anticompetitive conduct related to government spending, go to www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force. Anyone with information in connection with this investigation can contact the PCSF at the link listed above.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bemidji Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison for Advertising, Distributing Images of Child Sexual Abuse Over the Dark Web

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. PAUL, Minn. – Craig James Myran, a Bemidji man, was sentenced today to 262 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for his involvement with a site on the dark web dedicated to the advertisement and distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse and his possession of similar material in his apartment.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Craig James Myran, 47, of Bemidji, Minnesota, was an active participant on a site on the dark web that was dedicated to discussing and trafficking in child sexual abuse material.  For years, he used an account with a unique username to make over a thousand posts in which he shared images of child sexual abuse on the site. In at least one post, Myran requested specific files of known child sexual abuse material from other users. And in another post, he advertised over 100 images depicting the sadomasochistic sexual abuse of two prepubescent minors.  FBI special agents executed a search warrant on Myran’s apartment in Bemidji on Dec. 8, 2022, where they found numerous hard drives and a cell phone. Forensic analysis of these devices uncovered evidence establishing that Myran was the user of this unique account on the dark web site — including files of the child sexual abuse material that he shared and requested on the website, as well as a message directed to his unique alias — and thousands of other images of child sexual abuse material.

    According to the government’s sentencing memorandum, Myran’s sexual exploitation of minors was not limited to his activity on this particular dark-web site. He was simultaneously an active participant on multiple other dark-web sites dedicated to trafficking in child sexual abuse material and reported that he previously produced his own child sexual abuse material by screen-recording minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct during online webcam interactions.  
    On Nov. 20, 2024, a federal jury convicted Myran for advertising, distributing, and possessing material depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. He was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge Eric C. Tostrud.  In handing down the sentence, Judge Tostrud remarked, “The defendant’s crimes reflected disregard for the victims’ humanity.  He treated society’s most vulnerable victims, young children, as sex objects and nothing more.”  Judge Tostrud added that Myran’s “crimes were far from impulsive.  He did not stumble onto the dark web by accident. He used it in an effort to conceal his activities, because he knew what he was doing was very wrong.” Judge Tostrud concluded that Myran’s “depraved mind” and his “refusal to accept any responsibility” for his crimes created a “serious need to protect the public.”

    “Crimes involving the sexual abuse of children are incalculably serious,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “For decades, believing he was protected by the dark web’s cloak of anonymity, Myran proudly trafficked in child sexual abuse material. He was deeply enmeshed in dark-web communities —sprawling criminal enterprises and flourishing online communities where offenders from around the world gather to normalize and encourage their sexual interest in children. This depraved behavior is sick, it is wrong, and it is not acceptable in Minnesota.”

    The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Minneapolis Field Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. It was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney David Green for the District of Minnesota and Trial Attorney William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Military Contractor Pleads Guilty for Deleting Text Messages in Antitrust Division Investigation

    Source: United States Attorneys General 11

    Today, a Federal Judge accepted a guilty plea to destruction of records in a federal investigation from a former employee of a contractor that provided operation and maintenance services to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for U.S. military installations in South Korea.

    According to the information filed in the Western District of Texas, in or about July 2021, David Cruz, 37, deleted text messages with Hyuk Jin Kwon and Hyun Ki Shin. Kwon and Shin were separately charged ‌for fraud and conspiring to rig bids and fix prices on millions of dollars in maintenance and repair subcontracting work provided to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in South Korea and remain fugitives. At Kwon’s suggestion, Cruz deleted text messages after receiving a litigation hold notice from his employer requiring him not to destroy or delete communications. Cruz then covered up the deletion of those text messages after being specifically advised by his employer that there was an ongoing federal investigation.

    In the deleted text messages, Cruz discussed with Kwon and Shin the need to get additional bids from their competitor to satisfy the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s competitive bidding requirements for subcontract work. Kwon had previously told Cruz that Cruz should contact him instead of requesting bids directly from Kwon’s competitors.

    “The Procurement Collusion Strike Force’s commitment to safeguard taxpayer dollars from collusion and fraud is unwavering,” said Director Daniel Glad of the Justice Department’s Procurement Collusion Strike Force (PCSF). “The Antitrust Division will not hesitate to prosecute individuals who unlawfully impede our investigations by destroying or covering up evidence.”

    “Bid rigging and other acts of fraud against the U.S. Army not only undermine the integrity of critical procurement efforts but also put our Soldiers at risk by providing them capabilities and services which do not meet the high standards necessary to maintain peak lethality,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael DeFamio of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (Army CID), Far East Field Office. “Army CID is grateful for the collaborative efforts of our federal partners at the FBI and the Department of Justice, and we will continue to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who attempts to defraud the U.S. Government, regardless of where they are in the world.”

    “The Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) is steadfast in its mission to protect taxpayer funds from fraud and collusion,” said Special Agent in Charge Stanley Newell of DCIS’ Transnational Field Office. “We are equally committed to relentlessly pursuing those who attempt to obstruct our investigations through the destruction or concealment of evidence.”

    “Mr. Cruz knowingly destroyed records that were part of an ongoing criminal investigation and has now acknowledged his crime” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI is committed to holding accountable military contractors who flout the bidding process and intentionally destroy evidence of their guilt.”

    Destruction of records in a federal investigation carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section, Army CID, DCIS, and the FBI investigated the case.

    Assistant Chief Daniel E. Lipton and Trial Attorney Daniel P. Chung of the Antitrust Division prosecuted the case with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Devlin for the Western District of Texas.

    In November 2019, the Justice Department created the PCSF, a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government — federal, state and local. To learn more about the PCSF, or to report information on bid rigging, price fixing, market allocation and other anticompetitive conduct related to government spending, go to www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force. Anyone with information in connection with this investigation can contact the PCSF at the link listed above.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: XAI Madison Equity Premium Income Fund Declares Monthly Distributions of $0.06 per Share Payable on May 1, June 2, and July 1, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XAI Madison Equity Premium Income Fund (the “Fund”), has declared its regular monthly distribution of $0.06 per share on the Fund’s common shares (NYSE: MCN) payable on May 1, 2025, June 2, 2025, and July 1, 2025. The total amount equals $0.18 and represents no change from the previous quarter’s distribution amount.

    As previously announced in its distribution declaration dated March 3, 2025, the Fund has changed its distribution frequency from quarterly to monthly, effective with the April 1, 2025 declaration. XA Investments believes this change will enable investors to better manage their cash flow needs.

    The following dates apply to the declaration:  

    Ex-Dividend Date Record Date Payable Date Amount Per Share
    April 15, 2025 April 15, 2025 May 1, 2025 $0.06
    May 15, 2025 May 15, 2025 June 2, 2025 $0.06
    June 16, 2025 June 16, 2025 July 1, 2025 $0.06
    Total Amount of Monthly Distributions $0.18
         
    Change from Previous Quarter            No Change
     

    Common share distributions may be paid from net investment income (regular interest and dividends), capital gains and/or a return of capital. The specific tax characteristics of the distributions will be reported to the Fund’s common shareholders on Form 1099 after the end of the 2025 calendar year. Shareholders should not assume that the source of a distribution from the Fund is net income or profit. For further information regarding the Fund’s distributions, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    The Fund’s net investment income and capital gain can vary significantly over time; however, the Fund seeks to maintain more stable common share quarterly distributions over time. The Fund’s final taxable income for the current fiscal year will not be known until the Fund’s tax returns are filed.

    As a registered investment company, the Fund is subject to a 4% excise tax that is imposed if the Fund does not distribute to common shareholders by the end of any calendar year at least the sum of (i) 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any capital gain or loss) for the calendar year and (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain in excess of its capital loss (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for a one-year period generally ending on December 31 of the calendar year (unless an election is made to use the Fund’s fiscal year). In certain circumstances, the Fund may elect to retain income or capital gain to the extent that the Board of Trustees, in consultation with Fund management, determines it to be in the interest of shareholders to do so.

    The common share distributions paid by the Fund for any particular period may be more than the amount of net investment income from that period. As a result, all or a portion of a distribution may be a return of capital, which is in effect a partial return of the amount a common shareholder invested in the Fund, up to the amount of the common shareholder’s tax basis in their common shares, which would reduce such tax basis. Although a return of capital may not be taxable, it will generally increase the common shareholder’s potential gain, or reduce the common shareholder’s potential loss, on any subsequent sale or other disposition of common shares.

    Future common share distributions will be made if and when declared by the Fund’s Board of Trustees, based on a consideration of number of factors, including the Fund’s net investment income, financial performance and available cash. There can be no assurance that the amount or timing of common share distributions in the future will be equal or similar to that described herein or that the Board of Trustees will not decide to suspend or discontinue the payment of common share distributions in the future.

    The Fund’s objective is to achieve a high level of current income and current capital gains, with long-term capital appreciation as a secondary objective. The Fund intends to pursue its objective by investing in a portfolio of common stocks and utilizing an option strategy, primarily by writing (selling) covered call options on a substantial portion of the common stocks in the portfolio in order to generate current income and gains from option writing premiums and, to a lesser extent, from dividends. Market action can impact dividend issuance as the Fund’s total assets affect the Fund’s future dividend prospects. The Fund provides additional information on its website at www.xainvestments.com.

    About XA Investments

    XA Investments LLC (“XAI”) serves as the Trust’s investment adviser. XAI is a Chicago-based firm founded by XMS Capital Partners in 2016. XAI serves as the investment adviser for two listed closed-end funds and an interval closed-end fund. The listed closed-end funds, the XAI Octagon Floating Rate & Alternative Income Trust (NYSE: XFLT) and XAI Madison Equity Premium Income Fund (NYSE: MCN) both trade on the New York Stock Exchange. The interval closed-end fund, Octagon XAI CLO Income Fund (OCTIX), is newly launched and has been made widely available to investors.

    In addition to investment advisory services, the firm also provides investment fund structuring and consulting services focused on registered closed-end funds to meet institutional client needs. XAI offers custom product build and consulting services, including development and market research, sales, marketing, and fund management.

    XAI believes that the investing public can benefit from new vehicles to access a broad range of alternative investment strategies and managers. XAI provides individual investors with access to institutional-caliber alternative managers. For more information, please visit www.xainvestments.com.

    About XMS Capital Partners
    XMS Capital Partners, LLC, established in 2006, is a global, independent, financial services firm providing M&A, corporate advisory and asset management services to clients. It has offices in Chicago, Boston and London. For more information, please visit www.xmscapital.com.

    About Madison Investments
    Madison Investments is an independent investment management firm based in Madison, WI. The firm was founded in 1974, has approximately $28 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024, and is recognized as one of the nation’s top investment firms. Madison offers domestic fixed income, U.S. and international equity, covered call, multi-asset, insurance and credit union investment management strategies. For more information, please visit www.madisoninvestments.com.

    Madison and/or Madison Investments is the unifying tradename of Madison Investment Holdings, Inc., Madison Asset Management, LLC, and Madison Investment Advisors, LLC. Madison Funds are distributed by MFD Distributor, LLC. Madison is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. MFD Distributor, LLC is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as a broker-dealer and is a member firm of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority www.finra.org.

    XAI does not provide tax advice; please consult a professional tax advisor regarding your specific tax situation. Income may be subject to state and local taxes, as well as the federal alternative minimum tax.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives and policies, risk considerations, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. For more information on the Fund, please visit the Fund’s webpage at www.xainvestments.com.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the laws of such state or jurisdiction.

    NOT FDIC INSURED     NO BANK GUARANTEE MAY LOSE VALUE
         

    Media Contact:

    Kimberly Flynn, President
    XA Investments LLC
    Phone:  888-903-3358
    Email: KFlynn@XAInvestments.com
    www.xainvestments.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Stresses Need for Techno-Legal Framework to Address Emerging New-Age Crimes and to Ensure Prompt Investigation and Bringing Criminals to Justice for Effective Prosecution

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Stresses Need for Techno-Legal Framework to Address Emerging New-Age Crimes and to Ensure Prompt Investigation and Bringing Criminals to Justice for Effective Prosecution

    Technical knowhow of India’s academia, scientists and researchers should be harnessed to bring about technological solutions in investigations

    Union Minister Urges CBI to Establish State-of-the-Art Cyber Forensic Labs in Collaboration with Academia

    Amid Deepfake & AI challenges, Ashwini Vaishnaw says the Future of Effective Criminal Justice lies in combining legal frameworks with Technological Capability and Institutional innovation

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw delivers 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day, presents police medals to 26 officers

    Union Minister highlights CBI’s role in justice and outlines four key pillars of India’s growth strategy

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, addressed the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day held today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Speaking on the theme ‘VIKSIT BHARAT @ 2047 – A Roadmap for CBI’, the Minister outlined a strategic vision for the agency’s role in India’s progress over the next two decades. During the event, President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service and Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service to CBI officers were presented acknowledging their dedication and exceptional contributions.

    In his address, Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw elaborated the important role played by CBI over the years in bringing out truth through in depth & professional investigation and in bringing criminals to justice through effective prosecution. He further said “Our academia, our scientists, our researchers today possess remarkable strength and capabilities. This strength must be harnessed by investigating agencies, law officers, and government departments to co-develop technological solutions. Law alone will not be sufficient, we need techno-legal approach to address the challenges posed by new-age crimes and investigation,” the Minister emphasized.

    Union Minister urged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take the lead in building state-of-the-art cyber forensic laboratories by actively partnering with academic and research institutions. He further highlighted the need for institutional frameworks that facilitate such collaborations and suggested that Ministries and Departments such as MeitY, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and Department of Science and Technology (DST) work closely with investigative agencies to co-create technologies required for modern-day law enforcement.

    The Minister’s remarks come in the backdrop of rapid technological evolution, including challenges posed by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and cyber-enabled crimes. He stressed that the future of effective criminal justice lies in combining legal frameworks with technological capability and institutional innovation.

    Reflecting on India’s transformative journey over the past decade, the Minister noted the country’s rapid economic growth, strong governance, and technological leadership. He further highlighted four pillars of growth strategy in the last decade, first, public investment in physical, social and digital infrastructure, second a large number of inclusive growth programs, third a strong focus on manufacturing and innovation and fourth, simplification of legal and compliance structures.

    First Pillar: Public Investment In Physical, Social and Digital infrastructure

    The first pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on significant investments in social, physical and digital infrastructure, including the construction of national highways, new airports, and the electrification of railways. The Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has democratized technology with over 118 crore telecom subscribers, 70 crore smartphone users, and a robust AI ecosystem to support innovation. In social infrastructure, India has also expanded educational opportunities by opening 490 new universities and increasing the capacity of IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS.

    Second Pillar: Inclusive Growth

    The second pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on inclusive growth, ensuring that economic progress translates into real improvements in people’s lives. Over the past decade, 54 crore new bank accounts have been opened, 4 crore houses built, and 12 crore tap water connections provided. In addition, 35 crore citizens are part of the Ayushman Bharat program, with more than 25 crore citizens coming out of poverty and improved access to essential services for millions.

    Third Pillar: Strong Focus on Manufacturing and Innovation

    The third pillar of India’s growth strategy emphasizes manufacturing and innovation, shifting the country from a services-based economy to a manufacturing hub. Initiatives like Make in India and Startup India have spurred growth, with electronics becoming the third-largest export and India becoming the second-largest mobile manufacturer globally. Key successes include developments in the semiconductor, defense, telecom sector, and the launch of high-speed Vande Bharat trains.

    Fourth Pillar: Simplification of legal and compliance structures

    The fourth pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on simplification by eliminating outdated colonial-era laws. Over 1,500 archaic laws have been removed, and new frameworks like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have replaced old legal structures such as the IPC and CrPC. This simplification process is paving the way for a more modern and efficient legal system.

    CBI Director, Shri Praveen Sood welcomed the guests on the occasion. Attorney General of India, Central Vigilance Commissioner, Director IB, Director ED, Heads of NIA & Central Paramilitary Forces graced the occasion. Police Liaison Officers (PLOs) of other countries, also attended the event.

    Following officers & officials of CBI were presented the medals by the Honb’le Minister for Distinguished and Meritorious Service: 

    (i)         President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service were presented to :

    1.         Shri K. Pradeep Kumar, SP, CBI, ACB, Jammu;

    2.         Shri Naresh Kumar Sharma, ASP, CBI, Special Unit, New Delhi;

    3.         Shri Mukesh Kumar, ASP, CBI, AC-II, New Delhi;

    4.         Shri Ramji Lal Jat, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jaipur (Now Retired) and

    5.         Shri Raj Kumar, Head Constable, CBI, Head Office, New Delhi

     

    (ii)        Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service were presented to:

     

    1.         Shri Raghavendra Vatsa, IPS (GJ:05), then DIG-HoB, CBI, ACB, New Delhi  (presently in the cadre as IGP, Gujarat Police);

    2.         Ms. Sharada Pandurang Raut, IPS (MH:05) then DIG- HoB, CBI, EOB, Mumbai (presently in the cadre as Jt. Commissioner, S.I.D., Maharashtra  Mumbai);

    3.         Shri Prem Kumar Gautam, IPS (UP:05), then DIG – HoB, CBI, SU, New Delhi (presently in the cadre as IGP, Prayagraj Range, Uttar Pradesh);

    4.         Shri Manoj Chaladan, DLA, CBI, ACB, Mumbai;

    5.         Shri Srinivas Pillari, Principal System Analyst, CBI, ACB, Kolkata (Now posted at Systems Division, Delhi Branch);

    6.         Shri K. Madhusudhanan, DSP, CBI, ACB, Visakhapatnam;

    7.         Shri Ajay Kumar, DSP (Now ASP) CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi;

    8.         Shri Balwinder Singh, Inspector, CBI, SCB, Chandigarh;

    9.         Shri Chitti Babu N., Inspector, CBI, ACB, Hyderabad;

    10.       Shri Manoj Kumar, Inspector, CBI, HO, New Delhi (presently in his parent force & posted at CISF, CGBS Unit Mahipalpur, New Delhi);

    11.       Shri Rahul Kumar, Inspector, CBI, EOB, Kolkata (presently in his force & posted at CISF Unit SMP, Kolkata);

    12.       Shri Rajeev Sharma, Inspector, CBI,HO, New Delhi;

    13.       Shri S. Nanda Kumar, Assistant Sub Inspector, CBI, SU, Chennai;

    14.       Shri Suresh Prasad Shukla, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jabalpur  (now posted at CBI, BSFB Mumbai);

    15.       Shri Rajesh Kumar, Head Constable, CBI, HO, New Delhi;

    16.       Shri Om Prakash Daloutra, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jammu;

    17.       Shri Randhir Singh, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jaipur;

    18.       Shri Pawan Kumar, Constable, CBI, SC-I, NewDelhi;

    19.       Shri Tejpal Singh, Constable, CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi;

    20.       Shri Atul Sareen, Crime Assistant, CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi and

    21.       Shri Subra Mohanty, Steno Gr.-II, CBI, ACB, Bhubaneswar

    About the event

    CBI pays its respect and homage to its founder Director late Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli and has been organizing the D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture since the year 2000.

    Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli was born in 1907 in Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. After joining Police Service in 1931, he served in UP, erstwhile Madhya Bharat and the Government of India. He had distinguished career in the Indian Police. He headed Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) from July 1955 to March 1963. On creation of Central Bureau of Investigation, on 1st April, 1963, Shri D.P. Kohli became its founder Director and continued as its Director from 1963 till his retirement on May 31, 1968.

    The lecture series has been honoured to feature highly distinguished speakers and luminaries from various fields who share their insights and experience on pertinent topics. The lecture series is intended to contribute to fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and advancing the understanding of challenges and solutions in the realm of law enforcement, criminal justice system and criminal investigation. The D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture serves as an apt tribute to Shri D.P. Kohli’s vision and legacy in establishing the CBI as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency. It also underscores the agency’s commitment to upholding integrity, accountability, and excellence in its operations as enshrined in CBI’s motto Industry, Impartiality and Integrity.

    The Central Bureau of Investigation was established by a Government of India resolution dated 1st April, 1963 to investigate not only cases of bribery and corruption, but also violation of central fiscal laws, serious crimes besides collecting supporting intelligence. Over the last more than six decades, the Central Bureau of Investigation has emerged as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency of the country covering entire gamut of crimes including emerging new age crimes like cyber enabled financial crimes, online CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material), etc. CBI as the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India also coordinates international cooperation in law enforcement.

    The function was also webcast live Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Delivers the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture at Bharat Mandapam

    ****

     

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2117361) Visitor Counter : 126

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Banking Regulation Amendment Act 2020 has enhanced RBI’s Supervision Over Co-operative Banks

    Source: Government of India

    Banking Regulation Amendment Act 2020 has enhanced RBI’s Supervision Over Co-operative Banks

    RBI’s 2024 Master Direction on Fraud Management aims to enhance accountability and strengthen governance in Co-operative banks among many other steps

    Amendments in Multi-State Co-operative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 Strengthen  Governance and Transparency of cooperative societies; provision of Ombudsman

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:28PM by PIB Delhi

    The Banking Regulation Act, 1949 has been amended to provide additional powers to RBI for more effective regulation of Co-operative banks vide Banking Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2020. The major amendments pertain to areas such as management, audit, capital, reconstruction/ amalgamation, etc. The provisions of the Act have been brought into force for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) with effect from 26.06.2020. Post these amendments, interalia, the governance/management related provisions of the BR Act, (such as Section 10,10A,10B,35B,36AB, etc.), have become applicable to co-operative banks.

    Further, the following measures are in place to prevent corruption and irregularities in cooperative banks:

    •  RBI has issued Master Direction on Fraud Management for the Regulated Entities viz.  Cooperative Banks in 2024 which contain comprehensive guidelines related to reporting of fraud, following of principles of natural justice, governance mechanism, implementation of early warning mechanism, staff accountability, fixation of responsibility of third parties and role of external and internal auditors, among others. 
    • The Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework requires the identified UCBs to initiate and implement remedial measures in a timely manner, to restore their financial health and protect the interests of the depositors.
    • RBI has implemented a financial safety net for the account holders of banks (including cooperative banks) in the form of Deposit Insurance through DICGC.
    • RBI through “RBI Kehta Hai” has issued awareness material / useful information on aspects such as different types of frauds and their modus-operandi.
    • Amendment has been brought in the Multi-State Co-operative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002 to strengthen governance, enhance transparency, increase accountability, reform electoral process and incorporate provisions of 97th Constitutional Amendment in the Multi State Cooperative Societies.
    • Following the amendment in the Multi–State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002, Cooperative Ombudsman has been appointed under Section 85A of the said Act. The Ombudsman office deals with complaints or appeals, from members of the MSCS regarding their deposits, equitable benefits of the Multi–State Co-operative Society’s functioning or any other issue affecting the individual rights of the concerned member.
    • The Cooperative Election Authority has been set up to strengthen governance and accountability, with a mandate to conduct free and fair election in all Multi-State Cooperative Societies.
    • NABARD has framed guidelines for banks to report frauds to law enforcement agencies, viz State Police, State CID/Economic Offense Wing of the State, etc. for further investigation and appropriate action.

    The Ministry of Cooperation (MoC) is responsible for strengthening of cooperative movement in the country and deepening its reach upto the grassroots to realise the vision of “from cooperation to prosperity”. They also promote the cooperative-based economic development model, including the creation of appropriate policy, legal and institutional framework to help cooperatives realise their potential. MoC also organizes training of personnel of co-operative institutions, including education of members, office bearers and non-officials.

    This information was given by Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    NB/AD

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UIDAI’s AI-Powered Aadhaar Face Authentication sees over 130.5 Crore transactions, revolutionizing biometric verification

    Source: Government of India

    UIDAI’s AI-Powered Aadhaar Face Authentication sees over 130.5 Crore transactions, revolutionizing biometric verification

    Face Authentication solution sees 21.6% monthly growth in March, serving millions nationwide and becoming trusted solution for fintech, government services and more

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The AI and machine learning (ML) based Aadhaar Face Authentication solutions developed in house by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has been witnessing a massive growth with over 78% of the total transactions coming alone in the FY 25 fiscal year, ended 31 March 2025.

    Transforming service delivery across India

    Since the face authentication solution was introduced in October 2022, UIDAI has recorded a cumulative transaction number of over 130.5 crore, of which close to 102 crores have been recorded in the 2024-25 financial year. It indicates the growing usage, adoption of this solution and how it is benefiting Aadhaar number holders seamlessly.

    In the past 3 months (January-March), nearly 39.5 crore face authentication transactions have been recorded. In March alone, the face auth solutions have recorded more than 15.25 crore transactions, a 21.6% jump over the previous month.

    This achievement underscores the trust and adoption of this new biometric authentication modality across diverse sectors including fintech, finance and telecommunications.

    Dozens of government services offered by both the centre and states are using it for smooth delivery of benefits to targeted beneficiaries. Several flagship schemes including PM Awas (Urban), PM E-Drive, PM-JAY, PM Ujjwala, PM Kisan, PM Internship, are using Aadhaar face authentication.

    Face authentication is also working as a robust alternative and helping senior citizens and all those who have issues with the quality of their fingerprints due to several reasons including manual work or health issues.

    As of now, 102 entities both in government and private sector are using Aadhaar face authentication. This AI based modality works both on Android and iOS platforms. It is safe against any video replay attacks and static photo authentication attempts by anti-social elements and a contactless, anytime- anywhere modality.

    This authentication modality enables users to verify their identity with just a face scan, ensuring convenience while upholding stringent security standards.

    ***

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith  

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transparency and Accountability under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The identification of beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) is based on the housing deprivation parameters and exclusion criteria prescribed under Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC)-2011 and due verification by the respective Gram Sabhas and completion of an Appellate Process. These parameters/criteria were applied on SECC 2011 database & Awass+2018 to identify the eligibility of beneficiaries under PMAY-G.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of PMAY-G for 5 more years (FY 2024-25 to 2028-29) to provide assistance for the construction of 2 crore additional rural houses. The Cabinet has also approved the updating of the Awaas+ List using modified exclusion criteria. A new survey is being conducted by the states/UTs using the technology-based (eKYC face based authentication) solutions to maximize transparency and ensure sanctity in the process right from the identification to completion of the houses as per the detailed below:

    1. Awaas+ 2024 app- a unique app specially designed under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), having features of assisted survey through pre-registered surveyors, housing technology selection, face authentication, Aadhar based e-KYC, data capture of household, conditions of the existing house, time stamped, and geo tagged photo capture of existing house proposed site of construction. The app works in online as well as offline mode. “Self-Survey” facility is available for eligible household in Awaas+2024 app Survey for next phase of PMAYG (2024-29).
    2. Usage of AI/ML model to curb fraudulent activity and provide information about possible malpractices.
    3. Recommendation System – This module identifies various house attributes such as pucca wall, pucca roof, kutcha wall, kutcha roof, logo, window, door, and person in the uploaded photos of a completed house and recommends a final photograph for approval.
    4. e-KYC feature – The app is integrated with Aadhaar and uses AI-enabled face authentication technology to conduct verification of PMAY-G beneficiaries.
    5. Liveliness Detection: Eye Blink/ Motion detection feature in Awaas App for identification of the beneficiaries.
    6. 100% Aadhaar-Based Payments: Directly transferred to beneficiaries’ accounts.

    The unit assistance provided to beneficiaries under PMAY-G is as per the approval of the Union Cabinet and at present the unit assistance of Rs. 1.20 lakh in plain areas and Rs. 1.30 lakh in North Eastern States, Hilly States (including UTs of J&K and Ladakh) is provided. The funding pattern between the Centre and the State for the NER States and Himalayan States [Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir (UT)] is 90:10 whereas for the rest of the States is 60:40 and for Union Territories without legislature, 100% funding are borne by the Centre.

    In addition to the unit assistance, the beneficiaries are facilitated with 90/95 man days of unskilled labour wages through mandatory convergence with Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Support of Rs. 12,000 for construction of a toilet is also provided through Swacch Bharat Mission – Gramin (SBM-G), MGNREGS or any other dedicated source of funding.

    Some of the States/UTs are also providing top-up financial support over and above unit assistance to the PMAY-G beneficiaries for the house construction. To further support affordability, the scheme incorporates State-specific housing designs and promotes the use of local materials, reducing costs and environmental impact.

    Under the scheme, to provide PMAY-G beneficiaries with the maximum number of benefits from different schemes, convergence with other schemes is encouraged. The guideline aids with the construction of toilets to be leveraged through convergence with SBM-G, MGNREGS, or any other dedicated source of funding. Convergence for piped drinking water, electricity connection, LPG gas connection, solar lanterns and cleaner cooking energy, solar roof-top, fulfilment of requirement of construction material through MGNREGS and linkage with SHGs platform for livelihood opportunities under Government programs is also being done.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ******

    Pawan Singh Faujdar/Sreenivasa Rao

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India – Chile Joint Statement (April 01, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, the President of the Republic of Chile, H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April, 2025, commemorating the completion of 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Boric is accompanied by Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Mining, Women and Gender Equality and Cultures, Arts and Heritage, Members of Parliament, Senior Officials and a large number of business leaders. Apart from New Delhi, President Boric will visit Agra, Mumbai and Bengaluru. This is the first visit of President Boric to India. Both President Boric and Prime Minister Modi had first met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.

    President Boric was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome on arrival at Air Force Station Palam. Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with President Boric at Hyderabad House on 1 April 2025. He met President Droupadi Murmu who also hosted a Banquet in his honour and his accompanying delegation. Dr S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India called on President Boric.

    President Boric and Prime Minister Modi recalled the historic diplomatic ties that were established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people linkages, cultural ties and also the warm and cordial bilateral relations between both countries. They expressed desire for further expanding and deepening of the multifaceted relationship between the two countries in all areas of mutual interests.

    During their meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations spanning a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, defence and security, infrastructure, mining and mineral resources, agriculture and food security, green energy, ICT, digitization, innovation, disaster management, cooperation in science and technology, education and people-to-people linkages. The two sides agreed to continue regular exchanges at various levels to give further momentum to the bilateral relationship.

    The two leaders noted that trade and commerce has been a strong pillar of the bilateral relations. While highlighting the positive effects generated by the expansion of the India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement in May 2017, which has resulted in substantial increase in bilateral trade, the two leaders emphasized the need for further strengthening of bilateral trade mechanisms that could open new opportunities for expansion of bilateral trade. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent increase in visits of business delegations from both sides, which is strengthening trade and economic relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for bringing in a large business delegation, which will help in intensifying business interaction between the two countries. Both agreed to continue the discussions for further enhancement of the trade relations.

    President Boric conveyed that India is a priority partner for Chile in the global economy and stressed the need to explore strategies for enhanced and diversified trade between the two countries. The President and the Prime Minister acknowledged signing of the mutually agreed Terms of Reference and welcomed the launch of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement to achieve a deeper economic integration. The CEPA will aim at unlocking the full potential of the trade and commercial relationship between India and Chile, boosting employment, bilateral trade, and economic growth.

    To further promote trade relations as well as people-to-people interactions, President Boric announced Chile’s decision to grant a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons which will streamline the visa process. Prime Minister Modi welcomed and valued this measure, as it reflects the willingness of both parties to facilitate trade and investment and the shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Chile and India. Acknowledging the people-to-people linkages as an important pillar to promote bilateral ties and to facilitate business, tourism, student and academic exchanges, Indian side has already put in place a flexible visa regime, including by extending e-visa facility for Chilean travellers to India.

    Both leaders recognised the strategic importance of critical minerals for emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy transitions, both leaders agreed to accelerate collaboration in exploration, mining and processing along with research and development to promote investment across the entire critical mineral value chain for mutual benefit. They stressed on the need for building trusted and resilient supply chains including for critical minerals and advanced materials. The two sides agreed to work together on initiatives to strengthen supply chains and local value chains by fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and understandings in mining and minerals, including the possibility of long-term supply of minerals and materials from Chile to India.

    Both leaders agreed to explore the opening up of new avenues for cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals, space, ICT, agriculture, green energy, traditional medicine, Antarctica, Science & Technology, management of natural disasters, sports, Startups, cooperatives, and audiovisual co-production, through the exchange of experiences and good practices among the agencies responsible for these matters.

    President Boric acknowledged the role of the Indian pharmaceutical industry as one of the world leaders, and an important partner for Chile in the supply of affordable and high-quality products. Both sides agreed to facilitate private sectors of the two countries to increase trade in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. Both sides agreed to work on enhancing cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals sectors and address market access issues for Indian pharmaceuticals, as well as advancing in the recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia by Chile.

    The two leaders noted the importance of traditional medicines and Yoga in preserving health and wellbeing of people and directed their officials for an early conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on Traditional Medicines to promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Towards this, both countries agreed to collaborate and intensify the promotion and use of evidence-based, integrative, Traditional Medicine, Homeopathy, and Yoga by signing an MoU.

    Both sides agreed to work on promoting investments in infrastructure projects in each other’s countries. Chilean side welcomed Indian companies to participate in infrastructure projects including in railway sector.

    The two leaders encouraged the two sides to work together to explore substantial areas for bilateral defence cooperation, including capacity building and defence industrial collaboration. Both agreed to share knowledge in developing and enhancing each other’s capabilities under the existing formal defence cooperation agreement in place. Indian side highlighted that Chile has been kept on priority while offering opportunities in training at Defence Services Staff College, NDC, NDA and HDMC, apart from slots for specialised courses in mountain warfare and peacekeeping operations previously made available. Indian side expressed its desire to receive and train Chilean military in areas of mutual interests.

    Both leaders expressed their happiness on signing of the Letter of Intent to strengthen existing Antarctic cooperation, which will further facilitate partnership in Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources agendas bilateral dialogues, joint initiatives and academic exchanges related to Antarctica and Antarctic policy. Both India and Chile are Consultative Parties to the Antarctic Treaty and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen scientific understanding of Antarctic for the benefit of both parties and the global community.

    The two sides welcomed the adoption and opening for signature of the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), as a key legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and reiterated the resolve of their respective countries to preserve, protect and promote biodiversity, from land to sea, and agreed to work together and support each other in international forums dealing with these issues. Both countries reaffirmed their intention to strengthen a vision from the Global South in multilateralism, through cooperation and joint efforts, based on the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and the right to development.

    Recalling the two countries’ decades-long partnership in space, the two leaders noted the ongoing engagements in the space sector between the two countries, including the launching of a satellite belonging to Chile (SUCHAI-1) by India in 2017 as a co-passenger under a commercial arrangement. Both leaders emphasized the importance of further cooperation to promote training and capacity building and research in space and astrophysics. In this regard, they welcomed the constitution of Space Executive Committee by Chile to work on cooperation including in the areas of exploration in space, R&D, training, satellite building, launch and operation and peaceful use of outer space with ISRO, IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) and Startups.

    Both leaders noted their respective dynamic information and digital technology sectors and stressed the need to explore synergies to enhance cooperation in this field. They expressed mutual interest in growth of investment, joint ventures, technological development and markets in the IT and digital space, including promoting collaboration in Digital Public Infrastructures (DPI), thereby democratizing access to digital services for people and businesses. Both leaders acknowledged the efforts by the two sides in exploring early implementation of cooperation in the digital payments sectors. They committed to work for developing closer cooperation between the vibrant Startup ecosystems of the two countries. Both leaders expressed their desire for advancing on signing of an understanding on cooperation in the areas of Digital Transformation to facilitate deeper engagement between tech communities of both countries.

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reformed multilateralism and for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to make it more representative, accountable, transparent, inclusive and effective, reflecting the geopolitical realities of the 21st Century. The Chilean side reiterated its support for India’s candidature for a permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council. The two sides agreed to work together for promotion of democratic principles and human rights to strengthen the world peace stressing the importance of resolving all disputes through peaceful dialogue.

    Both leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross border terrorism and shared their resolve to stand together in common fight against global terrorism. They agreed that terrorism must be combated through concerted global actions.

    The two leaders called upon all UN member countries to implement the UNSC Resolution 1267 and work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure and disrupt terrorist networks and all terror financing channels. Both reiterated their commitment to work together in Financial Action Task Force (FATF), No Money For Terror (NMFT) and other multilateral platforms to combat terrorism. The two leaders also reiterated the importance of early finalization of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

    The two leaders committed themselves to the vision of a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, ensures freedom of navigation and overflight as well as unimpeded lawful commerce, and that seeks peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, notably the UNCLOS.

    Prime Minister Modi appreciated the participation of Chile in all the three editions of the “Voice of Global South” Summits, reflecting the commitment in bringing together countries of the Global South to share their development perspectives and priorities. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for sharing his valuable perspectives and ideas at the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit held in August 2024 and noted that both countries have strong convergence on several contemporary global issues, including on the need for effective global governance reforms and equitable access for Global South countries to clean and green technologies. President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in strengthening engagements between countries of Global South.

    President Boric appreciated India’s leadership in G20 which brought the development agenda to centre stage and acknowledged the transformative and inclusive role of technology, with a focus on unlocking the potential of digital public infrastructure (DPI). Both Leaders recognized that India’s G20 Presidency has championed Voice of the Global South by bringing to fore key initiatives and outcomes, such as inclusion of African Union in G20, promotion of Lifestyles for sustainable development (LiFE), advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), reforms of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and focus on women-led development. In this regard, and with the aim of promoting greater integration and representativeness within the G20, India will support the inclusion of Chile and Latin American countries in the discussions as G20′ guest countries.

    The two sides recognized the challenges for their economies presented by climate change and the transition to low emissions climate resilient economies. Accordingly, they expressed keen desire to promote clean energy and sustainable development through development of more efficient energy technologies. The two leaders called for increased joint investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, utilization and storage technologies, energy efficiency, and other low-carbon solutions that will have the potential to accelerate sustainable economic growth and foster job creation.

    President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and reiterated strong support as a member since November 2023. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chile joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in January 2021 aiming to make systems and infrastructure resilient to achieve the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, both leaders valued Chile’s offer of hosting the 7th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Recognizing the growing significance of technology enabled learning solutions, skills development, and institutional capacity building, India and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in these areas. Both countries have agreed to facilitate partnerships between EdCIL (India) Limited and key Chilean institutions, including the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH), the Chilean Ministry of Education, and technical training centres (CFTs), thereby focusing on digital learning, research exchanges, smart education infrastructure, and vocational training programs, leveraging the strengths of both nations to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing in education.

    Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the transformational changes taking place in education sector in India under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, encouraged leading Chilean universities to strengthen academic and research partnerships with Indian institutions and build institutional linkages through joint/dual degree and twinning arrangements. Given mutual strengths of both countries in astronomy and astrophysics, both leaders agreed to strengthen institutional engagements in these domains. The two leaders welcomed the proposal for establishment of an ICCR Chair on Indian Studies in one of the universities in Chile and directed the officials to examine the feasibility for an early implementation.

    Both leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in training and capacity building in the field of diplomacy and noted the potential for further enhancement for cooperation in this area, in line with global diplomatic endeavours and new technology making diplomacy more efficient.

    The two leaders acknowledged the role of cultural ties in bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other. They lauded the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and Chile and appreciated the long-standing cultural exchanges between the two nations. The leaders applauded the growing interest in the study of the cultures and languages in both countries with Spanish being among the popular foreign languages in India. They stressed the mutual interest in further strengthening India – Chile cultural cooperation and the reinforcement of cooperation among cultural institutions of the two countries. They welcomed the signing of new Cultural Exchange Program to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums and festivals.

    The two leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress made to finalise the agreement on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters which will lead to strengthening linkages between the relevant agencies to counter illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and, in general, to investigate, prevent and suppress contraventions of Customs laws, as well as sharing of best practices and capacity building. They also welcomed the efforts by two sides to sign an agreement on cooperation in the disability sector which would contribute to a more humane and just society where no one is left behind. The two leaders directed their officials to conclude these documents at an early date.

    Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular interaction on matters of mutual interest. They reiterated their willingness to build on opportunities to promote and expand the bonds of cooperation and understanding that characterizes the bilateral relationship.

    President Gabriel Boric thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for warmth and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during the visit and invited him to pay an official visit to Chile at a mutually convenient time.

    *****

    MJPS/SR/BM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Record 4,515 Child Adoptions in FY 2024-25, Highest in 12 years

    Source: Government of India

    Record 4,515 Child Adoptions in FY 2024-25, Highest in 12 years

    Adoption process strengthened with increased Awareness, Identification Initiatives, and Digital Transparency

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:02PM by PIB Delhi

    India’s adoption ecosystem has seen a significant boost in FY 2024-25, with a record 4,515 child adoptions, the highest since 2015-16. Of these, 4,155 were domestic adoptions, reflecting growing acceptance of legal adoption in the country. A strong identification drive by Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) introduced 8,598 newly identified children into the adoption pool, ensuring that more children in need find loving families. Additionally, 245 new adoption agencies were set up in coordination with state governments to streamline the adoption process.

    Key factors in this progress have been the intervention of Identification Cell and extensive training & awareness campaigns. CARA conducted physical state orientations across 12 states and UTs, along with 45 virtual training sessions covering adoption timelines, training of CWC members, foster care, and adoption counseling for children and prospective adoptive parents (PAPs). Moreover, as part of the Adoption Awareness Campaign, CARA partnered with 16 states to organize meets with Adoptive Parents from October, 2024 to January, 2025. In the presence of Minister of State, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Smt. Savitri Thakur, Annual conclave was also celebrated in November, 2024, focusing on foster care and adoption advocacy, with over 500 stakeholders participating.

    Furthering its commitment, CARA launched a comprehensive child identification exercise, adhering to the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. This initiative categorized children under five groups – Orphan, Abandoned, Surrendered, Children with No Visitation, and Children with Unfit Guardians. This strategic effort aimed to bring more children into the legal adoption framework, ensuring their right to a secure and supportive home.

    Under the guidance of Ministry of Women and Child Development, CARA also introduced new initiatives to enhance alternate family-based care. In 2024, CARA introduced Foster Care and Foster Adoption Modules on CARINGS portal to ensure placement of older children in family-based alternate care.

    In a move towards greater transparency and efficiency, CARA implemented digital interventions to streamline adoption procedures. Enhancements were made to the CARINGS portal, incorporating Identification related initiatives pertaining to data cleansing and provisions from the Adoption Regulations, 2022. New modules for in-country relative and step-parent adoptions were introduced, reducing the average processing time to 3-4 months.

    The achievements of FY 2024-25 highlight CARA’s proactive approach in strengthening India’s adoption framework. With continued collaboration between central and state authorities, CARA remains committed to ensuring every child in need finds a safe and loving home.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KISAN E-MITRA and IoT enabled systems to improve crop productivity

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    The government has employed Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods and IoT-enabled systems to improve crop productivity, sustainability and farmer livelihoods and to address various challenges in the agricultural sector to aid farmers etc. Some initiatives including Kisan e-Mitra are given below:

    1. ‘Kisan e-Mitra’, is a voice-based AI-powered chatbot, developed to assist farmers with responses to their queries on PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. This solution supports 11 regional languages and is evolving to assist with other government programs. At present, it handles over 20,000 farmer queries daily and so far, more than 92 lakh queries have been answered.
    2. The National Pest Surveillance System, for tackling the loss of produce due to climate change, utilizes AI and Machine Learning to detect pest infestation in crop issues, enabling timely intervention for healthier crops. This tool, currently used by over 10,000 extension workers, allows farmers to capture images of pests to help them mitigate pest attacks and reduce crop losses. At present, it currently supports 61 crops and over 400 pests.
    3. AI-based analytics using field photographs for satellite-based crop mapping being used in Crop-weather matching monitoring of crops sown.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STRAY DOGS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:13PM by PIB Delhi

    As per Article 246(3) of the Constitution of India, the preservation, protection, and improvement of livestock, as well as the prevention of animal diseases, veterinary training, and practice, fall under the jurisdiction of State Governments. As per Articles 243(W) and 246, local bodies are mandated to control the stray dog population. Accordingly, local bodies are implementing the Animal Birth Control Programme to regulate the population of stray dogs.

    The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is responsible for the human health component related to dog bites and human rabies. Under the National Rabies Control Program, data on animal bites, including high-risk groups such as children, is being collected, and necessary provisions for post-exposure prophylaxis are being made for all animal bite victims across the country through healthcare facilities. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, state-wise data on dog bite cases and suspected human rabies deaths reported by states and Union Territories from 2022 to 2025 (till January), as per the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme–Integrated Health Information Platform portal, are provided in Annexure-I and Annexure-II, respectively.

    The Central Government has notified the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 in supersession of the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 to strengthen the implementation of the animal birth control programme. Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 provides for sterilization and vaccination of stray dogs to control the stray dog population, to prevent rabies and to reduce man-dog conflict.

    The intensive implementation of the Animal Birth Control program by local bodies is the only rational and scientific solution to the overpopulation of the street dogs and controlling incidence of Rabies. Dogs are sterilized and released back to their original habitats, and since dogs are territorial, they stay in their locality and do not allow dogs from other neighboring areas to come in. These dogs are also vaccinated annually so they are protected from rabies and even if they bite accidentally, they may not transmit Rabies.

    The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has published the revised Animal Birth Control (ABC) module for Street Dogs Population management, rabies eradication and reducing man-dog conflict.

    Further, Animal Welfare Board of India provides the Animal Birth Control Project Recognition to the recognized Animal Welfare Organizations to carry out the Sterilization and immunization programme of stray dogs across the country. In addition, the Animal Welfare Board of India has issued following advisories / guidelines for proper welfare of the stray dogs as below:

    • Pet Dogs and Street Dogs Circular dated 26.02.2015
    • Standard protocol for the adoption of community animals dated 17.05.2022
    • Request to Chief Secretary of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 27.03.2023
    • Request to Principal Secretary, Urban Development and Animal Husbandry as well as to the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 31.03.2023
    • Request to al District Magistrate of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 dated 30.05.2023

    The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is implementing all necessary activities for rabies elimination in India by 2030 through the National Rabies Control Program (NRCP) in coordination with key stakeholder ministries and departments. Each stakeholder ministry/department has a defined role and set of responsibilities for rabies elimination under the National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030 (NAPRE), as part of the National Rabies Control Program.

    The activities undertaken by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) for rabies elimination across the country are mentioned below at Annexure-III

    The Government has not conducted a formal assessment of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program’s effectiveness in controlling the stray dog population; however, it remains the primary mechanism for managing the issue. The program’s effectiveness is supported by several mandatory provisions, including Animal Birth Control Project Recognition for each project, the constitution of Monitoring and Implementation Committees at the Central, State, and Local levels, and other regulatory measures. However, its effectiveness varies across different regions due to implementation challenges.

    Further, as per the information received, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has assessed the effectiveness of the Animal Birth Control Program in controlling the stray dog population. A study conducted in 2019 and 2023 revealed a 10% reduction in the street dog population in 2023 compared to the previous survey. At the same time, the neutering percentage increased by 20%.

    ANNEXURE-I

    Dog Bite cases reported by states/UTs at IDSP (from 2022-25)

    State/UT

    2022

    (Jan-Dec)

    2023

    (Jan-Dec)

    2024

    (Jan-Dec)

    2025

    (January)

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    345

    528

    455

    52

    Andhra Pradesh

    192360

    212146

    245174

    23180

    Arunachal Pradesh

    2501

    4409

    6388

    714

    Assam

    39919

    94945

    166232

    20900

    Bihar

    141926

    241827

    263930

    34442

    Chandigarh

    5365

    11782

    8644

    754

    Chhattisgarh

    21365

    29221

    38268

    5159

    Delhi

    6691

    17874

    25210

    3196

    Dadra Nagar Haveli And Daman Diu

    4169

    5921

    7926

    620

    Goa

    8057

    11904

    17236

    1789

    Gujarat

    169363

    278537

    392837

    53942

    Haryana

    35837

    42690

    60417

    7787

    Himachal Pradesh

    15935

    21096

    22909

    2135

    Jammu And Kashmir

    22110

    34664

    51027

    4824

    Jharkhand

    9539

    31251

    43874

    5344

    Karnataka

    163356

    232715

    361494

    39437

    Kerala

    4000

    71606

    115046

    11649

    Ladakh

    2165

    2569

    4078

    373

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Madhya Pradesh

    66018

    113499

    142948

    16710

    Maharashtra

    393020

    472790

    485345

    56538

    Manipur

    4450

    2964

    9257

    798

    Meghalaya

    5302

    9611

    17784

    2466

    Mizoram

    891

    1141

    1873

    179

    Nagaland

    452

    600

    714

    85

    Odisha

    65396

    92848

    166792

    24478

    Puducherry

    11937

    13006

    12148

    894

    Punjab

    15519

    18680

    22912

    2164

    Rajasthan

    88029

    103533

    140543

    15062

    Sikkim

    3845

    6636

    8601

    840

    Tamil Nadu

    364435

    441796

    480427

    48931

    Telangana

    92924

    119014

    121997

    10424

    Tripura

    3051

    6510

    9641

    1266

    Uttarakhand

    15649

    25623

    23091

    1790

    Uttar Pradesh

    191361

    229921

    164009

    20478

    West Bengal

    22627

    48664

    76486

    10264

    Total

    21,89,909

    30,52,521

    37,15,713

    4,29,664

    * Data source IDSP/IHIP as on 27-2-2025

    ANNEXURE-II

    Human Rabies cases (Death) reported by states/UTs (from 2022-25)

    State/UT

    2022
    (Jan-Dec)

    2023
    (Jan-Dec)

    2024
    (Jan-Dec)

    2025
    (January)

    Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Andhra Pradesh

    3

    0

    1

    0

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    0

    1

    0

    Assam

    0

    3

    1

    1

    Bihar

    1

    3

    2

    0

    Chandigarh

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Chhattisgarh

    0

    1

    0

    0

    Delhi

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Dadra Nagar Haveli And Daman Diu

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Goa

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Gujarat

    0

    3

    1

    0

    Haryana

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Himachal Pradesh

    1

    1

    3

    0

    Jammu And Kashmir

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Jharkhand

    0

    1

    1

    0

    Karnataka

    3

    4

    5

    0

    Kerala

    0

    1

    3

    0

    Ladakh

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Madhya Pradesh

    1

    2

    6

    0

    Maharashtra

    7

    14

    14

    0

    Manipur

    1

    3

    2

    0

    Meghalaya

    0

    1

    4

    0

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Odisha

    0

    1

    0

    0

    Puducherry

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Punjab

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Rajasthan

    0

    3

    0

    0

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Tamil Nadu

    2

    5

    2

    0

    Telangana

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Tripura

    0

    1

    1

    0

    Uttarakhand

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Uttar Pradesh

    0

    3

    6

    0

    West Bengal

    0

    0

    1

    0

    Total

    21

    50

    54

    1

    * Data source IDSP/IHIP as on 27-2-2025

    ANNEXURE-III

    The activities undertaken by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) for rabies elimination across the country are as follows:

    1. Launch of NAPRE: – Under the ‘National Rabies Control Program’, the “National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030” (NAPRE) was conceptualized and jointly launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAHD) on September 28, 2021. The NAPRE guidelines consist of two components: Human Health and Animal Health. The implementation of the Human Health component is undertaken by the ‘National Centre for Disease Control’ (NCDC) under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with dedicated budgetary support, while the implementation of the Animal Health component is to be undertaken by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) under MoFAHD.  As per Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 Mass dog vaccination and dog population management are being done by the animal husbandry department in collaboration with local body authorities.

     

    1. Budgetary support to the states under National Rabies Control Program: Under the “National Health Mission”, the states are being supported by providing budget for implementing the ‘National Rabies Control Program’ (NRCP) through budget for Capacity building of the healthcare staff, procurement of rabies vaccines, printing of IEC for rabies & dogbite prevention, for data entry support, review meetings, Monitoring and Surveillance, establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics & Wound Washing facilities.

     

    1. Availability of ARV and ARS in Health facilities: – The lifesaving drugs like Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Anti-Rabies Serum (ARS)/Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) are being provided at government hospitals and health facilities under the National Free Drug Initiative of the National Health Mission (NHM). These drugs are also included in the essential drug list of the states.

     

    1. Workshops conducted under NRCP for SAPRE: – To develop the ‘State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination’(SAPRE), regional level workshops have been conducted for southern states, northeastern states, North region states and Delhi in the last two years. Rajasthan, Puducherry, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tamilnadu have already launched their SAPREs, while Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Delhi are yet to launch their SAPREs. Rest other states are drafting their SAPRE

     

    1. Establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics across the states: Support is being provided to the states’ Health Departments for establishing “Model Anti-Rabies Clinics” in the districts to provide care to dog bite victims. As of now, 279 Model Anti-Rabies Clinics have become operational in the last three years.

     

    1. Strengthening the Diagnostic Labs for Rabies Diagnosis: – Across country 14 diagnostic laboratories of government health institutions have been strengthened under the National Rabies Control Program for rabies diagnosis in the selected states/UTs.

     

    1. Issues advisories and Communication letters to the states: – Issued advisory to all states by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India (GoI), urging them to classify Human Rabies as a Notifiable Disease under relevant acts. Presently, Human Rabies is notifiable in 23 States/UTs. Additionally, various communications have been sent to the states for implementation of National Rabies Control Program (NRCP) through surveillance, availability of ARV/ARS, training to stakeholders on dogbite and rabies cases management, establishment of Model Anti Rabies Clinics, ensuring Wound washing facility in public hospitals and centres.

     

    1. Rabies Free City Imitative: – The Rabies-Free Cities initiative has commenced in a phased manner, targeting Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities for rabies prevention & control. The initiative is being implemented in 15 cities of 6 states and planned for expansion to 114 cities across country.

     

    1. Formulation of Committees at National & state Level under National Rabies Control Program: – The National Joint steering committee for Rabies Elimination (NJSC-RE) has been constituted under the chairpersonship of Secretary (HFW)-MoHFW and Co-chairpersonship of Secretary Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying for overall steering the program in the country and to formulate policy, legislations and framework for regulatory mechanism. Similarly, to advise the program division on various technical aspects the National Technical Advisory committee (NTAC) was constituted under the chairpersonship of DGHS. In line with NJSC; state and district-level Joint Steering Committees for Rabies Elimination have been established across states and districts to regular review program progress under NRCP.

     

    1. Develop Guidelines and resource documents under National Rabies Control Program: – Various guidelines on rabies prophylaxis and training modules have been developed for medical officers and health workers and disseminated with the states/UTs.

     

    1. Training Programs under National Rabies Control Program: – Numerous training sessions for healthcare professionals on proper animal bite management and rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) have been conducted across all States/UTs. Around 1,66,470 medical officers, paramedical staff, and nurses have been trained in dog bite management from 2019 to 2025 (till Feb’25).

     

    1. Community Awareness on Dogbite and Rabies: – Community awareness about rabies prevention is being raised through advocacy, communication, and social mobilization campaigns. To create the awareness to the public and healthcare professionals Dog bite protocols, IEC materials, and training videos on the management of animal bite/dog bite cases for medical officers have been created and disseminated across the country. Reference: https://rabiesfreeindia.mohfw.gov.in/iec

     

    1. Observance of “World Rabies Day”: – To further promote awareness about rabies, “World Rabies Day” is observed annually on 28th September at both the national and state levels. During this event, awareness activities on the Do’s and Don’ts of handling dogs, dog bite cases, and the importance of rabies vaccination are conducted, particularly in schools for children.

     

    1. Created dedicated website for National Rabies Control Program: – A dedicated National Rabies Control Program website has been launched on 12th March 2024 to enhance surveillance and reporting of animal bites, suspected/probable/confirmed rabies cases/deaths, and vaccination schedules, with a web-based portal currently under development. Reference: https://rabiesfreeindia.mohfw.gov.in/

     

    1. Rabies Helpline: – A dedicated Rabies helpline (15400)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BREED IMPROVEMENT UNDER NLM

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:12PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Livestock Mission (NLM), launched in 2014-15, underwent revision and realignment in the 2021-22 financial year. The revamped scheme focuses on employment generation, entrepreneurship development, and enhancing per-animal productivity, thereby aiming to increase the production of meat, goat milk, eggs, and wool under the development programme umbrella. Further modifications were introduced on 21st February 2024, incorporating breed upgradation of camels, horses, and donkeys, along with initiatives for fodder production utilizing wastelands, rangelands, and degraded forest land. The Department has published revised Comprehensive NLM Guidelines in January 2025 and has also finalized the Model DPRs. Both the guidelines and Model DPRs are available on the NLM portal: https://nlm.udyamimitra.in/. It is still too early to assess the impact of components including camels, horses, donkeys, and mules under the scheme on their population.

    To promote activities under the realigned NLM, the Department has organized several key events during the current financial year, including the One-Day Event on Camelids in Rajasthan, the First National Goat Conclave: Bakri Maha Kumbh and National Symposium on Policy and Strategies for the Indian Goat Sector in Amrit Kaal in Uttar Pradesh, the Entrepreneurship Development Conclave 2025 in Maharashtra, and the Conclave on the Theme “Dialogue for Holistic Development of the Livestock Sector” in Meghalaya .Additionally, during Regional Review Meetings, states were advised to submit proposals and enhance awareness regarding these initiatives.

    Under the National Livestock Mission – Entrepreneurship Development Programme (NLM-EDP), 116 projects with a total project cost of ₹108.26 crore and a subsidy of ₹47.42 crore were approved for 106 individuals, one joint applicant, three FPOs, two cooperatives, one Joint Liability Group, and three Section 8 companies for feed and fodder processing activities, including silage, TMR, hay, and fodder blocks. These projects are at different stages of implementation. The total project cost approved for the Section 8 companies amounts to ₹3.09 crore, with a capital subsidy of ₹1.46 crore.

    Under the component “Assistance for Quality Fodder Seed Production” of the NLM scheme, 1.03 lakh tonnes of quality fodder seeds have been produced since 2021-22, with funds amounting to ₹636.83 crore. This is expected to cover approximately 20.63 lakh hectares, leading to an estimated production of 1134.65 lakh metric tonnes of high-quality, nutritious green fodder across the country.

    To promote livestock insurance, the beneficiary share of the premium for all categories and areas has been reduced to 15 percent, down from the earlier premium of 20 to 50 percent. The remaining premium is borne by the central and state governments in a 90:10 ratio for hilly and north-eastern states, 60:40 for other states, and 100 percent for union territories. The Department is actively conducting awareness programs, including seminars, camps, publicity campaigns, and video conferences, to promote livestock insurance. For this purpose, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is providing financial assistance to state governments. Under the National Livestock Mission scheme, full central assistance is provided to states for awareness and publicity efforts. Additionally, during Regional Review Meetings, states are advised to enhance insurance coverage. In the current financial year, Rs. 37.92 crore has been released under the livestock insurance activity of the National Livestock Mission, and 21lakh animals have been insured.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1st April, 2025.

    *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu released a Special Postage Stamp

    Source: Government of India

    Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu released a Special Postage Stamp

    Celebrating 90th anniversary of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:31PM by PIB Delhi

    The Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, released a special Postage Stamp to commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai. The event was graced by Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis, and other distinguished dignitaries.

    Release of Special Postage Stamp on RBI released by Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu

    Speaking at the event, Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu lauded the efforts of the RBI in strengthening and regulating the financial sector, ensuring stability, and fostering economic growth in the nation.

    Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia congratulated the RBI for ensuring that the country’s economic fabric remains robust and for shaping the nation’s financial landscape. He also highlighted the role India Post has played towards financial inclusion with its vast network of 1,65,000 Post Offices across the country. The Post Office Savings Bank (POSB) has played a crucial role in offering savings schemes, while the traditional money order service has evolved into the iMoney Order, making money transfers quicker, more convenient, and more affordable.

    The Reserve Bank of India was established on April 1, 1935 at its iconic building in Kolkata. As it completes nine decades of dedicated service to the nation, the RBI continues to play a pivotal role in fostering stability, trust, and growth in the financial system. Beyond its core responsibilities of monetary policy, currency management, government debt management, and financial regulation, the RBI also focuses on financial inclusion, consumer awareness, and the promotion of financial literacy.

    Special Postage My Stamp on 90th Anniversary of Reserve Bank of India.

    This special stamp serves as a tribute to the institution’s significant contributions to India’s economic growth and its unwavering commitment to financial stewardship.

    The special postage stamp released on this occasion depicts RBI’s iconic heritage, symbolising its journey of nine decades. The stamp prominently showcases the Reserve Bank’s original headquarters in Kolkata, where it was first established, along with its present headquarters in Mumbai, representing its evolution over the years. It also prominently displays the RBI’s specially designed 90-year logo with the inscription “Stability. Trust. Growth”, reflecting its foundational principles and continued contribution to the economic framework of the nation.

    Social Media Links:

    1) https://x.com/JM_Scindia/status/1906952599003410532

    2) https://x.com/IndiaPostOffice/status/1906972522559705340

    *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EV CHARGING STATIONS UNDER FAME

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Details of Electric Vehicle Public Charging Stations (EVPCS) installed under FAME-II scheme is provided at Annexure. 

    Rs.633.44crore have been utilized out of Rs.839 crore allocated under the scheme.  The details of year-wise funds released /utilised during the last five years is as under:

    Rs. crore

    FY

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    Total Exp.

    Grants released for EVPCS to OMCs

    0

    21.99

    0

    560

    51.45

    633.44

     

    Ministry of Power, “Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024” dated 17thSeptember, 2024, encourage charging during solar hours through concessional tariffs, integration of renewable energy in bus depots & promotion of solar carport etc. These guidelines emphasize the role of public-private partnerships in expanding the EV charging infrastructure. Setting up EV charging station has been designated as de-licensed activity, simplifying the process for businesses. To make the land available at affordable rates, it has been suggested that public land be made available to Government or Public entities on a revenue-sharing model at Rs. 1 per kWh. For private entities, the land may be made available through a competitive bidding process at a floor price of Rs. 1 per kWh. Additionally, public tenders involving government land for the establishment of BSS have been suggested to be kept technology agnostic. State Governments have been advised to permit round-the-clock operations of BSS.

    No. of EVPCS installed under FAME by three Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Other Public Sector Entities (PSEs)

     

    State/UT

    No. of Chargers installed under FAME as on 01.03.2025 by OMCs

    Number of chargers installed As on 03.02.2025 by other entities

    State Total

    Tamil Nadu

    654

    18

    672

    Andhra Pradesh

    507

    –

    507

    Maharashtra

    495

    20

    515

    Gujarat

    468

    52

    520

    Karnataka

    466

    3

    469

    Rajasthan

    461

    10

    471

    Uttar Pradesh

    403

    8

    411

    West Bengal

    346

    4

    350

    Punjab

    301

    –

    301

    Telangana

    272

    –

    272

    Bihar

    248

    –

    248

    Kerala

    242

    30

    272

    Madhya Pradesh

    240

    5

    245

    Jharkhand

    144

    –

    144

    Odisha

    124

    –

    124

    Assam

    108

    –

    108

    Delhi

    59

    25

    84

    Uttrakhand

    46

    –

    46

    Jammu & Kashmir

    39

    –

    39

    Haryana

    36

    2

    38

    Himachal Pradesh

    36

    7

    43

    Chhattisgarh

    34

    –

    34

    Meghalaya

    23

    –

    23

    Goa

    15

    –

    15

    Manipur

    12

    –

    12

    Nagaland

    10

    –

    10

    Dadar & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu

    6

    –

    6

    Pondicherry

    6

    –

    6

    Ladakh

    4

    –

    4

    Mizoram

    4

    –

    4

    Arunachal Pradesh

    3

    –

    3

    Tripura

    3

    –

    3

    Andaman & Nicobar

    1

    –

    1

    Sikkim

    1

    –

    1

    Chandigarh

    –

    25

    25

    Meghalaya

    –

    1

    1

    Total

    5,817

    210

    6,027

     

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government strongly condemns and rejects US Hong Kong Policy Act Report

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) today (April 1) strongly disapproved of and rejected the untruthful remarks, slanders and smears against various aspects of the HKSAR in the United States (US)’s so-called 2025 Hong Kong Policy Act Report. It was apparent that the so-called report was compiled to serve the political purpose of maintaining US hegemony. It, once again, clearly exposed the US’s barbarity under its hegemony. By piling up false stories and narratives, they were clearly crafted to serve the political interest of the US in order to suppress the development rights and security interests of others.

         A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, “The HKSAR Government strongly condemns and rejects the wanton slander about and political attacks in the US’s so-called 2025 Hong Kong Policy Act Report on Hong Kong where the ‘one country, two systems’ principle is successfully implemented. The HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and as a local administrative region that enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the principle of ‘one country, two systems’, comes directly under the jurisdiction of the Central People’s Government. The US once again told fallacies about Hong Kong by replacing the rule of law with political manipulation and confounding right and wrong, and blatantly interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are entirely China’s internal affairs. The US’s attempt to undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong will only expose its slyness and will never succeed.”

         The spokesman said, “The so-called ‘sanctions’ arbitrarily imposed against the officials of the HKSAR and the Central Authorities who perform their duties in accordance with the law by the US at the same time when publishing the so-called report smacks of despicable political manipulation to intimidate the relevant officials safeguarding national security. These grossly interfere in China’s internal affairs and Hong Kong affairs, and seriously violate the international law and the basic norms governing international relations. It, once again, clearly exposed the US’s barbarity under its hegemony, which is exactly the same as its recent tactics in bullying and coercing various countries and regions. The HKSAR despises such so-called ‘sanctions’ by the US and is not intimidated by such despicable behavior. The HKSAR will resolutely continue to discharge the duty of safeguarding national security. The HKSAR Government will make every effort to protect the legitimate rights and interests of all personnel.”

         The spokesman reiterated, “The HKSAR Government steadfastly safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests, and fully and faithfully lives up to the highest principle of ‘one country, two systems’. It will resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL), the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and other relevant laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, to, in accordance with the law, effectively prevent, suppress and impose punishment for acts and activities endangering national security, whilst upholding the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people, so as to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the principle of ‘one country, two systems’. The HKSAR Government strongly demands the US to immediately stop acting in violation of international law and basic norms of international relations and interfering in China’s internal affairs and Hong Kong affairs.”

         Regarding the slandering remarks in the so-called report, the Government solemnly rejects them in the ensuing paragraphs.
     
    Laws safeguarding national security

         The HKSAR Government spokesman said, “As repeatedly stressed by the HKSAR Government, the laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR are precisely for safeguarding national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity; and ensuring the full and faithful implementation of the principle of ‘one country, two systems’ under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy. It will also better safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of the residents of the HKSAR and other people in the city. The rights and regular exchanges between Hong Kong residents and people doing business in Hong Kong with foreign countries will not be affected.

         “The US Government had vilified the HKSAR’s legislative work, as well as law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial and judicial authorities, in claiming that fulfilment of their duties constituted an ‘erosion of rights and freedoms’. However, the fact is that the US has been ignoring the non-interference principle under international law, interfering with other countries’ internal affairs, grooming agents, instigating ‘colour revolutions’, and even creating social unrest and multiple humanitarian disasters through economic and military coercion, causing suffering to people in many countries. In the HKSAR, the ‘black-clad violence’ and the Hong Kong version of ‘colour revolution’ back in 2019 have severely damaged the social stability of Hong Kong. With the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL), its effect in stopping violence and curbing disorder as well as quickly restoring social stability in the Hong Kong community was immediate. With the concerted efforts of the HKSAR Government, the Legislative Council and all sectors of the community, the HKSAR fulfilled its constitutional duty by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) last year to improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, enabling Hong Kong’s transition from chaos to order and its advancement from stability to prosperity, allowing the livelihood and economic activities of the Hong Kong community at large to swiftly resume to normal and the business environment to be restored and improved continuously. In the Economic Freedom of the World 2024 Annual Report, Hong Kong ranks as the world’s freest economy among 165 economies. In the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, Hong Kong’s ranking improved by two places to fifth globally. The legal regime in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR has been strengthened, which prevented the tactics of the US from succeeding. Thereafter, the US continued to act recklessly and even imposed the so-called ‘sanctions’ unscrupulously in the guise of defending human rights and democracy. This constitutes a demonstration of shameless hypocrisy with double standards on the part of the US, showing that their bullying acts are utterly ugly and despicable.

         “The specific content of the SNSO fully demonstrates that it was formulated strictly in accordance with the rule of law principles: including clear definitions of the elements that constitute an offence, only making necessary and reasonable restrictions on basic human rights and freedoms in accordance with applicable international standards and with reference to relevant practices in other common law jurisdictions, and not affecting the legitimate rights and interests of innocent third parties etc. At the same time, the HKSAR law enforcement agencies have been taking law enforcement actions based on evidence and strictly in accordance with the law in respect of the acts of the persons or entities concerned, paying no regard to their political stance, background or occupation. In the past, the US and some Western countries had also carried out law enforcement actions against the dissemination of disinformation, incitement of hatred, and glorification of violence in their own countries. Their disparagement of the HKSAR only exposes their double standards.
     
         “As regards the sedition offence, the courts of the HKSAR have ruled in different cases that the provisions relating to sedition are consistent with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights on the protection of human rights, and that a proportionate and reasonable balance has been struck between safeguarding national security and protection of the freedom of speech. It should be reiterated that the offence is not meant to silence expression of any opinion that is only a genuine criticism against the Government based on objective facts.
     
         “The HKNSL and SNSO have an extraterritorial effect. As the law enforcement department of the HKSAR safeguarding national security, the Police are duty bound to pursue the liability of those who have allegedly endangered national security overseas. Those absconders hiding in the US and other Western countries are wanted because they continue to blatantly engage in activities endangering national security, including inciting secession and requesting foreign countries to impose ‘sanctions’ or blockade and engage in other hostile activities against the People’s Republic of China and the HKSAR. More so, they continue to collude with external forces to be covered for their evil deeds. Their malicious acts to endanger national security have been seen through by all, and there is no doubt that they have clearly and seriously endangered national security. As the law enforcement department of the HKSAR safeguarding national security, the Police are duty bound to put the persons concerned on the wanted list in accordance with the law, and it is necessary to take all lawful measures, including the measures specified under section 89 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, to strongly combat the acts of abscondment. The action is fully justified, necessary and legitimate. The extraterritorial effect for the laws safeguarding national security fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions. Quite a number of countries would also impose similar measures on wanted criminals, including cancellation of passports.
     
         “As guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights, all defendants charged with a criminal offence shall have the right to a fair trial by the Judiciary exercising independent judicial power. The courts of the HKSAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. It is such a disgrace for the US to make unwarranted comments on criminal trials which are ongoing in the HKSAR courts.

         “Every state will enact laws on safeguarding national security. This is an inherent right of every sovereign state, and is also an international practice. In terms of national security-related legislation, the US has at least 21 pieces. There have also been countless administrative orders issued in the name of so-called ‘national security’. The US does not only generalise the concept of ‘national security’ to intimidate individuals and corporations which engage in legitimate activities, but has also even at every turn suppressed dissidents with various means, and is in no position to point its finger at other countries and regions for making their own legislation for safeguarding national security legitimately. The US entirely disregarded the constitutional duty and practical needs of the HKSAR to legislate, and the positive effects brought by the enactment of the relevant national security legislation on economic development and protection of human rights, and must be strongly condemned.”
     
    Improved electoral system and reform of District Councils

         The HKSAR Government spokesman pointed out, “The improved electoral system of the HKSAR puts in place legal safeguards to ensure the full implementation of ‘patriots administering Hong Kong’. Keeping political power in the hands of patriots is a political rule commonly adopted around the world. No one in any country or region in the world will ever allow political power to fall into the hands of forces or individuals who do not love, or even sell out or betray, their own country. In Hong Kong, regardless of one’s background, whoever meets the requirements and criteria of patriots can participate in elections in accordance with the law and serve the Hong Kong public by entering into the governance structure of the HKSAR after getting successfully elected.
     
         “Reforming District Councils (DCs) is an important part of improving district governance. The DCs have returned to their rightful positioning under Article 97 of the Basic Law as advisory and service bodies that are not organs of political power, and the principle of ‘patriots administering Hong Kong’ has been fully implemented, which is of great significance. Individuals who love the country, have an affection for Hong Kong and are dedicated to serving their districts can participate in the work of DCs through a variety of channels, thereby reflecting public opinion more comprehensively and accurately.”

    Safeguarding due administration of justice and rule of law
     
         The HKSAR Government spokesman pointed out, “The HKSAR Government safeguards independent judicial power and fully supports the Judiciary in exercising its judicial power independently, safeguarding the due administration of justice and the rule of law. Articles 2, 19 and 85 of the Basic Law specifically provide that the HKSAR enjoys independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication, and the courts of the HKSAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. Article 92 of the Basic Law also clearly stipulates that judges and other members of the Judiciary of the HKSAR shall be chosen on the basis of their judicial and professional qualities. All judges and judicial officers are appointed by the Chief Executive on the recommendation of an independent commission composed of local judges, persons from the legal profession and eminent persons from other sectors. All judges and judicial officers so appointed will continue to abide by the Judicial Oath and administer justice in full accordance with the law, without fear or favour, self-interest or deceit. Establishing the mechanism for safeguarding national security in the HKSAR will not undermine the independent judicial power. Our judicial system continues to be protected by the Basic Law. When adjudicating cases concerning offence endangering national security, as in any other cases, judges remain independent and impartial in performing their judicial duties, free from any interference. Any reasonable, objective and fair-minded person who has read the publicly accessible judgments of the court on relevant cases would certainly reach the same conclusion.
     
         “The principle of judicial deference to the executive’s assessment on national security is well established in common law jurisdictions including the US. The Court of Appeal in an important judgment decided in May 2024 that there are at least three areas where the court would make judgment while giving the executive deference on assessment on national security: first, where a fundamental right of the person affected by the measure is engaged; second, where the requirement of a fair trial is in issue; and third, where the question of open justice is raised. The vilification of the US against the HKSAR that the executive influences how the court should interpret laws’ goes completely against the fact.
     
         “The Department of Justice takes charge of criminal prosecutions, free from any interference by virtue of Article 63 of the Basic Law. All prosecutorial decisions are based on an objective analysis of all admissible evidence and applicable laws.”
     
         The spokesman stressed, “The rule of law in Hong Kong is strong and robust, and withstands the test of time. Hong Kong’s common law system has been built and maintained over the years by the joint efforts of the Judiciary and legal professions, including judges at all levels of courts, and it will not be changed because of the departure of individual overseas non-permanent judges. In fact, when Lord Collins of Mapesbury resigned, he had stated that he continued to ‘have the fullest confidence in the Court and the total independence of its members’. The Right Honourable Madam Justice Beverley McLachlin also reiterated her ‘confidence in the members of the Court, their independence, and their determination to uphold the rule of law’.
     
         “The Judiciary exercises judicial power independently in accordance with the law, and everyone charged with a criminal offence has the right to a fair hearing. The courts decide cases strictly in accordance with the evidence and all applicable laws. Cases will never be handled any differently owing to the profession, political beliefs or background of the persons involved. The prosecution has the burden to prove beyond reasonable doubt the commission of an offence before a defendant may be convicted by the court.

         “All cases concerning offences endangering national security will be handled by the prosecution and judicial authorities of the HKSAR in a fair and timely manner in strict compliance with Article 42(1) of the Hong Kong National Security Law. The situation of so-called ‘indefinite detention’ does not exist at all. The US’s detention against an individual whom it sees as a ‘terrorist’ for up to 20 years without charge is the real ‘indefinite detention’.”
     
    Safeguarding rights and freedoms

         The HKSAR Government spokesman said, “The HKSAR Government steadfastly safeguards the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people as protected under the law. Since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, human rights in the city have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law. The NSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance also clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, and that the rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of speech, of the press, of publication, of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration, that Hong Kong residents enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law. Nonetheless, just as the case with other places in the world, such rights and freedoms are not absolute. The ICCPR also expressly states that some of them may be subject to restrictions as prescribed by law that are necessary for protection of national security, public safety, public order or the rights and freedoms of others, etc.
     
         “In fact, since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the media landscape in Hong Kong has remained vibrant. Like all other places in the world, freedom of the press and speech are not absolute. The media, like everyone else, has an obligation to abide by all the laws. The media continue to enjoy the freedom to comment on and criticise government policies without any restriction, as long as this is not in violation of the law. The most crucial point is that journalists must act in good faith and on accurate factual basis and provide reliable and precise information in accordance with the tenets of ‘responsible journalism’ in order to enjoy the protection of their rights to freedom of speech and press freedom.”
     
    Enhancing national education
     
         The HKSAR Government spokesman pointed out, “Schools are places for students to learn and grow. It is the obligation of schools to provide a safe and orderly school environment and atmosphere, and to maintain a campus free from political interference or illegal activities, for safeguarding students’ well-being. National education has been an important part of the curricula for primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens with a view to deepening our students’ understanding of the country’s national affairs, history and culture, the Constitution and the Basic Law, as well as national security, thereby building up students’ cultural confidence to foster a sense of national identity, and cultivating them into a new generation that is able and virtuous with a sense of responsibility, visions and love for the country and the city. Teachers are also important role models for their students, playing a vital role in passing on knowledge and nurturing students’ character. The HKSAR Government has the responsibility to ensure the professional conduct of teachers. Implementation of national education, including national security education, is the legitimate duty of education authorities all over the world. Different places attach great importance to implementing national security education and developing their students’ sense of national identity, including knowledge of their respective constitution, their own history, culture, geography, etc.
     
         “Academic freedom is an important social value treasured in Hong Kong and the cornerstone of our higher education sector. Since the implementation of the National Security Law, academics or post-secondary education institutions in Hong Kong continue to conduct normal exchange activities with their foreign or external counterparts. Meanwhile, post-secondary institutions in Hong Kong have taken a series of measures to incorporate national security education into students’ learning in fulfilment of their statutory duty. These institutions enjoy autonomy on curriculum design, and the HKSAR Government encourages the institutions to provide students with diversified learning opportunities on national security education.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Christine Lagarde: The transformative power of AI

    Source: European Central Bank

    Welcome address by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the ECB conference on “The transformative power of AI: economic implications and challenges” in Frankfurt, Germany.

    Frankfurt, 1 April 2025

    It is a pleasure to welcome you to our conference on the transformative power of AI.

    In the early stages of a new technological breakthrough, it is often hard to discern fact from fiction. We struggle to imagine the ways in which the new technology will be used. And even if we predict the direction of technological change correctly, we rarely get the timeline or the size of the impacts right.

    Today, we sometimes hear claims that AI is improving so fast that we are only a few years away from the nature of work being radically reformed. But we also hear arguments that the same barriers that slowed down the adoption of all past technologies will also delay AI adoption.

    I cannot claim to know which vision will prove to be correct. But the early evidence is promising and, in my view, we must act on the basis that we are facing an economic revolution. This attitude will be particularly important here in Europe.

    On this side of the Atlantic, we are still paying the price for having been too slow to capitalise on the last major digital revolution, the internet. The tech sector explains around two-thirds of the productivity gap between the EU and the United States since the turn of the century.

    And now we are faced with a technology that can improve its own performance through self-learning mechanisms and feedback loops, enabling even more rapid advances and innovations. The risks of underestimating the potential of AI, and falling behind again, are simply too great to be ignored.

    What’s more, we are facing a new geopolitical environment in which we can no longer be sure that we will have frictionless access to new technologies developed overseas. This new reality strengthens the case for Europe to establish itself at the technological frontier.

    There are two main areas where we should expect, and prepare for, major changes in the economy.

    The first is productivity.

    We can already see the productivity effects of AI in sectors like the US tech sector, where output is expanding while employment is falling.[1] But we are still in the early phase of the “productivity J-curve”, where new technologies diffuse to the wider economy and are reflected in GDP.

    As such, estimates about the productivity gains of AI vary widely – but even at the lower end they would be a game changer for Europe.

    One widely accepted methodology estimates that the euro area could see a boost to total factor productivity (TFP) of around 0.3 percentage points per year over the next ten years.[2] Compare that with the past decade, when annual TFP growth averaged just 0.5%.

    Other estimates point to much larger gains, with productivity expected to grow 1.5 percentage points faster annually if AI is widely adopted over the next decade.[3]

    Whether Europe can achieve such productivity gains will depend on whether we can improve the environment for AI innovation and diffusion.

    This comes down to funding, regulation and energy.

    As I have been arguing for some time, Europe’s relatively small venture capital ecosystem is a major hindrance to building foundational models in the EU.[4] Between 2018 and 2023, around €33 billion was invested in AI companies in the EU, compared with more than €120 billion in their US peers.[5]

    Building and developing this technology also requires considerable investment in data centres, and the EU currently has around 4 times fewer dedicated sites than the US.[6]

    At the same time, ECB research finds that regulation and a lack of institutional quality are particularly detrimental to the expansion of high-tech sectors relative to more mature technologies. Investing in radical technologies is highly risky and needs a different set of framework conditions.[7]

    The adoption of AI, for example, depends on access to data pools to train models, which requires smart regulation to avoid data fragmentation while ensuring data protection. It also requires good institutions as, for instance, effective legal systems are needed to defend a non-patentable asset like a set of AI prompts.

    Our research shows that if the EU’s average institutional delivery were raised to the level of best practice, AI-intensive sectors would see their share in investment rise by more than 10 percentage points.[8]

    Finally, unless we see major breakthroughs in efficiency, Europe’s energy supply constraints could pose a challenge to the diffusion of AI through the economy in the future.

    The power consumption of data centres is expected to triple in Europe by the end of the decade.[9] AI training and inference is extremely energy-intensive.[10] And this surge in demand comes at a time when the green transition is also increasing the demand for electricity, for example for charging battery electric vehicles.

    There is now a clear policy agenda in Europe to address these barriers. It is widely recognised that we need to build a savings and investment union to jump-start European venture capital, that we must simplify complex digital regulations and improve permitting speeds, and that we have to massively increase investment in data centres, fibre-optic networks and electricity grids.

    But for Europe to make the most of the AI revolution, how the productivity gains from AI are harnessed also matters. Labour productivity can be increased either by reducing labour inputs relative to outputs, or by raising outputs relative to inputs. The employment implications of each route are vastly different.

    This brings me to the second area of major change: the effect of AI on labour markets.

    According to ECB research, between 23% and 29% of workers in Europe are highly exposed to AI.[11] This does not necessarily herald a “job apocalypse”. It is reasonable to expect that AI will follow historical patterns by displacing some jobs while creating new one.[12]

    But there are two new questions that this technology poses.

    First, will the pace of technological change be faster than in previous transitions? This question is critical for Europe, as our social model and traditionally high levels of job protection make it hard to see how a transition that leads to massive job reallocations could avoid a major backlash.

    The key factor will be whether AI leans more towards job displacement via its “automation potential”, or towards changes in the nature of work via its “augmentation potential”. In the augmentation scenario, workers will still need to adapt to changing roles and tasks, but the transition will likely be easier.

    Recent research by the ILO finds that only a small share of jobs – around 5% in advanced economies – meet the criteria for high automation. But a much larger share – over 13% – meet the criteria for high augmentation.[13]

    The second question is about the distribution of gains.

    Early studies suggested that AI could increase the productivity of lower-skilled workers the most.[14] But newer studies looking at more complex tasks – like scientific research[15], running a business[16]and investing[17]– tell a different story. High performers benefit disproportionately and, in some cases, less productive workers see no improvements at all.

    So even if AI augments more than it automates, we are likely to see an increase in labour market inequality. Demand for higher-skilled workers who can use AI most effectively will rise, while those less able to learn new skills could suffer.

    All told, I do see a path for Europe to adopt AI without fracturing its social model. But it will require massive complementary investments in skills to prevent a rise in inequality.

    Crucially, this will not require everyone to become coders, which would probably set the bar too high. According to the OECD, most workers who will be exposed to AI will not need specialised AI skills to get ahead in their careers.

    In fact, the most sought-after skills in highly exposed jobs will be linked to management and business – skills that many people have the capacity to learn.[18]

    The CEO of Anthropic, Dario Amodei, has described the potential capabilities of AI as being like “a country of geniuses in a data centre”.[19] If this proves to be correct, it is both an awesome prospect for humanity and a daunting one for individual workers.

    I believe we must act today, and especially in Europe, with the mindset that this future will likely come to pass. We must remove all the barriers that will prevent us from being at the forefront of this revolution.

    But we must also prepare for the human and climate impacts of this transition, and we need to start now.

    I trust that this conference will generate the ideas we need to move forwards.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Finland: Move to leave convention banning anti-personnel mines could put civilian lives at risk

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to news that the Finnish government has initiated the process of withdrawing from the Ottawa convention, a landmark treaty prohibiting the use of anti-personnel mines, Esther Major, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Research in Europe, said:

    “The Finnish government’s move to leave the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention is a disturbing backward step that further undermines the global consensus aimed at minimizing civilian harm during armed conflict.

    “Anti-personnel landmines are inherently indiscriminate weapons. They have devastating effects on civilians, sometimes decades after they are deployed, while unexploded anti-personnel landmines can blight whole regions for generations. The use of weapons which are by their nature indiscriminate is prohibited under customary international humanitarian law.

    “This move, which follows the recent withdrawal from the Convention on Cluster Munitions by Lithuania, goes against decades of progress on eliminating the production, transfer and use of inherently indiscriminate weapons. As the world prepares to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action this week, we call on the Finnish government to reverse this decision that will inevitably put civilian lives at risk.”

    Background

    The 1997 Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (the Ottawa treaty) bans the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of antipersonnel mines and currently has 164 states parties.

    The Ministers of Defence of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland recently recommended withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention.

    The International Day for Mine Awareness & Assistance in Mine Action is on 4 April.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Carter Calls out Musk-Trump Administration for Dropping Lawsuit Against Major Louisiana Polluter and Abandoning EPA’s Mission to Protect Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) led a coalition of Members of Congress in a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin and U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Attorney General Pam Bondi. They expressed concern over the federal government’s decision to dismiss the EPA lawsuit against Denka Performance Elastomer LLC (Denka) related to its neoprene manufacturing facility in Louisiana that emits chloroprene, a likely human carcinogen. The decision represents a significant setback in the ongoing fight for environmental justice for historically disadvantaged communities, who bear the disproportionate burden of industrial pollution.

     

    “Dropping the lawsuit against Denka is a devastating blow to residents in my district that have suffered from decades of industrial pollution from bad actors like Denka who have knowingly poisoned our communities,” said Rep. Carter. “The EPA’s own data confirms the dangers of chloroprene exposure, yet this action signals a retreat from the Musk-Trump Administration’s responsibility to protect public health. Louisianians deserve real accountability, not regulatory abandonment. I urge the EPA and the Department of Justice to reverse course and stand with the families whose health is on the line. Environmental justice is not optional.”

     

    “The dismissal of this lawsuit is a grave injustice to the people of St. John the Baptist Parish and beyond,” said Rep. Fields. “Families deserve clean air and a safe place to live. That’s all there is to it. Not to be ignored while big corporations get a free pass. Denka has put people’s health at risk for far too long and dropping this lawsuit sends the wrong message.”

     

    Considering the EPA’s own well-documented evidence of potential harm from chloroprene, the decision to abandon legal action against Denka is alarming and signals a troubling disregard for the health and well-being of vulnerable communities for the remainder of the Musk-Trump administration.

     

    “The health of Americans should not be sacrificed in favor of corporate interests. Our constituents, and particularly impacted fenceline communities, deserve more than inaction and regulatory rollbacks—they deserve meaningful protection and accountability. We urge both the EPA and the Department of Justice to reconsider this decision and to take decisive steps to reduce pollution exposure for the people who need it most,” the Members wrote.

     

    This letter was signed by 24 additional Members of Congress, including Reps. Cleo Fields (D-LA), Nikema Willims (D-GA), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL), Timothy M. Kennedy (D-NY), Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL), Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Adam Smith (D-WA), Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY), Valerie P. Foushee (D-NC), Maxine Waters (D-CA), Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-IL), Jared Huffman (D-CA), and Pramila Jayapal (D-WA).

     

    Read the full letter here.

     

    Background

     

    Chloroprene was identified by the EPA’s Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) in 2010 as a likely human carcinogen. The IRIS assessment provided a unit risk estimate (URE), establishing the upper-bound excess lifetime cancer risk associated with continuous exposure to chloroprene at a concentration of 1 microgram per cubic meter (μg/m3) in air. This URE was used in the 2011 National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA), reinforcing the serious risks posed by chloroprene emissions to nearby residents. EPA determined that chloroprene levels in the air near the Denka facility far exceed what is considered safe—many times higher than the EPA’s recommended safety threshold of 0.2 μg/m³– raising urgent concerns about the long-term health effects on residents, including increased cancer risks. The elevated chemical emissions are especially concerning since the Denka facility is located near an elementary school.

     

    In February 2023, EPA filed a lawsuit against Denka for violating the Clean Air Act by emitting dangerous levels of chloroprene. The lawsuit was brought under Section 303 of the Clean Air Act, which allows the EPA to take legal action when pollution presents an imminent and substantial endangerment to public health. EPA‘s suit compelled Denka to immediately reduce emissions and protect public health.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter Statement on the Defeat of Louisiana’s Constitutional Amendments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

    NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement in response to the election in Louisiana:

     

    “The failure of the proposed constitutional amendments sends a clear message: the people of Louisiana expect more from their government. Across party lines and parish boundaries, voters stood together to reject measures they felt did not reflect our shared values or serve the common good.

     

    “This outcome is a testament to the strength and clarity of public will—rooted in a deep sense of fairness, compassion, and responsibility. I am proud to stand with those who raised their voices in defense of the most vulnerable among us, and who believe that power in our democracy must be earned, not assumed.

     

    “Let us carry this momentum forward, working together—regardless of politics—to build a stronger, more just Louisiana for all.”

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, where rural economy will have an important contribution in making India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027

    Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, with vast experience in PACS and market committee, President of the District Cooperative Bank and Director of the State Cooperative Bank

    Cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years and in view of this, the initiative to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been taken

    An institutionalised system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion and Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been established for the same purpose

    Under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector

    In 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today

    Bye-laws of PACS were amended to make them and multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and UTs

    Today, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs running PM Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra

    Only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous

    National Cooperative Policy is being formulated under leadership of PM Modi and guidance of Union Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah and it is our resolve to announce this policy

    This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha. After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025.

    Replying to the discussion, Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has resolved to make India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027, where rural economy will have an important contribution. He said that today more than 50 percent of the country’s population is associated with the agriculture sector. There are about 8 lakh cooperatives in the country with over 30 crore members. Shri Mohol said that one person from every farmer family is associated with the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that in 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today. Earlier, the work related to cooperatives of the whole country was being handled by a joint secretary-level officer, but Prime Minister Modi ji established an independent Ministry of Cooperation for the welfare of farmers. He said that taking a visionary decision, PM Modi ji formed the Ministry of Cooperation for the development and expansion of cooperative societies like Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Dairy, Sugar Mills, Cooperative Bank, Textile Mills across the country and strengthen the cooperative movement.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that it is a matter of pride for all of us that Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, who worked in the PACS and market committee of the village, as the President of the District Cooperative Bank, also as the Director of the State Cooperative Bank and who has made a great contribution and has vast experience in the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector. These include the first step of strengthening the PACS. He said that PACS is the most important link in the cooperative sector, so the bye-laws of PACS were amended and PACS were made multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and union territories.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today in the country, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Many PACSs are also running petrol pumps. He said that only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that to strengthen cooperative sector in the states, computerization of about 66 thousand PACS is being done by the Union Ministry of Cooperation, on which the Government of India is spending Rs 2516 crore. He said that the government is trying to make every village of the country prosperous through cooperation. For this, the Ministry has set a target of creating 2 lakh PACSs, out of which 14 thousand PACSs have already been created. Shri Mohol said that in the next five years, the number of PACSs in the country will increase to 3 lakh.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that while forming PACSs, we have kept in mind the social structure of the country and decided to give representation to all sections of the society including women in cooperatives. He said that under the new bye-laws, the government has made it mandatory to have members of SC, ST category and a woman member in the Board of Directors of PACS. Through this, we are working to provide social justice in the cooperative sector. Shri Mohol said that a National Cooperative Database has been created by taking all the states together. Now, information about all cooperatives can be obtained with one click.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that the National Cooperative Policy of the country is also being formulated under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah. It is our resolve to announce this policy in the next few days. He said that for the first time in 2023, under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah ji, three new cooperative societies – Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL), National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) and National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) – were established at the national level to provide facilities to the farmers of the country from seed to market. 34 thousand cooperative institutions have been made members by these three societies. This will increase the income of farmers.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that the Ministry of Cooperation has created the world’s largest food storage scheme for farmers. The work of food storage scheme has started through PACSs. This will reduce transportation costs, protect the crop and farmers will get storage facilities at a place near them and they will also get financial benefits. He said that in 2013-14, only Rs 5300 crore was given to the cooperative institutions of the country through National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), which the Modi government increased to Rs 1 lakh 28 thousand crores. This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that an institutional system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion. The university has been established for this purpose. He said that many cooperatives have challenges like lack of efficiency, irregularities in management and limited use of technical resources, which affect their performance. Through this university, the scope and effectiveness of the cooperative sector will definitely increase, which will also create new opportunities for self-employment and innovation.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today there is a need for proper training for efficiency and discipline at all levels, from the secretary of PACS to the MD of Apex Bank. According to an estimate, the cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years. In view of this need, the initiative to establish a university has been taken. He said that at present the system of teaching and training in the cooperative sector is not adequate and it is also scattered. Keeping this in mind, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home and Cooperative Minister Shri Amit Shah, it was decided to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University. This university will fulfill the need of trained human resources in the cooperative sector and develop cooperative spirit in the youth of the country and inspire them to make a career in this field.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Water Pioneers Summit convenes leaders and experts from water supply sector (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The International Water Pioneers Summit was held today (April 1) in Hong Kong. The Summit convened internationally renowned leaders, experts, academicians, senior government officials, representatives and stakeholders from water supply sector to explore new opportunities and prospects for collaboration in the development of water supply sector. The Summit attracted an on-site or online participation of around 5 000 people.

    The Summit, with the theme of “Smart Water‧High-Quality Development”, was jointly organised by the Water Supplies Department; the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering – Hong Kong Branch; the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers – Building Services Division; and the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management – Hong Kong Branch. It is one of the celebration activities marking the 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong. 

    Participants proposed high quality development characteristics including innovation, green, sharing and co-ordination to spearhead digital transformation of the water supply sector and secure wholesomeness of water to the benefits of mankind health. Hong Kong should give full play to the distinctive role of a connector between the country and the rest of the world. The Summit serves the purpose of attracting overseas professional knowledge and experience and promoting cross-boundary and cross-sector collaboration. It also demonstrates to the world the country’s advanced technologies and experience in water supply aspects as well as the wisdom of profound Chinese water culture for making contributions in the joint promotion of the application of water resources, water technologies and water culture around the world.

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Minister of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr Li Guoying; the Governor of Guangdong Province, Mr Wang Weizhong; the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr Zheng Yanxiong; Member of the Office Leadership of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Mr Xiang Bin; the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong; Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Mr Qi Bin; Vice Governor of Guangdong Province Mr Zhang Shaokang and the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, officiated at the opening ceremony of the Summit. 

    Speaking at the summit, Mr Lee said that the summit convened high-profile professionals and senior government officials from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia and around the world to celebrate together the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong and joined forces to ensure provision of a sustainable water supply to mankind. He pointed out that innovation in infrastructure development will power our water-secure future and Hong Kong is developing into an international infrastructure centre that serves the country and the HKSAR.

    Mr Li said that the Ministry of Water Resources will resolutely strengthen exchanges and co-operation with the relevant government departments of the HKSAR Government and ensure the safety of water supply to Hong Kong. Guangdong will also actively support Hong Kong to utilise its distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, as well as a channel for sharing with the world the water management concept, experience and solutions to promote future water security, calling for a new chapter of water management to work toward a community with a shared future for mankind.

    Mr Wang said that Guangdong will firmly proceed with planning of urban development, land use, population, and production based on water resources and further deepen Guangdong-Hong Kong in-depth collaboration in respect of water management to enhance the livability of the Greater Bay Area with quality for living, working and travelling. Guangdong will actively learn advanced experience and seize firmly the collaboration opportunities brought about by the Belt and Road Initiative and promote international exchanges and co-operations in the aspects of water technologies, water ecology and water security with an aim to better facilitate the high quality development of water resources.

    Addressing the ceremony, Ms Linn pointed out that sustainable water resources management is crucial in facing of the challenges brought by global climate change and scarcity of resources. The summit, with the theme of “Smart Water‧High-Quality Development” timely convened different parties to explore innovative and feasible solutions together with proactive and forward-thinking strategies to combat challenges.

    The Director of Water Supplies, Mr Roger Wong, thanked all guest speakers for sharing their insights and all the supporting organisations for their strong support. He pointed out that the summit has showed the win-win power of collaboration and innovation. 

    Topics of the summit covered high-quality development of water supply and technologies, development in water safety and relative issues on Dongjiang water. Participants also discussed building water security under the Belt and Road Initiative.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF CHILE

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA HOSTS PRESIDENT OF CHILE

    CHILE IS AN IMPORTANT PARTNER OF INDIA IN THE LATIN AMERICA REGION: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu received H.E. Mr Gabriel Boric Font, President of the Republic of Chile at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (April 1, 2025). She also hosted a banquet in his honour.

    Welcoming President Boric on his first visit to India, the President said that his political journey, from student politics to the post of President, is an inspiration for young leaders across the world.

    The President said that this visit is an important milestone in India-Chile relations, as it is taking place at a time when we are completing 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations.

    The President said that Chile is an important partner of India in the Latin America region.  The political and economic priorities of India and Chile complement each other. She stated that there are many opportunities to increase cooperation between the two countries in trade and investment, technology and cultural exchange.

    The President was happy to note that trade between India and Chile has increased in recent years, and many Indian companies have invested in Chile in various sectors. She said that there is potential for enhancing cooperation in these areas.

    The President appreciated the important contribution of the Indian community in Chile, who are helping to popularize Indian cuisine, Yoga and Ayurveda in Chile, and strengthening our people to people linkages.

    The two leaders agreed that there is a huge opportunity to further the strong relations between the two countries, and this visit will add a new chapter in the India-Chile relationship.   

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Building Bharat

    Source: Government of India

    Building Bharat

    Powering Infrastructure Through Make in India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    India’s infrastructure landscape is undergoing a monumental shift, driven by the Make in India initiative as a catalyst for growth and development. Recognising that world-class infrastructure is the backbone of economic progress, the government has launched a series of transformative projects to strengthen transportation, logistics, and urban facilities. The Bharatmala Pariyojana is enhancing road connectivity with expressways and economic corridors, while the Sagarmala Programme is revolutionising port-led development. The Smart Cities Mission is reimagining urban centres with modern amenities and digital integration, and PM Gati Shakti is streamlining multimodal connectivity for seamless movement of goods and people. These initiatives are laying the foundation for a more efficient, interconnected, and sustainable India.

    The scale of this ambition is matched by remarkable achievements that showcase India’s engineering prowess and determination. Iconic projects like the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel, and the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, stand as testaments to the nation’s capabilities. Meanwhile, the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, and the Zojila Tunnel, Asia’s longest, highlight India’s commitment to blending innovation with resilience. The expansion of dedicated freight corridors, modern airports, and renewable energy grids further reinforces the nation’s commitment to building a resilient and future-ready economy. By aligning infrastructure growth with industrial expansion, the Make in India initiative is not just transforming physical landscapes but also unlocking new opportunities for investment, employment, and innovation.

    Economic Acceleration

    India’s economic acceleration is being driven by strategic infrastructure initiatives, with Make in India at the core of strengthening domestic manufacturing and industrial growth. The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) is creating world-class manufacturing hubs, while PM Gati Shakti enhances multimodal connectivity through data-driven planning. These initiatives are fostering seamless logistics, boosting competitiveness, and positioning India as a global economic powerhouse.

    National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP)

    The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) is a transformative initiative launched to develop world-class industrial infrastructure and promote planned urbanisation across India. By integrating smart technologies and multi-modal connectivity, the programme aims to create globally competitive manufacturing hubs while fostering economic growth and employment opportunities. These industrial corridors are being developed in collaboration with State Governments to ensure efficient planning and execution.

    Key developments:

     

    • In August 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved 12 new industrial areas across 10 states under NICDP with an investment of ₹28,602 crore.

     

    • These industrial nodes, planned along six major corridors, will strengthen India’s manufacturing ecosystem and boost its global competitiveness.

     

    PM Gati Shakti

    Launched in 2021, PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multimodal Connectivity strengthens the vision of Make in India by ensuring world-class infrastructure to support manufacturing and economic growth. This digital platform enhances coordination across 16 ministries, including Railways and Roadways, integrating geospatial mapping and data-driven decision-making to optimise logistics and reduce project delays. By streamlining connectivity, it bolsters industrial corridors, facilitates efficient supply chains, and attracts investments in key sectors. All projects exceeding ₹500 crore are assessed by the Network Planning Group (NPG) to ensure seamless execution.

    As of March 13, 2025, 115 National Highway and road projects covering approximately 13,500 km, with an investment of ₹6.38 lakh crore, have been evaluated under the initiative, leading to more efficient infrastructure development.

    Road and Maritime Connectivity

    Strengthening India’s road and maritime infrastructure is central to the Make in India vision, ensuring seamless connectivity for industries and boosting economic growth. Strategic initiatives like Bharatmala and Sagarmala are enhancing freight movement, improving logistics efficiency, and modernising transport networks to support India’s manufacturing and trade ambitions.

    Bharatmala Pariyojana

    Bharatmala Pariyojana is advancing India’s infrastructure by addressing critical gaps through the development of economic corridors, expressways, and connectivity roads. Aligned with the Make in India vision, the programme focuses on improving logistics efficiency, fostering industrial growth with enhanced connectivity to key hubs, and ensuring safer, more reliable transportation networks. This initiative not only boosts economic growth but also supports indigenous manufacturing and infrastructure development, making India more self-reliant in its transportation and logistics sector. Since its approval in 2017, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • As on February 28, 2025, 26,425 km of projects awarded under the planned 34,800 km, with 19,826 km already constructed. The total Expenditure incurred under Bharatmala Pariyojana amounts to Rs. 4,92,562 crore.

     

    • Till February 2025, 6,669 km of high-speed greenfield corridors awarded, of which 4,610 km have been completed.

     

    National Highway Network

    India’s National Highway network has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, driven by higher budget allocations and accelerated construction. The network has expanded from 91,287 km in 2014 to 1,46,145 km in 2024, marking a 60% increase. This expansion has significantly improved connectivity, reduced travel time, and boosted economic activities across the country.

     

     

    Sagarmala

    Launched in 2015, the Sagarmala Programme aligns with India’s Make in India vision by focusing on port-led development to harness the potential of the country’s extensive coastline and navigable waterways. The programme aims to enhance India’s manufacturing and export capabilities by reducing logistics costs for both domestic and international trade. It focuses on improving port infrastructure, connectivity, and the creation of coastal economic zones, which support the growth of the manufacturing sector. Additionally, initiatives like Ro-Pax ferry services, cruise terminals, and skill development for coastal communities contribute to the development of a self-reliant maritime ecosystem, further supporting India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub.

     

    Since its approval, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • As of March 19, 2025, 839 projects worth ₹5.79 lakh crores identified under Sagarmala, with 272 projects completed, investing ₹1.41 lakh crore.

     

    • Enhanced port connectivity and coastal infrastructure to strengthen maritime trade efficiency.

    Rail Infrastructure

    India’s rail infrastructure has seen significant advancements, strengthening connectivity, security, and urban mobility. Flagship initiatives such as Vande Bharat trains and metro rail expansion are enhancing passenger experience, modernising transit hubs, and ensuring seamless travel. With a strong push under Make in India vision, the railway network’s expansion, underscores the commitment to inclusive growth and efficient transportation.

    Vande Bharat Trains

    Launched in 2019, Vande Bharat trains exemplify the Make in India vision, showcasing the nation’s engineering capabilities in railway modernisation. As the first-ever indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed trains, they feature modern coaches, advanced safety features, and enhanced passenger amenities. Equipped with automatic plug doors, ergonomic reclining seats, and individual mobile charging sockets, these trains ensure a premium travel experience. Operating on medium and short-distance routes, they improve connectivity while significantly reducing travel time.

    Indian Railways is also set to transform long-distance travel with the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set. The first 16-car set, manufactured by Integral Coach Factory, Chennai, completed successful trials on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route on 15th January 2025, covering 540 kilometers. Following its completion on 17th December 2024, the train was tested in the Kota division at speeds of 180 km per hour, ensuring comfort and high performance for long-distance journeys.

    Since its introduction, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • 136 Vande Bharat trains are running across India as of March 18, 2025, offering world-class travel experiences.

     

    • Varied operational schedules include 122 services running six days a week, 2 services four days a week, 8 tri-weekly, and 4 weekly services.

     

    Amrit Bharat Station Scheme

    The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is a long-term initiative to modernise railway stations across India, enhancing passenger amenities, multimodal connectivity, and overall infrastructure. With a focus on continuous development, the scheme aims to transform stations into modern transit hubs. As of March 12, 2025, 1,337 stations have been identified for upgradation, ensuring improved accessibility, better facilities, and a seamless travel experience.

    Metro Rail Expansion

    India’s Metro Rail system has been instrumental in transforming urban transportation, offering a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional commuting methods. The network’s expansion gained momentum with increased government focus, ensuring seamless connectivity in major cities. Since 2014, metro systems have rapidly grown, alleviating congestion and enhancing urban mobility. Notably, BEML Limited, a ‘Schedule A’ Company under the Ministry of Defence, has played a key role in manufacturing metro coaches. As of May 2024, BEML has supplied over 2,000 metro coaches to various metro corporations, including those in Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Mumbai.

    In addition to metro networks, India has also made significant strides with the introduction of the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). The Namo Bharat trains operating on the Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor are a prime example of India’s commitment to modernising mass transit systems, offering faster and more efficient travel across regions.

    Since its launch, the initiative has made significant progress:

     

    • The metro network has expanded from 248 km in 2014 to 1,011 km by March 2025, covering over 20 cities.

     

    • India’s first Namo Bharat train, operating on the Delhi-Meerut RRTS corridor, enhances regional connectivity with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

    Civil Aviation

    India’s aviation sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, driven by rising demand and proactive government policies aimed at strengthening air connectivity. This rapid expansion has positioned India as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally. The government’s focus on regional connectivity and infrastructure development has ensured improved accessibility, fostering economic growth and mobility across the country.

     

    Since its push for expansion, the sector has achieved notable milestones:

    • The number of operational airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 159 by March 2025, enhancing regional connectivity.

     

    • On November 17, 2024, domestic air passenger traffic surpassed 5 lakh in a single day, setting a new record.

     

    • The number of Flying Training Organisations (FTOs) grew from 29 in June 2016 to 38 with 57 bases by December 2024, strengthening pilot training capacity.

     

    Conclusion

    India’s infrastructure and construction sectors have been pivotal in driving the Make in India initiative, creating the backbone for industrial growth and economic expansion. Landmark projects in road, rail, maritime, aviation, and urban development have not only improved connectivity and logistics but also enhanced the quality of life across rural and urban areas. The expansion of national highways, metro networks, and modern rail services, alongside transformative schemes like PM Gati Shakti and Smart Cities Mission, underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable growth. With continued investments in infrastructure and technological innovation, India is poised to unlock new opportunities for industries, boost employment, and accelerate economic progress, solidifying its position as a global manufacturing and logistics hub.

    Make in India (Infrastructure)/ Explainer/ 06

    References:

    Kinldy find the pdf file 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has successfully achieved sales of more than one million of EVs in this Financial Year 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    This achievement marks a significant stride towards cleaner, greener, and more sustainable mobility, aligning with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Net Zero by 2070 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

    India’s e-mobility sector is gaining momentum, driven by government initiatives, technological advancements, and environmental concerns.

    Overall, India’s e-mobility sector is poised for significant growth, driven by supportive policies. The growth story of electric mobility is visible by numbers below:

    In the Financial Year 2024-25, a total of 11,49,334 electric two-wheelers (e-2W) were sold, reflecting a 21% increase compared to 9,48,561 units sold in FY 2023-24. Similarly, the sales of electric three-wheelers e-3W (L5) reached 1,59,235 units in FY 2024-25, marking a 57% growth over the 1,01,581 units sold in the previous financial year.

    The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has notified ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ on 29.09.2024 to provide impetus to the green mobility & development of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing eco-system in the country. The scheme has an outlay of Rs.10,900 crore over a period of two years upto 31.03.2026. The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024 implemented by MHI for the period of six months from 01.04.2024 to 30.09.2024, is subsumed in PM E-DRIVE scheme.

    Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme in FY 2024-25, 10,10,101 nos of e-2W, 1,22,982 nos of e-3W(L5) have been registered in VAHAN portal. Sales of more than one million of EVs have taken place in this FY 2024-25.

    Union Minister for Heavy Industries & Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, lauded this achievement and stated:

    “Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi avaru, India is driving the global transition to sustainable mobility. The achievement of over 1 million EVs sales is a testament to the success of MHI’s flagship schemes, including FAME, EMPS, and PM E-DRIVE. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant India.”

    The PM E-DRIVE Scheme, spearheaded by MHI, has played a pivotal role in accelerating electric vehicle adoption by offering financial incentives, promoting indigenous manufacturing, and strengthening the EV ecosystem. The scheme’s impact Data till 31st March 2025 is reflected in the following key environmental benefits:

    • Fuel saving per day: 8,55,723 litres
    • Total fuel saved: 15,77,33,334 litres
    • CO2 reduction per day: 12,48,100 kg
    • Total CO2 reduction: 23,01,73,978 kg

    This initiative by the Government of India is set to address critical challenges related to environmental pollution and fuel security while advancing sustainable transportation solutions. Through the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) and supporting infrastructure, the scheme is expected to catalyse significant investment in the EV sector and its supply chain. Furthermore, it will generate substantial employment opportunities across the value chain, including jobs in manufacturing and charging infrastructure setup. Overall, this scheme represents a crucial step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for transportation in India.

    The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Auto Scheme is transforming India’s automotive sector by driving sustainable and advanced manufacturing. Under this initiative, 18 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have applied, playing a crucial role in accelerating the electric mobility revolution and strengthening the nation’s journey towards a self-reliant and future-ready automotive ecosystem.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: School inclusion still failing autistic students

    Source:

    02 April 2025

    World-first research from the University of South Australia shows that autistic students are still struggling at school, despite efforts to improve services and supports.

    Conducted in partnership with Flinders University, the new study assessed the experiences of 225 autistic students aged 10-14, finding that they need increased support, acceptance and understanding to thrive and succeed at school.

    Capturing autistic students’ voices of their wellbeing at school and the critical factors influencing it, the meta synthesis highlights the challenges they experience with relationships at school, fitting in at school and the overwhelming sensory school environments.

    Specifically, the study found that:

    • autistic students need more support to fit in at school and to experience positive relationships with their peers and school staff
    • school staff need to be more in tune with the needs of autistic students, and provide tailored supports
    • schools need to improve school environments to better cater for autistic students’ sensory needs.

    The findings emphasise the acute need for Australian schools to create more inclusive environments that recognise and respect autistic students’ identities.

    Lead researcher UniSA’s Dr Kobie Boshoff says that schools can better support these students by fostering positive relationships, offering flexible learning strategies, and ensuring physical environments cater to sensory needs.

    “Autistic students’ school experiences are often marred by being poorly understood, high levels of bullying, interpersonal difficulties, and academic struggles, all of which impact their mental health into adulthood,” Dr Boshoff says.

    “This research amplifies the voices of middle-year autistic students, allowing them to share their firsthand experiences, and for us to learn directly from them about the support they need.

    “Wellbeing is strongly linked to how students see themselves, how others respond to their autism, and how they fit into the school environment. While some students embrace their autism as part of their identity, others try to hide it to fit in. Long term masking can have detrimental effects on their mental health.

    “Positive relationships with peers are vital, yet many autistic students find it hard to make friends. As friendships foster a sense of belonging, schools must prioritise social inclusion alongside academic success.

    “Similarly, caring and supportive school staff can make a significant difference. When students feel understood, they feel safe, respected, and heard. Teachers who adapt their approach for different students, communicate clearly, and create flexible learning environments have a profound impact on student wellbeing.

    “A school’s physical and social environment also plays a crucial role. Noisy, crowded spaces and unpredictable routines can trigger anxiety, making it harder for students to engage. Schools that offer structured support, sensory-friendly spaces, and flexible learning strategies create a more inclusive experience.”

    This year, Australia launched it’s $42.3 million inaugural National Autism Strategy (2025–2031) to create a safe and inclusive society where all autistic people are empowered to thrive. In South Australia, a $250,000 state government trial is introducing autism inclusion teachers (AITs) in nine public high schools to better support neurodiverse students.

    While Australia’s educational landscape is increasingly recognising the importance of inclusivity for students with autism, Dr Boshoff says there is still a long way to go.

    “Support for autistic students shouldn’t fade as they grow older – their needs evolve, and services must evolve with them. Yet, there’s a growing trend of assuming that older students require less support, when in reality, they just need different support,” Dr Boshoff says.

    “Every child deserves the chance to succeed at school. Schools play a critical role in shaping a positive and inclusive learning experience, but they need more funding, training, and professional support to make this a reality.

    “We must invest in practical solutions to ensure every individual autistic student feels valued, understood, and empowered to thrive.”

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

    Contact for interview:  Dr Kobie Boshoff E: Kobie.Boshoff@unisa.edu.au
    Media contact: Annabel Mansfield M: +61 479 182 489 E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Threads of Progress

    Source: Government of India

    Threads of Progress

    How Make in India is Shaping the Future of Textiles and Apparel Industry

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, has played a crucial role in positioning India as a global textile manufacturing and export hub. The textile and apparel industry is one of the largest contributors to India’s economy, providing employment to millions and generating substantial foreign exchange earnings. With strong policy support, infrastructure development, and a skilled workforce, India has emerged as a preferred investment destination in the global textile sector.

     

    Overview of India’s Textile Industry

    The textile and apparel industry contributes 2.3% to our GDP, 13% to industrial production, and 12% to exports. India exported textile items worth US$ 34.4 billion in 2023-24, with apparel constituting 42% of the export basket, followed by raw materials/semi-finished materials at 34% and finished non-apparel goods at 30%. It is also the second largest employment generators, after agriculture, with over 45 million people employed directly, including many women and the rural population. As further evidence of the inclusive nature of this industry, nearly 80% of its capacity is spread across Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) clusters in the country.

    The sector also has perfect alignment with the Government’s overall objectives of Make in India, Skill India, Women’s Empowerment, Rural Youth Employment and inclusive growth. The industry produces about 22,000 million pieces of garments per year, with the market size projected to reach US$ 350 billion by 2030, from the current $174 billion.

    Recently, the Ministry of Textiles reported a 7% increase in textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, from April to December 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. In line with the growth roadmap, the Indian textile market currently ranks fifth globally, and the government is actively working to accelerate this growth to a rate of 15-20% over the next five years.

     

    Impact of ‘Make in India’ on the Textile Industry

    The Make in India initiative has catalyzed textile manufacturing and exports through key policy interventions, enhanced infrastructure, and incentives. In the Union Budget 2024-25, to promote domestic textile production, two more types of shuttle-less looms are added to fully exempted textile machinery by the government. The government has introduced multiple schemes to enhance textile production, boost investments, and promote exports, including:

    1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles
    • Objective: To increase manufacturing in man-made fibre (MMF) and technical textiles.
    • Budget: ₹10,683 crore.
    • Incentives: Financial incentives for large-scale textile manufacturers.

     

    1. PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) Parks
    • Objective: To develop world-class industrial infrastructure for textile manufacturing.
    • Focus: On developing integrated large scale and modern industrial infrastructure facility for total value-chain of the textile industry like spinning, weaving, processing, garmenting, textile manufacturing, processing & textile machinery industry.
    • Budget: ₹4,445 crore for a period 2021-22 to 2027-28.
    • Key Benefits: Reduced logistics costs, increased FDI, and better competitiveness in global markets.
    • Current Status: A total of 7 Parks established in states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

     

    1. Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)
    • Objective: To incentivise credit flow for benchmark credit linked technology upgradation in this MSME driven Textile Industry for supporting capital investment.
    • Budget: ₹17,822 crore.
    • Incentives: Capital subsidies for technology upgradation.

     

    1. Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector)
    • Objective: To provide skill training to workers in the textile industry, in partnership with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
    • Budget Allocation: An amount of ₹115 crores was sanctioned during the FY 2023-24, out of which ₹114.99 crores (99.9%) were disbursed.
    • Current Status: As of March 27, 2025, more than 4.78 lakh users have been registered on the Samarth portal. As on March 19, 2025, a total of 3.82 lakh beneficiaries have been trained (passed) and 2.97 lakh beneficiaries (77.74%) have been placed.

     

    1. Textile Cluster Development Scheme (TCDS)
    • Objective: To create an integrated workspace and linkages-based ecosystem for existing as well as potential textile units/clusters to make them operationally and financially viable.
    • Benefits: Cluster development model of TCDS will bring benefits of critical mass for customization of interventions, economies of scale in operation, competitiveness in manufacturing, cost efficient, better access to technology and information, etc.
    • Budget: ₹853 crore.
    • Current Status: As of March 18, 2025, about 1.22 lakh employment opportunities have been generated under the scheme. During 2024-25, ₹34.48 crore have been released.

     

    1. National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)
    • Objective: To boost Technical Textiles in the country.
    • Target Years: 2020-21 to 2025-26
    • Budget: ₹1480 crore
    • Focus: The Mission focuses on (i) research, innovation and development, (ii) promotion and market development (iii) education and skilling and (iv) export promotion in technical textiles to position country as global leader in technical textiles.
    • Current Status: As on January 1, 2025, 168 projects of value ₹509 crores (approx.) have been approved in the category of Specialty fibres and Technical Textiles.

     

    Union Budget Allocations for Ministry of Textiles

    The Union Budget announced an outlay of ₹5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for 2025-26. This is an increase of 19% over budget estimates of 2024-25 (Rs. 4417.03 crore).

     

    Key Highlights

    • Cotton Mission: A five-year plan to improve cotton productivity, especially extra-long staple varieties, with science and technology support.
    • Tax Exemptions on Looms: Duty removed on select shuttle-less looms to reduce costs and modernize weaving.
    • Customs Duty on Knitted Fabrics: Increased from “10% or 20%” to “20% or ₹115 per kg, whichever is higher” to curb cheap imports.
    • Handicraft Exports: Time for export extended from six months to one year, with more items eligible for duty-free input imports.
    • MSME Boost: Focus on exports, credit enhancement, and policies like the National Manufacturing Mission, Export Promotion Mission, Bharat Trade Net, and Fund of Funds to promote employment and entrepreneurship.

     

    These measures aim to boost domestic manufacturing, support MSMEs, modernize the textile sector, and enhance India’s global competitiveness.

     

    Export Growth and Market Expansion

    India is the 6th largest exporter of Textiles & Apparel in the world. The share of textile and apparel (T&A) including handicrafts in India’s total exports stands at a significant 8.21% in 2023-24. India has a share of 3.91% of the global trade in textiles and apparel. Major textile and apparel export destinations for India are USA and EU and with around 47% share in total textile and apparel exports.  The textile and apparel sector has witnessed significant export growth due to government incentives and trade agreements.

    The government has taken several steps to enhance exports in textiles and apparels, including:

    • Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL): On 7th March 2019, Government approved Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) Scheme to rebate all embedded State and Central taxes/levies on export of Apparel/Garments and Made-ups to provide support and enhance competitiveness of these sectors.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles: Under this scheme, as per the Quarterly Review Reports (QRRs) released on 31.03.2024, the turnover achieved was Rs. 1,355 crore including export of Rs.166 crore.
    • Free Trade Agreements: India has so far signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) including recently concluded agreement with United Arab Emirates (UAE), Australia and TEPA (Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement) with EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway & Liechtenstein. India has 6 Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various trading partners. India is presently engaged in FTA negotiations with some of its trading partners notable among these FTAs are India-UK Free Trade Agreement, India- EU Free Trade Agreement, and India-Oman FTA.
    • Quality Control Orders: The Ministry has actively taken up notification of standards for textile products in co-ordination with Bureau of Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are issued to regulate quality and curb sub-standard imports.
    • Textile Advisory Group on Man-Made Fibre (MMF): The Ministry has constituted a “Textile Advisory Group on Man-made Fibre (MMF)” comprising stakeholders of the country’s entire Man-Made Fibre (MMF) including viscose to deliberate and make recommendations on the issues and concerns of the sector.
    • Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs): There are eleven Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs) representing various segments of the textiles & apparel value chain from Fibre to finished goods as well as traditional sectors like handloom, handicrafts and carpets.  These Councils work in close cooperation with the Ministry of Textiles and other Ministries to promote the growth and export of their respective sectors in global markets. 

     

    FDI in Textile and Apparel Industry

     

     

    Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plays a role in the Indian textile and apparel sector. From January 2000 to March 2024, the textile sector received US$ 4,472.79 million (₹28,304.10 crore) in FDI equity. FDI in textile sector over the years can be traced in the graph below:

    BHARAT TEX 2024

    Bharat Tex 2024, a global textile expo was successfully organized during February 26 to February 29, 2024 by the consortium of 11 Textiles Export Promotion Councils with the support of Ministry of Textiles. Built on the twin pillars of trade and investment and with an overarching focus on sustainability, the 4-day event attracted besides policymakers and global CEOs, 3,500 Exhibitors, 3,000 Buyers from 111 Countries and over one lakh trade visitors. An exhibition spread across nearly 2 million sq ft of area and encompassing the entire textile value chain, including an artistically curated story of textiles- Vastra Katha were the highlights of the event. The event was hosted simultaneously at two state of the art venues in Delhi – Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi with both venues fully subscribed.

    This global scale conference with 70 sessions and 112 international speakers saw engaging discussions on key textile issues of the day including Textile Mega Trends, Sustainability, resilient global supply chains and Manufacturing 4.0.

     

    BHARAT TEX 2025

    Bharat Tex 2025, India’s largest global textile event, was successfully organized from February 14 to 17, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event spanned 2.2 million square feet and featured over 5,000 exhibitors, providing a comprehensive showcase of India’s textile ecosystem. More than 1,20,000 trade visitors, from 120+ countries including global CEOs, policymakers, and industry leaders, attended the event.

    Bharat Tex 2025 served as a platform to accelerate the government’s “Farm to Fibre, Fabric, Fashion, and Foreign Markets” vision. India’s textile exports have already reached ₹3 lakh crore, and the goal is to triple this to ₹9 lakh crore by 2030 by strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding global reach. The event demonstrated India’s leadership in the textile sector and its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration.

     

    Innovation in Textile Sector

    As far as innovation in textiles sector is concerned, Ministry of Textiles has conducted an Innovation Challenges in collaboration with Startup India & DPIIT. In this challenge, 9 winners were recognised and awarded, while incubation opportunities were presented to 6 awardees under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). Apart from this, 3 separate innovations challenges were conducted by nature fibre boards on their respective problem statements i.e. 

    • NJB Technological Innovation Grand Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of 125 applicants.
    • CSB Start-up Grand Challenge in which 4 winners were recognised and awarded out of             58 applicants.
    • CWDB Wool Innovation Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of     24 applicants.
    • 17 of the total above-mentioned winners are directly engaging in activities such as textile waste recycling, biobased fibres or sustainable garment production. 

     

    Cotton Industry in India

    Cotton is a vital commercial crop in India, contributing about 24% to global cotton production and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of farmers and workers. It plays a crucial role in India’s foreign exchange earnings through exports of raw cotton, intermediate products, and finished goods. India holds the largest cotton acreage in the world.

    • Acreage and Yield: India has the largest cotton acreage globally; ranks 36th in productivity.
    • Production and Consumption: India is the 2nd largest producer and consumer of cotton in the world.
    • Cotton Species: India grows all four species of cotton: G. Arboreum, G. Herbaceum (Asian cotton), G. Barbadense (Egyptian cotton) and G. Hirsutum (American Upland cotton).
    • Major Growing Zones: Cotton is primarily grown in the Northern, Central, and Southern zones of India.

     

    Production and Consumption of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Year

    Production

    Consumption

    2021-22

    311.17

    322.41

    2022-23

    336.60

    313.63

    2023-24 (P)

    325.22

    323.00

     

    Import and Export of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Season

    Import (in lakh bales)

    Export (in lakh bales)

    2021-22

    21.13

    42.25

    2022-23

    14.60

    15.89

    2023-24*

    6.73

    26.24

    * Position up to 30.06.2024

     

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) Operations to ensure remunerative prices to cotton farmers.
    • “Cott-Ally” mobile app for cotton farmers.
    • Aadhar-based farmer registration for MSP benefits.
    • E-auction for transparent sale of cotton stock.
    • QR code using Block Chain Technology for traceability of cotton.
    • Kasturi Cotton Bharat programme for branding Indian Cotton.

     

    Silk Industry in India

    Silk is an insect fibre known for its lustre, drape, and strength. It is called the “Queen of Textiles” worldwide. India has a long history with silk and is the second largest producer and the largest consumer of silk in the world. India is unique in producing all four commercial varieties of silk: Mulberry, Tropical & Oak Tasar, Muga, and Eri. The Indian sericulture industry is important because it provides a lot of employment, requires low capital, and gives good income to silk growers. India produced 38,913 MT of silk, making it the second largest producer globally, after China.

     

    Years

    Mulberry

    Tasar

    Eri

    Muga

    Total

    2004-05

    14,620

    322

    1,448

    110

    16,500

    2014-15

    21,390

    2,434

    4,726

    158

    28,708

    2020-21

    23,896

    2,689

    6,946

    239

    33,770

    2021-22

    25,818

    1,466

    7,364

    255

    34,903

    2022-23

    27,654

    1,318

    7,349

    261

    36,582

    2023-24

    29,892

    1,586

    7,183

    252

    38,913

    2024-25 (April-September)

    14,233

    106

    3,924

    92

    18,355

    Source: Central Silk Board, Bengaluru

     

    The Indian government supports the silk industry through various initiatives and schemes:

    • The Central Silk Board (CSB) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Textiles that was established in 1948 to develop the silk industry.
    • The Ministry of Textiles is implementing the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) under the Silk Samagra Scheme.
    • In 2023-24, the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, allocated ₹25 crore for the implementation of the SCSP for sericulture. The entire funds allocated under SCSP were fully utilized/released for implementation of beneficiary-oriented components.
    • The government is also working on research and development in the silk sector to improve productivity and quality. This includes promoting soil testing, organic farming, and the use of silkworm by-products. They are also upgrading reeling technology and promoting indigenous automatic reeling machines to boost the Make in India program.
    • The industry also focuses on product design development and diversification to promote Indian silks and help manufacturers and exporters create innovative designs and fabrics.

     

    Jute Industry in India

    The jute industry is a major player in India’s economy, particularly in the eastern regions like West Bengal. It’s a vital source of employment, providing livelihoods for workers in organized mills and diversified units, and supporting numerous farm families. The Indian government actively supports the jute sector through various initiatives aimed at improving productivity, ensuring fair prices for farmers, and promoting the use of jute products.

    • The jute industry provides direct employment to 4 lakh workers in organized mills and diversified units, including the tertiary sector and allied activities.
    • It supports the livelihood of 40 lakh farm families.
    • As per the Office of Jute Commissioner, there are 116 composite jute mills.
    • West Bengal has the highest number of jute mills (86).
    • Government of India provides support to the jute growers through MSP operations by the Jute Corporation of India and also through direct purchase of jute sacking.
    • Average land area under raw jute & mesta cultivation is 799 thousand hectares (average of last four years).
    • Average production of raw jute & mesta is 10,990 thousand bales (average of last four years).
    • Average export of jute goods is 133 thousand MT per annum with a value of Rs. 21,150 million per annum (average of last four years).
    • Jute – ICARE has been launched for improving fibre quality and productivity, reducing the cost of jute production, and increasing the income of jute farmers.
    • The schemes for the promotion of the jute sector are primarily implemented by the National Jute Board.

     

    Conclusion

    The Make in India initiative has significantly enhanced India’s position in global textile manufacturing and exports through targeted policies, infrastructure development, and investment promotion. With sustained efforts, India is poised to become a global textile leader, driving economic growth and employment generation.

     

    References

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/textile-data

    https://jutecomm.gov.in/FAQ.html

    https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/textiles-apparel

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2089306

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098352

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2099411

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2114277

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2104423

    https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Indian%20Jute%20At%20a%20Glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Note%20on%20Cotton%20Sector_0.pdf

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU4118_0othg1.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS245_n0CCI6.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2877_YZdL4e.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2873_sOQ5IE.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS110_T8V4VD.pdf?source=pqals

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20at%20a%20glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Table-2%20Raw%20Silk%20Production%20Statistics.pdf

    https://texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/MOT%20Annual%20Report%20English%20%2807.11.2024%29.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20%28Finacial%20year%20wise%29.pdf

    https://ddnews.gov.in/en/india-sets-new-record-with-7-rise-in-textile-exports-government-implements-multiple-schemes-to-boost-sector/

    Threads of Progress

    ***

    Make in India (T&A) | Explainer | 05

    Santosh Kumar | Sheetal Angral | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2117470) Visitor Counter : 183

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) Sets New Benchmarks in FY 2024-25

    A Year of Historic Achievements and Transformation

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a key subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), has delivered an extraordinary performance in FY 2024-25, achieving unprecedented milestones in coal production, financial success, sustainability, and social responsibility. With record-breaking operational feats, cutting-edge digital innovations, and a bold commitment to clean energy and community welfare, BCCL reaffirms its key position in India’s coal sector.

                                       

    Unmatched Production and Operational Excellence 

    BCCL has rewritten its history with highest-ever coal production in the 4th quarter (11.44 million tonnes) and March 2025 (4.33 million tonnes) since inception. The company also recorded its highest-ever overburden removal (181.30 million cubic meters) and second-highest annual coal production (40.50 million tonnes), despite facing the heaviest rainfall in 50 years (1747 mm). Offtake reached a second-highest-ever 38.25 million tonnes, bolstered by a 6% growth in rail dispatch, even with high coal stocks at powerhouses. Underground coal production surged by an impressive 49% over last year, while 16 new hired patches were identified this year with a capacity of 13.30 million tonnes annually, out of which 7.0 million tonnes were awarded. For the first time, coal production under the Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) mode commenced at NTST-Kujama, Lodna Area, in April 2024. Additionally, grade confirmation through third-party sampling stood at 94%, exceeding the Ministry of Coal’s 90% guideline.

    Financial Achievements

    BCCL paid its maiden dividend of ₹ 44.43 crore to CIL on August 5, 2024. This milestone follows BCCL’s achievement of clearing its accumulated losses. The company achieved its highest-ever scrap sale of ₹ 18.01 crore. BCCL secured an income tax refund of ₹ 104 crores (₹ 63.87 crore principal, and ₹ 40.12 crore interest), and the company also paid the highest income tax of ₹406.00 crores in the last 10 years. BCCL also exceeded its CAPEX target for the fourth consecutive year, achieving ₹ 1,100 crore against ₹ 1,000 crore. At the same time, GeM procurement soared to ₹ 4,155.83 crore (136% of the ₹ 3,060 crore target), including ₹ 68.06 crore for heavy machinery and ₹ 120.47 crore for IT initiatives.

    Washery Innovation and Monetization 

    BCCL’s washeries set new records. Raw coal feed reached 56 lakh tonnes (highest in 25 years, up 15%), and washed coal supply to the steel sector peaked at 17.02 lakh tonnes (highest in 20 years, up 16%). By-product disposal excelled with washery rejects at 8.67 lakh tonnes (up 77%) and washed power coal at 28.95 lakh tonnes (up 5%). Pioneering India’s first ever coal washery monetization, BCCL leased old & idle Dugdha Washery (2.0 MTPA) for ₹ 762 crore over 25 years. Also, RFP issued for monetization of Sudamdih Washery (1.6 MTPA) on March 28, 2025.

    Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency 

    One of the leading CIL subsidiaries, BCCL, implemented the SAP BG module, saving ₹ 86 lakh in upkeep allowances. Its in-house team developed ground-breaking ERP solutions, including the BPCL DDUs interface, alerts for sensitive posts and long absences, quarter management, integrated HEMM maintenance reports, and equipment transfer tracking. The Integrated Command Control Centre (ICCC) enhances e-security and surveillance, while automated road weighbridges with RFID-based boom barriers streamline operations. Digital pension claims processing achieved 99% PF claim settlements, boosting transparency.

    Sustainability and Net Zero Commitment 

    BCCL advanced its Net Zero goals with 4.088 MWp of rooftop solar power commissioned, work orders for 25 MW at Bhojudih and 20 MW at Dugdha washeries, and a tender for 2 MW more in Central Township. Energy efficiency measures include 100% LED lighting, energy-efficient ACs, 762 super fans, 45 efficient motors, and autotimer switches across its areas. The company strategically moved towards electric vehicles in its official transportation fleet, supported by an EV charging station at Koyla Bhawan, resulting in fuel saving of approximately 2.50 lacs per month as the running cost is less than ₹ 1/Km. In Coal Bed Methane (CBM), Jharia Block-I is under exploration with 5 core holes drilled, while Jharia Block-II’s feasibility report was approved.

    Environmental and Infrastructure Initiatives 

    BCCL planted 22 hectares over the degraded land and established two new eco-parks at Akashkinari (4.5 Ha) and Moonidih (0.9 Ha), adding 4 mechanical sweepers and 16 fog cannons to its fleet during the year. Infrastructure highlights include 21.69 MGD water supply via filter plants, and 8 km of PQC roads completed with 14 km under construction. Two bridges over Katri and Khudia rivers, upgrades to Nehru Complex, Jubilee Hall, and community halls, and hospital enhancements (including a new OPD at Central Hospital Dhanbad) underscore BCCL’s civil achievements.

    Land and Mine Re-Operationalization 

    BCCL paid ₹ 24.80 crore for government land transfers, acquired 14.23 acres of tenancy land for ₹ 25.86 crore, and provided employment to 6 individuals. It shifted 170 encroachers, vacated 2.245 acres, and uploaded 16,381.09 Ha of land data to the PM GatiShakti portal. For discontinued mines, BCCL signed an agreement for Amalabad Colliery to reopen with 6.2 MT production target over 25 years, with a lucrative 4.1% revenue sharing. Mining plans for 3 discontinued mines (ASGKCC, Madhuband & PB project) also approved, driving growth and development.

    Empowering People and Communities 

    BCCL’s CSR expenditure reached ₹ 21.89 crore (117% of the ₹ 18.76 crore target), training of 200 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in petrochemical engineering (100% placement offered), 75 rural youth at MSME Tool Room, CTTC Kolkata with 100% placement offered, 150 in medical equipment, and 60 in fashion design (42 placed). BCCL installed smart classes & ICT labs in 79 schools in Dhanbad district (₹ 10.69 crore) and piloted STEM education in 5 schools. Welfare efforts included ₹ 66.98 lakh in fee reimbursements, ₹ 9.34 lakh in scholarships for 91 wards, and a harassment-free workplace for women. Medical upgrades featured a new DNB course, ICU expansion (8 to 16 beds), and a modular kitchen. BCCL recruited 77 Jr. Overmen and provided compassionate employment to 564 dependents during the year.

    A Vision for the Future 

    FY 2024-25 marks a transformative year for BCCL, blending record production, financial strength, and sustainable innovation. BCCL is committed to performing as a key player in effectively meeting India’s energy demands while building a brighter, greener future. With the installation of two heavy crushers (750 TPH each) in its Lodna Area, BCCL further strengthens the modern coal processing while corroborating its emphasis on better customer satisfaction and services. 

    BCCL’s stellar performance positions it as a vital player in the coal sector with a commitment to solidifying India’s energy and industry needs with sustainable growth.

     

    ****

     

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117548) Visitor Counter : 112

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Translation of Press Statement by Prime Minister during Joint Press Statement with President of Chile

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellency, President Boric,

    Delegates from both the countries,

    Friends from the media,

    Namaskar! Hola!

    This is President Boric’s first visit to India. His strong sense of friendship toward India and his commitment to strengthen our relations is truly amazing. For this, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to him, and warmly welcome him and his distinguished delegation.

    Friends,

    Chile is a valued friend and partner country for India in Latin America. In our discussions today, we identified several new initiatives to further strengthen our cooperation in the coming decade.

    We welcome the expansion of mutual trade and investment and we agree that there is untapped potential for further collaboration. Today, we have instructed our teams to initiate discussions on a mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

    Partnerships in the field of Critical Minerals will be emphasized. Efforts will be made to establish resilient supply and value chains. In agriculture, we will collaborate to enhance food security by leveraging each other’s strengths.

    India is ready to share its positive experience with Chile in the areas of Digital Public Infrastructure, Renewable Energy, Railways, Space and more.

    We see Chile as the gateway to Antarctica. We welcome today’s agreement on the Letter of Intent to strengthen cooperation in this vital region.

    India has been a trusted partner in supporting Chile’s health security, and we have agreed to further strengthen this collaboration. It is a matter of joy that the people of Chile have adopted Yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle. The declaration of November 4 as National Yoga Day in Chile is truly inspiring. We also explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Chile.

    Increasing cooperation in the field of defence is a symbol of our deep mutual trust. In this area, we will move forward to create defence industrial manufacturing and supply chains as per each other’s needs. We will increase cooperation between the agencies of both the countries to face common challenges like organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

    Globally, India and Chile agree that all tensions and disputes should be resolved through dialogue. We are unanimous in saying that to face global challenges, reform of the United Nations Security Council and other institutions is necessary. Together we will continue to contribute to global peace and stability.

    Friends,

    Even though India and Chile are at different ends of the world map, separated by vast oceans, we still share some unique natural similarities.

    The Himalayas of India and the Andes mountains of Chile have shaped the way of life in both countries for thousands of years. The waves of the Indian Ocean flow in India with the same energy with which the waves of the Pacific Ocean touch the shores of Chile. Both the countries are not only connected by nature, but our cultures have also been close to each other, embracing this diversity.

    The great Chilean poet and Nobel Laureate “Gabriela Mistral” found inspiration in the ideas of Rabindranath Tagore and Aurobindo Ghosh. Similarly, Chilean literature has been appreciated in India too. The growing interest among the Chilean people towards Indian films, cuisine, and classical dances is a living example of our cultural ties.

    Today, around four thousand people of Indian origin, who consider Chile their home, are the custodians of our shared heritage. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Boric and his government for their care and support.

    We welcome the consensus reached today on the cultural exchange program between the two countries. We also discussed simplification of the visa process between the two countries. We will continue to work towards increasing student exchanges between India and Chile.

    Excellency,

    Your visit has brought new energy and enthusiasm in our relations. This energy will give new impetus and direction to our bilateral relations as well as to our cooperation in the entire Latin American region.

    I wish you a pleasant journey and stay in India.

    Thank you very much!

    Gracias!

    DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Diamondback Energy, Inc. Announces Closing of Double Eagle Acquisition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, Texas, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback” or “the Company”) today announced that it has completed its previously announced acquisition of certain subsidiaries of Double Eagle IV Midco, LLC (“Double Eagle”).

    About Diamondback

    Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, which involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding Diamondback’s: future performance; business strategy; future operations (including drilling plans and capital plans); estimates and projections of production, revenues, losses, costs, expenses, returns, cash flow, and financial position; reserve estimates and its ability to replace or increase reserves; anticipated benefits or other effects of strategic transactions (including the pending drop down transaction with Viper Energy, Inc., the Double Eagle Acquisition and other acquisitions or divestitures); and plans and objectives of management (including plans for future cash flow from operations) are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “model,” “outlook,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions (including the negative of such terms) as they relate to Diamondback are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Although Diamondback believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, they involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond Diamondback’s control. Accordingly, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and Diamondback’s actual outcomes could differ materially from what Diamondback has expressed in its forward-looking statements.

    Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include (but are not limited to) the following: changes in supply and demand levels for oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, and the resulting impact on the price for those commodities; the impact of public health crises, including epidemic or pandemic diseases and any related company or government policies or actions; actions taken by the members of OPEC+ and Russia affecting the production and pricing of oil, as well as other domestic and global political, economic, or diplomatic developments, including any impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war on the global energy markets and geopolitical stability; instability in the financial markets; trade wars; inflationary pressures; higher interest rates and their impact on the cost of capital; regional supply and demand factors, including delays, curtailment delays or interruptions of production, or governmental orders, rules or regulations that impose production limits; federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing, including the effect of existing and future laws and governmental regulations; physical and transition risks relating to climate change; those risks described in Item 1A of Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 26, 2025, and those risks disclosed in its subsequent filings on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, which can be obtained free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

    In light of these factors, the events anticipated by Diamondback’s forward-looking statements may not occur at the time anticipated or at all. Moreover, Diamondback operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. Diamondback cannot predict all risks, nor can it assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements it may make. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release or, if earlier, as of the date they were made. Diamondback does not intend to, and disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by applicable law.                                        

    Investor Contact:
    Adam Lawlis
    +1 432.221.7467
    alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com 

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