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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: Famous Travel Writers from Britain to visit Prayagraj on February 25-26

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 7:14PM by PIB Delhi

    The grandeur and divinity of the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela 2025 are not only attracting pilgrims from across the country but also drawing the attention of foreign tourists and travel writers. In this context, a group of famous travel writers from Britain will visit the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, on 25th – 26th February. During this trip, the group will explore not only the Kumbh Mela but also other religious, historical, and cultural sites.

    UP Tourism Minister Shri Jayveer Singh mentioned that Uttar Pradesh has immense tourism potential, but it needs to be promoted among foreign tourists. To achieve this, international-level travel writers and journalists are being invited to present the state’s tourism sites on a global stage. The visit of the British travel writers is part of this effort, aimed at firmly establishing Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and religious heritage on the global tourism map.

    Special plans have been prepared by the Tourism and Culture Department for foreign tourists during the Mahakumbh, so they can experience this unique event. The government is providing accommodation facilities, guide services, digital information centers, and organizing various cultural programmes to give foreign tourists the opportunity to connect with Indian culture and traditions.

    The group of British travel writers will not only visit the Kumbh Mela but will also tour Prayagraj and other important sites. During this visit, they will explore sites such as the Prayagraj Fort, Anand Bhawan, Akshayavat, Alfred Park, and the Sangam area. Additionally, they will closely visit Uttar Pradesh’s other major tourist destinations, including Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Lucknow, to witness the state’s historical and cultural heritage.

    The visit of the British travel writers will be a significant milestone to promote tourism in the State. This visit will not only help showcase the grandeur of the Kumbh Mela to the world but also play an essential role in establishing Uttar Pradesh as a major global tourism destination. The government aims to ensure that Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage, spiritual sites, and natural beauty are recognized internationally and the state is included among the top tourism destinations in the world.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LOK SABHA SPEAKER URGES LEGISLATORS TO SPEND MORE TIME IN HOUSE DURING SESSIONS AND LISTEN TO ALL THE VIEW POINTS, BROADENING THEIR HORIZON & UNDERSTANDING ABOUT PEOPLE’S ISSUES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER URGES LEGISLATORS TO SPEND MORE TIME IN HOUSE DURING SESSIONS AND LISTEN TO ALL THE VIEW POINTS, BROADENING THEIR HORIZON & UNDERSTANDING ABOUT PEOPLE’S ISSUES

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER DECLINING PARTICIPATION OF MEMBERS IN LEGISLATIVE PROCEEDINGS AND POLITICAL LOGJAM

    PLANNED DISRUPTIONS IN LEGISLATURES ARE AGAINST DEMOCRATIC SPIRIT OF CONSTITUTION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LEGISLATORS SHOULD COME TO HOUSE FOR DEBATES WELL-PREPARED AND WITH FACTS AND EFFECTIVELY USE LEGISLATIVE TOOLS LIKE QUESTION HOUR TO RAISE PEOPLE’S ISSUES: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER APPRECIATES PRODUCTIVITY OF MAHARASHTRA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF LEGISLATIVE DRAFTING AND EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER ADDRESSES NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS OF MAHARASHTRA LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL DURING ORIENTATION PROGRAMME

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 6:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today urged the legislators to actively engage with the House proceedings during sessions and listen to all the emanating view points, which would help them develop a broader perspective on understanding and addressing public issues.

    Addressing the inaugural session of an Orientation Programme for newly elected Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Maharashtra Legislative Council at the Parliament House Complex, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla expressed concern over the declining participation of Members in legislative proceedings and resulting political logjam. He also expressed concern over the decline in the number of sittings of legislative bodies and low productivity in legislatures.

    Stressing that planned disruptions in legislatures are against the democratic spirit of the Constitution, Shri Birla urged the legislators to raise public issues using effective legislative tools like Question Hour, without causing disruptions to the proceedings of the House. He also advised legislators to come prepared with facts for debates in the House. Shri Birla said that the more prepared legislators are, the more effective their participation will be, and the more productive the proceedings of the House will be. He said that the best legislator is the one who participates fully in House proceedings and engages in well-researched, logical discussions after understanding parliamentary procedures.

    On the completion of 75 years of the Constitution and the Republic, Shri Birla noted that it was a matter of pride that India is the world’s largest democracy, and that the Indian Constitution provides equal rights and freedom of expression to all.

    Appreciating the productivity of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Shri Birla observed that while it is a matter of concern that the number of sittings of legislative bodies is decreasing in general, the productivity of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly is commendable compared to other state assemblies. Referring to the glorious history of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Shri Birla mentioned that from its establishment in 1937, it has laid the foundation for socio-economic changes. He told the elected representatives that being part of such a democratic system is a matter of pride. Shri Birla further remarked that Maharashtra has made significant contributions to the freedom movement, social reform, and spirituality, making the state an inspiration for the nation.

    Emphasizing the importance of efficient legislative drafting and the effectiveness of parliamentary committees, Shri Birla opined that it is a crucial responsibility for any legislator to ensure proper legislative drafting during the law-making process, as even a small error in legislative drafting can have long-term effects for our people. He said that there should be extensive discussions in the House during legislation, so that the issues of public welfare become part of the law in a positive way.

    Referring to parliamentary committees as “mini-parliaments,” Shri Birla urged all elected representatives to participate actively in Committee proceedings. He emphasized that legislators must ensure, that government spending is directed toward socio-economic change, especially in the Public Accounts and Estimates Committees, so that elected representatives can deliver positive outcomes towards public welfare.

    Referring to the importance of the Orientation Programme organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE), Shri Birla noted that the legislators attending the programme would gain in-depth knowledge of parliamentary procedures, traditions, and the functioning of legislative bodies in various states, which will help them discharge their parliamentary duties effectively. He added that continuous education and training are essential for understanding and effectively carrying out parliamentary work.

    Shri Birla exhorted the elected representatives, not to limit their work to constituency issues alone, but to also address state-level problems and challenges, bringing about socio-economic transformation with a positive outlook.

    On the occasion, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Adv. Rahul Narwekar addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla. Shri Narwekar said that all legislators must follow the provisions of the Constitution and present their actions as a role model to society, so that people’s trust in parliamentary democracy is strengthened. He also highlighted the negative impact of planned disruptions in parliamentary work and stressed on the need to adopt better practices. Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Shri Ram Shinde also addressed the attending legislators on this occasion.

    Lok Sabha Secretary General Shri Utpal Kumar Singh delivered the welcome address. On this occasion, Shri Birla led the legislators in taking the pledge to uphold the preamble to the Constitution of India.

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    AM

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India and EFTA Strengthen Economic Ties with the Inauguration of the India-EFTA Desk

    Source: Government of India

    India and EFTA Strengthen Economic Ties with the Inauguration of the India-EFTA Desk

    India-EFTA Desk will function as a single-window mechanism to provide support to EFTA businesses looking to invest, expand, or establish operations in India

    Business Roundtable Witnessed Participation from Over 100 Companies from India and EFTA Nations

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) – comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein – have taken a significant step towards deeper economic collaboration with the inauguration of the India-EFTA Desk. This initiative follows the recently concluded India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which positions EFTA as the first European bloc to formalize a trade pact with India. Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal hailed TEPA as a landmark agreement, emphasizing India’s growing role in global trade. “This desk will serve as the bridge between businesses on both sides, ensuring transparency, trust, and ease of doing business,” he stated. He underscored India’s ambition to surpass $100 billion in EFTA investments, highlighting the country’s commitment to fostering equitable and mutually beneficial trade relationships.

    The India-EFTA Desk will provide structured support to EFTA businesses looking to invest, expand, or establish operations in India. High-ranking dignitaries from all four EFTA nations attended the launch, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening economic ties.

    Switzerland’s State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Ms. Helene Budliger Artieda, described TEPA as a “new chapter for investment promotion and cooperation,” citing over CHF 10 billion in Swiss FDI that has created 146,000+ jobs in India, particularly in manufacturing. She projected a surge in investments across precision industries, chemicals, food processing, and pharmaceuticals, suggesting that an Invest India office in Switzerland could further drive investment flows.

    Norway’s State Secretary of Trade and Industry, Mr. Tomas Norvoll, likened TEPA to an airport, with the EFTA Desk serving as the landing strip for businesses. He noted that Norwegian companies in India have doubled in the last decade, with sovereign wealth fund assets reaching $31.4 billion.

    Iceland’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Martin Eyjolfsson, called TEPA “the most significant trade agreement EFTA has signed in decades,” reinforcing India’s role as a key economic partner for Europe. He highlighted growing cooperation in renewable energy, seafood, and pharmaceuticals, positioning TEPA as a stabilizing force amid global economic uncertainty.

    Liechtenstein’s Minister of External Affairs, Education, and Sport, Ms. Dominique Hasler, emphasized the Desk’s role in facilitating high-value manufacturing and innovation-driven industries. She pointed to Hilti’s success in India and expressed optimism that TEPA would encourage more Liechtenstein-based firms to expand.

    The India-EFTA Desk will drive investment in renewable energy, life sciences, engineering, and digital transformation. Secretary, DPIIT, Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, noted that TEPA will spur joint ventures, SME collaborations, and technology partnerships, with the Desk streamlining regulatory navigation for EFTA businesses.

    Union Minister of State, Shri Jitin Prasada, highlighted EFTA’s strategic importance to India’s development goals, citing Norway’s expertise in green shipping, Switzerland’s advancements in rail networks, Iceland’s leadership in geothermal energy, and Liechtenstein’s high-value manufacturing. He also pointed to research collaborations between IITs and the Arctic University of Norway, demonstrating TEPA’s broader scope beyond trade.

    Following the Desk’s inauguration, a high-level Business Roundtable chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal convened to explore opportunities and address trade challenges. Discussions identified key sectors, including seafood & maritime, energy, financial services, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and food processing.

    Looking ahead, the India-EFTA Desk will serve as the primary channel for fostering continuous business-government dialogue. The Indian government has pledged to work closely with EFTA partners to unlock TEPA’s full potential. Concluding the discussions, Shri Piyush Goyal called TEPA a “model agreement” and reaffirmed India’s readiness to build a robust future with EFTA, stating: “India is ready when you are. Let’s build this future together.”

    With the official inauguration of the EFTA Desk, India and EFTA have entered a new era of economic cooperation, ensuring that businesses from both regions thrive in an era of sustainable and innovation-driven growth.

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    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam,” was officially dedicated to the nation:

    1st of its kind indigenously developed Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Rig has been developed by CSIR NIIST Thiruvananthapuram:

    “India’s New Eco-Friendly Technology Biomedical Waste Solution Set to Transform Healthcare Waste Disposal” says Science and Technology Minister Dr. Singh

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Showcases Govt’s First 100 Days Vision with Record-Breaking Investments in Science and Technology

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 6:12PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched India’s first indigenous Automated Bio Medical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi.

    The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam,” was officially dedicated to the nation by the Minister at a ceremony held in the AIIMS auditorium. Following the ceremony, he, accompanied by Director General of CSIR Dr. N. Kalaiselvi and Director of AIIMS Dr. M. Srinivas, walked to the site within the AIIMS premises where the machinery had been installed and formally switched it on.

    This innovative, environmentally friendly technology, developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), offers a significant advancement in the sustainable management of biomedical waste.

    Speaking on the Commissioning, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh called for a paradigm shift from ‘Waste to Wealth’ and emphasized the importance of sustainability and environmental concerns. He noted that India’s economy has transitioned from being part of the fragile five to a member of the First Five and is poised for continued growth. He highlighted the significance of the new biomedical waste treatment rig, which is set to revolutionize waste management in healthcare facilities.

    The “Sṛjanam” rig can disinfect pathogenic biomedical waste such as blood, urine, sputum, and laboratory disposables, without the use of costly and energy-intensive incinerators. Additionally, the rig imparts a pleasant fragrance to the otherwise foul-smelling toxic waste. With a daily capacity of 400 kg, the equipment is capable of handling 10 kg of degradable medical waste per day in the initial phase. Once validated, this technology will be ready for full-scale implementation after receiving approval from relevant authorities.

    With the growing demand for better waste disposal solutions, the “Sṛjanam” rig offers a safer and more efficient approach, eliminating the risks associated with human exposure to harmful waste and minimizing the chances of spills and accidents. The technology has been third-party validated for its antimicrobial action, and studies have shown that the treated material is safer than organic fertilizers like vermicompost.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded CSIR-NIIST for its innovative and cost-effective solution to dispose of pathogenic biomedical waste in an eco-friendly manner. He referenced the 2023 annual report of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which indicated that India generates 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily, presenting a significant challenge in its safe and proper disposal. The new technology addresses this issue and presents an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional incineration methods.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh further explained that improper segregation, open dumping, open burning, and inadequate incineration of biomedical waste lead to severe health hazards, including the release of carcinogens and particulate matter. He emphasized the need for effective waste management to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose leadership continues to drive India’s progress in science, technology, and green initiatives. He praised Shri. Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), for his prompt actions in securing the necessary clearances for this project.

    In his address, Dr. Singh mentioned other technological milestones achieved by India, including the first indigenous DNA vaccine, the development of India’s first HPV vaccine to combat cervical cancer, and rapid advancements in space technology. He also highlighted India’s breakthrough in pharmaceuticals with the creation of the indigenous antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin’ and India’s first gene therapy trial for hemophilia, supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

    Vice-President of CSIR, Dr. Jitendra Singh, recalled the ‘One Week One Lab’ initiative, which aims to raise awareness about CSIR’s groundbreaking projects, such as the first hydrogen buses developed by NCL Pune, off-season tulips developed by CSIR Palampur, the 108-petal lotus, and more.

    The Science and Technology Minister also emphasized the priorities of the government during its first 100 days, which include the approval of India’s first Bio E3 policy, the sanctioning of 1000 crores for Viability Gap funding for space startups, 2000 crores for Mission Mausam, and 50,000 crores for the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF). Furthermore, he highlighted the recent Union Budget, which proposes 20,000 crores for Bharat Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

    Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by urging for increased academic collaboration between institutions and proposed making postgraduate students co-guides in exchange programs, fostering synergy and shared learning. He emphasized the government’s unwavering support for science, technology, and innovation under the leadership of PM Modi. He said “This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, and with continued progress in innovation and sustainable technologies, India is set to become a global leader in environmental and healthcare solutions”.

    The ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Dr. V. K. Paul, Member, Niti Aayog, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, DHR and DG, ICMR, Tanmay Kumar IAS, Secretary MoEFCC, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary DSIR and DG, CSIR, and Dr. M. Srinivas, Director, AIIMS.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Celebrating a Decade of Progress

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:42PM by PIB Delhi

    International Day of Women and Girls in Science

     

    Women have played a pivotal role in shaping the world of science, making groundbreaking discoveries and driving innovation across various fields. With increasing efforts to promote gender equality in education and research, women are now leading scientific advancements, challenging stereotypes, and redefining the landscape of global science. In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The day serves as a global reminder of the importance of gender equality in STEM fields, and this year we celebrate its 10th anniversary.

    India has taken significant steps to promote gender parity in STEM. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has recently implemented the WISE-KIRAN (Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN) scheme, a comprehensive program designed to support women at various stages of their scientific careers. Under this scheme, government has launched initiatives like:

    • WISE-PhD: The programme aims to provide support to women who want to pursue a Ph.D. in 5 subject areas of basic and applied sciences.
    • WISE Post-Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF): The programme aims to provide opportunity to women to continue research after Ph.D. in Basic and Applied Sciences through independent project grant.
    • Women’s Instinct for Developing and Ushering in Scientific Heights & Innovations (WIDUSHI): WIDUSHI programme provides support to women scientists who are at the verge of retirement or retired from Government service and also to the women scientists who are not at permanent position but are active researchers and continuously excelling in research field.
    • WISE-SCOPE: The programme encourages women scientists and technologists to address societal challenges through S&T interventions.
    • WISE Internship in Intellectual Property Rights (WISE-IPR) – WISE-IPR programme provides one-year training to women in the area of Intellectual Property Rights in order to develop a core professional skill in this domain.
    • Women International Grant Support (WINGS): The programme provides opportunities to Indian Women scientists to undertake research in the International research labs and academic institutions.
    • Consolidation of University Research for Innovation and Excellence (CURIE): CURIE Programme provides support to women institutions for establishing State-of-the art research infrastructure to enhance research facilities and improving R&D activities in order to create excellence in Science & Technology (S&T) domain.
    • Vigyan Jyoti: Vigyan Jyoti programme aims to encourage girls to pursue higher education and career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) especially in the areas where women participation is low in order to balance gender ratio across the streams. Vigyan Jyoti (School Component) is in implementation in 250 districts of 34 States/UTs of the country.
    • Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI): GATI aims to develop an indigenous Charter for Gender Equity in STEMM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics & Medicine), with a focus on bringing about transformational changes at Institutional level.

    These efforts collectively aim to bridge the gender gap, empower women in STEM, and create an inclusive scientific ecosystem in India.

    Throughout history, women pioneers in science have defied societal norms, challenged conventions, and made groundbreaking contributions to human knowledge. Let us remember the women who dared to dream beyond the societal norms and created a legacy that continues to inspire others!

     

     

    As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, it is evident that women have made tremendous strides in STEM, overcoming barriers and reshaping the scientific landscape. India’s dedicated efforts—through policies, programs, and institutional support have played a crucial role in increasing female participation in higher education, research, and innovation.

    References

    https://www.un.org/en/observances/women-and-girls-in-science-day

    https://www.indiascienceandtechnology.gov.in/sites/all/themes/vigyan/images/Women’s_Scientist_Brochure_Low_Res.pdf

    https://dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/wise-kiran

    https://www.unesco.org/en/days/women-girls-science

    Kindly find the pdf file 

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh exhorts global OEMs to use the opportunities offered by the Indian defence ecosystem to find solutions to today’s challenges

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh exhorts global OEMs to use the opportunities offered by the Indian defence ecosystem to find solutions to today’s challenges

    Stresses on the need to adopt & improve solutions constantly amidst the fragile global security situation

    “Govt is taking all steps to equip the Armed Forces & make the nation ‘Aatmanirbhar’ in defence”

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has invited the global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to utilise the opportunities offered by the expanding Indian defence ecosystem and find targeted solutions & counter measures to the challenges emerging due to the volatile geopolitical landscape of today. He was addressing the CEOs Roundtable organised as part of Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. Raksha Mantri stated that amidst the fragile global security situation, where rules-based order is being challenged and technologies are creating new opportunities & vulnerabilities, there is a need to adopt & improve solutions constantly.

    “Today, the nature of communication and data sharing in military operations is getting much more complex. The reliance on space-based navigation systems, communication and surveillance implies that such assets would have to be integrated in our operational plans. The use of drones in recent conflicts indicate that the future would depend on the integrated efforts of manned, unmanned and autonomous warfare systems. Hence, our defence manufacturing has to focus on creating counter measures for these emerging challenges,” said Shri Rajnath Singh.

    Citing great Indian strategist Kautilya, Raksha Mantri said: “We have the moral responsibility to protect our people and territory in a hostile atmosphere. To achieve this, we are taking all necessary steps to equip our Armed Forces and making the country self-reliant in defence manufacturing through the establishment of a strong, efficient, resilient and future-ready defence industrial ecosystem,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that the Government of India, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has put in place transparent & industry-friendly regulations, processes and policies. He emphasised that the opportunities provided by the Indian defence ecosystem are driven by the policies of self-reliance in defence production, facilitated by a conducive policy regime.

    Raksha Mantri enumerated the transformative steps taken by the Government to make the domestic defence industry an important component of the national economy in order to facilitate India’s transition from a developing to a developed country by 2047. “We have allowed FDI upto 75% through the Automatic Route for companies seeking new defence license, while upto 100% is also allowed under Government approval route. A total of 46 Joint Ventures and Companies have been given foreign investment approval in the defence sector till date,” he said.

    Shri Rajnath Singh added that more than 250 MoUs have, so far, been signed for the establishment of industrial units in the Defence Industrial Corridors set-up in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. He mentioned about the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme introduced to provide financial assistance to the Aerospace and Defence sector for setting up 6-8 greenfield Testing and Certification facilities. The Defence Exim Portal has made the export authorisation process seamless. “As a testimony to the emergence of India as a defence export nucleus, India has seen 31 times growth in the export of products in the last 10 years as compared to Financial Year 2013-14,” he said.

    Raksha Mantri described the issuance of Positive Indigenisation Lists as a clear indicator to the Government’s intent to support the industry in its self-reliance pursuit. He added that for innovation projects in the defence sector, over 500 start-ups & MSMEs are presently working under the aegis of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX). “Our overall ease of doing business environment has improved tremendously. This is showing great results as India has the 3rd largest start-up ecosystem in the world today; this is expected to witness Year on Year growth of 10-12%. We possess a young generation of highly-skilled workforce, which constantly updates itself in the face of the fast-changing ecosystem of the world. You must not miss the opportunity to leverage the advantages of this ecosystem,” he told the over 100 CEOs, both domestic and foreign, present on the occasion.

    Shri Rajnath Singh described the CEOs Roundtable as a platform where the idea of making India self-reliant in defence production would take root, germinate and blossom into full scale reality. It reflects the serious intent of the Government to team with the best organisations around the world in the spirit of cooperation. The essence of this conclave is to explore how to join hands to make India a leading defence manufacturer and service provider at the global scale, he said.

    The theme of the Roundtable was ‘Enabling Defence Cooperation through Global Engagement (EDGE)’. OEMs from 19 countries (USA, France, Russia, South Korea, UK, Japan, Israel & Brazil etc), 35 Indian (Larsen & Toubro, Bharat Forge Ltd, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd, BrahMos Aerospace & Ashok Leyland Defence) and 16 Defence DPSUs attended the event.

    Major foreign OEMs including Airbus (France), Ultra Maritime (USA), GNT (South Korea), John Cockerill Defence (UK), Mitsubishi (Japan), Rafael Advanced Defense System (Israel), Safran (France) and Liebherr Aerospace (France) highlighted their future plans, Joint Ventures, collaborations, partnerships with Indian companies for production of spares parts, development of aero-engines, setting up of Maintenance, Repair and Operations facilities and establishment of R&D facilities.

    Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat were among those who attended the CEOs Roundtable.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)
    Stakeholder consultation on proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units concludes (with photos)
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         The stakeholder consultation on the proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units (BHUs) launched by the Housing Bureau (HB) on December 2, 2024 concluded today (February 10).      Since the establishment of the Task Force on Tackling the Issue of Subdivided Units (SDUs) (the Task Force) in October 2023 until the end of the stakeholder consultation period, under the lead of the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, as the Head and the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, as the Deputy Head, the Government organised and joined nearly 40 engagement sessions, meeting nearly 700 participants and gathering views from political parties, academics, professional bodies, non-governmental organisations, estate agents, renovation services industry and contractors associations as well as concern groups on tackling the SDU issue and the BHU regulatory regime. At the same time, as at 6pm today, we received nearly 2 200 submissions of views (including around 1 600 submissions using six different templates with largely similar contents) mainly through email and post, etc.      The HB will work at full steam to consolidate the views received on the BHU regulatory regime and report to the Legislative Council (LegCo) Panel on Housing on the summary of views and seek the Panel’s views on the latest proposal on the regulatory regime as soon as possible. Subsequently, the HB will introduce the relevant Bill into the LegCo and strive for its passage within this year. Upon completion of the legislative process, registration for pre-existing SDUs under rental will commence, with applications for recognition as BHUs to be accepted concurrently. A grace period will be granted to landlords of SDUs that have been successfully registered to provide reasonable time for them to discuss tenancy agreements with their tenants and to convert their SDUs to up-to-standard BHUs.      With regard to the new market supply of BHUs as well as the supply of public rental housing, Light Public Housing (LPH), Transitional Housing (TH), etc, the Government will adopt a pragmatic approach and adhere to the people-oriented principle when taking enforcement actions against illegal renting of substandard SDUs in an orderly manner upon completion of registration period to gradually eradicate substandard SDUs. To ensure that SDU households affected by the enforcement actions will not be displaced, the Government will provide assistance on a need basis in identifying other rental accommodation in the private market for relocation, as well as flexibly deploy other housing resources (such as interim housing, LPH, TH, transit centres, etc) to provide temporary shelter for the households in need.      A spokesman for the HB said, “The Government would like to express gratitude to stakeholders for their active expression of views on the BHU regulatory regime, and is glad that different sectors of the society generally support the proposed framework of the BHU regulatory regime while giving suggestions on the implementation and execution details. Opinions from stakeholders are crucial to the policy formulation and legislative process. The Government will carefully consider and study the views collected when formulating the latest proposal of the BHU regulatory regime, and is determined to strive for completing the relevant legislative work this year as planned, with a view to gradually improving the living conditions of SDU tenants and thus tackling the ‘long-standing, big and difficult’ issue of substandard SDUs.”      The current-term Government faces up to the issue of SDUs and acknowledges its complexity and urgency, while understanding that this long-standing issue must be handled with prudence. The Government is determined to work out solutions to eradicate substandard SDUs at their roots and has been widely listening to views from different stakeholders. The Chief Executive announced in the 2024 Policy Address to put in place through legislation, a system on the renting of SDUs in residential buildings under which only up-to-standard SDUs could be recognised as BHUs (the BHU regulatory regime). After legislation, SDUs in residential buildings must comply with a set of minimum standards (including requirements in respect of floor area, headroom, structural and fire safety, ventilation, lighting, hygiene, water and electricity meters, etc.) before being recognised as BHUs and allowed to be rented out, so as to ensure the provision of reasonable and safe living conditions.

     
    Ends/Monday, February 10, 2025Issued at HKT 20:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EMPOWERMENT OF URBAN STAFF FOR BETTER CITY PLANNING MANAGEMENT

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is implementing Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), which was launched on 25 June 2015. Smart elements, components and technologies are part of AMRUT projects and this aims to promote sustainable urban development. AMRUT guidelines provides for smart elements such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) as part of the water supply and sewerage projects. As reported by States/ Union Territories (UTs), 230 Water supply projects and 146 Sewerage projects have been implemented with SCADA

    Technology Sub-Mission is an important component of AMRUT 2.0 to encourage start-up ideas and private entrepreneurship, and commissioning them into the pilot projects. As reported by States/UTs under AMRUT 2.0, 1482 water supply projects, 241 Sewerage projects are approved with SCADA.

    MoHUA is supporting States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in capacity building activities through various Schemes of the Ministry such as Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), for improving the capacities of ULB functionaries, elected representatives, etc., which includes all sections of the society including women. Under AMRUT, against the target of 45000 functionaries, 57134 functionaries have already been trained so far. Under AMRUT 2.0, capacity building programs are conducted for all stakeholders including contractors, plumbers, plant operators, students, women and citizens.

    MoHUA has designated 4 Institutes in different regions as Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Urban Planning and Design, which inter alia impart certified trainings/ certified courses to Civil Servants, State Town Planners, Municipal Officials, practitioners/professionals, young students etc. These centres have been provided endowment funds of ₹ 250 crore each.

    Besides, MoHUA has also designated 6 institutes as AMRUT Funded Centre of Urban Planning for Capacity Building. The role envisaged for these institutes inter alia includes subject specific trainings to Municipal officials/ Town and Country Planning officials, augmenting capacity building of State / Local authorities and hand hold them in urban planning.

    Under AMRUT 2.0, Ministry has also launched AMRUT Mitra initiative which involves women Self Help Groups (SHGs) in water demand management, water quality testing, water infrastructure operations, and other water sectoral projects. So far, 1762 projects worth ₹140 crore have been approved under this initiative.

    Under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), two cities, viz. Rourkela and Bhubaneswar have been selected in the State of Odisha. Bhubaneswar was selected in Round-1, while Rourkela was selected in Round-2 of selection process.

    As per SCM Guidelines, Central Government is to provide financial support to the extent of ₹48,000 crore to 100 Cities under SCM, i.e., on an average of ₹ 500 crore per city. The Central Government has released 100% of the permissible Government of India funds to both the cities selected under SCM in the State of Odisha.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri. Tokhan Sahu, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Jane Namchu/Sushil Kumar

    (Release ID: 2101369) Visitor Counter : 7

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measuring the Pulse of Indian Education

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Budget 2025-26 Unveils Transformative Initiatives

    “Education is not only the foundation upon which our civilization has been built, but it is also the architect of humanity’s future.”

    ~Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

     

     

    Education has always been a key priority for the government and with the vision to make India a global education hub, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduces innovative initiatives. Focused on expanding medical seats, enhancing skilling infrastructure and growing IITs, these measures aim to provide more opportunities and equip youth with essential skills for the future.

    Announcements for a Smarter, Inclusive India

     

    1. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme: To provide digital-form Indian language books for school and higher education. This aims to help students understand their subjects better. 
    2. National Centres of Excellence for Skilling: Building on the July 2024 Budget, five National Centres of Excellence for skilling will be established with global partnerships to equip youth with skills. These centres will focus on curriculum design, trainer training, skills certification, and regular reviews.
    3. Expansion of Capacity in IITs: Additional infrastructure will be created in the 5 IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT, Patna will also be expanded. Total number of students in 23 IITs has increased 100 per cent from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. 
    4. Centre of Excellence in AI for Education: A Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for education will be set up with a total outlay of 500 crore.
    5. Expansion of Medical Education: The government had added almost 1.1 lakh UG and PG medical education seats in ten years, an increase of 130 per cent. In the next year, 10,000 additional seats will be added in medical colleges and hospitals, towards the goal of adding 75,000 seats in the next 5 years.

    Inside India’s Education System

     

    The Indian education system has undergone significant transformation over the years. Serving 24.8 crore students across 14.72 lakh schools, it is supported by a dedicated workforce of 98 lakh teachers, as reported by the UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus 2023-24). Government schools form the backbone of the system, comprising 69% of the total, enrolling 50% of students and employing 51% of teachers. On the other hand, private schools make up 22.5% of institutions, catering to 32.6% of students and employing 38% of teachers. This growing structure reflects the dynamic changes in the Indian education landscape, paving the way for continuous improvements in enrollment and access over the years.

    Enrollment Trends in India

    The NEP 2020 aims for a 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2030. The GER is near universal at the primary (93 %) and the efforts are underway to bridge the gaps at the secondary (77.4 %) and higher secondary level (56.2 %), driving the nation closer to its vision of inclusive and equitable education for all. In the realm of higher education, India has seen a dramatic rise in student enrollment. The total number of students enrolled in higher education reached 4.33 crore in 2021-22, a 26.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014-15. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for the 18-23 age group also rose from 23.7% to 28.4% in the same period.

     

    Women’s participation in higher education has also witnessed significant growth, with female enrollment rising from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.07 crore in 2021-22, marking a 32% increase. This progress is especially evident in fields like Medical Science, Social Science, and Arts, where women are now leading the charge in enrollment.

    Decline in Dropout Rate

    However, challenges still persist and the dropout rate remains a critical concern. While there has been a steady decline in dropout rates. School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent years, standing at 1.9 per cent for primary, 5.2 per cent for upper primary and 14.1 per cent for secondary levels. According to AISHE report the dropout rate at the secondary level has also decreased significantly from 21% in 2013-14 to 13% in 2021-22.

    Transforming India’s Education Landscape

    Over the years, India has seen a remarkable transformation in its higher education ecosystem. The number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) has grown significantly, increasing by 13.8% from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23. This expansion reflects the country’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and diverse.

    • Growth in Medical Education and Workforce:  Medical Colleges grew from 499 in FY19 to 780 in FY25.
    • Candidates aspiring to study MBBS increased from 16 lakh in 2019 to 24 lakh in 2024.
    • MBBS Seats increased from 70,012 in FY19 to 1,18,137 in FY25.
    • Postgraduate Medical Seats grew from 39,583 in FY19 to 73,157 in FY25.
    • Doctors Available: 13.86 lakh registered practitioners as of July 2024, with a current ratio of 1:1263 per person. The WHO norm of 1:1000 could be met by 2030 with an annual increase of 50,000 doctors.
    • Growth of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): The number of IITs increased from 16 in 2014 to 23 in 2023.
    • Growth of Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs):The number of IIMs grew from 13 in 2014 to 20 in 2023.

     

    • Expansion of Universities:The number of Universities grew from 723 in 2014 to 1,213 in 2024, marking a 59.6% increase.
    • Increase in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): Total HEIs increased by 13.8%, from 51,534 in 2014-15 to 58,643 in 2022-23.

     

    Progress in Basic Facilities

    Education infrastructure has significantly improved, with a rise in the number of higher education institutions. Key areas like medical check-ups, sanitation, and ICT availability have also seen substantial upgrades, highlighting positive progress in school facilities to enhance the quality of education. From 2019-20 to 2023-24, there have been notable improvements in school infrastructure. The percentage of schools with girls’ toilets increased slightly from 96.9% to 97.2%, while access to libraries/reading rooms rose from 84.1% to 89%.  The availability of electricity improved from 83.4% to 91.8%, and computers in schools increased from 38.5% to 57.2%. Additionally, internet access grew significantly from 22.3% to 53.9%, marking a positive shift toward better-equipped schools.

    Conclusion

    The education sector in India is being strengthened through various government initiatives aligned with NEP 2020. Programs like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, PM SHRI (Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India) and PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) are driving improvements in infrastructure, teacher training and learning outcomes. The Economic Survey highlights the progress and the government’s commitment to making education more inclusive and accessible.

    References

    Click here to download PDF

    *******

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2101363) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Allocation of Grants to Autonomous Bodies

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Details of Grants allocated to various Autonomous Bodies under the administrative control of the Ministry of Culture is annexed at Annexure –I.

    There have been the demands of excess budget during the said period by some Autonomous Bodies and the same have been met. Autonomous Bodies are continuously advised to enhance their internal revenue generation to meet the excess demand. Details of the excess demand and the reasons there for is at Annexure-II.

    Grants are allocated to Autonomous Bodies keeping in view the overall allocation of the Ministry and their proposed programmes/activities during the year. Additional grants sought by the Autonomous Bodies are met through the Supplementary demands as per the GFR provisions. However, Autonomous Bodies are continuously encouraged to enhance their internal revenue generation to meet the excess demand.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    Annexure-I

    AUTONOMOUS BODIES BE/RE FROM F.Y. BE 2021-22 TO 2023-24                                                                                                (Rs. in lakh)

    S.No.

    Organizations

    BE 21-22

    RE 21-22

    BE 22-23

    RE 22-23

    BE 23-24

    RE 23-24

    I

    Support to Akademies

     

     

     

     

     

     

    1

    Sangeet Natak Akademi

    5925.00

    6087.00

    6315.00

    6660.52

    6555.00

    6855.00

    2

    Sahitya Akademi

    3910.00

    3787.00

    3920.00

    4198.16

    3805.00

    4055.00

    3

    Lalit Kala Akademi

    2620.00

    2558.00

    2650.00

    3310.80

    2855.00

    3255.00

    4

    National School of Drama

    7065.00

    6445.00

    6975.00

    4333.52

    4855.00

    5955.00

    5

    Centre for Cultural Resources and Training

    2555.00

    2455.00

    2495.00

    2495.00

    2545.00

    2545.00

    6

    Indira Gandhi National Culture for the Arts

    5005.00

    5330.00

    5505.00

    19005.00

    10010.00

    10010.00

    7

    Kalakshetra Foundation

    1767.00

    1872.00

    1927.00

    1977.00

    2452.00

    2662.00

    8

    Zonal Cultural Centers

    5310.00

    6419.00

    6748.00

    6748.00

    7050.00

    8208.00

     

    Total- Support to Akademies

    34157.00

    34953.00

    36535.00

    48728.00

    40127.00

    43545.00

    II

    Support to Museum

     

     

     

     

     

     

    9

    Victoria Memorial Hall

    3377.00

    3029.00

    3099.00

    2877.00

    3134.00

    3134.00

    10

    National Council of Science Museum

    13186.00

    13187.00

    13902.00

    14592.00

    17260.00

    20460.51

    11

    Allahabad Museum

    1077.00

    937.00

    967.00

    877.00

    962.00

    962.00

    12

    Indian Institute of Heritage (IIH)-NMI

    2057.00

    2057.00

    2087.00

    1902.00

    1222.00

    1222.00

    13

    Salarjung Museum

    2397.00

    2397.00

    2487.00

    2397.00

    2522.00

    2522.00

    14

    Indian Museum

    2457.00

    2392.00

    4040.00

    3282.00

    4042.49

    4042.49

    15

    Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya

    1772.00

    1652.00

    1702.00

    1977.00

    2355.00

    2355.00

    16

    Prime Minister Museum & Library

    3058.00

    3058.00

    3248.00

    3608.00

    4242.00

    4242.00

     

    Total- Support to Museum

    29381.00

    28709.00

    31532.00

    31512.00

    35739.49

    38940.00

    III

    Support to Libraries

     

     

     

     

     

     

    17

    Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation

    2707.00

    2707.00

    2752.00

    3319.00

    3367.00

    3287.00

    18

    Delhi Public Library

    3627.00

    3237.00

    3367.00

    3252.00

    3558.00

    3538.00

    19

    Asiatic Society Library

    2342.00

    2342.00

    2541.50

    2261.50

    2437.00

    2237.00

    20

    Khuda Baksh Oriental Public Library

    632.50

    544.50

    580.50

    595.50

    622.00

    622.00

    21

    Rampur Raza Library

    702.00

    651.50

    672.00

    652.00

    662.00

    662.00

     

    Total- Support to Libraries

    10010.50

    9482.00

    9913.00

    10080.00

    10646.00

    10346.00

    IV

    BTI and Memorials

     

     

     

     

     

     

    22

    Gandhi Smriti Darshan Samiti

    1402.00

    1302.00

    1366.00

    1602.00

    1560.00

    2010.00

    23

    Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies

    465.00

    465.00

    477.00

    492.00

    653.50

    653.50

    24

    Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

    1309.00

    1609.00

    1678.00

    2177.00

    2555.00

    3804.50

    25

    Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh.

    2946.40

    2576.40

    2706.50

    3338.50

    3198.00

    3545.00

    26

    Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies,Sarnath

    5401.70

    6283.90

    4908.50

    3935.50

    3902.00

    4032.00

    27

    Central Institute of Himalayan Cultural Studies, Dahung

    1190.70

    1151.70

    1166.00

    1211.00

    1222.00

    1352.00

    28

    Tabo

     

     

    2.00

    0.00

    0.00

    0.00

        (Rs. in lakh)

    S.No.

    Organizations

     

    BE 21-22

    RE 21-22

    BE 22-23

    RE 22-23

    BE 23-24

    RE 23-24

     

     

    Total- BTI and Memorials

    12714.80

    13388.00

    12304.00

    12756.00

    13090.50

    15397.00

     

    Total- Autonomous Bodies

    86263.30

    86532.00

    90284.00

    103076.00

    99602.99

    108228.00

                   

    STATEMENT REFERRED TO PART(b) & (c) OF THE QUESTION NO. 1126 REGARDING ‘ALLOCATION OF GRANTS TO AUTONOMOUS BODIES’

    (Rs. in lakh)

    Annexure-II

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    1

    Sangeet Natak Akademi

    5925.00

    6087.00

    5716.87

     

    6315.00

    6660.52

    6505.52

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    6555.00

    6855.00

    7105.00

    Additional requirement is for fellowship awards for the year.

    2

    Sahitya Akademi

    3910.00

    3787.00

    4369.77

    For payment to the CPWD Bengaluru towards construction of the sales-cum-godown and setting up of Metro Book Shop at their Kempe Gowda Metro Station

    3920.00

    4198.16

    4381.96

    For conducting various programmes/activitiesb

    3805.00

    4055.00

    4356.59

    For Festival of Letters was conducted at the large scale involving more than 1100 writers from across the nation, due to which amt of more than Rs. 4 crore was incurred and the bills are pending i.r.o. honorarium and TA to the writers and various vendors

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    3

    Lalit Kala Akademi

    2620.00

    2558.00

    3022.57

    For renovation work of old building of Regional Centre of Kolkata & Chennai and infrastructure development of newly built building at Regional Office, Kolkata, etc.

    2650.00

    3310.80

    3110.80

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    2855.00

    3255.00

    3530.00

    For maintenance of all regional centre and pension to staff for the month of Feb, 2024/salary to outsourced staff etc.

    4

    National School of Drama

    7065.00

    6445.00

    5593.58

     

    6975.00

    4333.52

    4333.52

     

    4855.00

    5955.00

    6255.00

    For pending payment of bill related to BRM

    5

    Centre for Cultural Resources and Training

    2555.00

    2455.00

    3114.36

    Rs. 2cr. To CCRT towards payment of construction of CCRT Regional Centre building of Udaipur & purchase of new furniture/fixture & equipment

    2495.00

    2495.00

    2511.20

    For conducting various programmes/activities.

    2545.00

    2545.00

    2595.00

     

    6

    Indira Gandhi National Culture for the Arts

    5005.00

    5330.00

    5330.00

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    5505.00

    19005.00

    23208.82

    For recoupment of advance taken of Rs.56.60 crore from Contingency fund of India in r/o IGNCA for parliament art works

    10010.00

    10010.00

    10910.00

    For Prerna School, Digitization of Sampurnand Sanskrit Vishwavidyalya and G20 Summit

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    7

    Kalakshetra Foundation

    1767.00

    1872.00

    1872.00

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    1927.00

    1977.00

    2127.00

    For project sanitization, language moderation by third party agency for Mera Estimated exp. of Rs.

    2.50 cr. By Kalakshetra foundation till 31.03.2023

    2452.00

    2662.00

    2662.00

    For creation of EL Fund with LIC

    8

    Zonal Cultural Centers

    5310.00

    6419.00

    6499.56

    To meet committed liabilities during the year

    6748.00

    6748.00

    6746.00

     

    7050.00

    8208.00

    11019.00

    For organizing program on Cultural Components(Anant Sutra,Vande Bharatam and Tableau)during 75th Republic Day Celebrations,2024

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    9

    National Council of Science Museum

    13186.00

    13187.00

    13287.00

     

    13902.00

    14592.00

    14230.50

    For development of Planetarium software by NCSM

    17260.00

    20460.51

    20650.51

     

    10

    Indian Institute of Heritage(IIH)-NMI

    2057.00

    2057.00

    2057.00

     

    2087.00

    1902.00

    1934.90

     

    1222.00

    1222.00

    1578.75

    For expenditure towards special projects and enhanced expenditure on IIH campus such as security, housekeeping, horticulture, AMC of building, generator expenses etc.

    11

    Salarjung Museum

    2397.00

    2397.00

    3046.00

    To meet the committed liabilities during the year

    2487.00

    2397.00

    2397.00

     

    2522.00

    2522.00

    2522.00

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    12

    Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya

    1772.00

    1652.00

    1729.10

    To meet the expense of DCRG fund, open air and indoor exhibition and other routine expense

    1702.00

    1977.00

    1942.00

    IGRMS for EPF  arrears, DCRG fund

    2355.00

    2355.00

    2545.25

    For

    Wages, Tagore Scholarship,Biennale2023-24, Audit fee,

    EPF Interest payable etc.

    13

    Prime Minister Museum & Library

    3058.00

    3058.00

    3366.62

    To incur the expenditure towards water, electricity charges and other general expenditure, to Tagore National Fellowship for Culture Research Scheme for local TA/Honorarium, stationery, travel project staff, accommodation, misc., software and on account of financial impact of implementation of 7th CPC benefits for the pensioner

    3248.00

    3608.00

    3555.00

    Rs. 1.50 cr. for office expenses of PM Museum, electricity bill, etc. by PMM&L

    4242.00

    4242.00

    7938.00

    To facilitate the payment of property tax/ service charges to NDMC under the Grant-in-aid General head.

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    14

    Delhi Public Library

    3627.00

    3237.00

    3256.07

     

    3367.00

    3252.00

    3252.00

     

    3558.00

    3538.00

    3638.00

    For payment of communication to 12 pensioners, reimbursement of medical expenses to pensioners

    15

    Asiatic Society Library

    2342.00

    2342.00

    2402.05

    Additional Fund  given by the Ministry under the Object Head ‘GIA-General’ to meet expenses on account of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsava  and Digitization Project.

    2541.50

    2261.50

    2189.50

     

    2437.00

    2237.00

    2024.30

     

    16

    Khuda Baksh Oriental Public Library

    632.50

    544.50

    544.50

     

    580.50

    595.50

    608.50

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    622.00

    622.00

    700.47

    For

    Payment of corporation tax and repairing of Old A. C. Plant

     

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    17

    Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies

    465.00

    465.00

    465.00

     

    477.00

    492.00

    602.00

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    653.50

    653.50

    763.50

    For repair & renovation of Azad Bhawan premises of MAKAIAS

    & to conduct seminar/workshop/symposium/lecture session

    liability

    18

    Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

    1309.00

    1609.00

    2291.57

    To Nav Nalanda Mahavihara for upgradation of existing Residential Complex and administrative building, etc

     

    1678.00

    2177.00

    2177.72

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    2555.00

    3804.50

    3804.50

     

    19

    Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh.

    2946.40

    2576.40

    2704.23

    To central Institute of Buddhist Studies for clearing  existing liabilities of CPWD, etc.

    2706.50

    3338.50

    3044.30

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    3198.00

    3545.00

    3845.00

    For CIBS to razzing and finishing of compound wall at new campus, repair and renovation of guest house and vertical extension of senior secondary school building another storey of classroom

     

     

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

     

    S. No.

     

    Organizations

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

     

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

     

    BE

     

    RE

    Funds Status after adjustments

    Reasons for excess demands

    20

    Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath

    5401.70

    6283.90

    6129.40

    For maintenance of Sowa Rigpa Bhawan (academic & hospital) under Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi

    4908.50

    3935.50

    4347.58

     

    3902.00

    4032.00

    4032.00

    For maintenance of Sowa Rigpa Bhawan (academic & hospital) under Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi

    21

    Central Institute of Himalayan Cultural Studies, Dahung

    1190.70

    1151.70

    1146.83

     

    1166.00

    1211.00

    1216.40

    For conducting various programmes/activities

    1222.00

    1352.00

    1352.00

    To meet the committed liabilities during the year
                                 

     

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101353) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Science Centres Established Under SPoCS Scheme

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Culture

    Science Centres Established Under SPoCS Scheme

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), an autonomous organization under Ministry of Culture, Government of India is the implementing agency of the Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) of Govt. of India, under which Science Cities, Science Centres, Digital Planetarium, Innovation Hubs are set up across the country based on the proposals received from different State Government and UTs desirous to set up Science Cities, Science Centre, Digital Planetarium, Innovation Hub etc.

    North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri in Darjeeling district was inaugurated on 17th August, 1997 and the centre is being operated and managed by NCSM. An Innovation Hub at North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri in the Darjeeling district was inaugurated on 16th February, 2018 and is being operated and managed by NCSM.

    A Sub-Regional Science Centre at Kalimpong in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, has been set up by NCSM under Science Cities scheme (Erstwhile). The Centre was handed over to State Government on 11th September, 2007 for its operation and management and it was inaugurated on 2nd October, 2008. An Innovation Hub at Kalimpong Science Centre, Kalimpong in Kalimpong district (erstwhile in Darjeeling district) was inaugurated and handed over on 25th February, 2017 by NCSM to respective State Government.

    The details of the specific programs or events organized under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science by NCSM, Kolkata to promote hands-on scientific learning and experimentation for school and college students at North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri is attached at Annexure-II.

    The complete guidelines of Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been provided in the websites of Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India and NCSM, Kolkata. The details of activities undertaken under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been highlighted every-year in the Annual Report publication of NCSM and all the achievements under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science have been updated on the website of NCSM to raise public awareness about SPoCS and its programmes to increase participation and outreach.

    The details of number of beneficiaries and the outcomes of initiatives under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science as of January 2025, is attached at Annexure-III.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Annexure-‘I’

    The details of the Science Centres that have been established under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) initiatives (State-wise)

    Sl. No.

    Located in State/UT

    Science Centers/Museums

    Year of Establishment
    1.  

    A & N Island

    Science Centre, Port Blair

    May 30, 2003
    1.  

    Mizoram

    Mizoram Science Centre, Aizwal

    July 26, 2003
    1.  

    Nagaland

    Nagaland Science Centre, Dimapur

    September 14, 2004
    1.  

    Manipur

    Manipur Science Centre, Manipur

    May 18, 2005
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre, Itanagar

    Dec 3, 2005
    1.  

    Meghalaya

    Shillong Science Centre, Shillong, Meghalaya

    February 27, 2006
    1.  

    Sikkim

    Sikkim Science Centre, Gangtok

    February 22, 2008
    1.  

    West Bengal

    Sub-Regional Science Centres, Kalimpong

     

    October 2, 2008
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Solapur

    February 14, 2010
    1.  

    Pimpri Chinchwad Science Centre, Pune

    February 8, 2013
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    Regional Science Centre, Ranchi

    November 29, 2010
    1.  

    Chhattisgarh

    Chhattisgarh Science Centre, Raipur

    July 13, 2012
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    Regional Science Centre, Jaipur

    December 29, 2012
    1.  

    Sub Regional Science Centre, Jodhpur

    August 17, 2013
    1.  

    Assam

    Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium

    July 6, 2013
    1.  

    Tamilnadu

    Regional Science Centre, Coimbatore

    May 6, 2013
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Dharwad Regional Science Centre

    February 27, 2012
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Pilikula, Mangalore

    October 01, 2014
    1.  

    Puducherry

    Dr. Abdul Kalam Science Centre & Planetarium, Puducherry

    May 03, 2015
    1.  

    Odisha

    Bargarh Science Centre, Bargarh

    January 21, 2020
    1.  

    Tripura

    Udaipur Science Centre, Tripura

    February 28, 2021
    1.  

    Kerala

    Kottayam Science Centre, Kerala

    May 11, 2022 (Handed over)
    1.  

    Bihar

    Bodhgaya Science Centre, Bodhgaya

    July 20, 2023
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    Regional Science Centre, Dehradun

    Feb 03, 2016
    1.  

    Manaskhand Science Centre, Almora

    March 10, 2024
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    Palampur Science Centre, Palampur

    May 14, 2022
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    Rajamahendravaram Science Centre, Rajamahendravaram

    Completed and ready for inauguration

     

    The details of the Innovation Hubs that have been established under Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science (SPoCS) initiatives (State-wise)

    Sl. No.

    Located in State/UT

    Innovation Hub

    (Location/Name of the Centre)

    Year of Establishment

    (Date of Inauguration)
    1.  

    Delhi

    National Science Centre, Delhi

    23rd January, 2014
    1.  

    Assam

    Regional Science Centre, Guwahati

    4th February, 2014
    1.  

    Jorhat Science Centre & Planetarium, Jorhat

    Inaugurated on 15th August, 2022.

     
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai

    24th February, 2014
    1.  

    Raman Science Centre & Planetarium, Nagpur

    14th February, 2017
    1.  

    BVB’s Muktangan Exploratory Science Centre, Pune

    28th February, 2018
    1.  

    Solapur Science Centre, Solapur

    18th February, 2022
    1.  

    West Bengal

    Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, Kolkata

    23rd August, 2013
    1.  

    Bardhaman Science Centre, Bardhaman

    10th July, 2015
    1.  

    Kalimpong Science Centre, Kalimpong

    25th February, 2017
    1.  

    North Bengal Science Centre, Siliguri

    16th February, 2018
    1.  

    Digha Science Centre & National Science Camp, Digha

    26th February, 2019
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Purulia

    17th December, 2019
    1.  

    Kerala

    Regional Science Centre & Planetarium, Calicut

    1st October, 2015
    1.  

    Kerala State Science & Technology Museum, Trivandrum

    17th February, 2016
    1.  

    Uttar Pradesh

    Regional Science City, Lucknow

    4th January, 2016
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    Regional Science Centre, Dehradun

    3rd February, 2016
    1.  

    Manaskhand Science Centre at Almora

    10th March, 2024
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    Agastya International Foundation, Kuppam

    23rd February, 2016
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Tirupati

    21st May, 2017
    1.  

    Science Centre at Rajahmundry

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Tamilnadu

    Tamilnadu Science & Technology Centre, Chennai

    5th August, 2016
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Tirunelveli

    6th September, 2017
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Coimbatore

    28th October, 2021
    1.  

    Anna Science Centre, Trichi

    28th October, 2021
    1.  

    Bihar

    Shrikrishna Science Centre, Patna

    6th November, 2016
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Bodhgaya

    20th July, 2023.
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    Birla Science Centre, Pilani

    11th April, 2017
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Udaipur, Rajasthan

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Regional Science Centre, Jaipur

    23rd September, 2024
    1.  

    Sub-Regional Science Centre, Jodhpur

    Completed and ready for inauguration
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum, Bangalore

    5thDecember, 2013
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Gulbarga

    29th June, 2017
    1.  

    Pilikula Regional Science Centre, Mangaluru

    7th March, 2024
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    Regional Science Centre, Bhopal

    1st September, 2017
    1.  

    Punjab

    Pushpa Gujral Science City, Kapurthala

    30th November, 2017
    1.  

    Gujarat

    Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre, Ahmedabad

    27th March, 2018
    1.  

    District Science Centre, Dharampur

    26th October, 2018
    1.  

    Meghalaya

    Shillong Science Centre, Shillong

    14th June, 2019
    1.  

    Nagaland

    Nagaland Science Centre, Dimapur

    28th September, 2018
    1.  

    Odisha

    Regional Science Centre, Bhubaneswar

    11th July, 2018
    1.  

    Sikkim

    Sikkim Science Centre, Gangtok

    20th November, 2020
    1.  

    Tripura

    Sukanta Academy, Agartala

    9th October, 2021
    1.  

    Mizoram

    Mizoram Science Centre, Aizawl

     11th September, 2018
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre, Itanagar

    8th December, 2018
    1.  

    Manipur

    Manipur Science Centre, Imphal

    16th March, 2020
    1.  

    Goa

    Goa Science Centre, Panaji

    1st July, 2019
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    Palampur Science Centre, Palampur

    14th May, 2022
    1.  

    Puducherry

    Dr. Abdul Kalam Science Centre & Planetarium, Puducherry

    18th May, 2022
    1.  

    A & N Islands

    Science Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair)

    24th October, 2024
    1.  

    Telangana

    Regional Science Centre, Warangal

    Completed and ready for inauguration

     

    Target for the Science Centres to be established under SPoCS scheme over the next five years (State wise)

     

    State

    Project

    Arunachal Pradesh

    1. Science Centre (Category-II), Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh

    2. Science Centre (Category-II), Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh

    Assam

    1. Guwahati Science City, Assam

    2. Kokrajhar Science Centre (Sub-Regional), Assam

    Chandigarh

    1. Science Centre (Category-II), Chandigarh

    Haryana

    1. Ambala Science Centre (Category-II), Haryana

    Jammu & Kashmir

    1. Srinagar Science Centre (Category-II), Jammu & Kashmir

    Karnataka

    1. Shivamogga Science Centre (Category-II), Karnataka

    2. Science Centre (Category-III), Yadgiri, Karnataka

    3. Science Centre (Category-II), Raichur, Karnataka

    4. Science Centre (Category-III), Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka

    Madhya Pradesh

    1. Ujjain Science Centre (Category-II), Madhya Pradesh

    2. Jabalpur Science Centre (Category-II), Madhya Pradesh

    Puducherry

    1. Science Centre (Category-III), Thirunallar, Puducherry

    Rajasthan

    1. Ajmer Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    2. Kota Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    3. Udaipur Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    4. Bikaner Science Centre (Category-II), Rajasthan

    Telangana

    1. Science Experience Centre (Category-I), Hyderabad, Telengana

    Tripura

    1. Science City, Agartala, Tripura

    Uttarakhand

    1. Dehradun Science City, Uttarakhand
         

     

    Target for the Innovation Hubs to be established under SPoCS scheme over the next five years (State-wise)

     

     

    Sl. No.

    State/Union Territory

    Name of the Science City/Centre/Museum where Innovation Hub is located
    1.  

    Kerala

    Regional Science Centre, Chalakkudy
    1.  

    Karnataka

    Dharwad Regional Science Centre, Dharwad
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    Ranchi Science Centre, Ranchi
    1.  

    J & K

    Srinagar Science Centre, Srinagar
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    Jabalpur Science Centre, Jabalpur

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2101348)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Preservation of Indigenous Languages and Cultural Heritage

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 5:07PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India, through its autonomous institutions under the Ministry of Culture is actively engaged in promoting and preserving India’s indigenous languages and cultural heritage. Sahitya Akademi recognizes contributions to unrecognized and tribal languages through the Bhasha Samman and supports them via writer exchanges, publications, book exhibitions, and the Annual All India Tribal Writers’ Meet. It also operates centers for folk and tribal literature and conducts outreach programs like Loka: The Many Voices and Gramalok. The details of programs from 2021-2024 are at Annexure.

    Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) imparts training to individuals in 100 dying art forms through the Kala Deeksha program and the Guru-Shishya Parampara. It maintains a National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), and 15 elements from India are inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of ICH of Humanity under the 2003 Convention.

    IGNCA undertakes documentation, digitization, research, and awareness programs to safeguard India’s linguistic and cultural heritage. Key initiatives include Bharat Vidya Pariyojana (BVP) for Indigenous knowledge systems, the Vedic Heritage Archive for Vedic texts, and Loka Parampara for oral traditions and folklore. The Adi Drishya Programmestudies Indigenous languages and rock art, while the Kala Nidhi Digital Library preserves rare manuscripts and ethnographic records. The North-East India Documentation Project records oral histories and linguistic structures of communities like the Nagas, Bodos, Mizos, and Khasis. Additionally, the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) is documenting regional languages, art forms, and customs while mapping 6 lakh villages nationwide.

    The Sahitya Akademi (SA) collaborates with State-level institutions to organize local and regional programs, including seminars and workshops to promote indigenous languages and literature.

    The Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) focuses on tribal visual arts through exhibitions, art camps, and workshops, providing a platform for tribal artists to showcase their talents at national and international levels. It also offers gallery spaces to connect artists with buyers and collectors. Recently, under its Public Art of India (PARI) Project, LKA featured folk and tribal artists from across the country during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) conference in Delhi.

    The Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) actively collaborate with State Governments to conduct cultural programs. During the Republic Day Parade 2025, Ministry of Culture, through Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA), presented one of the largest dance choreographies featuring 5,000 folk and tribal artists selected from across the country.

    Other major initiatives include the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) for preserving ancient manuscripts focusing on the unique linguistic and cultural heritage. Additionally, the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) is systematically documenting regional languages, art forms, rituals, and customs across India’s villages, reinforcing the government’s dedication to cultural preservation.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    ANNEXURE

    Details of programs conducted by Sahitya Akademi between 2021 and 2024

    S.No.

    Name of Event

    Date of Event

    Place of Event

    1

    All India Bodo Women Writers’ Meet

    30 June 2021

    Online

    2

    Symposium on the Present Status of Tiwa Poetry

    19 July 2021

    Online

    3

    Symposium on Tribal Language and Literature

    29 July 2021

    Online

    4

    Conference on Exploring Indigenous Poetry

    9-11 August 2021

    Online

    5

    Symposium on Story Telling Tradition in Tribal Odisha

    31 October 2021

    Koraput, Odisha

    6

    Symposium on Tribal Consciousness in the Odia Short Stories

    28 November 2021

    Balasore, Odisha

    7

    Symposium on Tribal Language and Culture (Gothra Languages)

    11 March 2022

    Wayanad, Kerala

    8

    Seminar on Tribal Literature in Western region

    27 March 2022

    Mumbai, Maharashtra

    9

    Symposium on Darrangi Folk Culture and Folk Literature

    8 January 2022

    Guwahati, Assam

    10

    Gramalok: Folk Literature-Culture-Lecture

    3 February 2022

    Kalaburgi, Karnataka

    11

    Literary Forum: “Folk Languages of North Odisha”

    15 August 2022

    Balasore, Odisha

    12

    National Seminar in Maithili: “Contribution of Folk Songs and Folk Epics to the Enrichment of Maithili Literature”

    20-21 November 2022

    Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

    13

    Symposium: Present Scenario of Rajasthani Folk Literature

    18 January 2023

    Udaipur, Rajasthan

    14

    Marathi Seminar: Tribal Folk Literature of Maharashtra

    16-17 February 2023

    Palghar, Maharashtra

    15

    Literary Forum on “Folk Elements in Bengali Literature”

    23 February 2023

    Kolkata, West Bengal

    16

    Gramalok: Folklore in Creative Literature

    27 June 2023

    Puducherry

    17

    Loka: The Many Voices (Konkani Siddi Folk Dances)

    6 August 2023

    Mangalore, Karnataka

    18

    Saora Language Convention

    22-23 April 2023

    Odisha

    19

    Kurmali Language Convention

    6-7 December 2023

    Ranchi, Jharkhand

    20

    Kharia Language Convention

    5-6 July 2024

    Ranchi, Jharkhand

    21

    Korku Language Convention

    15-16 July 2024

    Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

    22

    Baigani Language Convention

    23-24 August 2024

    Raipur, Chhattisgarh

    23

    Nyishi Language Convention

    27-28 September 2024

    Doimukhi, Arunachal Pradesh

    ***

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

     

    (Release ID: 2101347) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Labour & Employment and FoundIt Signs MoU in Presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Ministry of Labour & Employment and FoundIt Signs MoU in Presence of Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

    MoU with FoundIt to Bring 10 lakh Job Opportunities Annually on NCS portal: Dr. Mandaviya

    NCS Portal has become a crucial gateway, connecting millions of job seekers with employers at national and international levels – Union Minister

    Partnership to Boost International Job Opportunities on NCS Portal

    Posted On: 10 FEB 2025 4:48PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant move to enhance job creation and expand opportunities for young job seekers, the Ministry of Labour & Employment signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FoundIt (Formerly Monster), a leading job portal in New Delhi today. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and aims to enhance international & domestic employment opportunities for job seekers registered on NCS portal.

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the NCS Portal’s transformative role in bridging the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities, both within India and abroad. “The NCS Portal has become a crucial gateway, connecting millions of job seekers with employers at the national and international levels. With the addition of 3,000 to 4,000 job postings daily, this MoU is expected to bring 1.25 lakhs international vacancies and over 10 lakhs domestic vacancies to NCS each year, significantly boosting employment prospects for Indian youth,” he stated.

    He further emphasized the NCS Portal’s role as a robust employment-generation platform, connecting job seekers across diverse industries. “With over 40 lakh employers registered, the portal has facilitated the mobilization of more than 4.40 crore vacancies since its inception. At any given time, nearly 10 lakh job vacancies are available, ensuring a steady flow of opportunities for the youth,” he added.

    Expanding its global reach, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the NCS Portal’s integration with the e-Migrate platform, under which more than 500 active Recruitment Agencies (RAs) registered with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have been onboarded. “This initiative has opened doors for Indian professionals to secure jobs with credible, verified employers abroad,” he noted.

    Calling the NCS Portal a vital resource for job seekers, Dr. Mandaviya urged the youth to register on the platform and take full advantage of the numerous career opportunities available. He mentioned that NCS portal is integrated with My Bharat, SIDH portal which is bridging the skill gap among the youth to make them more employable.

    Secretary MoLE, Smt. Sumita Dawra stated that countries like Germany, Finland, and nations across the Middle East are actively seeking skilled workers for both blue-collar and white-collar jobs. This MoU will enable NCS to facilitate these vacancies and enhance career prospects for Indian job seekers, she added.

    V. Suresh, CEO of FoundIt, lauded the partnership, stating that it aligns with the Modi Government’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ by fostering inclusive employment opportunities. “Employment is the key to economic growth, and the government’s commitment to creating better career prospects is reflected in the continued success of the NCS Portal, which connects millions of job seekers with opportunities in India and abroad,” he said.

    Benefits of the MoU between MoLE and FoundIt:

    1. Expanded Job Opportunities: Job seekers registered on the National Career Service (NCS) Portal will gain access to vacancies not only within India but also in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, significantly broadening their employment prospects.
    2. Seamless Job Integration: FoundIt will post job opportunities on the NCS Portal, enhancing employment prospects for job seekers. It will gather job demand from employers across India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia looking to hire in both the formal and informal sectors. Relevant job listings will be integrated into the NCS Portal via APIs for seamless access.
    3. Inclusive Hiring Practices: The NCS Portal is committed to providing employment opportunities for women and persons with disabilities. This partnership with FoundIt will promote a fair and inclusive hiring process, ensuring equal job opportunities for underrepresented groups.
    4. Access to a Diverse Talent Pool: Through this MoU, FoundIt will gain access to a large and diverse pool of candidates from the NCS Portal, including women and persons with disabilities. The Ministry of Labour & Employment will facilitate database integration, enabling FoundIt to connect with a broad talent base via a seamless technology interface, accessible both online and offline.

    *******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2101338) Visitor Counter : 85

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee to Chair Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) issued the following statement upon taking the gavel as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights:
    I am honored to reclaim the gavel from my colleague Senator Klobuchar and resume my role as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights for the 119th Congress.  Antitrust and competition policies are fundamental to maintaining dynamic markets and ensuring the strength of our American economy. Capitalism thrives on competition, which fuels innovation, efficiency, and consumer benefits.
    As Chairman, I remain committed to holding Big Tech accountable for anticompetitive conduct and advancing critical legislation, such as the AMERICA Act, to break up monopoly power in the advertising technology sector and unlock competition. In addition to big tech—sectors such as healthcare, media, and airlines have seen increased consolidation and raise competitive concerns. I look forward to examining solutions to reinvigorate competition for the benefit of consumers.
    Additionally, across many industries government regulations can create entry barriers that stifle innovation and entrench dominant players. Ensuring that consumers benefit from innovation and competitive economy call for evaluating and removing regulatory obstacles that prevent new entrants from challenging entrenched incumbents.
    The goal is to ensure that the free market remains a vibrant arena, where competition thrives, ideas flourish, and innovation prospers, benefiting consumers. I am eager to work with my colleagues on both sides to accomplish these goals for the American people. 
    ***
     For more information on the Judiciary Committee and the Antitrust Subcommittee, please click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB Group President Calviño in Kyiv on first official visit outside EU to announce new major projects for critical energy infrastructure, basic services for citizens and investment in SMEs across Ukraine

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB President is leading the EIB delegation to Ukraine on her first visit outside the EU since taking up office last year.
    • Calviño stressed the EIB Group’s long-term commitment to Ukraine in talks with the government and business leaders in Kyiv.
    • The projects announced under EU’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility include €420 million in investment for the public sector to restore and protect energy supplies, and for water, heating, housing and other critical infrastructure.
    • The support also includes new loan and guarantees for SMEs, unlocking almost €500 million of new finance.
    • The EU 112 emergency call system will be rolled out in Ukraine with EIB backing.
    • A €16.5 million grant provided by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action to an EIB International Climate Initiative Trust Fund has been signed for renewable energy in Ukraine.
    • There are plans for close cooperation to advance social housing in the country.

    On her first official visit outside the European Union since taking up office a year ago, European Investment Bank (EIB) Group President Nadia Calviño is visiting Kyiv today to meet top Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. The objective of the visit is to agree on new financing operations for Ukraine and stress Europe’s long-term commitment to the country. President Calviño is leading the delegation that also features EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska and EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová.

    The package – part of the European Union’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility – includes €420 million for new public-sector projects to restore and protect energy supplies, heating systems and other critical infrastructure that has been damaged since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The EIB and the European Commission are set to finalise the approval of a €2 billion EIB contribution under the Facility.

    The latest round of European funding announced today will also benefit Ukraine’s private sector, with the aim of bolstering thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the country’s economy. It combines a €100 million loan and guarantees aimed at unlocking around €400 million in lending to SMEs through key Ukrainian banks – including Ukreximbank, ProCredit Bank and Ukrgasbank – with which the EIB has signed agreements today.

    Another element of the package is the planned rollout of the European Union’s common 112 emergency number and call system across Ukraine to enhance public safety. President Calviño visited an operating centre in Kyiv that will run the new system to mark the signing of a €40 million EIB loan for the initiative, which is complemented by a €12 million EU grant and funding from Member States under the EU for Ukraine Fund.

    “This is my first official visit outside the European Union since  taking up office as President of the EIB Group last year. Support for Ukraine is a top priority and that is why I am so pleased to be here to announce new major projects for SMEs, energy, water and other essential services that will help people to continue with their daily lives and support the country’s economic resilience, while also laying the foundation for a stronger Ukraine on its path to EU membership,” said EIB Group President Nadia Calviño.”

    “The financing package that we have announced reflects our ongoing and unwavering commitment, since the very first day of this war, to help Ukraine recover, rebuild, and thrive despite the immense challenges it faces. This is a joint effort of Team Europe made possible through close collaboration with the European Commission and EU Member States,” added EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who oversees the Bank’s operations in Ukraine.

    “This support package, developed with the EIB, further demonstrates the European Union’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. With the Ukraine Facility, we are restoring vital infrastructure and helping businesses grow – crucial projects as Ukraine defends itself against Russian aggression. Together, we will continue to support Ukraine, working on key areas, such as energy, housing, and public safety to build a stronger and more sustainable future,” said EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová.

    Today, four projects worth €420 million were announced under the EU’s Ukraine Facility. They will help to restore critical infrastructure and services and ensure a stable energy supply. The projects include the €100 million “Ukraine Recovery III”, €100 million “Ukraine Water Recovery”, and the €100 million “Ukraine District Heating”, which will be channelled through Ukreximbank. These initiatives aim to ensure that millions of Ukrainians in more than 100 communities across the country have access to heating, water, hospitals, schools and housing for internally displaced people. The €120 million “Support of Ukrhydroenergo Stability and Recovery” loan to the largest hydropower generating company in Ukraine will help to restore hydropower plants and thus reinforce the Ukrainian energy system.

    Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine — Minister for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine Oleksii Kuleba said: “We deeply value the strong cooperation with the European Investment Bank, in particular under the recovery programmes, which are playing, since 2014 a key role in supporting more than 100 communities across the country. We are grateful for the support to the communities that are de-occupied or close to the front line. The provision of social, medical, logistical, educational and other infrastructure is essential to ensuring our communities remains strong and resilient. Today we sign €100 million of the multi-sector Ukraine Recovery III loan for the restoration and modernization of critical infrastructure, such as heating, hospitals and housing for IDPs and we sign €100 million of Ukraine Water Recovery dedicated to water and wastewater. Our collaboration on social housing is another key component, reflecting our shared commitment to providing essential infrastructure and stability for those in need. The grant for renewable energy, which we also signed today, will play a vital role in ensuring that critical buildings, like hospitals, can continue serving the population amidst power cuts. Together, these initiatives not only accelerate our recovery but also help us build a more resilient and sustainable future for our country.”

    The financing provided for the 112 call system in Ukraine will expand data centres across the country and upgrade their technological capacity, ensuring that critical services are reliable and efficient.

    “Implementing and developing the 112 emergency call system has become a crucial component in enhancing public safety in Ukraine and in aligning our infrastructure to European standards. Thanks to the EIB loan and support from European partners, we will be able to improve cooperation between emergency services, particularly through the automatic detection of the caller’s geolocation. We will strengthen our ability to assist individuals with hearing and speech impairments, as well as foreign citizens. This project is about enhancing the safety of our citizens and providing timely assistance to those in need,” said Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko.

    The EIB is also signing a €16.5 million grant from the German government with the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine to promote renewable energy. The grant comes through the EIB’s International Climate Initiative Fund and is part of the Ukraine Energy Rescue Plan announced by the EIB in October 2024.

    The grant will help integrate renewable energy systems into public buildings undergoing renovation works under EIB municipal loans. This will upgrade social infrastructure and make energy more reliable, cleaner and less costly. The grant will also help to decentralise energy generation, ensuring that critical public buildings in towns and villages are less reliant on electricity supplies from large power stations, making them less vulnerable to blackouts in the event of an airstrike.

    Berthold Goeke, Director-General for Climate Action, German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) said: “Through the Renewable Energy Solutions Programme, the International Climate Initiative (IKI) is helping smaller Ukrainian communities — those most affected by the war and in urgent need — to implement climate-friendly technologies. This support enables Ukraine to reduce energy costs and modernize outdated infrastructure in public buildings, laying the foundation for a stable and renewable energy future. In this way, the German government is addressing two critical challenges in Ukraine’s energy system. First, we are supporting the development of a decentralized and resilient energy supply, particularly for essential public infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and kindergartens. Given the ongoing Russian aggression and the destruction of central energy infrastructure, this is vital for ensuring stability and security. Second, our initiative contributes to Ukraine’s long-term energy transition by promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, paving the way for a climate-neutral energy system.”

    Social housing is one of the most pressing issues in Ukraine, with 10% of the country’s housing stock damaged as a result of the war. The EIB is supporting the government in drafting a new housing code and exploring the possibility of financing the construction of homes that are publicly owned.

    Background information

    EIB in Ukraine 

    The EIB Group has been supporting Ukraine’s resilience, economy and efforts to rebuild since the very first day of Russia’s full-scale invasion. In 2024, we supported projects aimed at securing Ukraine’s energy supply, repairing critical infrastructure that has been damaged, and ensuring that essential services continue to be delivered across the country. This brings the total amount of aid we have disbursed since the start of the war to over €2.2 billion. This funding has played a crucial role in ensuring that vital services continue to be delivered to people in Ukraine. For example, this year we inaugurated the water supply facility in Bucha that was rebuilt, and which provides clean water to 9 000 residents. We also opened five new schools in Vinnytsia, Dnipropetrovsk, and Ternopil Oblasts, helped build a department for children’s infectious diseases at a hospital in Zhytomyr Oblast, and significantly improved sanitation through the upgraded sewerage collector in Vinnytsia Oblast. Furthermore, our investments have helped modernise street lighting in Dnipro, benefitted the reclamation of the Hrybovychi landfill in Lviv, and helped to upgrade water infrastructure in Mykolaiv. We have also strengthened Ukraine’s transport networks to ensure resilient and sustainable mobility for businesses and residents. With our support, cities such as Lviv, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Odesa, and Sumy have purchased new buses, trolleybuses, and trams. In addition, we have funded the reconstruction of the M01 Kyiv-Chernihiv-Novi Yarylovychi section of road that had been damaged in the war. To enhance Ukraine’s energy resilience, we have launched the Energy Rescue Plan, securing €600 million in EU-backed financing, including €86 million to build anti-drone shelters to protect critical electricity transmission infrastructure. These measures are crucial to maintaining stable power supply across the country amid ongoing challenges. In 2024, we signed over €250 million in new investment for projects to further enhance social infrastructure and support businesses that are the backbone of Ukraine’s economy.

    The EU for Ukraine Fund (EU4U) was established in 2023 as part of a larger EU for Ukraine initiative. The fund aims to accelerate EIB Global’s support for Ukraine’s most urgent infrastructure needs and help sustain its economy. The Fund supports both public and private sector projects to rebuild critical municipal infrastructure and improve access to finance for entrepreneurs.

    The International Climate Initiative (IKI) Fund was established in 2019 in partnership with the government of Germany, with the aim of catalysing investment for ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation projects in developing and emerging countries. The IKI Fund seeks to do this by providing investment grants, financial instruments and technical assistance to public and private sector beneficiaries, as well as advisory services to central banks and financial institutions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting citizens from the devious practices of news networks – E-000387/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000387/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    A number of news networks have been accused of presenting different content in the EU and their countries of origin, with the intention of manipulating Europeans. Studies have identified differences in political tone between Al Jazeera’s English-language and Arabic-language channels, as well as between Arabic and non-Arabic speakers. These differences are evident in terms of content selection, presentation and editorial position. For example, studies comparing the network’s coverage of the US-Al Qaeda conflict found that the Arabic-language website often presented more critical views, while the English-language website adopted a rather neutral tone.

    In addition, Al Jazeera English takes a different approach to the Arabic-language channel, with differences in tone, topic selection and overall coverage. These differences suggest that Al Jazeera adapts its content to meet the distinct needs of its English-speaking and Arab-speaking audiences, resulting in variations in political tone and coverage. Similar complaints have been made about the Turkish broadcaster TRT, which the Turkish Government is trying to use as a tool of social and political manipulation on Turkish people located in the EU.

    Does the Commission have a strategy to effectively address these differences and to enhance the accountability of large news networks operating within the EU?

    Submitted: 28.1.2025

    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Protection of European maritime interests in the Red Sea – E-002807/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 19 February 2024, the EU deployed its Naval Force Operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES in the Red Sea, with a mandate to protect ships under attack, to accompany vessels and to reinforce maritime situational awareness, in cooperation with international partners.

    Between 19 February 2024 and 19 January 2025, EUNAVFOR ASPIDES has contributed to uphold the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and beyond by protecting and monitoring more than 500 merchant vessels and their crews during their transits under missiles and drones threats. In addition, it has established in a record time a network of cooperation with the shipping industry.

    Over 2024, more than 25 meetings in Brussels and more than 8 trips to the region ensured that the activities of the operation were understood by EU partners and that the defensive posture would fit in the complex regional environment.

    The diplomatic outreach has facilitated the political regional buy-in, the necessary daily logistics and the informal clearance of ad hoc access to partners’ infrastructures in case of emergency.

    When the Houthis hit MV Sounion, risking a large oil spill, the European External Action Service reached out to all regional actors to allow the removal of the vessel and avoid a major environmental catastrophe.

    The Commission provides maritime surveillance and situational awareness services through the integrated maritime services hosted by the EU Maritime Safety Agency.

    These efforts support the ongoing monitoring of safety, security, and pollution prevention in the affected areas. Additionally, the Commission closely monitors economic impacts, such as increased rerouting costs and reduced traffic to Mediterranean ports and stays in close contact with relevant industry stakeholders.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Thursday, 13 February 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    42 Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 44 Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 45 Continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 27 Further deterioration of the political situation in Georgia     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 11:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 12:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00 50 Escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo     – Motion for a resolution Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 20:00     – Requests for “separate”, “split” and “roll-call” votes Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 16:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 7 February 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Agenda – Wednesday, 12 February 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    29 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize DP910521     – Amendments Wednesday, 5 February 2025, 13:00 28 Objection pursuant to Rule 115(2) and (3): Genetically modified maize MON 95275     – Amendments Wednesday, 5 February 2025, 13:00 42 Recent dismissals and arrests of mayors in Türkiye     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 44 Repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime in Nicaragua, targeting human rights defenders, political opponents and religious communities in particular     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 45 Continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu     – Motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Monday, 10 February 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 7 February 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 10 February 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 12 February 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support from the Horizon Europe programme for Israeli companies involved in the ongoing genocide in Palestine – E-001930/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Any research and innovation activities carried out under Horizon Europe[1] must have an exclusive focus on civil applications, as set forth in applicable rules and in particular in the Horizon Europe Regulation[2]. During the execution of the Horizon Europe projects, all beneficiaries must ensure that the activities under the action comply with these rules.

    At the level of implementation of Horizon Europe, several mechanisms have been put in place to prevent that EU funds are used for activities that could be contrary to international law. All projects are monitored by the Commission to verify in particular the use of EU funds and compliance with the contractual obligations. Any non-compliance may trigger corrective or contractual measures as provided for in the grant agreement (e.g. the recovery of EU funding or termination of the participation).

    2. According to the relevant Horizon Europe framework, excluding participants from a Horizon Europe project on the sole grounds of their nationality would amount to discrimination. Pursuant notably to Article 2 (2) of the Association Agreement to Horizon Europe, Israeli entities participate in the Horizon Europe programme under terms and conditions equivalent to those applicable to legal entities established in the EU[3].

    3. The EU-Israel Association Agreement[4] is the legal basis of the EU’s ongoing dialogue with Israeli authorities on all sectoral cooperation matters. It provides mechanisms to discuss issues and advance the EU point of view. The EU will continue to reaffirm its commitment to the application of international human rights and humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territory and in the Gaza Strip; at the same time the EU is working actively to revive a political process leading to a lasting and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution. A decision to suspend the Association Agreement lies with the Council and would require unanimity.

    • [1] https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en
    • [2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=CELEX:32021R0695, OJ L 170, 12.5.2021, p. 1-68.
    • [3] Article 2(2) of the Agreement between the European Union, of the one part, and Israel, of the other part, on the participation of Israel in the Union programme Horizon Europe — the framework Programme for Research and Innovation, OJ L 95, 23/03/2022, p. 143-157.
    • [4] OJ L 147, 21/06/2000.
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on New Portal for Whistleblowers to Bring Attention to Potential Lawlessness Under Trump Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M) issued the following statement regarding the announcement that Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI) have created a new portal for federal employees who want to disclose information about wrongdoing, abuses of power, and threats to public safety:

    “In just three weeks, President Trump has shown New Mexicans that his administration is willing to disregard the rule of law, recklessly terminate civil servants, and disband government agencies that Americans depend on. Senate Democrats are committed to holding the Trump administration accountable and courageous whistleblowers will be invaluable to the mission of providing a check on the Executive Branch. I commend Leader Schumer and Senator Peters for leading this effort to bring attention to any wrongdoing, and I remain committed to protecting New Mexico values and exposing any lawlessness that occurs under this administration.”

    Today, in a public letter to federal civil service employees and public servants, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI) wrote that Senate Democrats have launched a new portal for individuals interested in reporting wrongdoing, abuses of power, and threats to public safety. In the first three weeks of his administration, President Trump has shown a blatant disregard for the rule of law and a callousness for New Mexicans and the American people. From the DOGE takeover of the Treasury Department to the federal funding freeze, this administration has wreaked havoc on programs that thousands of New Mexico families, seniors, students, veterans, and others have come to depend upon.

    The new portal for whistleblowers can be accessed here. 

    Leader Schumer and Senator Peters’ letter can be seen here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Russian Government disinformation interference with national governments – E-001958/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The High Representative/Vice-President is aware of the intentions of the Russian government, its modus operandi and have detected and exposed several foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) operations coming from Russian state or pro-Kremlin actors.

    The European External Action Service coordinates closely with Member States and EU institutions on such FIMI activity in the context of the Rapid Alert System, including regarding Social Design Agency and other entities with links to such operations.

    The exposure and response to Russia’s FIMI operations and restrictive measures are part of the FIMI toolbox[1], endorsed by the European Council in December 2023[2], and developed to reinforce EU situational awareness, resilience and response, as well as international partnerships to tackle this threat to security and democracy.

    The EU’s response to FIMI evolves in close cooperation with the EU Member States and international partners to take account of new operations and malign activity patterns.

    Furthermore, Regulation 2022/2065 (Digital Services Act ‘DSA’)[3] along with the EU Code of Practice on Disinformation[4] provide a number of tools to address the spread of disinformation, while fully upholding fundamental rights including the freedom of expression.

    Political advertising can be a vector of disinformation and foreign interference. Once it fully enters into application in October 2025, Regulation 900/2024 on transparency and targeting of political advertising will ensure that political advertisements are labelled and subject to strict targeting requirements.

    Sponsoring political advertisements by third country actors will be prohibited in the three months before elections or referenda.

    • [1] https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/tackling-disinformation-foreign-information-manipulation-interference_en
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/68967/europeancouncilconclusions-14-15-12-2023-en.pdf
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market for Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act) (OJ L 277, 27.10.2022).
    • [4] https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/code-practice-disinformation
    Last updated: 10 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Daily attendance dashboard is live

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the new daily attendance dashboard is now live. 

    “The attendance dashboard will facilitate the daily recording and publication of student attendance,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “This is an example of Phase 2 of the government’s Attendance Action Plan to ensure that schools, the Ministry of Education, wider government, family, and caregivers are doing everything they can to get students back to school. 

    “The attendance dashboard will provide New Zealanders with up-to-date data about attendance in state and state-integrated schools across the country. That data will enable us to monitor truancy patterns, raise awareness and understanding of truancy and associated problems, and support effective interventions. 

    “On January 27 I announced that schools were required to record attendance daily for publication when the dashboard goes live. Today that data is available on the dashboard.

    The interactive dashboard will show how many students were at school on any given day with data being published the day after attendance was recorded. The data will include a breakdown of reasons students were not attending school.

    Visitors can filter the total number of students by region, type of school and Schooling Equity Index group (this measure has replaced deciles for schools), or day, to understand shifts in attendance over time. 

    “This will not create extra work for schools as daily recording of student attendance is already a requirement when a school is open for instruction, the Government is now compiling the data and making it readily available,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “To support schools to provide more accurate data we have also reviewed and reduced the number of attendance codes that schools need to use when recording attendance, from 26 to 15.

    “This government is working hard to reach our student attendance target of 80 per cent of students being present for more than 90 per cent of the term by 2030. Tracking attendance daily through the attendance dashboard is integral to achieving this target. 

    “With more reliable and timely data being made available, the next phase of improving student attendance will be further understanding why students don’t attend.  

    “If this issue isn’t addressed there will be an 80-year long shadow of people who missed out on education when they were young, are less able to work, less able to participate in society, more likely to be on benefits. That’s how serious this is.” 

    Notes to editors: The dashboard can be accessed via Daily attendance | Education Counts

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why so many Latino voters supported Donald Trump

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Julia Young, Associate Professor, History, Catholic University of America

    For many observers of the 2024 US presidential election, Donald Trump’s ability to harness so much of the Latino vote remains one of the more puzzling issues. Latino voters – men in particular – swung decisively towards Trump last November: increasing by 16 points from 2016 to 42% of the bloc in 2024.

    This despite Trump’s consistent history of antagonistic remarks about Latino immigrants. It also appears to fly in the face of the fact that his policies on tariffs, border militarisation and mass deportations will likely affect Mexico, Panama and several other Latin American countries.

    Clearly, Latinos swung towards Trump for the same reason many other voters did. Many were unhappy with the economy (particularly inflation). There was also widespread anxiety about a marked increase in immigration at the southern border.

    But there are more profound reasons driving the dramatic shift in the Latino vote. A closer look at some of the historical dynamics that have shaped the Latino electorate gives a clue for the reason behind this seeming paradox.

    The Latino vote comprises about 14.7% of all eligible US voters. Yet it is far from a monolith. It is a heterogeneous group of people who trace their roots to Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico and the rest of the 21 Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Each of these countries has a different political landscape. They are made up of vastly different people with a different background and distinct cultures. And these differences shape disparate Latino identities in the United States. The term “Latino” itself is a blanket term. It can include extremely different populations: Afro-Dominicans in the Bronx, white Cubans in Miami, indigenous Mexicans in Los Angeles, mestizo Salvadorans in Washington DC and a vast array of others.

    Even within these national groups, there are also significant divisions. Partly, this is based on a person’s time of arrival in the US. Mexican-Americans whose families immigrated to California from border cities like Chihuahua and Ciudad Juárez in the early 1940s as seasonal (and legal) agricultural workers will have different experiences and priorities than Mexicans who arrived more recently from the southern states of Chiapas and Oaxaca and settled in New York City without any legal pathway to citizenship. Meanwhile, Nicaraguan-American families who arrived in Miami in the 1980s fleeing the Sandinista revolution will have a different economic outlook from those escaping Daniel Ortega’s current dictatorship.

    There’s no such thing as a generic “Latino” voter. The Latino population in the US needs to be understood as a heterogeneous one, made up of people with different experiences, priorities and preferences.

    Latino conservatism

    For many decades, Latinos were reliable Democratic voters – and many pundits predicted that they would stay that way, tipping the political scales decisively away from the Republican Party. But there has always been a strong strain of Latino conservatives voting Republican.

    Religion plays a key role here. The majority of people of Latino heritage are Catholic. But there is a growing population of Evangelicals and other Christian denominations, reflecting a growth of those groups in some Latin American countries.

    In El Salvador, for example, the rise of Evangelical religions has produced an increasingly culturally conservative population, who support the “mano dura” (strong hand) policies of Nayib Bukele. A similar trend can be found among Latino communities in the US, where Latino Evangelicals strongly supported Trump in 2024.

    The political history of many Latin American countries is a clue to the make-up for migrants to the US. Mexico’s Cristero War in the 1920s prompted thousands of Catholics to flee the country’s anti-clerical government by migrating northwards. Three decades later, the Cuban revolution of 1959 produced large refugee flows of conservative and anticommunist migrants. These exiled groups – most notably, Cubans in South Florida – would ally with Republicans based on their punitive policies towards Cuba. This has helped turn Florida into a Republican stronghold.

    More recently, 7 million Venezuelans fled the left-wing government of Nicolás Maduro. This has led to a more general antipathy among many Latino voters towards left-wing politics and politicians. Trump’s condemnation of Maduro and Venezuela has endeared him to politically conservative Latino voters of all national backgrounds.

    Race, class, and immigration

    Interestingly, it was also clear that some Latino voters are suspicious and resentful of newer waves of migrants, particularly recent asylum-seekers from Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba.

    This dynamic between earlier arrivals and new immigrants is nothing new in the US. Earlier waves of immigrants and their descendants, such as Irish or Italian immigrants, also adopted nativist attitudes towards newer arrivals. In some ways, each generation of immigrants has tried to “pull up the bridge” to the generation that comes after them.

    Yet these negative reactions also relate to racial and class hierarchies both within and between Latin American countries. Like the US, Latin American countries have a long history of racism and colour discrimination, as well as deep class divides and very high rates of income inequality.

    New immigrants who have arrived in recent years from places such as Venezuela, Honduras, Cuba and Nicaragua are poorer than earlier generations of immigrants – and often have darker skin. As a result, cultural divides may impede a strong sense of solidarity between earlier generations of Latino immigrants and recent arrivals.

    This is not to suggest that racism and classism are the dominant drivers behind Latino support for Trump. But it may help explain why Trump’s campaign comments about recent Latino immigrants were not a dealbreaker for every Latino voter.

    Ultimately, the Latino Trump supporter may not represent such a paradox after all. The so-called “Latino voter” is really a multiethnic, diverse bloc of people. While they share common linguistic and cultural features, Latinos are also motivated by a wide variety of religious, political and cultural factors that can be traced back to their own or their families’ experiences in Latin America.

    The Latino vote is complex. Politicians who want to win their support would do well to understand how these complicated identities inform their political decisions and allegiances. It appears at the moment the Republicans are doing this better than their Democratic rivals.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why so many Latino voters supported Donald Trump – https://theconversation.com/why-so-many-latino-voters-supported-donald-trump-248806

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Yemen, Lebanon & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    ———————————

    Highlights:

    – Secretary-General/France
    – Yemen
    – Lebanon
    – Lebanon/Humanitarian
    – Egypt
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Libya
    – Democratic Republic of the Congo
    – Somalia
    – Security Council
    – Cyprus
    – Report/Africa
    – International Days
    – Financial Contributions
    – Guest Tomorrow

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/FRANCE
    Earlier today, the Secretary-General arrived in Paris where, tomorrow, he will attend the Artificial Intelligence summit, co-hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India.
    He is expected to tell leaders gathered there that the growing concentration of AI capabilities in the hands of a few companies and countries risks widening global inequalities and deepening geopolitical divides.
    He will underscore that we must prevent a world of AI “haves” and “have-nots,” and he will call on AI leaders to pool expertise and cooperate with each other. He will emphasize that it is in the interests of government and technology leaders to commit to global guardrails.
    While in Paris, he is also expected to meet with President Emmanuel Macron and other world leaders during a working dinner later today.
    He will also have a bilateral meeting with the French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, prior to attending the AI summit.
    The Secretary-General will leave Wednesday evening for the African Union summit.

    YEMEN
    Following the recent detention by the Houthi de facto authorities of eight additional United Nations personnel, including six working in Sa’ada governorate, which has impacted the UN’s ability to operate, the Secretary-General has instructed the agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations, in the absence of the necessary security conditions and guarantees, to pause all operations and programmes in Sa’ada governorate, Yemen.
    This extraordinary and temporary measure seeks to balance the imperative to stay and deliver with the need to have the safety and security of the UN personnel and its partners guaranteed. Such guarantees are ultimately required to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of our efforts.
    This pause is to give time to the de facto authorities and the United Nations to arrange the release of arbitrarily detained UN personnel and ensure that the necessary conditions are in place to deliver critical humanitarian support guided by the principles of impartiality, neutrality, independence and humanity.
    The United Nations remains fully committed to assist the millions of people in need across Yemen.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=10+February+2025

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoskins Announces 2025 William E. Foley Research Fellowship

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    For Immediate Release:   February 10, 2025

               

    JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Secretary of State Denny Hoskins today announced the 2025 William E. Foley Research Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship, offered by the Friends of the Missouri State Archives, supports scholarly research that utilizes the extensive holdings of the Missouri State Archives and its St. Louis branch to further knowledge of state and national history.

    A division of Hoskin’s office, the Missouri State Archives is the state’s premier repository for historical government records. The collection includes more than 338 million pages of paper records, 770,000 photographs and prints, 9,000 maps, and much more. These records cover a wide range of historical topics, including the western fur trade, slavery and military history, amongst many others.

    The William E. Foley Research Fellowship provides a $1,500 award to assist researchers with travel and research expenses incurred while working at the Missouri State Archives. Fellows must complete their research within one year of award notification and submit a final report detailing their findings.

    Interested applicants must submit the following materials to Missouri State Archives Principal Assistant for Boards and Commissions Brian Rogers at [email protected] by Wednesday, April 30, 2025:

    The selected fellow will be notified by Friday, May 9, 2025.

    Visit www.sos.mo.gov/archives/education/wef for additional information.

     

    — 30 —

    Visit www.sos.mo.gov to find out more about Missouri’s Secretary of State’s office and the Missouri State Archives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury convicts 2 defendants who were charged with 23 other Ohioans in narcotics distribution ring

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    One defendant also convicted of sex-trafficking victims through use of drug withdrawals, violence

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A federal jury has convicted two local men for their roles in a narcotics distribution ring involving bulk amounts of fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine & other narcotics. As part of this case, the government has seized more than $1.7 million, 50 firearms, and nine vehicles, including a motorcycle. One of the defendants convicted at trial also sex-trafficked at least three adult victims.

    The jury found David Price, 56, of Columbus, guilty on all counts, and Tavaryyuan Johnson, 25, of Columbus, guilty on drug trafficking counts.

    The verdict was announced on Feb. 5 following a trial that began on January 13, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr.

    A multi-agency law enforcement task force initially announced the case in July 2022 after a federal grand jury initially indicted 11 defendants for distributing bulk amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine in central Ohio within 1,000 feet of a Columbus elementary school.

    A superseding indictment returned in October 2022 charged additional co-conspirators with distributing those same drugs in addition to methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, Xanax and Oxycodone.

    Price, who is also known as “DP,” was charged in a third superseding indictment in December 2024 with 11 drug, firearm and sex trafficking crimes. He faces a minimum of 25 years and up to life in prison.

    Johnson is also known as “Gucci” and “TJ,” and was also charged in a third superseding indictment in December 2024. He was convicted of four drug offenses, including using a family residence in Columbus as his stash house for bulk amounts of narcotics. Johnson faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

    According to court documents and trial testimony, the two men were part of a conspiracy to distribute and possess to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, five kilograms or more of cocaine, 280 grams or more of “crack” cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, as well as marijuana, oxycodone and alprazolam. The drug trafficking organization operated from January 2008 until it was dismantled by law enforcement in 2022.

    Drug offenses took place at residences on Burgess and Harris avenues, which are within 1,000 feet of Burroughs Elementary School.

    In July 2021, Price distributed fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine that resulted in the overdose death of an adult female.  The testimony at trial indicated he purposefully killed her to get rid of her as she was talking to the police about his drug business.

    The government also proved beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that Price conspired to commit sex trafficking. From 2016 until 2022, Price and other members of the conspiracy would force and/or coerce adult female drug addicts into performing commercial sex acts by providing, withholding, or threatening to withhold controlled substances and lodging. Law enforcement’s investigation showed that various women engaged in a “rinse and repeat” cycle where they would be allowed to stay at a drug residence associated with Price, receive a front of drugs so they were not in active drug withdrawal, go to Sullivant Avenue, have sex for money, pay the debt from the front drugs, and then be allowed to remain at the house.

    Price was also found guilty of three counts of sex trafficking related to his violence and coercion towards three adult females.  The testimony at trial indicated that he would lock the females inside his residence for days or weeks at a time and refuse to let them leave, forcing them to engage in sex acts.  One victim was locked in a dog cage, shot and stabbed by Price. Another was restrained.  A third was beaten and choked and left with a black eye. Price would refuse to provide them drugs unless or until they engaged in the sex acts, forcing them into withdrawal if they did not comply.

    U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker commended the investigation coordinated by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission task force, which includes Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Angie M. Salazar, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Other agencies that have assisted the task force with the investigation include the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, HIDTA Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, FBI, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), Ohio National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, Pickerington Police Department, New Albany Police Department, and the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Prichard and Emily Czerniejewski are representing the United States in this case.

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

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Earth is already shooting through the 1.5°C global warming limit, two major studies show

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew King, Associate Professor in Climate Science, ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather, The University of Melbourne

    Earth is crossing the threshold of 1.5°C of global warming, according to two major global studies which together suggest the planet’s climate has likely entered a frightening new phase.

    Under the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change, humanity is seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and keep planetary heating to no more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial average. In 2024, temperatures on Earth surpassed that limit.

    This was not enough to declare the Paris threshold had been crossed, because the temperature goals under the agreement are measured over several decades, rather than short excursions over the 1.5°C mark.

    But the two papers just released use a different measure. Both examined historical climate data to determine whether very hot years in the recent past were a sign that a future, long-term warming threshold would be breached.

    The answer, alarmingly, was yes. The researchers say the record-hot 2024 indicates Earth is passing the 1.5°C limit, beyond which scientists predict catastrophic harm to the natural systems that support life on Earth.

    2024: the first year of many above 1.5°C

    Climate organisations around the world agree last year was the hottest on record. The global average temperature in 2024 was about 1.6°C above the average temperatures in the late-19th century, before humans started burning fossil fuels at large scale.

    Earth has also recently experienced individual days and months above the 1.5°C warming mark.

    But the global temperature varies from one year to the next. For example, the 2024 temperature spike, while in large part due to climate change, was also driven by a natural El Niño pattern early in the year. That pattern has dissipated for now, and 2025 is forecast to be a little cooler.

    These year-to-year fluctuations mean climate scientists don’t view a single year exceeding the 1.5°C mark as a failure to meet the Paris Agreement.

    However, the new studies published today in Nature Climate Change suggest even a single month or year at 1.5°C global warming may signify Earth is entering a long-term breach of that vital threshold.

    What the studies found

    The studies were conducted independently by researchers in Europe and Canada. They tackled the same basic question: is a year above 1.5°C global warming a warning sign that we’re already crossing the Paris Agreement threshold?

    Both studies used observations and climate model simulations to address this question, with slightly different approaches.

    In the European paper, the researchers looked at historical warming trends. They found when Earth’s average temperature reached a certain threshold, the following 20-year period also reached that threshold.

    This pattern suggests that, given Earth reached 1.5°C warming last year, we may have entered a 20-year warming period when average temperatures will also reach 1.5°C.

    The Canadian paper involved month-to-month data. June last year was the 12th consecutive month of temperatures above the 1.5°C warming level. The researcher found 12 consecutive months above a climate threshold indicates the threshold will be reached over the long term.

    Both studies also demonstrate that even if stringent emissions reduction begins now, Earth is still likely to be crossing the 1.5°C threshold.

    Heading in the wrong direction

    Given these findings, what humanity does next is crucial.

    For decades, climate scientists have warned burning fossil fuels for energy releases carbon dioxide and other gases that are warming the planet.

    But humanity’s greenhouse gas emissions have continued to increase. Since the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released its first report in 1990, the world’s annual carbon dioxide emissions have risen about 50%.

    Put simply, we are not even moving in the right direction, let alone at the required pace.

    The science shows greenhouse gas emissions must reach net-zero to end global warming. Even then, some aspects of the climate will continue to change for many centuries, because some regional warming, especially in the oceans, is already locked in and irreversible.

    If Earth has indeed already crossed the 1.5°C mark, and humanity wants to get below the threshold again, we will need to cool the planet by reaching “net-negative emissions” – removing more greenhouse gases from the atmosphere than we emit. This would be a highly challenging task.

    Feeling the heat

    The damaging effects of climate change are already being felt across the globe. The harm will be even worse for future generations.

    Australia has already experienced 1.5°C of warming, on average, since 1910.

    Our unique ecosystems, such as the Great Barrier Reef, are already suffering because of this warming. Our oceans are hotter and seas are rising, hammering our coastlines and threatening marine life.

    Bushfires and extreme weather, especially heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and severe. This puts pressure on nature, society and our economy.

    But amid the gloom, there are signs of progress.

    Across the world, renewable electricity generation is growing. Fossil fuel use has dropped in many countries. Technological developments are slowing emissions growth in polluting industries such as aviation and construction.

    But clearly, there is much more work to be done.

    Humanity can turn the tide

    These studies are a sobering reminder of how far short humanity is falling in tackling climate change.

    They show we must urgently adapt to further global warming. Among the suite of changes needed, richer nations must support the poorer countries set to bear the most severe climate harms. While some progress has been made in this regard, far more is needed.

    A major shift is also needed to decarbonise our societies and economies. There is still room for hope, but we must not delay action. Otherwise, humanity will keep warming the planet and causing further damage.

    Andrew King receives funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for 21st Century Weather and the National Environmental Science Program.

    Liam Cassidy 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. Earth is already shooting through the 1.5°C global warming limit, two major studies show – https://theconversation.com/earth-is-already-shooting-through-the-1-5-c-global-warming-limit-two-major-studies-show-249133

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Nature and shops: here’s what people told us they want most from urban planning

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Iain White, Professor of Environmental Planning, University of Waikato

    Getty Images

    Urban planning has a long history of promoting visionary ideas that advocate for particular futures. The most recent is the concept of the 15-minute city, which has gained traction globally.

    But empirical evidence on public preference for what people want is surprisingly thin on the ground.

    To help address this gap, we conducted a national survey (1,491 responses) in Aotearoa New Zealand to find out what amenities people want to have easy access to, how much time they prefer to spend getting there, and how this differs between different groups in the population.

    Our recently published research provides more depth. The headline messages have significant implications for politicians, policy-makers and others interested in planning cities to better meet the needs of citizens.

    People want green space and local shops

    The first message is that visions such as 15-minute cities tend to promote the idea of livability connected to easy access to multiple amenities – from education to employment and culture.

    However, when we asked what amenities people prefer the most, two things came out far above others: local nature and local shops.

    This finding is important as it allows cash-strapped local authorities to prioritise and sequence spending. It also supports the agenda of those who are advocating for an increase in urban green space or local living.

    A complete shift to a 15-minute city can be daunting, but investment in these two specific areas could be an excellent first step in improving livability in a way that reflects what citizens want from planning.

    We also asked people for their preferred maximum travel time to their most preferred amenity for a one-way trip, using different modes. Nationally, the data were consistent, identifying around 20 minutes as a good rule of thumb for maximum preferred travel time.

    Importantly, this time was broadly similar regardless of the transport mode chosen. Whether walking, cycling or travelling by micro-mobility modes such as e-scooters, people wanted to spend no more than 20  minutes doing so – even though the distances vary.

    It is important to acknowledge this time is a maximum, not a preference. It is better understood as a threshold or decision point after which people are much more likely to drive or choose not to travel.

    This evidence has a wider resonance.

    First, it strongly reinforces the 15-minute city or 20-minute neighbourhood as accurately reflecting public preferences for travel time to reach destinations, especially as this figure was consistent regardless of the travel mode.

    Second, people are willing to walk further than we typically plan for.

    For example, planners may typically apply a walkable catchment of an 800-metre radius around the central business district or transit nodes to allow for higher-density zoning. This distance is a walk of about ten minutes. Our data suggest this area could be expanded and more opportunities created to increase housing volume and diversity.

    One size does not fit all

    One crucial aspect for improving livability is recognising differences in people’s ability or willingness to walk, cycle or use micro mobility. To explore this, our survey asked people how comfortable they were using each active travel mode after dark.

    We reveal a strong gender difference. For example, 41% of people said they were uncomfortable walking after dark. Of this group, 86% were female.

    For all travel modes, there was a similar story with females more likely to change travel behaviour, mostly due to safety concerns. The survey also revealed that people with a disability are significantly less comfortable travelling after dark than those without.

    This finding is useful for those concerned with equity. Citizen movement is typically modelled on the idea of an able-bodied person who feels equally comfortable in all urban spaces at all times of day or night.

    Without considering difference across populations, advocates may promote an equitable 15-minute city during the day and an inequitable car-dependent one after dark.

    This also highlights that any new urban strategy or investment needs to understand existing behaviour and the risks of making current disadvantages worse.

    Agendas such as 15-minute cities hold significant value in planning for wellbeing and health, economic activity or decarbonisation. They also hold potential for planners to engage with communities to explain the value of planning, the kind of lifestyle citizens can expect in the future, and why authorities are spending public money.

    But urban researchers also need urban concepts to be grounded in evidence to avoid becoming the next urban imaginary accused of failing to be transformative.

    Our research helps provide some clarity. The general message is that people want easy access to green spaces and local shops more than anything else and they want to spend no more than 20 minutes getting there.

    It also highlights context and differences between groups. We need to marry promising urban concepts to empirical research designed to support people’s preferences and encourage movement and equity.

    Iain White receives funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Fund and from the Natural Hazards Commission. He is New Zealand’s national contact point for the Horizon Europe program for the climate, energy and mobility research cluster.

    Silvia Serrao-Neumann receives funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Fund and from the Natural Hazards Commission.

    Xinyu Fu receives funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Fund and from the Natural Hazards Commission.

    – ref. Nature and shops: here’s what people told us they want most from urban planning – https://theconversation.com/nature-and-shops-heres-what-people-told-us-they-want-most-from-urban-planning-247994

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia’s clinical guidelines shape our health care. Why do so many still ignore sex and gender?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maggie Kirkman, Senior Research Fellow, Global and Women’s Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University

    Krakenimages.com/Shutterstock

    You’ve heard of the gender pay gap. What about the gap in medical care?

    Cardiovascular diseases – which can lead to heart attack and stroke – are one of the leading causes of death for women in Australia.

    But women are less likely than men to receive preventive care for heart disease, such as appropriate medication. One study in New South Wales showed women admitted to hospital for a stroke were more likely to be first told by paramedics it was a migraine, headache, anxiety or nausea.

    Despite these differences, official guidelines in Australia too often ignore the impact of sex and gender on health care. For example, a guideline on atrial fibrillation (irregular and often fast heartbeat) has limited information on sex and nothing on gender.

    “Sex” refers to various biological characteristics by which at birth we are identified as female, male or intersex. “Gender” is a social and cultural concept in which people understand themselves to be a woman, a man or non-binary.

    Our recent study reviewed 80 clinical guidelines. We found very few define sex and gender and the majority don’t mention gender at all. This has serious consequences for everyone, but especially for women, girls and gender-diverse people.

    What are clinical guidelines for?

    Clinical guidelines are recommendations about how to diagnose and treat a medical condition, based on research and usually developed by a team of specialists. Clinicians and other health workers are expected to use them to guide day-to-day health care.

    For example, there are guidelines for physiotherapists on how to provide the best rehabilitation for someone after a heart attack. Other guidelines outline what a GP should do if a patient discloses intimate partner violence.

    A health practitioner’s sensitivity about gender and sex can profoundly affect the mental health of gender-diverse patients.
    Media_Photos/Shutterstock

    Because clinical guidelines are based on research, they can report only what has been studied and published in peer-reviewed journals. This means where there are gaps in research, clinical guidelines are usually silent.

    What we did

    As part of a larger project, the federal government asked our team to examine whether there are still clinical guidelines that do not take into account sex and gender differences.

    There is no central database of Australia’s clinical guidelines. But in a comprehensive search, we found 80 published from January 2014 to April 2024.

    These encompassed guidelines for conditions including various cancers, diabetes and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, designed for a range of health professionals such as general practitioners, medical specialists, physiotherapists and paramedics.

    We searched every document for the following words:

    • sex
    • gender
    • female
    • male
    • women
    • men
    • girl
    • boy

    If none of these words were found, we looked for “psychosocial” and “cultural”, to see if gender was considered without being named directly. We also read the text around each relevant word to understand its context and meaning.

    What we found

    Clinical guidelines in Australia too often do not offer guidance on incorporating sex and (especially) gender into health care.

    We found:

    • 15% of guidelines didn’t mention sex or gender at all. This includes recommendations about acute coronary syndrome from the National Heart Foundation and on e-mental health by the peak body for GPs. These guidelines did not even give the most basic information on sex differences in occurrence (of heart disease or mental health problems)

    • only four guidelines (5%) defined the terms “sex” and “gender”

    • 19% made no reference to clinical practice concerning sex. That is, there was no information on how symptoms and treatments might vary among biologically female, male and intersex bodies

    • the majority (58%) ignored the role gender can play in clinical practice and how it might shape what treatment is most effective. For example, some women may be more comfortable being seen by a female doctor, for a range of personal or cultural reasons

    • most (81%) did acknowledge biological sex in some way. But among those 65 guidelines there was great variation, ranging from a single statement about whether a condition (such as lung cancer) occurred more often in women or men, to detailed risk factors, prevalence, treatment and management, such as for advanced life support by paramedics.

    Why does this matter?

    The male body has historically been considered the “standard” human. With hormonal changes and pregnancies, women’s bodies have been seen as too complicated to be included in clinical research.

    This means research has been conducted on men and then applied to women, ignoring the differences that excluded them from the research in the first place.

    Women have long been excluded from clinical trials, while male bodies have been considered the standard.
    Inside Creative House/Shutterstock

    If the standard body is implicitly that of a (white) male, discrimination against all other bodies is inevitable.

    The Australian Institute of Sport’s guideline on concussion and brain health is one of just four guidelines that define sex and gender.

    This is crucial, given growing evidence women footballers are at greater risk of concussion than men. But their approach is far from mainstream.

    Gender-diverse people also require distinct health care and support, based on inclusive and non-discriminatory practice and policy. There is clear evidence the mental health of gender-diverse people is profoundly affected by how sensitive – or discriminatory – their health care is.

    Eliminating discrimination

    Discrimination can be explicit and overt.

    But it can also simply come from a lack of imagination, based on the assumption some kinds of health care are sex- and gender-neutral.

    For example, the treatment of skin – dermatology – could appear neutral, as everyone has skin. Yet social expectations about clothing, make-up and appearance are highly gendered, and these can influence how skin conditions develop and are treated.

    Guidelines that offer detailed information on sex- and gender-aware practice, such as those by GP Supervisor Australia, can contribute to challenging both explicit and implicit discrimination.

    Ultimately, we hope this leads to equitable health care for people of all sexes and genders.

    We recommend all developers of clinical guidelines look for evidence concerning sex and gender and, when they find none, say so. Funding bodies should also demand inclusion of sex and gender as a criterion to award money for medical research.

    Silence on sex or gender implies that the topics aren’t important. This is far from the truth.

    We acknowledge the contribution of the other members of our research team: Tomoko Honda, Steve McDonald, Sally Green, Karen Walker-Bone, and Ingrid Winship.

    Maggie Kirkman received funding from the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care to conduct this research.

    Jane Fisher receives funding from:

    The National Health and Medical Research Council, The Australian Research Council, The Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, VicHealth, The Ramsay Hospital Research Foundation, The Paul Ramsay Foundation, The Human Safety Net, The LEGO Foundation, The Jasper Foundation, The National Center for Healthy Ageing

    – ref. Australia’s clinical guidelines shape our health care. Why do so many still ignore sex and gender? – https://theconversation.com/australias-clinical-guidelines-shape-our-health-care-why-do-so-many-still-ignore-sex-and-gender-237400

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –