NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trade mission to China

    Source: Australian National Party



    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 24/03/2025

    Promoting further trade, tourism and economic development with our largest trading partner, across a range of sectors, including tourism, aviation, education and investment will be the focus of this week’s trade mission to China.

    The week-long mission features activities celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Beijing-Canberra sister city relationship and a meeting with the Mayor of Beijing and Beijing Municipal Government representatives.

    Returning to Canberra’s largest export market for the first time since the Covid pandemic, the mission will focus on delivering outcomes outlined in our International Engagement Strategy and T2030 Tourism Strategy.

    Under the T2030 strategy, the Government aims to reach $5 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2030. China is Canberra’s largest international market and has considerable capacity to grow over this decade. Recent data shows 15 per cent of all international visitors to the ACT came from China, contributing 52 per cent of the total international visitor spend.

    Tourism and investment opportunities will be pursued through meetings with airlines including Air China and Cathay Pacific, hotel operators and key tourism distribution partners.

    Education partnerships will also be strengthened including an official visit to the Cunzhi Senior High School in Shanghai – who deliver the ACT Year 12 certificate through the BSSS (Board of Senior Studies).

    Supported by Tourism Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and AusTrade, participants in the mission include Visit Canberra and the Commissioner for International Engagement.

    The estimated cost of the Chief Minister’s component of the trade mission is under $15,000, met from the ACT Executive 2024-25 Budget. The final cost will be reported as part of the regular quarterly travel reports.

    – Statement ends –

    Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The Gift of Water: How the Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project is Transforming Lives

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    “Water is life; when there is no water, it is as if there are no people living.”

    These profound words from ‘Masechefo Sechefo, a Community Councilor at Ha Sekete village, capture the essence of existence in rural Lesotho before the African Development Bank’s transformative intervention.

    In a country where water ironically constitutes 30% of the nation’s GDP, many rural Basotho paradoxically lived without access to clean water. This stark contradiction defined daily life until the Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project began changing the narrative in the communities.

    The Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project is connected to the Metolong Dam Water Supply Programme, a collaborative initiative between the government and partners.

    The Long Walk For Water

    Before the project, women and girls in villages across Maseru and Berea districts would wake before dawn to begin their daily ‘pilgrimage’ to distant springs and unprotected wells. The journey often stretched more than a kilometer each way, with women carrying heavy containers while navigating challenging mountain terrain.

    “Where we used to fetch water, it was so far that there could have been challenges, perhaps the risk of being attacked or harmed by criminals,” recalls ‘Masechefo.

    At Sekete Primary School, the situation was equally dire. Headteacher Sello Matlali remembers: “We had to send children to fetch water from the unprotected wells around our communities. It was about one and a half kilometers walk from the school.”

    This daily expedition meant losing children’s classroom time and productive hours for women. Worse still, the unprotected water sources harbored pathogens causing diarrheal diseases that disproportionately affected the community’s most vulnerable members.

    A Project That Flows Like Life Itself

    When the African Development Bank’s initiative reached these communities, it didn’t merely install infrastructure – it unleashed potential.

    The project, set to conclude in March 2025 after more than a decade of implementation, has delivered remarkable results: 190 kilometers of pipeline to distribution networks, water storage reservoirs with a total capacity of 3.48 million liters, and 166 public water points serving approximately 28,266 people across eight zones in Maseru and Berea districts.

    The numbers tell only part of the story. Moses Tembo, the project’s task manager at the African Development Bank, highlights the impact: “From the data collected through the project, you could see that many people’s lives have been changed. Most people were drawing water from springs and unprotected wells, and the incidence of diarrheal diseases was quite high.”

    Beyond water supply, the project expanded sanitation infrastructure, – constructing 266 sanitation facilities for vulnerable households and 284 toilets at schools and healthcare facilities.

    A massive water reservoir constructed as part of the Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project

    “It Was Like Our Birthday”

    At Sekete Primary School, the transformation has been profound. “When water was supplied, it was like our birthday,” Sello Maltali exclaims, his eyes bright with emotion. “The African Development Bank came to our rescue when we were in serious problem.”

    The school now boasts eight water taps and proper sanitation facilities – eight toilets for boys, seven for girls, and a dedicated facility for children with disabilities. This thoughtful design has created an inclusive learning environment where all 500 students can focus on education rather than basic survival needs.

    “We live the life we never lived before,” Matlali reflects. “We forget the past. We talk of it as history.”

    The impact extends beyond convenience. The school has witnessed increased enrollment and reduced disease transmission. Students can now pursue agricultural education, which teaches them self-reliance and food production skills.

    Women Liberated, Communities Transformed

    For women like ‘Masechefo, the project has delivered more than water – it has brought dignity and safety. “This project has brought a big change in our lives and our families. There is cleanliness in our homes and on our bodies.”

    The transformation has touched every aspect of community life. Residents found employment during construction— collecting stones, laying bricks, mixing cement, and completing roofing work. This approach ensured that the community benefited from the completed infrastructure and the process itself.

    Mamosili Kikine, the project’s technical adviser, explains: “The beneficiaries are using water for different purposes, like cooking and washing. The schools and clinics in these zones are also benefiting.”

    Climate Resilience: Protecting the Future

    As the base project nears completion, an additional component introduced in 2019 focuses on climate resilience. This component educates communities about preserving watersheds and forests to ensure sustainable water resources.

    “Lesotho is very much dependent on water for its economy and the wellbeing of people,” task manager Tembo explains. “The water reserves 10 years ago, 20 years ago, are not the same at the moment.”

    By protecting water sources through this education, the project aims to secure these life-giving resources for future generations.

    Water: A Celebration of Life

    As the African Development Bank joined in celebrating World Water Day on March 22, the communities served by this project understand its significance profoundly. They have experienced life with and without clean water –and know which they prefer.

    “Without water, there is no life,” declares headteacher Sello Matlali. “Water shortage is death. We cannot have food. We cannot bathe. We cannot wash our hands. We are vulnerable to disease.”

    The project’s legacy extends beyond pipes and reservoirs. It has fundamentally altered the relationship between communities and water – creating not just consumers but stewards of this precious resource.

    For the people of Lesotho’s rural communities, water is no longer just a substance—it’s the embodiment of possibility, dignity, and future prosperity. In a country blessed with abundant water resources that benefit neighboring nations, the African Development Bank has ensured that Lesotho’s citizens can finally share in this natural wealth.

    And for that, as Sello Matlali puts it, “It is very joyous.”

    A Nurse’s Story

    Mots’elisi Makhele, the only community health nurse serving approximately 2,000 people in her rural community, has witnessed a remarkable transformation thanks to the African Development Bank’s water supply and sanitation project.

    “We used to have a small community tap where 2,000 people would queue, and because of the drought, we wouldn’t have enough water some days,” Makhele recalls, adding that this single tap served everyone—elderly women, small children, and her clinic.

    Community nurse Mots’elisi Makhele stands by the tap that previously served around 2,000 people and indicates the houses now connected to modern facilities constructed through the Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project.

    The health consequences were severe. “I couldn’t do normal birth deliveries because there was no water,” said Makhele. “There was an increased rate of waterborne infections, and I had many babies with malnutrition because the water was not clean.”

    The African Development Bank project transformed the community by providing individual household taps and proper sanitation facilities. The clinic received two proper toilets and a washing station where patients can wash their hands.

    The impact has been profound. “After initiating this project, the incidence rate of diarrheal diseases and malnutrition has decreased,” Makhele said excitedly.

    A stream that Kesete Village residents relied on for water before modern facilities were constructed through the AfDB-Funded Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project.

    Deteriorated sanitation facilities at Hamaja Primary School prior to the intervention.

    New sanitation facilities at Hamaja Primary School built under the Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project. The project delivered more than 266 sanitation facilities for vulnerable households and installed 284 toilets in schools and healthcare facilities.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Former Filipino president Duterte’s arrest by the ICC – 20 journalists killed during his presidency

    Pacific Media Watch

    Paris-based global media freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has recalled that 20 journalists were killed during the six-year Philippines presidency of Rodrigo Duterte, a regime marked by fierce repression of the press.

    Former president Duterte was arrested earlier this week as part of an International Criminal Court investigation into crimes against humanity linked to his merciless war on drugs. He is now in The Hague awaiting trial.

    The watchdog has called on the administration of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to take strong measures to fully restore the country’s press freedom and combat impunity for the crimes against media committed by Duterte’s regime.

    “Just because you’re a journalist you are not exempted from assassination, if you’re a son of a bitch,” Rodrigo Duterte said in his inauguration speech on 30 June 2016, which set the tone for the rest of his mandate — unrestrained violence against journalists and total disregard for press freedom, said RSF in a statement.

    During the Duterte regime’s rule, RSF recorded 20 cases of journalists killed while working.

    Among them was Jesus Yutrago Malabanan, shot dead after covering Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war for Reuters.

    Online harassment surged, particularly targeting women journalists.

    Maria Ressa troll target
    The most prominent victim was Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and founder of the news site Rappler, who faced an orchestrated hate campaign led by troll armies allied with the government in response to her commitment to exposing the then-president’s bloody war.

    Media outlets critical of President Duterte’s authoritarian excesses were systematically muzzled: the country’s leading television network, ABS-CBN, was forced to shut down; Rappler and Maria Ressa faced repeated lawsuits; and a businessman close to the president took over the country’s leading newspaper, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, raising concerns over its editorial independence.

    “The arrest of Rodrigo Duterte is good news for the Filipino journalism community, who were the direct targets of his campaign of terror,” said RSF’s Asia-Pacific bureau director Cédric Alviani.

    RSF’s Asia-Pacific bureau director Cédric Alviani . . . “the Filipino journalism community were the direct targets of [former president Rodrigo Duterte]’s campaign of terror.” Image: RSF

    “President Marcos and his administration must immediately investigate Duterte’s past crimes and take strong measures to fully restore the country’s press freedom.”

    The repression carried out during Duterte’s tenure continues to impact on Filipino journalism: investigative journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio has been languishing in prison since her arrest in 2020, still awaiting a verdict in her trial for “financing terrorism” and “illegal possession of firearms” — trumped-up charges that could see her sentenced to 40 years in prison.

    With 147 journalists murdered since the restoration of democracy in 1986, the Philippines remains one of the deadliest countries for media workers.

    The republic ranked 134th out of 180 in the 2024 RSF World Press Freedom Index.

    Source report from Reporters Without Borders. Pacific Media Watch collaborates with RSF.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Pro-Palestinian protesters challenge NZ’s Winston Peters at state of the nation speech

    Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. –

    Like a relentless ocean, wave after wave of pro-Palestinian pro-human rights protesters disrupted New Zealand deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ state of the nation speech at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday.

    A clarion call to Trumpism and Australia’s One Nation Party, the speech was accompanied by the background music of about 250 protesters outside the Town Hall, chanting: “Complicity in genocide is a crime.”

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) co-chair John Minto described Peters’ attitude to Palestinians as “sickening”.

    Inside the James Hay Theatre, protester after protester stood and spoke loudly and clearly against the deputy Prime Minister’s failure to support those still dying in Gaza, and his failure to denounce the ongoing genocide.

    Ben Vorderegger was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of people who have lost their voices in the dust of blood and bones, bombs and sniper guns.

    Before he and others were hauled out, they spoke for the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza — women, men, doctors, aid workers, journalists, and children.

    Gazan health authorities have reported that the official death toll is now more than 50,000 — but that is the confirmed deaths with thousands more buried under the rubble.


    The Christchurch Town Hall protest.            Video:PSNA

    Real death toll
    The real death toll from the genocide in Gaza has been estimated by a reputed medical journal, The Lancet, at more than 63,000. A third of those are children. Each day more children are killed.

    One by one the protesters who challenged Peters were manhandled by security guards to a frenzied crowd screaming “out, out”.

    The deputy Prime Minister’s response was to deride and mock the conscientious objectors. He did not stop there. He lambasted the media.

    At this point, several members of his audience turned on me as a journalist and demanded my removal.

    Pro=Palestine protesters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday to picket Foreign Minister Winston Peters at his state of the nation speech.Image: Saige England/APR

    This means that not only is the right to free speech at stake, the right or freedom to report is also being eroded. (I was later trespassed by security guards and police from the Town Hall although no reason was supplied for the ban).

    Inside the Christchurch Town Hall the call by Peters, who is also Foreign Minister, to “Make New Zealand Great Again” continued in the vein of a speech written by a MAGA leader.

    He whitewashed human rights, failed to address climate change, and demonstrated loathing for a media that has rarely challenged him.

    Ben Vorderegger in keffiyeh was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of Palestinans before
    being thrown out of the Christchurch Town Hall meeting. Image: Saige England/APR

    Condemned movement
    Slamming the PSNA as “Marxist fascists” for calling out genocide, he condemned the movement for failing to talk with those who have a record of kowtowing to violent colonisation.

    This tactic is Colonial Invasion 101. It sees the invader rewarding and only dealing with those who sell out. This strategy demands that the colonised people should bow to the oppressor — an oppressor who threatens them with losing everything if they do not accept the scraps.

    Peters showed no support for the Treaty of Waitangi but rather, endorsed the government’s challenge to the founding document of the nation – Te Tiriti o Waitangi. In his dismissal of the founding and legally binding partnership, he repeated the “One Nation” catch-cry. Ad nauseum.

    Besides slamming Palestinians, the Scots (he managed to squeeze in a racist joke against Scottish people), and the woke, Peters’ speech promoted continued mining, showing some amnesia over the Pike River disaster. He did not reference the environment or climate change.

    After the speech, outside the Town Hall police donned black gloves — a sign they were prepared to use pepper-spray.

    PSNA co-chair John Minto described Peters’ failure to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians as “bloody disgraceful”.

    The police arrested one protester, claiming he put his hand on a car transporting NZ First officials. A witness said this was not the case.

    PSNA co-chair John Minto (in hat behind fellow protester) . . . the failure of Foreign Minister Winston Peters to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians is “bloody disgraceful”. Image; Saige England/APR

    Protester released
     The protester was later released without any charges being laid.

    A defiant New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event. He raised his arms defensively at protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?”

    I was trespassed from the Christchurch Town Hall for re-entering the Town Hall for Winston Peters’ media conference. No reason was supplied by police or the Town Hall security personnel for that trespass order..

    “The words Winston is terrified to say . . . ” poster at the Christchurch pro-Palestinian protest. Image: Saige England/APR

    It is well known that Peters loathes the media — he said so enough times during his state of the nation speech.

    He referenced former US President Bill Clinton during his speech, an interesting reference given that Clinton did not receive the protection from the media that Peters has received.

    From the over zealous security personnel who manhandled and dragged out hecklers, to the banning of a journalist, to the arrest of someone for “touching a car” when witnesses report otherwise, the state of the nation speech held some uncomfortable echoes — the actions of a fascist dictatorship.

    Populist threats
    The atmosphere was reminiscent of a Jorg Haider press conference I attended many years ago in Vienna. That “rechtspopulist” Austrian politician had threatened journalists with defamation suits if they called him out on his support for Nazis.

    Yet he was on record for doing so.

    I was reminded of this yesterday when the audience called ‘out out’ at hecklers, and demanded the removal of this journalist. These New Zealand First supporters demand adoration for their leader or a media black-out.

    Perhaps they cannot be blamed given that the state of the nation speech could well have been written by US President Donald Trump or one of his minions.

    The protesters were courageous and conscientious in contrast to Peters, said PSNA’s John Minto.

    He likened Peters to Neville Chamberlain — Britain’s Prime Minister from 1937 to 1940. His name is synonymous with the policy of “appeasement” because he conceded territorial concessions to Nazi Germany in the late 1930s, fruitlessly hoping to avoid war.

    “He has refused to condemn any of Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians, including the total humanitarian aid blockade of Gaza.”

    Refusal ‘unprecedented’
    “It’s unprecedented in New Zealand history that a government would refuse to condemn Israel breaking its ceasefire agreement and resuming industrial-scale slaughter of civilians,” Minto said.

    “That is what Israel is doing today in Gaza, with full backing from the White House.

    “Chamberlain went to meet Hitler in Munich in 1938 to whitewash Nazi Germany’s takeovers of its neighbours’ lands.

    “Peters has been in Washington to agree to US approval of the occupation of southern Syria, more attacks on Lebanon, resumption of the land grab genocide in Gaza and get a heads-up on US plans to ‘give’ the Occupied West Bank to Israel later this year.

    “If Peters disagrees with any of this, he’s had plenty of chances to say so.

    “New Zealanders are calling for sanctions on Israel but Mr Peters and the National-led government are looking the other way.”

    New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event, dismissing protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?” Image: Saige England/APR

    Only staged questions
    The conscientious objectors who rise against the oppression of human rights are people Winston Peters regards as his enemies. He will only answer questions in a press conference staged for him.

    He warms to journalists who warm to him.

    The state of the nation speech in the Town Hall was familiar.

    Seeking to erase conscientiousness will not make New Zealand great, it will render this country very small, almost miniscule, like the people who are being destroyed for daring to demand their right to their own land.

    Saige England is a journalist and author, and a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA). She is a frequent contributor to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific.

    Part of the crowd at the state of the nation speech by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday. Image: Saige England/APR

    This article was first published on Café Pacific.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada signs pharmacare agreement with Government of Yukon to improve universal access to free medications

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Canada signs pharmacare agreement with Government of Yukon to improve universal access to free medications
    zaburke
    March 20, 2025 – 2:18 pm

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon.  

    No one should have to choose between paying for prescription drugs and putting food on the table. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action so Canadians can get the medication they need, regardless of their ability to pay.

    Today, Canada’s Minister of Health Kamal Khera and the Government of Yukon’s Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee, announced the signing of a pharmacare agreement to invest up to $9.5 million over four years to provide universal access to contraceptive and diabetes medications for residents of the Yukon. The funding from this agreement will also improve access to diabetes devices and supplies.

    Through this historic agreement, Yukon residents will receive public coverage for a range of contraceptives and diabetes medications at little to no cost. This will support the reproductive freedom of more than 12,000 Yukoners and make sure that over 3,000 residents with diabetes can access essential medications to reduce their risk of serious health complications and improve their quality of life.

    Yukon residents can anticipate beginning to receive coverage for these products not later than January 2026.

    This announcement is an important step forward to improve health equity, affordability and health outcomes for Canadians. The Government of Canada will continue working with the provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, partners and stakeholders to make sure every Canadian has access to the essential medications and medical devices they need. 
     

    This national pharmacare agreement with Yukon represents a significant step in ensuring Yukoners have improved access to the essential medications they need. Today’s announcement reflects our shared commitment to building a stronger healthcare system for all Canadians.

    Minister of Health Kamal Khera

    The cornerstone of the Canadian health care system is that access is based on need, not ability to pay. By ensuring that all Yukoners can access essential diabetes medications and supplies and contraceptives without facing financial barriers, our government is taking real action to build a more inclusive, equitable health care system. We’re proud to join other jurisdictions who have signed on to this agreement, and we will continue working with the Government of Canada to support Yukoners and their health care needs.

    Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee 

    Quick facts

    • In 2021, Statistics Canada found that one in five adults in Canada did not have the insurance they needed to cover their medication costs.

    • On October 10, 2024, the Pharmacare Act received Royal Assent and immediately came into force. To date, three other provinces – Manitoba, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island – have reached a pharmacare agreement with the Government of Canada. 

    Media contact

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Kamal Khera
    Minister of Health
    343-552-5654

    Media Relations
    Health Canada and Public Health Agency of Canada
    613-957-2983 
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca 

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    Government of Yukon
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca   

    Ayodeji Awobamise
    Department of Health and Social Services
    Government of Yukon
    867-332-8342
    ayodeji.awobamise@yukon.ca 
        
    Public Inquiries:
    613-957-2991
    1-866-225-0709
     

    News release #:

    25-123

    Related information:

    About Pharmacare
    Prescription drug insurance coverage
    Government of Canada signs pharmacare agreement with Yukon to improve universal…

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon shares What We Heard report on proposed new Contaminants Regulation

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon shares What We Heard report on proposed new Contaminants Regulation
    jlutz
    March 20, 2025 – 2:15 pm

    The Government of Yukon is sharing a What We Heard report summarizing feedback on the proposed new Contaminants Regulation that would repeal and replace the existing Contaminated Sites Regulation and the Spills Regulation.

    The proposed new regulation aims to enhance environmental protection by updating standards, clarifying expectations and ensuring effective contaminated site remediation. The government sought feedback on key provisions of the proposed new regulation, including updated contaminant standards and spill reporting thresholds, transferring responsibility for contaminated sites, streamlining the permitting process and further defining how contaminated sites are designated.

    The government engaged Yukon First Nations governments and industry stakeholders from August 6 to September 30, 2024. This engagement was a follow-up from broad public engagement in 2018 and provided an opportunity for these governments and organizations to share final comments.

    Participants were generally supportive of the proposed changes to the regulations. Considerations raised during the engagement included:

    • ensuring transfer of responsibility for contaminated sites is open and transparent;
    • allowing flexibility in standardized permits for site-specific remediation;
    • providing opportunities for affected First Nations to be involved in managing contaminated sites;
    • keeping site investigations and assessments flexible and straightforward to avoid delaying remediation; and
    • ensuring remediation facilities are built to protect human health, the environment and Indigenous rights. 

    This valuable feedback will help shape the final Contaminants Regulation, helping to ensure it is effective, practical and responsive to the needs of Yukoners. By strengthening the management of contaminated sites and spills, the Government of Yukon is taking an important step toward protecting the territory’s water and land while unlocking economic opportunities through the redevelopment of remediated sites, including much-needed housing.

    Thank you to the representatives from Yukon First Nations governments, industry, business and environmental consulting firms who weighed in on our proposed new Contaminants Regulation. Once completed, this new regulation will streamline and simplify permitting processes and make it easier to remediate, develop and sell contaminated properties. This is an important step our government is taking to build a modern framework for regulating contaminated sites and spills that prioritizes the wellbeing of Yukoners and the environment.

    Minister of Environment Nils Clarke 

    Quick facts

    • The Government of Yukon invited 172 representatives from over 80 organizations to provide feedback on the proposed new Contaminants Regulation. 

    • Online information sessions were attended by 35 participants and 14 written submissions were received as part of the engagement. 

    • The Government of Yukon previously engaged with the wider public, Indigenous governments and groups and industry on the proposed new Contaminants Regulation in 2018. The government re-engaged Indigenous governments and groups and key industry stakeholders in 2024 to update their feedback due to the time that has passed since 2018.

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca

    Kyle Nightingale
    Communications, Environment
    867-334-5922
    kyle.nightingale@yukon.ca 

    News release #:

    25-122

    Related information:

    What We Heard report: Engaging on a new Contaminants Regulation
    New contaminants regulation engagement

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump’s ‘transactional foreign policy’ hits deadlock

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    In the two months since taking office, U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has been aggressively pursuing its foreign policy agenda under the belief that everything is subject to “deals,” triggering wide backlash in international society.

    The essence of Trump’s foreign policy is “purely transactional,” said an article on the U.S. website The National Interest.

    “All I know, is… deals”

    “My whole life is deals. That’s all I know, is deals,” said Trump following his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron about a month ago.

    When it comes to the means to facilitate these deals, as Kevin Hassett, director of the White House National Economic Council, put it, “We could do that with carrots, and we can do that with sticks.”

    On the issue of the Ukraine crisis, to facilitate negotiations between the parties, the Trump administration threatened that Russia would face U.S. sanctions if it refused to participate in talks, and that Ukraine would lose U.S. aid if it declined to negotiate.

    The United States has also coveted Ukraine’s resources, initially demanding rare earth elements, followed by oil, natural gas and other mineral resources.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky strongly opposed these demands at first. His fiery clash with Trump at the White House on Feb. 28 shocked the world, prompting the United States to suspend military aid to Ukraine and cut off intelligence-sharing.

    When they spoke by phone on Wednesday, Trump even suggested to Zelensky that the United States could help run, and possibly own, Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, according to a statement by the U.S. presidential administration.

    On the Palestinian question, Trump demanded that Hamas release detained Israeli hostages, threatening that “or it is OVER for you” on March 5 in a post on Truth Social.

    Trump also proposed to “clean out” Gaza in late January and used the suspension of aid as leverage to pressure Egypt and Jordan to accept Palestinians.

    To address the issues of illegal immigration and fentanyl within the United States, the Trump administration wielded the “tariff stick” against Mexico and Canada. According to the Trump administration’s logic, these two major problems were caused by Canada and Mexico, and if they are not resolved, tariffs will be imposed.

    Trump also set his sights on Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.

    He said that the United States would take control of Greenland “one way or the other,” refusing to rule out economic or military coercion. Trump said he would consider imposing tariffs on Denmark “at a very high level” if it resisted his offer to acquire the territory.

    Referring to Trump’s book where he talks about his experiences as a hotel developer, Sina Toossi, a fellow at the U.S. think tank Center for International Policy, told AFP: “He approaches diplomacy the way he approached real estate in ‘The Art of the Deal:’ — escalate tensions, maximize threats, push the situation to the brink of disaster and then, at the last minute, strike a deal.”

    “Transactional foreign policy” reaches impasse

    “My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier,” Trump declared in his inaugural address on Jan. 20. But how effective is his “transactional foreign policy?”

    After Trump’s phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky on Tuesday and Wednesday respectively, U.S. media believe that Russia has in effect rejected the U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire plan for Russia and Ukraine.

    The Washington Post reported that the call between the U.S. and Russian leaders highlighted differences more than agreement.

    Meanwhile, Ukraine is also dissatisfied with the proposal to halt attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure within 30 days, hoping to extend the ceasefire to include other civilian infrastructure.

    Zelensky said that Ukraine has no intention of transferring the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which the Trump administration is interested in.

    As with Ukraine, Trump has pledged to bring “peace” to the Middle East, but his failure to facilitate “deals” through coercion and pressure has led to the rekindling of the flames of war in Gaza and Yemen.

    After “full coordination with the United States,” the Israeli military resumed large-scale airstrikes on the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, signaling the collapse of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

    Additionally, the U.S. military began large-scale military operations against Yemen’s Houthi group on March 15. In retaliation, the Houthis claimed to have attacked U.S. aircraft carriers multiple times.

    After the Trump administration launched its “tariff war,” many countries implemented countermeasures. On March 12, the Canadian government announced a 25-percent retaliatory tariff on 29.8 billion Canadian dollars’ (20.7 billion U.S. dollars’) worth of U.S. goods.

    On the same day, the European Commission declared that the European Union (EU) would impose retaliatory tariffs on 26 billion euros’ (28.3 billion U.S. dollars’) worth of U.S. goods starting in April, targeting items such as beef, poultry, whiskey and motorcycles.

    Trump’s tariffs “are an act of self-harm,” The Economist said in a recent article.

    Trump’s remarks about Greenland have also increased anti-American sentiment on the island. To protest Trump’s remarks about acquiring the territory, an anti-American rally was held on March 15 in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, with thousands of demonstrators marching to the U.S. Consulate there.

    Danish and EU officials also voiced their support for Greenland. “I believe that Greenland will remain part of the Danish Commonwealth for quite some time,” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said recently.

    “To all the people of Greenland and of Denmark as a whole, I want to be very clear that Europe will always stand for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Tuesday.

    The Japanese daily Yomiuri Shimbun commented Thursday: “Another major offensive has begun in the Middle East, and Russia declined to endorse a full ceasefire in Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump’s diplomacy based on deals has apparently stalled.”

    A more dangerous world

    Analysts believe that the root cause of the impasse in “transactional foreign policy” lies in Trump’s sole focus on U.S. interests. He disregards the demands and needs of others, especially those of conflicting parties, and makes no effort to address the underlying issues.

    “For Trump, foreign policy isn’t about carefully negotiated peace deals. It’s about performance, leverage and crafting a narrative that sells,” Toossi said.

    Trump’s ability to create bargaining chips out of thin air and force concessions through coercion and inducement rely on the United States’ military and economic strength, analysts said.

    The essence of his “transactional foreign policy” is nothing more than coercion diplomacy rooted in power, serving the narrow self-interests of the United States. Rather than solving problems at their root, it ignores the concerns of relevant parties and pressures them to accept U.S. terms.

    “Team Trump claims that its dealmaking will bring peace and that, after 80 years of being taken for a ride, America will turn its superpower status into profit,” said The Economist in an article.

    “Instead it will make the world more dangerous, and America weaker and poorer,” it added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia-Ukraine ceasefire negotiations still in early stages

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on March 18, 2025 shows an exterior view of the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday that achieving a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict remains a complex challenge requiring substantial efforts, emphasizing that negotiations are still in their early stages.

    “I want to remind you that President (Vladimir) Putin certainly supports the idea of a ceasefire … This is a very complex matter and a lot of work remains to be done. We are only at the beginning of this path,” Peskov told local media.

    He underscored that Western nations are unlikely to swiftly lift sanctions against Russia, urging the country to pursue development under the current constraints.

    Despite geopolitical tensions, Peskov said that Moscow and Washington should not allow disagreements to derail mutually beneficial cooperation.

    “We can disagree on something, but it does not mean that we should let it obstruct pragmatic cooperation,” he added.

    U.S. President Donald Trump has recently talked with his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts respectively to negotiate a ceasefire. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Japan can jointly promote, practice Asian values

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China and Japan can advocate the Eastern wisdom of valuing harmony and practicing empathy, and promote and practice Asian values, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his meeting in Tokyo with Yasuo Fukuda, former Japanese prime minister and former chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia.

    Wang expressed appreciation to Fukuda for taking the lead in Japan to endorse and support China’s vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and for taking the lead in establishing the cultural exchange institution for an Asian community.

    China and Japan are geographically close and share many cultural similarities and intertwined interests, Wang said.

    “We hope that the Japanese side will work with China to maintain the political and public support for China-Japan relations, push for the sound and stable development of bilateral ties, and jointly promote peace, stability and prosperity in Asia,” Wang added.

    Fukuda said it is of great significance to deepen exchanges in various fields such as people-to-people, cultural and academic interactions between Japan and China.

    He affirmed his commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation, enhancing mutual understanding, and contributing to the improvement and development of Japan-China relations. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Celebrating early warning collaboration on World Meteorological Day

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    23/03/2025

    Issued: 23 March 2025

    Today is World Meteorological Day and an opportunity to recognise the contributions of national weather and water agencies across the world.

    The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the specialised agency of the United Nations for meteorology, operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences, commemorates World Meteorological Day on 23 March each year. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the WMO.

    The Bureau of Meteorology continues to play a leading role in supporting Pacific Islands nations to prepare for and respond to the impacts of severe weather and a changing climate. The Bureau engages in several initiatives in the Pacific region aligned to this year’s theme of “Closing the early warning gap”.

    In partnership with the Pacific Meteorological Council, the Bureau supports the Weather Ready Pacific (WRP) program, to enhance early warning systems and increase climate resilience in the Pacific.

    As part of the initiative, the Bureau provides technical guidance and advice to help the Pacific improve its infrastructure, systems and training.

    General Manager of International Development, Dr Andrew Jones said the program supports the Pacific region in benefiting from advances in forecast and warning systems for weather, hydrological and oceanic events, enabling increased accuracy specificity and lead times of forecasts.

    “Severe weather events devastate Pacific Island communities through loss of life and damage to homes and infrastructure, agricultural lands, livelihoods, and economies,” Dr Jones said.

    “Climate change escalates the Pacific’s vulnerability to extreme events by increasing their intensity and/or frequency.

    “The Bureau supports Pacific meteorological leaders in providing technical guidance and advice to ensure that every Pacific Island person will be safer from severe weather and the impacts of climate change.”

    The Bureau also works with stakeholders in Pacific Island countries to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate variability through the Climate and Oceans Support Program in the Pacific (COSPPac) and, in collaboration with the World Meteorological Organization and the Papua New Guinea Weather Service, the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems Papua New Guinea (CREWS-PNG).

    Dr Jones said Papua New Guinea’s diverse topography and highly variable rainfall means a limited rain gauge network is insufficient to accurately assess rainfall distribution.

    “The Bureau’s technical advice of extensive and uniform coverage of satellite-based precipitation observations provide a more precise picture of rainfall,” Dr Jones said.

    “CREWS-PNG closes the early warning gap, benefiting over 200 users in agriculture, water, energy, and emergency services with improved decision-making and climate resilience.

    “Meteorology operates outside of political and geographical boundaries. The Bureau works with partners in other countries, sharing information and resources to benefit people in Australia and around the world.”

    Find out more information about the Weather Ready Pacific (WRP) program here: Program Summary and about World Meteorological Day here: World Meteorological Day

    ENDS…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Pro-Palestinian protesters challenge Peters at state of the nation speech

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Saige England in Christchurch

    Like a relentless ocean, wave after wave of pro-Palestinian pro-human rights protesters disrupted New Zealand deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ state of the nation speech at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday.

    A clarion call to Trumpism and Australia’s One Nation Party, the speech was accompanied by the background music of about 250 protesters outside the Town Hall, chanting: “Complicity in genocide is a crime.”

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) co-chair John Minto described Peters’ attitude to Palestinians as “sickening”.

    Inside the James Hay Theatre, protester after protester stood and spoke loudly and clearly against the deputy Prime Minister’s failure to support those still dying in Gaza, and his failure to denounce the ongoing genocide.

    Ben Vorderegger was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of people who have lost their voices in the dust of blood and bones, bombs and sniper guns.

    Before he and others were hauled out, they spoke for the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza — women, men, doctors, aid workers, journalists, and children.

    Gazan health authorities have reported that the official death toll is now more than 50,000 — but that is the confirmed deaths with thousands more buried under the rubble.

    Real death toll
    The real death toll from the genocide in Gaza has been estimated by a reputed medical journal, The Lancet, at more than 63,000. A third of those are children. Each day more children are killed.

    One by one the protesters who challenged Peters were manhandled by security guards to a frenzied crowd screaming “out, out”.

    The deputy Prime Minister’s response was to deride and mock the conscientious objectors. He did not stop there. He lambasted the media.

    At this point, several members of his audience turned on me as a journalist and demanded my removal.

    Pro-Palestine protesters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday to picket Foreign Minister Winston Peters at his state of the nation speech. Image: Saige England/APR

    This means that not only is the right to free speech at stake, the right or freedom to report is also being eroded. (I was later trespassed by security guards and police from the Town Hall although no reason was supplied for the ban).

    Inside the Christchurch Town Hall the call by Peters, who is also Foreign Minister, to “Make New Zealand Great Again” continued in the vein of a speech written by a MAGA leader.

    He whitewashed human rights, failed to address climate change, and demonstrated loathing for a media that has rarely challenged him.

    Ben Vorderegger in keffiyeh was the first of nine protesters who appealed on behalf of Palestinans before
    being thrown out of the Christchurch Town Hall meeting. Image: Saige England/APR

    Condemned movement
    Slamming the PSNA as “Marxist fascists” for calling out genocide, he condemned the movement for failing to talk with those who have a record of kowtowing to violent colonisation.

    This tactic is Colonial Invasion 101. It sees the invader rewarding and only dealing with those who sell out. This strategy demands that the colonised people should bow to the oppressor — an oppressor who threatens them with losing everything if they do not accept the scraps.

    Peters showed no support for the Treaty of Waitangi but rather, endorsed the government’s challenge to the founding document of the nation – Te Tiriti o Waitangi. In his dismissal of the founding and legally binding partnership, he repeated the “One Nation” catch-cry. Ad nauseum.

    Besides slamming Palestinians, the Scots (he managed to squeeze in a racist joke against Scottish people), and the woke, Peters’ speech promoted continued mining, showing some amnesia over the Pike River disaster. He did not reference the environment or climate change.

    After the speech, outside the Town Hall police donned black gloves — a sign they were prepared to use pepper-spray.

    PSNA co-chair John Minto described Peters’ failure to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians as “bloody disgraceful”.

    The police arrested one protester, claiming he put his hand on a car transporting NZ First officials. A witness said this was not the case.

    PSNA co-chair John Minto (in hat behind fellow protester) . . . the failure of Foreign Minister Winston Peters to stand against the ongoing genocide of Palestinians is “bloody disgraceful”. Image; Saige England/APR

    Protester released
     The protester was later released without any charges being laid.

    A defiant New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event. He raised his arms defensively at protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?”

    I was trespassed from the Christchurch Town Hall for re-entering the Town Hall for Winston Peters’ media conference. No reason was supplied by police or the Town Hall security personnel for that trespass order..

    “The words Winston is terrified to say . . . ” poster at the Christchurch pro-Palestinian protest. Image: Saige England/APR

    It is well known that Peters loathes the media — he said so enough times during his state of the nation speech.

    He referenced former US President Bill Clinton during his speech, an interesting reference given that Clinton did not receive the protection from the media that Peters has received.

    From the over zealous security personnel who manhandled and dragged out hecklers, to the banning of a journalist, to the arrest of someone for “touching a car” when witnesses report otherwise, the state of the nation speech held some uncomfortable echoes — the actions of a fascist dictatorship.

    Populist threats
    The atmosphere was reminiscent of a Jorg Haider press conference I attended many years ago in Vienna. That “rechtspopulist” Austrian politician had threatened journalists with defamation suits if they called him out on his support for Nazis.

    Yet he was on record for doing so.

    I was reminded of this yesterday when the audience called ‘out out’ at hecklers, and demanded the removal of this journalist. These New Zealand First supporters demand adoration for their leader or a media black-out.

    Perhaps they cannot be blamed given that the state of the nation speech could well have been written by US President Donald Trump or one of his minions.

    The protesters were courageous and conscientious in contrast to Peters, said PSNA’s John Minto.

    He likened Peters to Neville Chamberlain — Britain’s Prime Minister from 1937 to 1940. His name is synonymous with the policy of “appeasement” because he conceded territorial concessions to Nazi Germany in the late 1930s, fruitlessly hoping to avoid war.

    “He has refused to condemn any of Israel’s war crimes against Palestinians, including the total humanitarian aid blockade of Gaza.”

    Refusal ‘unprecedented’
    “It’s unprecedented in New Zealand history that a government would refuse to condemn Israel breaking its ceasefire agreement and resuming industrial-scale slaughter of civilians,” Minto said.

    “That is what Israel is doing today in Gaza, with full backing from the White House.

    “Chamberlain went to meet Hitler in Munich in 1938 to whitewash Nazi Germany’s takeovers of its neighbours’ lands.

    “Peters has been in Washington to agree to US approval of the occupation of southern Syria, more attacks on Lebanon, resumption of the land grab genocide in Gaza and get a heads-up on US plans to ‘give’ the Occupied West Bank to Israel later this year.

    “If Peters disagrees with any of this, he’s had plenty of chances to say so.

    “New Zealanders are calling for sanctions on Israel but Mr Peters and the National-led government are looking the other way.”

    New Zealand First MP Shane Jones marched out of the Town Hall after the event, dismissing protesters crying, “what if it was your grandchildren being slaughtered?” Image: Saige England/APR

    Only staged questions
    The conscientious objectors who rise against the oppression of human rights are people Winston Peters regards as his enemies. He will only answer questions in a press conference staged for him.

    He warms to journalists who warm to him.

    The state of the nation speech in the Town Hall was familiar.

    Seeking to erase conscientiousness will not make New Zealand great, it will render this country very small, almost miniscule, like the people who are being destroyed for daring to demand their right to their own land.

    Saige England is a journalist and author, and a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA). She is a frequent contributor to Asia Pacific Report.

    Part of the crowd at the state of the nation speech by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at the Christchurch Town Hall yesterday. Image: Saige England/APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier pledges further opening up

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the opening ceremony of the China Development Forum 2025 and delivers a keynote speech, in Beijing, capital of China, March 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday pledged to unswervingly advance opening up and cooperation amid rising global instability and uncertainty.
    Li made the remarks in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the China Development Forum 2025 in Beijing.
    China will continue to welcome enterprises from around the world with open arms, further expand market access, actively address the concerns of businesses, and facilitate the deeper integration of foreign-funded enterprises into the Chinese market, he said.
    The increasing global economic fragmentation, coupled with rising instability and uncertainty in today’s world, underscores the growing need for countries to open their markets and for enterprises to share resources, in order to address challenges and pursue common prosperity, the premier said.
    He said China will safeguard free trade, and contribute to the smooth and stable operation of global industrial and supply chains.
    China has set its full-year growth target at around 5 percent for 2025. Li said the decision reflects both China’s profound understanding of its fundamental economic conditions and strong confidence in its governance capacity and future development potential, and pledged efforts to strengthen policy support while stimulating market forces in order to achieve the target.
    The country will implement more proactive and impactful macro policies, further strengthen counter-cyclical adjustments, and introduce new incremental policies when necessary to provide strong support for the sustained improvement and stable operation of the economy, Li said.
    The country will continue to advance the building of a unified national market and unclog bottlenecks in economic circulation to create a better development environment for various business entities, he added.
    Li pointed out that around this year’s Spring Festival, the Chinese economy has seen a surge of phenomenal highlights, with new growth drivers gaining strength across various sectors, which will inject sustained and robust momentum into the economy.
    The China Development Forum 2025 is scheduled from March 23 to 24. The theme of this year’s forum is “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy.”
    Around 720 people, including entrepreneurs, government officials, experts and representatives from international organizations from home and abroad attended the opening ceremony of the forum, hosted by the Development Research Center of the State Council.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wang Yi meets Japan-China friendship groups to enhance ties

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, meets with representatives from seven Japan-China friendship groups in Tokyo, Japan, March 23, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission, on Sunday met with representatives from seven Japan-China friendship groups, highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation amid global uncertainties.

    Noting the increasing instability in the international situation, Wang emphasized that China is determined to shoulder its responsibilities as a major power, work together with other nations to safeguard peace and security in Asia, and promote human development and progress.

    As close neighbors and two major global economies, China and Japan must reassess the value of their relationship, reaffirm the significance of their friendship, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, and consolidate the strength of friendly people-to-people ties to promote the sustained, healthy, and stable development of China-Japan relations, Wang said.

    While acknowledging the long-term dedication of the seven friendship groups in advancing bilateral friendship, Wang urged them to press forward in the direction of peaceful and friendly cooperation to make new contributions to safeguarding the fundamental interests of both peoples.

    He outlined three key areas for strengthening ties, including maintaining the political foundation, enhancing dialogue and exchanges across various sectors, and cultivating successors for China-Japan friendship.

    The China-Japan Joint Statement must be strictly observed, with particular emphasis on properly handling historical issues and the Taiwan question, and resisting any distortions, falsifications, or actions that undermine the foundation, Wang stressed.

    He also called for encouraging the younger generation to participate actively in friendship initiatives, ensuring the legacy of bilateral cooperation is carried forward.

    Attending the meeting were Hiroshi Moriyama, chairman of the Japan-China Friendship Parliamentarians’ Union and secretary-general of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party, President of the Japanese Association for the Promotion of International Trade Yohei Kono, as well as leaders of other friendship groups.

    Representatives from the groups emphasized the critical importance of China-Japan friendship for both nations and their peoples, pledging efforts to continue fostering exchanges at local and youth levels and further strengthen the bond between the peoples of China and Japan.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2-week residential programme trains senior and mid-level election officials from Bhutan in election administration

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 23 MAR 2025 5:16PM by PIB Delhi

    The 2-week residential capacity development programme on election administration for 40 senior and mid-level officers from Bhutan concluded on the 21st of March 2025 at IIIDEM, New Delhi. The Hon’ble Election Commissioner of Bhutan also participated in the programme. The programme was held from the 10th to the 21st of March 2025.

    Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar along with ECs Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi met the Election Commissioner of Bhutan Mr. Ugyen Chewang during his call on at ECI on the 18th of March 2025. A valedictory session was held on the 21st of March at IIIDEM. DEC Shri Ajeet Kumar in his opening address, reiterated India’s commitment to deepening electoral cooperation and capacity-building engagements with Bhutan. Former CEC Shri T.S. Krishnamurthy also shared his insights on the robust institutional credibility developed by the ECI over decades.

    The valedictory session concluded with a vote of thanks from EC of Bhutan, Mr. Ugyen Chewang, followed by the distribution of certificates to all participants. The interactive, case-study based training programme covered key aspects of election management, aimed at enhancing electoral management capabilities, sharing international best practices, and fostering stronger institutional cooperation between India and Bhutan.

    Based on the request of the EC of Bhutan, a two-night visit to Rewalsar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh was organised from the 15th to 17th March 2025, a revered site associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. The Bhutan EC also planted a Ficus Religiosa (Peepal tree) sapling on campus signifying the mutual values of peace, sustainability, and spiritual wisdom that both nations share on the 19th of March.

    Regular training programs and visits characterise ECI’s engagement with Bhutan.

    ******

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CGST Delhi East Commissionerate encourages greater compliance and awareness among unregistered manufacturers and traders during GST Registration Campaign 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    CGST Delhi East Commissionerate encourages greater compliance and awareness among unregistered manufacturers and traders during GST Registration Campaign 2025

    In the two-days of campaign, more than 2,000 queries from potential and unregistered traders addressed by GST officers; More than 100 fresh GST registration applications generated; 7,500 pamphlets highlighting provisions of GST Registration

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DELHI BECOMES THE 28TH LEGISLATURE TO JOIN THE NATIONAL E-VIDHAN APPLICATION PLATFORM

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 9:54PM by PIB Delhi

    The Delhi Legislative Assembly has taken a significant step towards digital governance by signing a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), Government of India and Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) for the implementation of the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA). With this development, Delhi becomes the 28th legislature to sign MoU with the Ministry for implementation of the project, marking a new chapter in its legislative functioning.

    The occasion was graced by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs; Shri Vijender Gupta, Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly & Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, MoPA.

    Dr. Satya Prakash, Additional Secretary, MoPA & Mission Leader (NeVA); Shri Ranjeet Singh, Secretary, Delhi Legislative Assembly; and Shri Reetesh Singh, Principal Secretary (Law), GNCTD signed the MoU for implementation of the project in Delhi Assembly.

    The agreement signifies Delhi’s commitment to transitioning to a paperless and more transparent legislative system, in alignment with the Prime Minister’s vision of “One Nation, One Application.”

    The NeVA platform, developed under the guidance of the MoPA, aims to enhance legislative procedures by promoting greater efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability. By digitizing House business and providing real-time access to documents, it enables seamless coordination among legislators and secretariat staff. This adoption of NeVA by the Delhi Assembly will not only reduce paper consumption but also streamline workflows, empowering Members of the Legislative Assembly with digital tools to improve legislative performance.

    The NeVA platform is hosted on Meghraj 2.0, India’s cloud infrastructure, ensuring robust scalability, security, and data integrity. Its device-agnostic nature allows it to be accessed seamlessly across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops, ensuring that legislators can manage legislative business from any device, anytime, anywhere.

    Designed for paperless operations, NeVA provides real-time access to key legislative documents, such as agendas, bills, and reports. The platform features a secure digital repository, safeguarding the confidentiality and integrity of legislative data. The platform also offers multilingual capabilities, catering to the linguistic diversity across states and regions, making it accessible to a broader range of users.

    Speaking in the event, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, emphasized the transformative potential of NeVA in streamlining legislative functions and expressed confidence that this digital shift will contribute to enhance transparency and accountability within legislative processes across the nation.

    Shri Vijender Gupta, Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, welcomed the adoption of NeVA as a step towards fostering a more efficient and transparent legislature. He noted that the integration of this platform will empower lawmakers to work more effectively, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Delhi.

    Shri Umang Narula, Secretary, MoPA, lauded the efforts of the Delhi Assembly and reiterated the Ministry’s full support in facilitating smooth implementation, onboarding, and training of stakeholders under the NeVA initiative.

    This landmark move further strengthens the nationwide momentum toward digital transformation in legislative institutions, as NeVA continues to expand its footprint across the country. The onboarding of the Delhi Assembly onto the NeVA platform marks a key milestone in the Delhi Government’s 100-day agenda, underscoring its commitment to promoting tech-driven, transparent, and efficient governance. With the constitution of the new assembly, the integration of NeVA further accelerates the modernization of legislative processes. This makes the Delhi Assembly a model for digital governance.

    ***

    SS/ISA

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Grassroot level meetings with Political Parties at ERO, DEO, CEO levels underway

    Source: Government of India

    Grassroot level meetings with Political Parties at ERO, DEO, CEO levels underway

    Active participation of political parties in these meetings

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 9:29PM by PIB Delhi

    4,123 EROs across the country are holding all-party meetings to resolve any pending polling booth level issues in their respective Assembly Constituencies (ACs). Similarly, all 788 District Election Officers (DEOs) and 36 CEOs of all 28 States and 8 UTs at the State/UT levels have also been directed to hold such meetings to resolve any pending issues at the district and State/UT levels respectively, within the legal framework of the RP Act 1950 & 1951, Registration of Elector Rules 1960, Conduct of Election Rules 1961 and the manuals, guidelines and instructions issued by ECI from time to time. These meetings have already started with the active participation of national/state level political parties. All such meetings are to be completed in the entire country in each AC, district and State/UT by the 31st of March, 2025.

    This is in line with the directions of the Commission led by CEC Gyanesh Kumar along with ECs Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi during the conference of CEOs of all States/UTs and one DEO and ERO from each state on the 4th of March, 2025 at IIIDEM, New Delhi.

    Political parties and their authorised representatives such as Booth Level Agents (BLAs), Polling Agents, Counting Agents and Election Agents have specific roles to play in various electoral processes including the conduct of elections.

    This grassroots-level engagement has been welcomed by political parties, with their active and enthusiastic participation in meetings across assembly constituencies, districts, and states/UTs. The Commission appeals to all the national/state political parties to avail this proactive grassroot level engagement with electoral authorities for resolving any pending issue in a time-bound manner.

    Photos of the nationwide political party meetings can be viewed at ECI’s official social media handle:

    *****

                      

    PK

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KVIC inaugurated a ‘Special Exhibition of Khadi’ at Rohini, Delhi which will continue till 31st March

    Source: Government of India (2)

    KVIC inaugurated a ‘Special Exhibition of Khadi’ at Rohini, Delhi which will continue till 31st March

    Under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana scheme, 120 equipment and toolkits were distributed to the artisans of Delhi

    Certificates were distributed to 115 trainees of Multi Disciplinary   Training Centre, Delhi

     KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar along with North Zone Member Shri  Nagendra Raghuvanshi and East Zone Member Shri  Manoj Kumar Singh were present at the inaugural function

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 8:56PM by PIB Delhi

    Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India organized a special exhibition and toolkit distribution program at ‘Khadi and Village Industries Bhawan’ branch, Sector-3, Rohini, Delhi on Saturday. At the event, KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar was the Chief Guest. Several dignitaries and officials were also present on the occasion, including KVIC North Zone Member Shri Nagendra Raghuvanshi and East Zone Member Shri Manoj Kumar Singh.

    The event focused on three important aspects:

    Special Exhibition of Khadi – In which 11 Khadi entrepreneurs and 30 PMEGP entrepreneurs displayed their products at 45 stalls from various cities including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi.

    Toolkit distribution under Gramodyog Vikas Yojana – Electric potters’ wheel was provided to 40 potters, electrician toolkit to 20 artisans, plumber toolkit to 20 artisans, mobile repairing toolkit to 20 beneficiaries, leather machine to 10 artisans and masala making toolkit to 10 artisans.

    Distribution of training certificates –  Certificates were distributed to 115 beneficiaries trained by Multi-Disciplinary Training Centre (MDTC), Delhi.

    Addressing the program, KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar reiterated, “With the inspiration of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, ‘New Khadi of New India’ is becoming a global identity. He has made Khadi the lifeline of self-reliant India by giving it a distinctive identity as ‘Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion, Khadi for Transformation’. He further opined that the ‘Brand Shakti’ of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has led to a historic increase in the sale and production of Khadi, as well as a 275% increase in the wages of artisans.

    Making a significant   announcement for Khadi artisans, he said that from April 1, 2025, the wages of Khadi artisans will be increased by 20 percent. In the last 11 years, the Modi government has made a historic increase of 275 percent in the wages of Khadi artisans. Now spinners will get Rs 15 for spinning per hank on the charkha.

    While talking to journalists, Shri Manoj Kumar said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given the mantra of ‘Khadi for Fashion’ for ‘Khadi Renaissance‘ during Bharat Tex-2025 organized at Bharat Mandapam, Delhi. With the aim of taking this mantra to the masses and popularizing Khadi as a modern garment, KVIC recently organized grand Khadi fashion shows in major cities of the country including Nagpur, Pune, Vadodara, Chennai, Jaipur, Prayagraj. He shared that through these fashion shows organized under the inspiration of the Prime Minister, an effort was made to reach the ‘New Khadi of New India’ especially to the younger generation, which has been extremely successful. This has given a new dimension to Khadi and it is establishing its identity as a modern garment.

    While talking about the historic achievements in the Khadi and Village Industries sector, Chairman KVIC said that Khadi products worth Rs 12.02 crore were sold in Prayagraj Mahakumbh. In the last financial year, the total production of Khadi and Village Industries reached Rs 1,08,297 crore and sales reached Rs 1,55,673 crore. In 10 years, 1.87 crore jobs were created, including 10.17 lakh new jobs last year. More than 10 lakh new projects were established and more than 88 lakh people got employment under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP).

    Representatives of Khadi institutions, beneficiaries of Gramodyog Vikas Yojana Scheme, Khadi workers, officials and employees of Delhi Government and KVIC were present in the program.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hails “Recruitment Exams now being conducted in 13 regional languages which were limited to Hindi and English ” chairing a high-level review Meeting

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hails “Recruitment Exams now being conducted in 13 regional languages which were limited to Hindi and English ” chairing a high-level review Meeting

    Average timeline of Recruitment cycle almost halved from 15 months to 8 months and will be further reduced” says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Rules of Public examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act 2024 notified: DoPT Minister Dr. Singh reviews

    Dr. Jitendra Singh instructs to create a ‘Single Job Application Portal’ to save youth’s energy from applying at various platforms

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 8:06PM by PIB Delhi

    NEW DELHI, March 22: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed the expansion of recruitment exams to 13 regional languages, a significant move from the earlier limitation to Hindi and English before 2014.

    Chairing a high-level holistic meeting at the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) in North Block here, he emphasized the government’s commitment to streamlining the recruitment process and enhancing governance through technology-driven reforms.

     

    Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that the average recruitment cycle time has been reduced from 15 months to 8 months, with further reductions planned in the coming days. He also recalled the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which was propelled by his efforts, and confirmed that its rules and details have been notified.

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, and Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh directed officials to establish standards and guidelines for conducting computer-based tests, ensuring a level playing field for all candidates. He also instructed the creation of a ‘Single Job Application Portal’ to ease the burden on job seekers and save their time and energy from applying across multiple platforms.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh took stock of Mission Karmayogi, noting that as of date, nearly 89 lakh Karmayogis have been onboarded. He emphasized the importance of capacity building for government employees, focusing on their overall development and increased workplace efficiency.

    The DoPT Minister instructed officials to create a repository of Good Governance practices and amplify them through outreach for other departments to follow. Stressing the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in governance, he cited its success in CPGRAMS 2.0, an AI-enabled grievance redressal system.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also stressed continuous digitalization, recalling how during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, 70-80% of government work was carried out online, thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India Mission, envisioned in 2015. He emphasized the need for process re-engineering to revise guidelines for framing and amending recruitment rules.

    On personnel policies and rules, Dr. Singh directed officials to ensure inclusive and equitable policies while leveraging technology to foster transparency and accountability.

    During the review, Dr. Jitendra Singh also addressed the questions raised by officials and guided them on the way forward. Smt. Rachna Shah, Secretary, DoPT, along with senior officials of the ministry, attended the high-level meeting.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre withdraws 20% duty on Onion Export effective from April 1st, 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 7:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has withdrawn 20% duty on onion export, effective from 1st April, 2025. A notification to this effect was issued by the Department of Revenue today on the communication of Department of Consumer Affairs.

    To ensure domestic availability, the government had taken measures to check export by means of duty, minimum export price (MEP) and even to the extent of export prohibition for almost five months, from 8th December, 2023 till 3rd May, 2024. The export duty of 20% which now stands removed has been in place from 13th September, 2024.

    Despite export restriction, the total onion export during FY 2023-24 was 17.17 LMT and FY 2024-25 (till 18th March) was 11.65 LMT. Monthly onion export quantity had picked up from 0.72 LMT in September, 2024 to 1.85 LMT in January, 2025.

    The decision stands as another testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring remunerative prices to farmers while maintaining affordability of onion to the consumers at this crucial juncture when both mandi and retail prices have soften following expected arrival of rabi crops in good quantities. Even though, the current mandi prices are above the level during corresponding period of previous years, a decline of 39% is observed in the all-India weighted average modal prices. Similarly, all-India average retail prices recorded declined of 10% over the past one month.

    Graph-1: Onion mandi and retail price trends

    Onion arrival in benchmark markets Lasalgoan and Pimpalgaon have increased from this month which drive prices downward. The modal prices in Lasalgaon and Pimpalgoan on 21st March, 2025 were Rs.1330/qtl and Rs.1325/qtl, respectively.

    Graph-2: Arrivals and prices in Lasalgaon Mandi

    Graph-3: Arrivals and prices in Pimpalgaon Mandi

    As per the estimates of Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, rabi production this year at 227 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) is over 18% higher than 192 LMT last year. The rabi onion which accounted for 70-75% of India’s total onion production is crucial for overall availability and stability in prices till the arrival of kharif crop from October/November onward. The estimated higher production this season is expected to further ease the market prices in coming months.

    The emerging production and prices scenario came as welcome breather for the country which had to grapple with the twin issues of lower domestic production and high international prices from August, 2023.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transformation of Thonoknyu block is an inspiration for others: Union Minister Smt. Raksha Khadse

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Transformation of Thonoknyu block is an inspiration for others: Union Minister Smt. Raksha Khadse

    Smt Khadse becomes First Union Minister to Visit the Noklak, “Frontier District”.

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 7:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, became the first minister to visit Noklak, Nagaland, one of the most remote districts in the country. During her visit, she was given a briefing on the district’s development by the Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, Shri Arikumba. She also reviewed the progress of the ThonoknyuU Aspirational Block Programme, interacted with civil society representatives, and visited key sites, including Nokyan village, the District Hospital and the Multi-Discipline Sports Complex of Noklak.

    Noklak, known as the “Frontier District,” is located in Nagaland’s easternmost region. The district, which has a total population of 55,434 according to the 2011 Census, is roughly 1,152 square kilometers in size. With 14,630 households, it is mostly rural and home to the Khiamniungan Naga tribe. Low population density and an agrarian economy based on the production of millets, perilla seeds, maize, beans, yam, and Job’s Tear are characteristics of Noklak. The district’s cultural legacy has also been acknowledged; in 2022, the Sustainable Development Award for Economic Sustainability went to the Noklak Masterpieces.

    During the visit Smt. Khadse assessed the progress made by the Thonoknyu Block in 40 key development indicators under the themes such as Health & Nutrition, Education, Agriculture, Social Development and Basic infrastructure. The Block which was previously ranked among the least aspirational blocks, has improved significantly, rising from 465th place in March 2023 to 85th place in September 2024 out of 500 blocks in India.

    The Sampoornata Abhiyan, a targeted three-month campaign that was implemented from July to September 2024 across six key performance indicators, has played a major role in this change. Thonoknyu Block has attained 100% saturation in five of the six KPIs, despite being ranked 465th out of 471 aspirational blocks as of March 2024. The remarkable progress we witnessed in Thonoknyu Block is a shining example that when dedication meets determination and coordination every milestone could be achieved, Smt. Khadse.

    During the interaction, the Union Minister remarked that for India to thrive as a nation, its most remote and underdeveloped regions must no longer be left behind and reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development. She highlighted that the progress made by Noklak district and Thonoknyu Block reflects the impact of focused governance and community participation. She reaffirmed the government’s resolve to provide the necessary resources and opportunities to even the most geographically isolated regions, ensuring sustainable growth and development.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 100 New Food Testing Labs to be Established with Financial Support from Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Announces Ravneet Singh Bittu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 7:05PM by PIB Delhi

    100 New Food Testing Labs to be Established with Financial Support from Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Announces Ravneet Singh Bittu

    Bathinda, 22nd March 2025 – In a bid to enhance food safety and quality, Ravneet Singh Bittu, the Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries, announced that the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) will financially support the establishment of 100 new NABL-accredited food testing laboratories across India in the financial year 2025-26.

    Bittu, who inaugurated a world-class food testing laboratory at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, highlighted the critical role of food testing in ensuring food safety. “Food testing is vital for ensuring that food products meet safety standards and are free from harmful contaminants and pathogens,” he said.

    The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), which has allocated ₹503.47 crore for 205 laboratory projects. Out of these, 169 projects have already been completed, with ₹349.21 crore disbursed. These labs play a crucial role in meeting the requirements of major regulatory bodies such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the Export Inspection Council of India (EIC), the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and international agencies like the USFDA and EU regulations.

    Farmers and producers in sectors such as citrus fruits, green peas, cauliflower, carrots (both fresh and frozen), milk and milk products, basmati rice, wheat, millets like bajra and sorghum, mustard and sunflower oilseeds, and farm-produced shrimp will benefit from these state-of-the-art facilities. These laboratories help ensure compliance with global standards, support exports, and improve the overall quality of food products, ultimately contributing to higher income for farmers and job creation, particularly for skilled technical personnel.

    The laboratory inaugurated at Bathinda will employ cutting-edge technologies like GC-MS/MS, ICP-OES, HPLC, and UV spectrophotometers for testing pesticide residues, heavy metals, microbiological contaminants, and more. With a total project allocation of ₹253.12 lakh and ₹191.259 lakh already released, the facility will serve food processors, farmers, and food businesses to ensure the safety and quality of food products.

    Elaborating on the achievements of the food processing sector in Punjab, Ravneet Singh shared that the Ministry has approved 24 cold chain projects totaling ₹553 crore, 3 agro-processing cluster projects worth ₹70 crore, 16 food processing units with an investment of ₹432 crore, and 10 food testing laboratories totaling ₹48 crore. Under the PMKSY scheme, 61 projects amounting to ₹1557 crore have been approved in Punjab, with a grant of ₹419 crore.

    Additionally, six factories in Punjab have committed investments under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, totaling ₹126.31 crore. Over 2,500 micro-entrepreneurs in Punjab have received subsidies under the Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, and 1,296 members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have received seed capital approval amounting to ₹3.99 crore. In Bathinda and Mansa, honey and milk-based products are identified as the key products under the “One District, One Product” initiative.

    In Bathinda, 483 loans amounting to ₹142.3 crore were disbursed, while in Mansa, 253 loans amounting to ₹72.15 crore were granted. Additionally, Self-Help Groups in Bathinda and Mansa received seed capital funding of ₹75 lakh and ₹18 lakh, respectively, under the PMFME scheme.

    Ravneet Singh also visited an exhibition organized by PMFME beneficiaries, showcasing their products.

    Other dignitaries present at the event included Dr. Sandeep Kansal, Vice Chancellor of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Technical University, Sh. Ranjit Singh, Joint Secretary of MOFPI, Sh. Rajnish Tuli, GM of Punjab Agro, Sh. Jitendra Dongre from MOFPI, Sh. Amit Joshi from KCCI, Sh. Sarup Chand Singla, District President of BJP Bathinda, Smt. Parampal Kaur, and S. Dayal Sodhi.

    ***

    STK

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’ Symposium concludes with a Strong Commitment to Action

    Source: Government of India

    ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’ Symposium concludes with a Strong Commitment to Action

    Collaborative, Community-led Action Plans embedded across all levels of governance – need of the hour to develop Long-term Climate Adaptation Strategies: MoS Sh. Kirti Vardhan Singh

    Addressing Adaptation Finance is a critical pillar for mainstreaming adaptation in Climate Adaptation Actions, highlights MoS (MoEFCC)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 6:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’ symposium concluded today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with a resounding call for sustained action, collaboration, and policy-driven climate adaptation and resilience.

    In his remarks during the valedictory session, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, highlighted India’s remarkable journey in confronting climate challenges. He emphasized the multidimensional nature of climate action, touching upon critical issues such as the impact of heatwaves and water scarcity on agriculture, the urgency of building resilient health systems, adaptation financing, and innovative solutions in the built environment. He called for comprehensive climate adaptation and resilience measures.

    The Minister outlined Critical Action Points that emerged from the symposium:

    • Stronger Institutional Frameworks: Climate adaptation must be embedded across all levels of governance, including at the local level.
    • Community-Driven Solutions: Policies should be tailored to ground realities, local needs and circumstances.
    • Immediate and Long-Term Action: While emergency interventions like heat relief programmes are vital, systemic changes in infrastructure, policy and financing are pertinent for long-term resilience. Addressing adaptation finance, is a critical pillar for mainstreaming adaptation in the short-term and long-term climate adaptation actions.
    • Collaborative Implementation: Policymakers, researchers, businesses, and communities must work together to scale up just and equitable climate adaptation strategies.

    Shri Singh mentioned that the collaboration between Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India and Harvard University represented by Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability has been a unique opportunity to bring together experts and stakeholders facilitating exchange of ideas. He suggested that the lessons and recommendations from this Symposium be taken, as appropriate, to support India’s continued lead in addressing the Climate challenges of the 21st century.

    Over the past four days, the symposium served as a dynamic knowledge sharing platform for experts from diverse fields—including climate science, public health, labour, and urban planning—to deliberate on the urgent challenges posed by climate change and the pathways to a resilient future. The deliberations focused on four key themes: Climate Science of Heat and Water with its implications on Agriculture, Health, Work and the Built Environment.

    The climate adaptation in Agriculture requires evidence-based policies and decision-making. Emphasis was placed on localized governance and climate-resilient agricultural practices to improve food security and nutrition. Discussions suggested integrating scientific research with policy, long-term climate changes, water use trends, establishing local climate forums, stakeholder-centric metrics, and integrating AI in forecasting. Experts highlighted the need for communication among stakeholders, technological advancements, and balancing short-term and long-term adaptation strategies.

    The resilience in Health sector discussion focused on quantification of heat exposure and its impact on human health, emphasizing the need to improve data collection, correlation and consideration of local context, using the advancements in AI and machine learning. The deliberation also stressed the importance of strengthening climate-responsive public health systems, addressing the fragmented health data landscape, and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration. Emphasis was placed on multi-sectoral governance, suitable metrics, and training healthcare workers on climate-linked health risks, with a focus on leveraging existing programmes and engaging in multi-stakeholder collaboration for policymaking.

    Adaptation at Work is essential to address the heat-related stress and its impact on workers. The challenges faced by workers especially women were recognized and best practices in technical and behavioral adaptation, emphasizing health standards, occupational safety, safe civic spaces, etc. were highlighted.  The importance of government intervention, innovative financial solutions, and multi-stakeholder collaboration was underscored to enhance resilience in diverse geo-climatic conditions. The need for comprehensive strategies, considering local work culture and conditions, leveraging existing policies was emphasized to protect workers from climate-induced heat stress.

    The Built environment we live in, directly impacts our adaptation capacities. The experts in the sector emphasized a balanced approach to urban resilience, combining legal mandates with market-based incentives. The importance of addressing vulnerable populations, particularly in slum areas was highlighted, through local interventions and long-term planning. The success of urban planning policies depends not just on their design but also on operational feasibility, efficiency and cultural acceptance. The need for responsive urban planning frameworks, interdisciplinary collaboration, and action-oriented research was emphasized. There is a need to shift focus to thermal comfort for all.

    Professor Caroline Buckee from Harvard University emphasized the need for more granular data to identify those most at risk from climate impacts. She highlighted the challenges posed by India’s large health system and the importance of integrating health data across different sectors. Professor Buckee also stressed the value of timely censuses for accurate epidemiological estimates and the need for interdisciplinary approaches to address the complex interactions between climate change, health, and other sectors.

    Shri Tanmay Kumar, Secretary (MoEFCC), emphasized the importance of building local capacities to address climate impacts effectively. He highlighted the need for integrated approaches that consider the unique challenges faced by different regions and communities. He noted that adaptation strategies must be inclusive and community-driven, drawing on traditional knowledge and practices. He emphasized that climate resilience and sustainable development require continuous collaboration and commitment. He also reaffirmed that the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that climate resilience strategies are inclusive, sustainable and grounded in scientific evidence and also take into account the development aspirations.

    Prof. Tarun Khanna, Director (The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute, Harvard University), appreciated the collaboration and expressed his gratitude towards the Ministry and Harvard University represented by Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute & The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability for bringing together leaders from across the field to collaboratively work on the leading challenge of our times. He highlighted the collaborative spirit and the diverse energies that came together to make this symposium a success.

    Shri Naresh Pal Gangwar, Additional Secretary (MoEFCC), expressed heartfelt gratitude to all distinguished speakers, experts, and panelists for sharing their knowledge and insights. He urged everyone to continue working with renewed focus and dedication, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and determination in addressing climate challenges.

    The symposium concluded with a strong message for continued dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts. As India moves toward its centenary of independence, the outcomes of this symposium could contribute while shaping appropriate policies and measures for building a climate-resilient future for the nation.

    *****

    VM/GS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PLI scheme incentivizes domestic manufacturing, increases production, creates new jobs and boosts exports

    Source: Government of India

    PLI scheme incentivizes domestic manufacturing, increases production, creates new jobs and boosts exports

    PLI scheme clocks ₹1.61 lakh crores in investment,₹14 lakh crore in production, ₹5.31 lakh crore in exports and generates 11.5 lakh jobs

    764 applications approved across 14 sectors with 176 MSME beneficiaries

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 4:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Keeping in view India’s vision of becoming ‘Atmanirbhar’, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes for 14 key sectors are under implementation to enhance India’s Manufacturing capabilities and Exports. The impact of PLI Schemes has been significant across various sectors in India. These schemes have incentivized domestic manufacturing, leading to increased production, job creation, and a boost in exports. They have also attracted significant investments from both domestic and foreign players.

    As on date, 764 applications have been approved under PLI Schemes for 14 key sectors. 176 MSMEs are among the PLI beneficiaries in sectors such as Bulk Drugs, Medical Devices, Pharma, Telecom, White Goods, Food Processing, Textiles & Drones.

    Actual investment of around ₹ 1.61 lakh crore (US$ 18.72 billion) has been reported till November 2024 which has generated Production/ Sales of around ₹ 14 lakh crore (around US$ 162.84 billion) against targets of 15.52 lakh crore up to FY 2024-25 and Employment of over 11.5 lakhs (Direct & Indirect).

    PLI Schemes have transformed India’s exports basket from traditional commodities to high value-added products such as electronics & telecommunication goods, processed food products etc. PLI Schemes have witnessed exports surpassing ₹ 5.31 lakh crore (around US$ 61.76 billion), with significant contributions from sectors such as Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Food Processing, and Telecom & Networking products.

    Incentive amount of around Rs. 14020 crore disbursed under PLI Schemes for 10 Sectors viz. Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing (LSEM), IT Hardware, Bulk Drugs, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, Telecom & Networking Products, Food Processing, White Goods, Automobiles & Auto components and Drones & Drone Components.

    Individual cases have been approved over a period of time, through a transparent mechanism. Projects are implemented over a period of time ranging from 2 years to 3 years, depending on the nature of manufacturing and claims are usually made after 1st year of production. Hence, most of the projects are at implementation stage and will be filing incentive claims in due course.

    In the PLI scheme for specialty steel, about ₹20,000 crore of investments have been made by companies out of ₹27,106 crore committed and these projects have given a direct employment of 9000. Incentive of ₹48 crore has been released to the industry so far. The Ministry of Steel estimates that an incentive of ₹2,000 crore will be disbursed by the end of the scheme tenure. 14 of 58 projects withdrew from the scheme either because of change in business plans of the company and project execution delays.

    It may be worth noting that as many as 35 companies have shown interest in the second round of the PLI scheme for specialty steel. A further commitment of ₹25,200 crore investment has been committed by these companies. The Ministry of Steel is in the process of selection and signing MoUs with these companies. An incentive of ₹3,600 crore is estimated to be disbursed to these projects.

    Under the PLI Scheme for the Food Processing Industry, the deadline for filing claims is November 30 for Millets and December 31 for other categories. Most approved beneficiaries submit their claims in the second half of December, after which they are processed, and disbursements occur between January and March. Therefore, assessing incentive disbursements between April and October does not provide an accurate representation. For the FY 2022-23 claim year, an incentive of ₹474 crore has been disbursed. For FY 2023-24, the disbursement target is ₹700 crore, which is on track to be achieved.

    The PLI Scheme for the Food Processing Industry (PLISFI) currently has 171 active beneficiaries across all categories. Given this large number, the withdrawal of six beneficiaries is not significant. Moreover, these applicants withdrew primarily due to their inability to meet their committed investment or expenditure on Branding & Marketing abroad.

    The PLI Scheme has created immense impact across sectors and areas of the economy:

    1. Strengthening India’s position in Global Value Chains: India is now a part of key global value chains instead of being an importer of advanced/intermediate products and components.
      1. Under the PLI Scheme for Promoting Domestic Manufacturing of Medical Devices, 19 green-field projects have been commissioned and production of 44 products including high end medical devices such as Linear Accelerator, MRI machines, CT-Scans, Mammograms, C- Arms, Ultrasound machines etc., which were previously imported into the country has started.
      2. 84 companies under the PLI Scheme for White Goods (ACs and LED Lights) are set to bring investments of ₹ 10,478 crore, strengthening domestic capacity in AC and LED segment. For ACs, the selected companies will be manufacturing components like, compressors, copper tubes among others.
      3. Similarly, for LED Lights, LED Chip packaging, LED Drivers, LED Engines, LED Light Management Systems and Metallized films for capacitors etc. will be manufactured in India instead of being imported.
    1. Promoting Domestic Industry: More companies are setting up manufacturing units in India, including MSMEs and startups.
      1. The drone sector has experienced rapid growth, with turnover increasing seven-fold under the PLI scheme for Drones Drone Components. Driven by MSMEs and startups, this success has attracted significant investments and job creation, positioning India as a global leader in drone manufacturing.
      2. India has achieved 60% import substitution in telecom products under the PLI scheme for Telecom & Networking Products. Global tech companies have set up manufacturing units, turning India into a major exporter of 4G and 5G telecom equipment.
    2. Boosting Exports and Reducing Imports: India is progressing towards its goal being an advanced industrial, manufacturing-led economy and becoming self-reliant.
      1. India’s electronics manufacturing sector has flourished under the PLI scheme, transforming from a net importer to a net exporter of mobile phones.
      2. India’s position in the global pharmaceuticals market has expanded and it is the third-largest player by volume. Exports now account for 50% of production, and the country has reduced reliance on imports by manufacturing key bulk drugs like Penicillin G.

    The purpose of the PLI Schemes is to attract investments in key sectors and cutting-edge technology; ensure efficiency and bring economies of size and scale in the manufacturing sector and make Indian companies and manufacturers globally competitive. These schemes have the potential of significantly boosting production, increasing manufacturing activities and contributing to economic growth over the next five years or so.

    PLI Scheme is to give a kick start and to lay the foundation for creating a manufacturing ecosystem. All the approved sectors identified under PLI Schemes follow the broad criteria of focusing on key technologies where India can leapfrog and multiply employment, exports and overall economic benefits for the economy. These sectors were approved after vetting by NITI Aayog and after detailed deliberations with concerned Ministries/ Departments.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Goa Shipyard launches second P1135.6 frigate, a monumental leap in India’s indigenous warship building

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 1:51PM by PIB Mumbai

    Panaji, Goa – March 22, 2025

    Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), one of India’s premier defence shipyards, achieved yet another historic milestone with the successful launch of ‘Tavasya’, the second frigate of Project 1135.6 (Yard 1259) today, March 22, 2025. The launch marks a significant advancement in India’s self-reliance in warship construction, reinforcing the country’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

    The ship was ceremonially launched by Smt Neeta Seth, in the esteemed presence of Shri. Sanjay Seth, Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri commended the GSL’s extraordinary achievement in launching two complex, weapon-intensive frigates within just eight months, despite geopolitical challenges affecting global supply chains. Highlighting the Navy’s growing self-reliance, he remarked:

    “This launch is a defining moment in India’s Naval history, showcasing our technological capabilities and unwavering commitment to self-reliance. The successful localization of critical components such as the BrahMos missile system, torpedo launchers, sonar, and auxiliary control systems demonstrates the growing resilience of India’s shipbuilding ecosystem. The launch of Tavasya is not just a step forward for the Indian Navy but a giant leap for India’s strategic defence ambitions,” the minister said.

    With a displacement exceeding 3800 tons, ‘Tavasya’ is engineered to execute a diverse range of offensive and defensive operations, ensuring strategic dominance in the Indian Ocean Region. Equipped with advanced stealth features, high-endurance capabilities, and next-generation combat systems, the ship represents a significant boost to the operational might of the Indian Navy, the minister said. He reaffirmed India’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in warship exports, citing GSL’s pioneering role in defence exports and the Ministry of Defence’s vision to achieve ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director, GSL, highlighted the shipyard’s remarkable evolution into a strategic defence asset for the nation. “The launch of ‘Tavasya’ is the culmination of our relentless pursuit of excellence in indigenous warship building. From being a mid-sized shipbuilder, GSL has evolved into a leading defence yard, now delivering some of the most complex naval platforms. This project reaffirms our capability to execute high-end warship programs with precision, efficiency, and unmatched commitment to national security,” he said.

    The event was attended by Shri. Sadanand Tanawade,  MP-Rajya Sabha, Cap. Viriato Fernandes, MP-Lok Sabha,  senior dignitaries, including Vice Admiral SJ Singh, PVSM, AVSM, NM, FOC-in-C (WNC); Vice Admiral Rajaram Swaminathan, AVSM, NM, CWP&A; Shri Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Chairman and Managing Director, GSL, as well as officials from the Ministry of Defence, Senior Indian Navy officers, and GSL personnel.

    It is a maiden attempt by an Indian Shipyard to construct these complex platforms, which were previously imported in a fully built condition. With an indigenous content exceeding 56%, far surpassing the 25% in similar ships constructed abroad, the frigate is a shining example of India’s engineering prowess, bolstering national security and strengthening India’s position in the global defence ecosystem. The formidable multi-role stealth frigate is designed to operate across the full spectrum of Naval Warfare – Air, Surface, and Sub-Surface – ensuring unmatched operational capability.

    GSL’s impressive execution record has positioned it at the forefront of India’s defence shipbuilding industry. The shipyard has successfully launched seven ships within a year, a feat that underscores its capabilities in delivering multi-domain, next-generation vessels.

    ***

    NM/RB/PK

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PLI scheme incentives domestic manufacturing, increases production, creates new jobs and boosts exports

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PLI scheme incentives domestic manufacturing, increases production, creates new jobs and boosts exports

    PLI scheme clocks ₹1.61 lakh crores in investment,₹14 lakh crore in production, ₹5.31 lakh crore in exports and generates 11.5 lakh jobs

    764 applications approved across 14 sectors with 176 MSME beneficiaries

    Posted On: 22 MAR 2025 4:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Keeping in view India’s vision of becoming ‘Atmanirbhar’, Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes for 14 key sectors are under implementation to enhance India’s Manufacturing capabilities and Exports. The impact of PLI Schemes has been significant across various sectors in India. These schemes have incentivized domestic manufacturing, leading to increased production, job creation, and a boost in exports. They have also attracted significant investments from both domestic and foreign players.

    As on date, 764 applications have been approved under PLI Schemes for 14 key sectors. 176 MSMEs are among the PLI beneficiaries in sectors such as Bulk Drugs, Medical Devices, Pharma, Telecom, White Goods, Food Processing, Textiles & Drones.

    Actual investment of around ₹ 1.61 lakh crore (US$ 18.72 billion) has been reported till November 2024 which has generated Production/ Sales of around ₹ 14 lakh crore (around US$ 162.84 billion) against targets of 15.52 lakh crore up to FY 2024-25 and Employment of over 11.5 lakhs (Direct & Indirect).

    PLI Schemes have transformed India’s exports basket from traditional commodities to high value-added products such as electronics & telecommunication goods, processed food products etc. PLI Schemes have witnessed exports surpassing ₹ 5.31 lakh crore (around US$ 61.76 billion), with significant contributions from sectors such as Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Food Processing, and Telecom & Networking products.

    Incentive amount of around Rs. 14020 crore disbursed under PLI Schemes for 10 Sectors viz. Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing (LSEM), IT Hardware, Bulk Drugs, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, Telecom & Networking Products, Food Processing, White Goods, Automobiles & Auto components and Drones & Drone Components.

    Individual cases have been approved over a period of time, through a transparent mechanism. Projects are implemented over a period of time ranging from 2 years to 3 years, depending on the nature of manufacturing and claims are usually made after 1st year of production. Hence, most of the projects are at implementation stage and will be filing incentive claims in due course.

    In the PLI scheme for specialty steel, about ₹20,000 crore of investments have been made by companies out of ₹27,106 crore committed and these projects have given a direct employment of 9000. Incentive of ₹48 crore has been released to the industry so far. The Ministry of Steel estimates that an incentive of ₹2,000 crore will be disbursed by the end of the scheme tenure. 14 of 58 projects withdrew from the scheme either because of change in business plans of the company and project execution delays.

    It may be worth noting that as many as 35 companies have shown interest in the second round of the PLI scheme for specialty steel. A further commitment of ₹25,200 crore investment has been committed by these companies. The Ministry of Steel is in the process of selection and signing MoUs with these companies. An incentive of ₹3,600 crore is estimated to be disbursed to these projects.

    Under the PLI Scheme for the Food Processing Industry, the deadline for filing claims is November 30 for Millets and December 31 for other categories. Most approved beneficiaries submit their claims in the second half of December, after which they are processed, and disbursements occur between January and March. Therefore, assessing incentive disbursements between April and October does not provide an accurate representation. For the FY 2022-23 claim year, an incentive of ₹474 crore has been disbursed. For FY 2023-24, the disbursement target is ₹700 crore, which is on track to be achieved.

    The PLI Scheme for the Food Processing Industry (PLISFI) currently has 171 active beneficiaries across all categories. Given this large number, the withdrawal of six beneficiaries is not significant. Moreover, these applicants withdrew primarily due to their inability to meet their committed investment or expenditure on Branding & Marketing abroad.

    The PLI Scheme has created immense impact across sectors and areas of the economy:

    1. Strengthening India’s position in Global Value Chains: India is now a part of key global value chains instead of being an importer of advanced/intermediate products and components.
      1. Under the PLI Scheme for Promoting Domestic Manufacturing of Medical Devices, 19 green-field projects have been commissioned and production of 44 products including high end medical devices such as Linear Accelerator, MRI machines, CT-Scans, Mammograms, C- Arms, Ultrasound machines etc., which were previously imported into the country has started.
      2. 84 companies under the PLI Scheme for White Goods (ACs and LED Lights) are set to bring investments of ₹ 10,478 crore, strengthening domestic capacity in AC and LED segment. For ACs, the selected companies will be manufacturing components like, compressors, copper tubes among others.
      3. Similarly, for LED Lights, LED Chip packaging, LED Drivers, LED Engines, LED Light Management Systems and Metallized films for capacitors etc. will be manufactured in India instead of being imported.
    1. Promoting Domestic Industry: More companies are setting up manufacturing units in India, including MSMEs and startups.
      1. The drone sector has experienced rapid growth, with turnover increasing seven-fold under the PLI scheme for Drones Drone Components. Driven by MSMEs and startups, this success has attracted significant investments and job creation, positioning India as a global leader in drone manufacturing.
      2. India has achieved 60% import substitution in telecom products under the PLI scheme for Telecom & Networking Products. Global tech companies have set up manufacturing units, turning India into a major exporter of 4G and 5G telecom equipment.
    2. Boosting Exports and Reducing Imports: India is progressing towards its goal being an advanced industrial, manufacturing-led economy and becoming self-reliant.
      1. India’s electronics manufacturing sector has flourished under the PLI scheme, transforming from a net importer to a net exporter of mobile phones.
      2. India’s position in the global pharmaceuticals market has expanded and it is the third-largest player by volume. Exports now account for 50% of production, and the country has reduced reliance on imports by manufacturing key bulk drugs like Penicillin G.

    The purpose of the PLI Schemes is to attract investments in key sectors and cutting-edge technology; ensure efficiency and bring economies of size and scale in the manufacturing sector and make Indian companies and manufacturers globally competitive. These schemes have the potential of significantly boosting production, increasing manufacturing activities and contributing to economic growth over the next five years or so.

    PLI Scheme is to give a kick start and to lay the foundation for creating a manufacturing ecosystem. All the approved sectors identified under PLI Schemes follow the broad criteria of focusing on key technologies where India can leapfrog and multiply employment, exports and overall economic benefits for the economy. These sectors were approved after vetting by NITI Aayog and after detailed deliberations with concerned Ministries/ Departments.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan

    (Release ID: 2114011) Visitor Counter : 107

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: YDC Youth Ambassadors Programme 2025 officially launched (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    YDC Youth Ambassadors Programme 2025 officially launched  
    Addressing the ceremony, Miss Mak said, “The hopes of our country and the future of our nation lie in the hands of our young generation.” The Government has long attached great importance to youth development and is committed to creating more opportunities for young people and helping them shine and achieve their aspirations. She encouraged the Youth Ambassadors Cadets to learn more about the youth development work by the HYAB and the YDC, including the various youth-related measures stated in the Youth Development Blueprint that help address the needs of young people at different development stages.
     
    Miss Mak said she hopes that the YDC Youth Ambassadors Programme could identify and nurture more young talents with a sense of responsibility and with aspirations. She encouraged the YA Cadets to seize the precious opportunities of participating in the training activities and service projects of Community Care Teams under the Programme, through which they could broaden their perspectives, nurture their passion to serve society, further integrate into the overall development of the country, contribute to Hong Kong and the country, and tell good stories of Hong Kong.
     
    Other officiating guests included the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung; the Vice-Chairman of the YDC, Mr Kenneth Leung; and the Commissioner for Youth, Mr Eric Chan. Members of the YDC also attended the ceremony.
     
    The YDC Youth Ambassadors Programme offers unique training and exposure opportunities to young people and enhance their understanding of public affairs. For more information on the YDC Youth Ambassadors Programme 2025, please visit the YDC’s webpage (www.ydc.gov.hk/yaIssued at HKT 17:38

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mobile exhibition vehicle celebrates 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong in community (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Mobile exhibition vehicle celebrates 60th Anniversary of Dongjiang Water Supply to Hong Kong in community  
    The rich content of the mobile exhibition vehicle covers precious historical photos showing the situation of droughts in 1960s and the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Scheme, as well as the work of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Guangdong to safeguard the quality and security of Dongjiang water supplied to Hong Kong. Moreover, virtual reality and quiz games are set up to help deepen the public’s understanding of the history, development and current situation of the Dongjiang water supply in an interactive way. Souvenirs on the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong will be delivered as well.
     
    The mobile exhibition vehicle will tour about 20 locations across the territory starting from today until April 13 (details in Annex). The vehicle was parked outside Kwai Chung Plaza, Kwai Fong, and Chung On Street, Tsuen Wan (outside KOLOUR • Tsuen Wan), today.
     
    Moreover, the WSD launched school roadshows this school year on “Dongjiang Water 60-Year Anniversary: Dongjiang Water and Water Conservation” under the “Cherish Water Campus” Integrated Education Programme, aiming to deepen teachers and students’ understanding of the history and the current situation of Dongjiang water supply as well as the nation’s immense support and care rendered to Hong Kong. The roadshows also help students to understand the importance of water conservation and nurture students to establish good water-saving habits. The roadshows were well-received with over 100 applications enrolled, expecting that more than 20 000 teachers and students will be benefited.
    Issued at HKT 17:27

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor gains big lead in a Morgan poll, but drops back in YouGov

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

    A national Morgan poll, conducted March 10–16 from a sample of 2,097, gave Labor a 54.5–45.5 lead by headline respondent preferences, a three-point gain for Labor since the March 3–9 Morgan poll. This is Labor’s largest lead in a Morgan poll since August 2023.

    Primary votes were 34% Coalition (down three), 32.5% Labor (up 2.5), 13.5% Greens (steady), 5% One Nation (steady), 10.5% independents (steady) and 4.5% others (up 0.5). By 2022 election flows, Labor led by 54.5–45.5, a 2.5-point gain for Labor.

    By 50.5–35, respondents thought the country was going in the wrong direction (51.5–33 previously). However, Morgan’s consumer confidence index slid 3.1 points to 83.8, its lowest this year.

    Voters were blaming Donald Trump for the stock market falls, and this was hurting the Coalition. The stock market had a better week last week, but Trump is likely to impose more tariffs on April 2.

    Morgan is a volatile poll that reacts more to news events than other polls. This poll was taken in the week Trump imposed his steel and aluminium tariffs on Australia. It’s likely that this poll is a pro-Labor outlier, with other polls not giving Labor big leads. Here is the poll graph.

    The ABC’s Patricia Karvelas wrote on March 17 that a Talbot Mills poll, conducted March 6–12 from a sample of 1,051, asked about Trump’s ratings with Australians for his performance as US president.

    Trump was down six points since February to net -14 approval (51% disapprove, 37% approve). There was a six-point increase in strongly disapprove to 40%, with strongly approve down one to 15%. By 65–22, respondents disapproved of the US imposing tariffs on Australia.

    Coalition gains in YouGov poll for a 50–50 tie

    A national YouGov poll, conducted March 14–19 from a sample of 1,500, had a 50–50 tie, a one-point gain for the Coalition since the March 7–13 YouGov poll.

    Primary votes were 37% Coalition (up one), 31% Labor (steady), 13% Greens (down 0.5), 7% One Nation (down 0.5), 1% Trumpet of Patriots (steady), 8% independents (down one) and 3% others (up one). YouGov is using weaker preference flows for Labor than occurred in 2022, and this poll would give Labor about a 51.5–48.5 lead by 2022 flows.

    Albanese’s net approval was down three points to -9, with 50% dissatisfied and 41% satisfied. Dutton’s net approval was up one point to -5. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 45–40 (45–39 previously).

    Essential poll tied at 47–47 but Albanese’s ratings jump

    A national Essential poll, conducted March 12–16 from a larger than normal sample of 2,256, had a 47–47 tie including undecided by respondent preferences (48–47 to the Coalition in early March).

    Primary votes were 35% Coalition (steady), 29% Labor (steady), 12% Greens (down one), 8% One Nation (steady), 1% Trumpet of Patriots (steady compared with UAP), 9% for all Others (down one) and 6% undecided (up one). By 2022 preference flows, this poll would give Labor about a 50.5–49.5 lead, a 0.5-point gain for the Coalition.

    Albanese’s net approval jumped nine points to +1, with 46% approving and 45% disapproving. This is Albanese’s first positive net approval in Essential since October 2023. Dutton’s net approval dropped two points to -5, his worst since January 2024.

    By 48–35, respondents thought Australia was on the wrong track (49–34 previously).

    On climate change, 54% (down five since October 2021) said “climate change is happening and is caused by human activity”, while 35% (up five) thought “we are just witnessing a normal fluctuation in the earth’s climate”. This is the lowest lead for human activity in Essential’s graph which goes back to 2016.

    On addressing climate change, 35% (up two since November) thought Australia is not doing enough, 34% (down three) doing enough and 19% (steady) doing too much.

    By 39–30, voters opposed the Coalition’s policy of removing working from home provisions for public service workers. By 39–33, voters opposed Australia sending troops to Ukraine.

    By 53–33, voters thought Trump’s presidency would have a negative impact on the US economy, by 62–24 negative for the global economy and by 61–20 negative for the Australian economy.

    Labor gains lead in a Redbridge poll

    A national Redbridge poll, conducted March 3–11 from a sample of 2,007, gave Labor a 51–49 lead, a 2.5-point gain for Labor since the previous Redbridge poll in early February. Primary votes were 37% Coalition (down three), 32% Labor (up one), 12% Greens (up one) and 19% for all Others (up one).

    By 51–29, respondents thought things were headed in the wrong direction (49–32 in November 2024).

    There has been more criticism of AUKUS from the left since Trump’s election, but by 51–19 respondents said AUKUS makes Australia safer (49–19 in July 2024). There was pro-AUKUS movement on other questions.

    Polls in Greens target seats

    The Poll Bludger reported last Tuesday on polls of seats either held by the Greens or plausible targets for them. These polls were taken by Insightfully for the right-wing Advance, and first reported by the News Corp tabloids. Sample sizes were 600 per seat with no fieldwork dates provided. Seat polls are unreliable.

    The Greens hold three Queensland federal seats (Griffith, Ryan and Brisbane), and one Victorian seat (Melbourne). On the primary votes provided, the Greens would retain Griffith, Ryan would be line-ball between the Greens and Liberal National Party. Brisbane would be gained by Labor.

    In Victoria, the Greens would hold Melbourne and gain Macnamara from Labor, while Labor would retain Wills against a Greens challenge.

    Unemployment steady despite jobs fall

    The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported last Thursday that the unemployment rate was 4.1% in February, unchanged from January. This was despite a 52,800 decrease in jobs that didn’t affect unemployment owing to a lower participation rate.

    The employment population ratio (the percentage of eligible Australians that are employed) was down 0.3% since a record high in January to 64.1%.

    WA election final lower house seats

    At the March 8 Western Australian election, Labor won 46 of the 59 lower house seats (down seven from the record landslide in 2021), the Liberals seven (up five) and the Nationals six (up two). Comparing this election with 2017, which was a big win for Labor, Labor is up five seats, the Liberals down six and the Nationals up one.

    In 2017, Labor won 69.5% of lower house seats, in 2021 90% and in 2025 78%. If the WA lower house had as many seats as the federal House of Representatives (150), Labor would have won over 100 seats in all three elections.

    In the upper house, 75.7% of enrolled voters has been counted, compared with 82.7% in the lower house. On current figures, Labor is likely to win 16 of the 37 seats, the Liberals ten, the Greens four, the Nationals two, and One Nation, Legalise Cannabis and Australian Christians one each.

    Two seats are unclear, with an independent group (0.47 quotas) and Animal Justice (0.45) just ahead of One Nation’s second candidate (0.40). As the count has progressed, the Liberals have dropped and the Greens have risen. ABC election analyst Antony Green said the inclusion of below the line votes could put Labor’s 16th seat in doubt, with the Greens possibly winning five seats.

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

    – ref. Labor gains big lead in a Morgan poll, but drops back in YouGov – https://theconversation.com/labor-gains-big-lead-in-a-morgan-poll-but-drops-back-in-yougov-252380

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cost of living support coming for 1.5 million New Zealanders

    Source: New Zealand Government

    More than 900 thousand superannuitants and almost five thousand veterans are among the New Zealanders set to receive a significant financial boost from next week, an uplift Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says will help support them through cost-of-living challenges.

    “I am pleased to confirm that from 1 April, most MSD payment rates will increase through the Annual General Adjustment (AGA),” Louise Upston says.

    “Overall this year’s AGA means around 1.5 million New Zealanders will get an increase to reflect the cost-of-living, ranging from just over 2 per cent to around 3 per cent.

    “MSD has already begun communicating about specific increases, and from next Tuesday, that means pensioners, parents, students, and people on main benefits will all get a little extra, helping hundreds of thousands of Kiwis:

    ·       933,200 superannuitants and 4,900 veterans will get a boost to New Zealand Superannuation and Veteran’s Pension

    ·       409,300 main beneficiaries will get a higher payment

    ·       47,400 students will see an increase in their allowance

    ·       70,000 non-beneficiaries getting supplementary assistance are expected to be better off.

    “Since 2024, benefit rates have kept pace with the Consumers Price Index (a measure for the cost of living). For the year ending December 2024, the Consumers Price Index was 2.22 per cent.

    “Pensioners will notice an extra boost to their New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension this year, with their total increase around 3 per cent. This is because of the relationship to the net average wage, which forms part of the rate calculation.

    “We know the cost-of-living crisis the previous government left us with has been particularly difficult for beneficiaries, and the coming uplift will help many with household budgeting.

    “This is in addition to other initiatives to support Kiwis over the past 16 months. As at March 19, we have also supported just over 51,000 households with the cost of early childhood education, through FamilyBoost. This has put $31.8m into the pockets of low and middle income families,” Louise Upston says.

    “Indexing main benefits to inflation has been used responsibly in 32 of the past 36 years, by governments across the political divide.

    “It is something our Government supports as a sensible way to maintain the income support system,” Louise Upston says.

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –