NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Return of 35 Malaysian Chevening scholars concludes year-long Chevening 40th anniversary celebrations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    35 Malaysians have returned home after completing their post-graduate studies in the UK under the Chevening Awards Programme.

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner Tom Shepherd with the 35 returning Malaysian Chevening scholars

    This cohort saw 34 scholars completing their Master’s degree and one scholar completing an Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies fellowship programme. They are the 40th batch of Malaysian Chevening alumni since the establishment of the scholarship programme in 1983, and their return also marks the conclusion of the year-long 40th anniversary of the Chevening Awards

    Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Tom Shepherd, hosted a reception today to welcome home the 2023/24 cohort of scholars. In congratulating the returning scholars, Sheperd said:

    The UK’s commitment to education and fostering global talent remains steadfast and the Chevening Programme is a great example of this. Strengthening the bond between the UK and Malaysia, these alumni have returned not only equipped with invaluable knowledge and skills but empowered to make a real difference in Malaysia, contributing to its continued growth and prosperity.

    The Chevening Award is the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded and administered by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. This is complemented by generous sponsorships by Malaysian corporate partners including Yayasan Khazanah, CIMB Foundation and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. British universities are also providing additional funding in support of the Chevening programme. 

    Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, KGB, AO, Founder and Chairman of the Sunway Group and the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation said:

    The Chevening Scholarships Scheme has recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary and has, over the years, nurtured key talent in many countries in the world. The Scholarships have become a byword for excellence, prestige, loyalty and satisfaction. It has been JCF’s pleasure to support a Chevening Scholarship since 2018, and we look forward to doing so for many years in the future. This is a flagship programme in our links with the United Kingdom, which have seen us partner with Oxford, Cambridge, Lancaster, and the Royal College of Physicians.

    Norhidayah Aslah, Head of Scholarship, Yayasan Hasanah, said:

    Yayasan Khazanah is proud to support and celebrate the return of our Chevening scholars, who have gained invaluable global perspectives and expertise. Their experiences and insights will contribute significantly to Malaysia’s growth and development. We look forward to seeing them apply their knowledge, drive positive change, and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.

    Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Foundation said:

    CIMB Foundation is deeply committed to uplifting communities and driving positive societal impact through education, a core impact area that aligns with Chevening Scholarship. By investing in learning and development, we empower outstanding individuals with the expertise and leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change.

    The returning batch of Malaysian Chevening scholars from the 2023/24 academic year have graduated from disciplines such as Medical Ultrasound, Film Aesthetics, and Conservation and International Wildlife Trade. They attended prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford, King’s College London and London School of Economics.

    Scholar Mandeep Singh who got a Masters in Anthropology and Development from London School of Economics and Political Science said:

    I am glad I made my voice count during my year in the LSE. While I got to contribute to various intellectual debates concerning the Global South, I did not lose sight of the everyday challenges which left economic growth precarious for the many. Through my postgraduate studies, I have urged anthropologists to play an active role in making development policies fair and just. I hope to work with public and social sectors to make this a case in Malaysia.

    Scholar Nur Ezzah, who attended SOAS, University of London and obtained a Master’s in Human Rights, Conflict and Justice, said:

    My Masters provided me with an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights issues and equipped me with the tools to critically analyse policies and legislation through a human rights lens. My current role allows me to advocate for marginalised communities, ensuring that human rights principles are integrated into policies and legislation, fostering social justice and equality. My most memorable experience during my Chevening year was attending the Hay Festival of Literature and Arts in Hay-On-Wye, where I met some of my favourite authors and camped under the stars in that charming book town.

    Malaysia is the second largest recipient of Chevening awards in ASEAN and the 35 returning scholars are now part of the 2,000-strong Chevening Alumni in Malaysia.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at welcoming banquet of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at welcoming banquet of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

    HARBIN, Feb. 7 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on Friday hosted a banquet in China’s northeastern city of Harbin to welcome international dignitaries who are here to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games.

    The following is the full text of Xi’s remarks at the banquet:

    Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping

    President of the People’s Republic of China

    At the Welcoming Banquet of the Opening Ceremony

    Of the Ninth Asian Winter Games Harbin

    Harbin, February 7, 2025

    Distinguished Colleagues,

    Your Excellency IOC President Thomas Bach,

    Your Excellency OCA Vice President Timothy Tsun Ting Fok,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Friends,

    As the Chinese people celebrate the Spring Festival, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, and also in the name of my wife and myself, a warm welcome and festive greetings to all the distinguished guests!

    The cauldron of the Ninth Asian Winter Games will be lit tonight. From the Olympic Winter Games Beijing to the Asian Winter Games Harbin, the passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation. It has also invigorated winter sports around the world. The current Asian Winter Games sets a new record in its history in the numbers of participating countries, regions and athletes. I believe that with the joint efforts of the Olympic Council of Asia and delegations from all participating countries and regions, Harbin will present to the world a great sports event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular, thus writing a new, magnificent chapter of ice and snow sports.

    The theme of the Ninth Asian Winter Games — “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia” — embodies the shared aspiration and desire of the Asian people for peace, development and friendship.

    We should uphold our shared dream for tranquility and harmony. Peace is as pure as ice and snow. No matter how the international landscape evolves, we should join hands together to meet all kinds of security challenges and contribute Asian strength to building an equal and orderly multipolar world.

    We should pursue our shared aspiration for prosperity and development. Winter sports are fascinating because they require passion and collaboration. We should work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained drive for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

    We should fulfill our shared desire for friendship and affinity. Every snowflake is unique, and every civilization is distinctive. Asia is a convergence of the world’s diverse civilizations. We should promote inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning, and contribute more to the development and progress of human civilization.

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    Friends,

    Harbin, the renowned “Ice City,” is the birthplace of China’s modern winter sports. We feel truly in here that ice and snow are as valuable as gold and silver. The ice and snow culture and economy are becoming a new driving force for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world. We welcome you to explore this hospitable, open and inclusive land of black soil, and to trace the path of Chinese modernization.

    China has just entered the Year of the Snake. Among the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, the snake represents wisdom and agility. The Year of the Snake will surely brim with vigor and vitality. I wish all athletes excellent performance with the agility of the snake. May you all have beautiful and unforgettable memories of ice and snow in Harbin.

    Now, I would like to propose a toast:

    To the great success of the Ninth Asian Winter Games;

    To the dynamic development of the Olympic Movement;

    To the solidarity and friendship of the Asian people; and

    To the health of all the distinguished guests and your families.

    Cheers!

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show
    “M” Mark status awarded to Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 and Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show
    ******************************************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Major Sports Events Committee:      The Major Sports Events Committee (MSEC) has awarded “M” Mark status to the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2025 (February 9) and the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show (February 14 to 16).           The Chairman of the MSEC, Mr Wilfred Ng, said today (February 7), “The Hong Kong Marathon is the largest annual long-distance running event in Hong Kong. It has been well-received by the public over the years, attracting up to 74 000 participants this year, including internationally renowned elite runners. As for the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, it is a 5-star international jumping competition sanctioned by the Federation Equestrian Internationale. It will be held in Hong Kong for the first time and will feature a world-class horse show, entertainment and a performance. The above two major sports events will stimulate the local economy and enhance Hong Kong’s international image, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an events capital.”           The “M” Mark System aims to encourage and help local “national sports associations” and private or non-government organisations to organise more major international sports events and nurture them into sustainable undertakings. Sports events meeting the assessment criteria will be considered for “M” Mark status by the MSEC. Funding support will also be provided to some events.           For details of “M” Mark events, please visit www.mevents.org.hk.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 7, 2025Issued at HKT 12:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs executive order to further prepare for future urban firestorms, stepping up already nation-leading strategies

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state.

    Sacramento, California – Adding to California’s nation-leading fire safety  standards, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed an executive order to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to neighborhood resilience statewide. A copy of the executive order is available here.

    We are living in a new reality of extremes. Believe the science – and your own damn eyes: Mother Nature is changing the way we live and we must continue adapting to those changes. California’s resilience means we will keep updating our standards in the most fire-prone areas.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order issued by Governor Newsom does the following:

    • Directs the State Board of Forestry to accelerate its work to adopt regulations known as “Zone 0,” which will require an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of structures located in the highest fire severity zones in the state.
    • Tasks the Office of the State Fire Marshal with releasing updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for areas under local government responsibility, adding 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire severity, which will update building and local planning requirements for these communities statewide.
    • Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to work with local, federal and tribal partners on improvements to the Federal resource ordering system for wildfire response. 

    Protecting homes 

    Science has shown that combustible material within the immediate five feet of a structure contributes the greatest risk of embers directly or indirectly igniting the home. “Zone 0” regulations under development for new and existing construction would require an ember-resistant zone within the immediate 5-feet of structures in local area Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas, and Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas.

    Zone 0 regulations would move forward this year in tandem with financial assistance and relief for homeowners, proposed in the Governor’s January Budget, and to be augmented by the California Conservation Corps supporting work in vulnerable communities and in coordination with local Fire Safe Councils. While it is anticipated that the regulations would apply to new construction upon taking effect, requirements for existing homes would likely be phased in over three years to allow homeowners to prepare and prioritize mitigations and secure financial assistance.

    Research suggests that the cost of building a home with Zone 0 mitigations already incorporated adds little to no cost to building a comparable home without those features. 

    Updating fire hazard severity areas

    To ensure future resiliency against urban firestorms, local government planners and developers will have to factor in wildfire-hardening requirements in building planning, design, and construction within nearly 2.3 million acres of land in areas where local governments are responsible for wildfire prevention and response, known as local responsibility areas.

    The release of updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones for Local Responsibility Area maps would identify new areas where new development is required to adhere to the highest standards of wildfire resilient building codes and land-use planning. These new zones and maps would add approximately 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire hazard severity. Specifically, they would expand current wildfire building resiliency requirements in the High-Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 1.16 million new acres, and they would expand both current wildfire building and local planning resiliency requirements in the Very High- Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 247,000 new acres. 

    The release of these updated zones and maps, which are expected to be released one region at a time beginning in Northern California, would begin a 120-day clock for local government jurisdictions to adopt local ordinances incorporating the State Fire Marshal’s recommendations.

    The release of these Local Responsibility Area maps would follow last year’s release of equivalent updated zones and maps in the State Responsibility Area, and follow months of planning discussions, including consultation with insurance providers who have developed their own models to determine risk, premiums and coverage that are independent of the state’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps.

    Investing in wildfire prevention

    Overall, the state has more than doubled investments in wildfire prevention and landscape resilience efforts, providing more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience since 2020, with an additional $1.5 billion from the 2024 Climate Bond to be committed beginning this year for proactive projects that protect communities from wildfire and promote healthy natural landscapes. Of note, since 2021, the State has made strategic investments in at least 61 fuels reduction projects near the Palisades and Eaton fire perimeters through projects treated over 14,500 acres.

    The Newsom Administration has invested $2 billion to support CAL FIRE operations, a 47% increase since 2018, which has helped build CAL FIRE from 5,829 positions to 10,741 in that same period, and the Administration is now implementing shorter workweeks for state firefighters to prioritize firefighter well-being while adding 2,400 additional state firefighters to CAL FIRE’s ranks over the next five years. 

    Augmenting technological advancements and pre-deployment opportunities 

    The Newsom Administration has also overseen the expansion of California’s aerial firefighting fleet, including the addition of more than 16 helicopters with several equipped for night operations, expanded five helitack bases, and assumed ownership of seven C-130 air tankers, making it the largest fleet of its kind globally. 

    California is also leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker, has deployed the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) to provide real-time mapping of wildfires, and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to use satellites for wildfire detection and invested in LiDAR technology to create detailed 3D maps of high-risk areas, helping firefighters better understand and navigate complex terrains. 

    In anticipation of severe fire weather conditions in early January 2025, Cal OES approved the prepositioning of 65 fire engines, as well as more than 120 additional firefighting resources and personnel in Los Angeles, Orange, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, and CAL FIRE moved firefighting resources to Southern California including 45 additional engines and six hand crews to the region. 

    During the wildfires, California was able to mobilize more than 16,000 personnel including firefighters, National Guard servicemembers, California Highway Patrol officers and transportation teams to support the response to the Los Angeles firestorms, and more than 2,000 firefighting apparatus composed of engines, aircraft, dozers and water tenders to aid in putting out the fires. 

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    What they’re saying: 

    • Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, original author of the Mental Health Services Act: “Twenty years ago, I never could have dreamed that we would have the strong leadership we have today, committing billions and making courageous policy changes that question the conventional wisdom on mental health. Now, with the passage of Proposition 1. California is delivering on decades old promises to help people living with brain-based illnesses, to live better lives, to live independently and to live with dignity in our communities. This is a historic moment and the hard work is ahead of us.“
    • Senator Susan Eggman (D-Stockton), author of Senate Bill 326: “Today marks a day of hope for thousands of Californians who are struggling with mental illness – many of whom are living unhoused. I am tremendously grateful to my fellow Californian’s for passing this important measure.  And I am very appreciative of this Governor’s leadership to transform our behavioral health care system!”
    • Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), author of Assembly Bill 531: “This started as an audacious proposal to address the root cause of homelessness and today, Californians can be proud to know that they did the right thing by passing Proposition 1. Now, it’s time for all of us to get to work, and make sure these reforms are implemented and that we see results.”

    Bigger picture: Transforming the Mental Health Services Act into the Behavioral Health Services Act and building more community mental health treatment sites and supportive housing is the last main pillar of Governor Newsom’s Mental Health Movement – pulling together significant recent reforms like 988 crisis line, CalHOPE, CARE Court, conservatorship reform, CalAIM behavioral health expansion (including mobile crisis care and telehealth), Medi-Cal expansion to all low-income Californians, Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (including expanding services in schools and on-line), Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative, Veterans Mental Health Initiative, Behavioral Health Community Infrastructure Program, Behavioral Health Bridge Housing, Health Care Workforce for All and more.

    More details on next step here

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/COLOMBIA – Bishops on the serious crisis in the country: “We must not let ourselves be deprived of hope”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 7 February 2025

    CEC

    Bogota (Agenzia Fides) – “We are seriously concerned about the requests for help and the needs of the populations and communities that are seriously affected,” write the Colombian Bishops gathered in Bogota for the Plenary Assembly.”It is urgent to pay special attention to migrants, displaced persons, returnees, victims of the increasing violence in the country’s rural areas.” The Colombian Bishops are referring to the region of Catatumbo, where violence has been raging for some time, plunging the region into the most serious crisis since 2002 (see Fides, 30/1/2025).During the Plenary Assembly, which began on February 3, the Bishops’ Conference drew attention to the President of the Republic, Gustavo Petro, after a controversial cabinet meeting broadcast live on national television. “The country is in a serious crisis,” warned the bishops, calling for “effective responses” to the “profound, urgent and painful problems that afflict the nation.””We declare our solidarity with Catatumbo and other regions of the country,” they declared.”In addition, the problem remains latent, not only of deported migrants, but also of those displaced and expelled due to the violence in the regions,” the bishops said. They therefore strongly appealed to the national government and all state institutions to work in a coordinated manner and focus on the good of the nation, “in order to realize the united and peaceful country that we all long for.””Today more than ever, let us not lose hope, but let us concentrate our efforts and support the initiatives that are being carried out in the communities,” the bishops said. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 7/2/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Prairie Operating Co. Announces Public Offering of Common Stock

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Texas, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prairie Operating Co. (“Prairie” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: PROP), an independent oil and gas company focused on the acquisition and development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, announced today that it has commenced an underwritten public offering of $200 million of shares of its common stock, par value $0.01 (“common stock”). The Company expects to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an aggregate value of $30 million of additional shares of the Company’s common stock.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund a portion of the purchase price for the Company’s proposed acquisition of certain oil and gas assets from Bayswater Exploration and Production and certain of its affiliates (the “Bayswater Acquisition”). The Company intends to use the remaining net proceeds from the offering, including any net proceeds from the underwriters’ exercise of their option to purchase additional shares, for other general corporate purposes, which may include advancing the Company’s development and drilling program, repayment of existing indebtedness or financing other potential acquisition opportunities.

    Citigroup is acting as lead book-running manager for the offering. KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., MUFG Securities Americas Inc., Piper Sandler & Co., and Truist Securities, Inc. are also acting as joint book-running managers. Fifth Third Securities, Inc., Clear Street LLC, First Citizens Capital Securities, LLC, Johnson Rice & Company L.L.C., and Pickering Energy Partners are acting as co-managers.

    The offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3, including a base prospectus, which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and became effective on December 20, 2024. The preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and a final prospectus supplement, when available, will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and the final prospectus supplement, when available, may be obtained by sending a request to: Citigroup, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, New York 11717, telephone: 1-800-831-9146; KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., Attn: Equity Syndicate, 127 Public Square, 7th Floor, Cleveland, OH 44114, telephone: 1-800-859-1783; MUFG Securities Americas Inc., Attention: Equity Capital Markets, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, New York 10020, telephone: 212-405-7440, email: ECM@us.sc.mufg.jp; Piper Sandler & Co., Attention: Prospectus Department, 800 Nicollet Mall, J12S03, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402, by telephone at (800) 747-3924, or by email at prospectus@psc.com; Truist Securities, Inc., Attention: Prospectus Department, 3333 Peachtree Road NE, 9th floor, Atlanta, Georgia 30326, by telephone at (800) 685-4786, or by email at TruistSecurities.prospectus@Truist.com; or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

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

    About Prairie

    Houston-based Prairie Operating Co. is an independent oil and gas company focused on the acquisition and development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. The Company’s assets and operations are concentrated in the oil and liquids-rich regions of the Denver-Julesburg (DJ) Basin, with a primary focus on the Niobrara and Codell formations. The Company is committed to the responsible development of its oil and natural gas resources and is focused on maximizing returns through consistent growth, capital discipline, and sustainable cash flow generation.

    For more information, visit www.prairieopco.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release, regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated reserves, revenues and income or losses, projected costs and capital expenditures, prospects, acquisition opportunities, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release and the documents incorporated by reference herein, the words “plan,” “may,” “endeavor,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “forecast” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are (or were when made) based on current expectations and assumptions about future events and are (or were when made) based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, for example, statements about: the Company’s ability to successfully finance and consummate the Bayswater Acquisition, including the risk that the Company may fail to complete the Bayswater Acquisition on the terms and timing currently contemplated or at all, fail to enter into the New Credit Agreement on expected terms and/or fail to realize the expected benefits of the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s financial performance following the Bayswater Acquisition; this public offering, the timing thereof and the use of proceeds therefrom; estimates of the Company’s oil, natural gas and NGLs reserves; drilling prospects, inventories, projects and programs; estimates of future oil and natural gas production from our oil and gas assets, including estimates of any increases or decreases in production; the availability and adequacy of cash flow to meet the Company’s requirements; financial strategy, liquidity and capital required for the Company’s development program and other capital expenditures; the availability of additional capital for the Company’s operations; changes in the Company’s business and growth strategy, including the Company’s ability to successfully operate and expand its business; the Company’s integration of acquisitions, including the Bayswater Acquisition; changes or developments in applicable laws or regulations, including with respect to taxes; and actions taken or not taken by third-parties, including the Company’s contractors and competitors. When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the prospectus supplement, the accompanying base prospectus, the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as amended, our Quarterly Reports on Forms 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our other filings with the SEC, all of which can be accessed on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company’s control. These risks include, but are not limited to: the Company’s and Bayswater’s ability to satisfy the conditions of the Bayswater Acquisition in a timely manner or at all, including the Company’s ability to successfully finance the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Bayswater Acquisition, which may be affected by, among other things, competition and the Company’s ability to grow and manage growth profitably following the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to fund its development and drilling plan; the possibility that the Company may be unable to achieve expected cash flow, production levels, drilling, operational efficiencies and other anticipated benefits within the expected time-frames, or at all, and to successfully integrate the Bayswater Assets, and/or any other assets or operations the Company has acquired or may acquire in the future with those of the Company; the Company’s integration of the Bayswater Assets with those of the Company may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; the Company’s operating costs, customer loss and business disruption may be greater than expected following the Bayswater Acquisition or the public announcements of the Bayswater Acquisition; the Company’s ability to grow its operations, and to fund such operations, on the anticipated timeline or at all; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of oil, natural gas and NGL reserves and projecting future rates of production and the amount and timing of development expenditures; commodity price and cost volatility and inflation; the ability to maintain necessary permits and approvals to develop our assets; safety and environmental requirements that may subject the Company to unanticipated liabilities; changes in the regulations governing our business and operations, including the businesses and operations we have acquired or may acquire in the future, such as, but not limited to, those pertaining to the environment, our drilling program and the pricing of our future production; the Company’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, the Company’s officers, key employees or directors; general economic, financial, legal, political, and business conditions and changes in domestic and foreign markets; the risks related to the growth of the Company’s business; the effects of competition on the Company’s future business; and other factors detailed under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Prospectus Supplement and, accompanying base prospectus related to the offering and the periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Reserve engineering is a process of estimating underground accumulations of oil, natural gas and NGLs that cannot be measured in an exact way. The accuracy of any reserve estimate depends on the quality of available data, the interpretation of such data and price and cost assumptions made by reserve engineers. In addition, the results of drilling, testing and production activities may justify upward or downward revisions of estimates that were made previously. If significant, such revisions would change the schedule of any further production and development drilling. Accordingly, reserve estimates may differ significantly from the quantities of oil, natural gas and NGLs that are ultimately recovered. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described herein or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results and plans could differ materially from those express in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, in this press release, are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that the Company or persons acting on the Company’s behalf may issue.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Wobbe Ploegsma
    info@prairieopco.com
    832.274.3449

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Trump’s sanctions on ICC are ‘vindictive and aggressive’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    ‘The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity’ – Agnès Callamard

    In response to the executive order announced by President Trump imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “This reckless action sends the message that Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice. It suggests that President Trump endorses the Israeli government’s crimes and is embracing impunity. 

    “This executive order is vindictive. It is aggressive. It is a brutal step that seeks to undermine and destroy what the international community has painstakingly constructed over decades, if not centuries: global rules that are applicable to everyone and aim to deliver justice for all. The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity. 

    “The United States is ready to punish an institution that ensures the individuals most responsible for committing atrocities cannot escape justice. No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.

    “At an historic moment when we are witnessing a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and the global rule of law coming under threat from multiple fronts, institutions like the Court are needed more than ever to advance human rights protections, prevent future atrocities and secure justice for victims.

    “This attack against the ICC seeks to damage the Court’s independent pursuit of international justice. The sanctions issued will harm accountability, a crucial ingredient to global and long-term security. They will embolden perpetrators, present and future. They will negatively impact the interests of all victims globally and those who look to the Court for justice in all the countries where it’s conducting investigations, including Darfur, Libya, the Philippines, Palestine, Ukraine and Venezuela.

    “The ICC performs a vital role by investigating crimes under international law, often committed by the most powerful individuals, in situations where – without its involvement – the perpetrators would benefit from perpetual impunity.

    “The sanctions are also an affront to 125 member states who have collectively resolved that the Court must be able to effectively pursue justice – which means it must be able to undertake independent judicial functions, such as issuing arrest warrants, for example, against Benjamin Netanyahu or Vladimir Putin. 

    “Governments around the world and regional organisations must do everything in their power to mitigate and block the effect of President Trump’s sanctions. Through collective and concerted actions, ICC member states can protect the Court and its staff. Urgent action is needed, like never before.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: USA: Sanctions against International Criminal Court betray international justice system 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to the executive order announced today by President Trump imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “This reckless action sends the message that Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice. It suggests that President Trump endorses the Israeli government’s crimes and is embracing impunity.  

    “Today’s executive order is vindictive. It is aggressive. It is a brutal step that seeks to undermine and destroy what the international community has painstakingly constructed over decades, if not centuries: global rules that are applicable to everyone and aim to deliver justice for all. The sanctions constitute another betrayal of our common humanity.  

    “The United States is ready to punish an institution that ensures the individuals most responsible for committing atrocities cannot escape justice. No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.”

    “At an historic moment when we are witnessing a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and the global rule of law coming under threat from multiple fronts, institutions like the Court are needed more than ever to advance human rights protections, prevent future atrocities and secure justice for victims.

    No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in their attempts to escape individual accountability, least of all with the assistance of the US government based on President Trump’s political alliances.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    “This attack against the ICC seeks to damage the Court’s independent pursuit of international justice. The sanctions issued will harm accountability, a crucial ingredient to global and long-term security. They will embolden perpetrators, present and future. They will negatively impact the interests of all victims globally and those who look to the Court for justice in all the countries where it’s conducting investigations, including Darfur, Libya, the Philippines, Palestine, Ukraine and Venezuela.

    “The ICC performs a vital role by investigating crimes under international law, often committed by the most powerful individuals, in situations where – without its involvement – the perpetrators would benefit from perpetual impunity. The sanctions are also an affront to 125 member states who have collectively resolved that the Court must be able to effectively pursue justice – which means it must be able to undertake independent judicial functions, such as issuing arrest warrants, for example, against Benjamin Netanyahu or Vladimir Putin.  

    “Governments around the world and regional organizations must do everything in their power to mitigate and block the effect of President Trump’s sanctions. Through collective and concerted actions, ICC member states can protect the Court and its staff. Urgent action is needed, like never before.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Hyunseon Lee, Professorial Research Associate at Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures, and Centre for Creative Industries, Media and Screen Studies, SOAS, University of London

    Jeju inhabitants awaiting execution in late 1948 wikimedia, CC BY

    We Do Not Part is the latest book by Korean writer Han Kang, who won the Nobel prize in literature in 2024. The book begins in fragments that ebb between dark dream, waking nightmare and memories of how the book’s protagonist Kyungha got to this terrible way of living.

    Even for those who do not know much about Korean history, it is fairly clear that something awful has changed Kyungha. When she closes her eyes images of women clutching children, black tree trunks jutting like limbs from the earth and so much snow flood into her mind.

    This experience has sapped all life from Kyungha and she is, when we meet her, simply waiting for death. That is, until her friend Inseon injures herself and asks Kyungha to travel to her home on the island of Jeju, south of mainland Korea, to look after her beloved pet bird, Ama.

    When she gets there, a violent snowstorm leaves her trapped in Inseon’s compound. Here, she stumbles upon the investigation into her friend’s family and its connection to the Jeju 4.3 massacre in the 1940s.

    In the early morning of April 3 1948, 359 members of the South Korean Workers’ Party and partisans carried out attacks on 12 police facilities and the homes of conservative leaders. They killed 12 people, including family members, before fleeing to the Halla Mountains. The term “Jeju 4.3” came from the date the incident is considered by many to have begun, even though it officially lasted from March 1 1947 to September 21 1954.

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    What followed was a massive counterinsurgency operation by the South Korean government (with US backing) to exterminate communists and their sympathisers on the island. While officially numbers are still not known, it is believed that more than 30,000 Jeju people (10% of Jeju’s population at the time), including women and children, were killed.

    In We Do Not Part, we find out that Inseon’s mother, who died several years earlier, was a survivor of Jeju 4.3. Han Kang’s impressive approach to presenting the memories of Jeju 4.3 is multi-layered, subtle, fragmentary and contains a high degree of sensitivity as she recounts the massacre from the perspective of Inseon and her mother.

    Inseon is part of a what the Holocaust and cultural memory scholar Marianne Hirsch termed the “postmemory generation”. She is the child of a survivor who has inherited a “catastrophic [history] not through direct recollection but through haunting postmemories”.

    Inseon has absorbed the stories of her mother as her own. For instance, in one of the first extracts of Inseon’s memories she speaks of her mother and her sister finding their family dead in the snow.

    I remember her. The girl roaming the schoolyard, searching well into the evening. A child of 13 clinging to her 17-year-old sister as if her sister wasn’t a child herself, hanging on by a sleeve, too scared to see but unable to look away.

    However, Inseon doesn’t remember. She wasn’t there. But, as Hirsch writes of the postmemory generation, such distinct “memories” are mediated by “imaginative investments, projections and creations”.

    Han Kang’s skilful use of Inseon’s postmemory carefully gives voice to the feelings of Inseon’s mother. Han Kang does this through presenting these in fragments that recount first Inseon’s investigative work, and then Inseon’s mother’s research into the family’s losses. These are inserted in passages of recounted conversations, writing and descriptions of photographs and films.

    These pieces are scattered amid Kyungha’s time in the dreamlike and snow buried compound. The intermingling of past and present, dream and reality, art and life creates an almost hallucinatory quality where the edges blur as Kyungha inherits Inseon’s memories – which she inherited from her mother. In each transference, these stories become new.

    This retelling and remembering is important. The 1947 to 1949 uprising is considered by some historians, particularly the American historian Bruce Cummings, as the precursor to the Korean civil war, which left the country divided into North and South. However, for almost 50 years, the very existence of the massacre was officially censored and repressed.

    It was only in 2000s that the incident was recognised and the National Committee for Investigation of the Truth about the Jeju 4.3 Incident was established. In 2003, then-president Roh Moo-hyun apologised for the deaths of the innocents and the state repression against the survivors, who had been severely stigmatised as enemies of the state and branded “red insurgents” (pokto).

    Hang Kang’s novel makes it clear that Jeju 4.3 is not simply an issue of the past, but one of the present that persists and lives on in the lives of all who it has touched. Inseon was born the only daughter of a mother who witnessed the massacre and a father who survived, not only on Jeju, but also afterwards on the Korean mainland. This parentage means she cannot forget nor repress it, it constantly intrudes into her life.

    Han Kang urges the public to bear witness, the reader does so through Kyungha. As she delves into the history through memory and official documents, we too do the same. In this act of reading we remember and name the tragedy.

    Ultimately, this becomes an act of commemoration of the victims whose spirits still seem unable to leave this life as they remain on the island in the form of wind, birds, trees, snow and sea. We see, as Kyungha sees, Jeju 4.3 has left too much pain and too many scars on the souls for them to forget and leave.

    We Do Not Part is captivating, moving and from sentence to sentence Han Kang’s sensitive approach to Jeju 4.3 makes us reflect on why we still need to remember and commemorate this tragedy and the many others that still go ignored.

    Hyunseon Lee 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. We Do Not Part by Han Kang: a haunting story which forces the reader to remember a horrific incident in Korea’s past that it tried to erase – https://theconversation.com/we-do-not-part-by-han-kang-a-haunting-story-which-forces-the-reader-to-remember-a-horrific-incident-in-koreas-past-that-it-tried-to-erase-249200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New deal for agriculture

    Source: Scottish Government

    Flexible grants to drive efficiency, support nature and climate friendly farming.

    Farmers and crofters will benefit from £20 million additional capital support this year and £26 million next year, First Minister John Swinney has confirmed.

    Speaking at the NFU Scotland annual conference he outlined how at least £14 million of the funding will deliver a Future Farming Investment Scheme, providing flexible capital grants.

    Other significant announcements included:

    • an additional £7 million in 2025 through the Agri-environment climate scheme (AECS) to undertake activities supporting nature, climate and biodiversity alongside food production
    • hosting a new entrant’s summit bringing key individuals together to find solutions to attract more people into farming
    • a three year programme of national land Lidar laser scanning to accurately map terrain
    • committing £75,000 to RSABI (founded as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution) to provide mental health support for farmers and crofters
    • further details of how the routemap to implementing a new framework of agriculture support will work
    • a commitment to delivering ultra-high frequency (UHF) electronic identification for cows to improve traceability

    Mr Swinney said:

    “I want to see a farming sector that is equipped and ready to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future. That is why at least £14 million will be delivered through our Future Farming Investment Scheme.

    “We will work at pace to consult with industry to ensure the capital grant scheme guidance and priorities work for a range of businesses and that the application processes are simple and straightforward. They will not be prescriptive, as long as the funds are used to drive efficiency or support nature and climate friendly farming your bid will be valid and could receive support.

    “A flourishing Scotland means a flourishing rural Scotland. And for rural Scotland to thrive, farming must thrive. I look forward to working with the industry – building on the constructive working relationships we have with NFU Scotland to show that this government is committed to continuing to support our nation’s farmers.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Glow up for old railway line in Preston thanks to community groups

    Source: City of Preston

    Network Rail is working with community groups to clean up an area in Preston that has been blighted by fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

    It comes after several tonnes of household rubbish, a selection of old sofas, mattresses and bikes have been illegally deposited along the disused Preston to Longridge railway line near Skeffington Road in Deepdale.

    The area was once a section of railway but has been used as a dumping ground by some local residents and businesses, prompting anger and frustration from the community. But now, Network Rail is working with community groups to remove rubbish and prune back trees and brambles so it can be a more positive space.

    The work is expected to take up to a year to complete and will focus on removing waste, pruning back trees and other vegetation and working with the community to use the area in a more respectful way.

    Nationally, millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is spent clearing up after criminal dumpers each year. And Network Rail is warning those found to be at fault could face criminal prosecutions.

    Ian Croucher, Lancashire maintenance protection coordinator from Network Rail, said:

    It has been heartbreaking to see this old railway line being targeted by waste criminals. But now, thanks to the local community we have a plan to clear up the site so it can be used in a more positive way. Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is a health and environmental hazard. Anyone who sees fly-tipping happening on the railway should immediately contact the British Transport Police.

    Councillor Freddie Bailey, Cabinet member for environment and community safety at Preston City Council, said:

    It’s sad and disappointing that we find situations at some locations where people feel it’s okay to just dump their waste. We’re grateful for the work of community groups in helping to keep Preston tidy, and the work taking place at this site is already making an impact.

    Unsightly waste like this near Skeffington Road is unpleasant for people and a hazard for wildlife. Fly-tipping and littering are ultimately criminal and anti-social acts.

    Dumping rubbish anywhere creates an eyesore and the clear-up costs could be better spent elsewhere, either for private landowners or taxpayers if it’s the Council footing the bill.

    We continue to work with Network Rail combining our many resources to prevent fly tipping and to ensure the area is nicer for everyone.

    Visit Network Rail – Litter and Fly-tipping for more information on how we’re working to keep the railway and our surrounding land tidy.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A scheduled weekly meeting of the Government Commission was held to coordinate work to eliminate the consequences of the emergency caused by the sinking of tankers in the Kerch Strait

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev held a meeting of the government commission to coordinate work to eliminate the consequences of the emergency caused by the sinking of tankers in the Kerch Strait in December 2024. All work in the emergency zone continues in accordance with the previously approved interdepartmental plan.

    After the fuel oil was completely pumped out of the stern of the Volgoneft-239 tanker, work is underway to dismantle the external and internal structures of the vessel. As of today, about 10% of the total tonnage of the stern has been dismantled. The work is being carried out in accordance with the schedule and should be completed by March 31 of this year.

    Work on land continues. The installation of a protective embankment continues on the beach area of Anapa and Temryuk district; more than 30 km of the embankment have been laid, of which more than 15 km are covered with nets. The main function of this embankment is to protect the coast from oil pollution as a result of possible emissions from the water area, including in adverse weather conditions.

    Data from regular measurements of air, drinking water, and bioresource samples remain normal.

    “Active work to eliminate the consequences of the emergency situation continues. All planned and approved plans are being implemented in full. Waste and contaminated soil are being disposed of, and the hull structures of the Volgoneft-239 tanker are being dismantled. We continue to evaluate options for raising the sunken fragments of the Volgoneft-239 and the Volgoneft-212 tanker, taking into account the assessment of all necessary environmental safety requirements. We will make a decision on this issue in February,” noted Vitaly Savelyev.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: How can there be a discussion of regionalism v/s nationalism in this country? – VP

    Source: Government of India

    How can there be a discussion of regionalism v/s nationalism in this country? – VP

    In recent years, money has been used, and access to the judiciary has been weaponized to promote anti-national sentiments – VP

    Today, we need to preserve our cultural philosophy; we are trying to cut the branch on which we are thriving – VP

    Vice-President expresses concern over attempts to influence the electoral process within the country

    Vice-President inaugurates the third edition of the Karnataka Vaibhava Literature and Cultural Festival

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today warned against divisive forces, stating, “I have no hesitation in saying that the challenges we are facing are more serious than even climate change… [Some] people, in the style they are adopting, are creating divisions in a despicable manner. There are many bases for division—caste, regionalism. I don’t understand how there can be a debate about regionalism versus nationalism in this country. How absurd and baseless it is, but when you look at its roots, you will find the hand of anti-national forces.”

    In his address at the inauguration of the third edition of the Karnataka Vaibhava Literature and Cultural Festival at Ranebennur in Karnataka, the Vice President said, “These forces [divisive forces] work in different ways. They have adopted new paths, and on many issues, you will see they turn to the judiciary. I am concerned because our Constitution has given every individual the right in the judicial system, and what is the right? That they can seek the shelter of the court. But in recent years, money has been used to fuel anti-national sentiments, and access to the judiciary has been weaponized in a way that is not happening in any other country.”

    He further stated, “The forces challenging the nation, trying to create a clash between nationalism and regionalism, must receive a strong response. They want to shake our cultural heritage.”

    Emphasizing on the need to preserve the nation’s cultural philosophy, the Vice President said, “On this day, when I look to one side, I see India’s progress through the eyes of the world, through the eyes of the people living within the nation. They are like the feathers of the peacock dancing in the rain… But when I look at the peacock’s feet, I get worried, forced to reflect, and then I feel the need for our cultural philosophy. We are trying to cut the branch on which we are thriving, on which we are sitting.”

    Expressing deep concern over attempts to influence the electoral process within the country, the Vice President said, “In the country with the oldest democracy, the strongest democracy, the most progressive democracy, the most vibrant democracy, and constitutionally the only country in the world with a democratic system at every level—village, city, state, or nation; there is an attempt to influence our electoral process in a manner it should not be influenced. This attempt is being made by those who should not even be a part of it, but they are involved. We must, collectively, with strong resolve, develop a mindset.”

    Referring to India’s economic progress, he said, “The world’s leading institutions like IMF, World Bank, and others say that if there is any shining star in the world where investment can be made, where opportunities are available, where one can showcase their talent, it is India. India is considered a global favorite destination for investment and opportunities.”

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Industry Quality Assurance Conclave held in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Industry Quality Assurance Conclave held in New Delhi

    Innovation, collaboration, quality assurance & mindset will play a pivotal role in making India a global leader in defence exports: Secretary (DP)

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Industry Quality Assurance (QA) Conclave, on the theme ‘Collaborative Quality Assurance: Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Defence’, was held in New Delhi on February 07, 2025. Delivering the keynote address, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar highlighted India’s strides in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He underscored the pivotal role of innovation, collaboration, and quality assurance and mindset in making India a global leader in defence exports. The conclave aimed to foster deeper collaborations and innovative strategies between the defence sector & shipbuilding industries to promote indigenisation and excellence in defence manufacturing.

    Chief of Materiel, Indian Navy Vice Admiral Kiran Deshmukh described technical innovation, collaboration, and rigorous testing as key pillars for a robust and quality-driven defence ecosystem. Director General of Quality Assurance Shri N Manoharan highlighted the importance of a strong QA-industry partnership and the need for standardised, innovative, and risk-managed processes to enhance the quality of defence manufacturing. Additional Director General (QA) Warship Production Rear Admiral Iqbal Singh Grewal highlighted the critical role of emerging technologies and streamlined QA processes in achieving excellence in defence manufacturing.

    Discussions at the conclave explored innovative quality assurance practices, including proactive quality control strategies and enhanced collaboration frameworks between defence organizations and the shipbuilding industry. Efficient type testing and certification methods aligned with global best practices to reduce project delays and failures were also presented.

    Participants delved into strategies for balancing QA with project timelines and integrating delay mitigation strategies to ensure timely project completion without compromising quality. The conclave further emphasised the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and their impact on QA processes.

    Organised by the Directorate General of Quality Assurance, the event witnessed participation from senior government officials, industry leaders, naval representatives, and quality assurance professionals. The conclave provided a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative brainstorming, and forging meaningful connections among stakeholders, including shipyard executives, QA professionals, policymakers and researchers.

    ****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2100664) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGETS UNDER PMAY-G

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:28PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to achieve the objective of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016 to provide assistance to 2.95 crore eligible rural households with basic amenities by March 2024. As on 31.03.2024, all houses have been sanctioned to the eligible beneficiaries by the states/UTs.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29” for construction of additional 2 crore houses. Ministry has allocated targets of 84,37,139 houses during 2024-25 to the 18 States viz. Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

    As on 02.02.2025, a cumulative target of 3.79 crore houses have been allotted to States/UTs out of which 3.34 crore houses have been sanctioned and 2.69 crore houses have been completed.

    The main challenges in implementation of PMAY-G include the delay in release of Central & State Share from State Treasury to State Nodal Account of PMAY-G, cases of unwillingness of beneficiaries, permanent migration, disputed succession of deceased beneficiaries, delay in allotment of land to landless beneficiaries by the States/UTs and at times General/Assembly/Panchayat elections, unavailability of building materials.

    The Ministry is taking the following initiatives to ensure monitoring and timely completion of the houses under PMAY-G:

    1. Timely allocation of targets to the States/UTs.follow-up with States / UTs on providing land to landless beneficiaries of PMAY-G
    2. Issue based monitoring of house sanction and completion through workflow enabled transaction-based MIS-AwaasSoft, analytic Dashboard and using other IT tools & latest AI/ML technologies.
    3. Regular review by Minister/ Secretary/ Deputy Director General.
    4. Separate review of States with high targets.
    5. Timely release of funds to the States/UTs and follow up with the States/UTs for onward release to beneficiaries.
    6. Training to Rural Masons under Rural Mason Training (RMT) programme to make available pool of trained rural masons for faster construction of quality houses.
    7. Using newly launched IT tools including Awaas+ 2024 mobile app which ensures transparent beneficiary identification with Aadhaar-based face authentication.
    8. Creation of a dedicated performance index dashboard to create healthy competition and motivation among the States/UTs for achieving the set targets.

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

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     MG/KSR

    (Release ID: 2100662) Visitor Counter : 57

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRADHAN MANTRI AWAS YOJANA-GRAMIN (PMAY-G)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:25PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to achieve the objective of “Housing for All” in rural areas, the Ministry of Rural Development is implementing Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016 to provide assistance to 4.95 crore eligible rural households with basic amenities by March 2029. As on 02.02.2025, a cumulative target of 3.79 crore houses have been allotted to States/UTs out of which 3.34 crore houses have been sanctioned and 2.69 crore houses have been completed.

    The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29” for construction of additional 2 crore houses. Ministry has allocated targets of 84,37,139 houses during 2024-25 to the 18 States viz. Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Out of 84,37,139 houses, target of 46,56,765 houses has been allocated in the months of December,2024 and January 2025 to the 9 States viz Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Out of targets 84,37,139 houses,39,82,764 houses has been sanctioned as on 02.02.2025.

    The PMAY-G scheme has had a significant positive impact on rural India by improving access to affordable housing and had played a key role in transforming the rural housing landscape, reducing poverty, improving living standards, and fostering social and economic development in rural India. The scheme of PMAY-G has also been evaluated through various Independent institutes such as National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, NITI Aayog, National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, etc..

    PMAY-G is monitored very closely at all levels. There is a special emphasis on quality and timely completion of construction. The details of the monitoring mechanism adopted under the scheme are as follows:-

    1. All data regarding beneficiaries, the progress of construction, and the release of funds, including photographs and inspection reports are placed on AwaasSoft and this forms the basis for follow-up of both the financial and physical progress of the scheme.
    2. The physical progress of construction of a PMAY-G house is monitored through the geo-tagged, time and date-stamped photographs to be uploaded at every stage of construction and upon completion.
    3. National-level Monitors and Officers of the Ministry also visit PMAY-G houses during the field visits to assess the progress, the procedure followed for the selection of beneficiaries, etc.
    4. The Project Management Unit (PMU) at the State level is to undertake the tasks of implementation, monitoring, and quality supervision. Officers at the Block level are to inspect, as far as possible, 10% of the houses at each stage of construction; district-level officers are to inspect 2% of the houses at each stage of construction. Every house sanctioned under PMAY-G is to be tagged a village-level functionary whose task is to follow-up with the beneficiary and facilitate construction.
    5. Social Audit is to be conducted in every Gram Panchayat at least once a year.
    6. Payment of assistance to the beneficiaries, who have been sanctioned houses, is to be made directly into their bank/ post office accounts through the AwaasSoft- PFMS platform electronically. This ensure increased transparency by enabling real-time monitoring of funds disbursed to beneficiaries.
    7. To prevent misuse of funds under PMAY-G, the assistance is provided to the beneficiaries directly into their bank account/ post office account through Aadhaar Payment bridge System/Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in construction stage linked installments. At every fixed stage of construction of the house, the geo-referenced and time-stamped photograph of the house along with beneficiary is also captured.
    8. The progress of different parameters for implementing the scheme is monitored through the Performance Index Dashboard which is helping in planning appropriate intervention in required areas.
    9. There is also a procedure of lodging of complaints on the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) portal (pgportal.gov.in) by the public. The complaints received in the Ministry of Rural Development through CPGRAMS or otherwise are forwarded to the respective State Governments/ Union Territory (Union Territory) Administrations for redressal of the grievance. Apart from this, there are mechanisms like IGRS and CM helpline at the State Level for grievance redressal. The State-wise details of complaints related to misuse of funds are given at Annexure.

    Annexure

    State-wise details of complaints related to irregularities and misappropriation of fund under PMAY-G from 01.04.2016 to 30.01.2025

    State Name

    Brought Forward

    Received During

    Pending During

    Disposed During

    Andaman And Nicobar Islands

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Andhra Pradesh

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Assam

    0

    274

    0

    274

    Bihar

    0

    451

    2

    449

    Chandigarh

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Chhattisgarh

    0

    28

    1

    27

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Daman and Diu

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Delhi

    0

    8

    0

    8

    Goa

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Gujarat

    0

    8

    0

    8

    Haryana

    0

    7

    1

    6

    Himachal Pradesh

    0

    5

    2

    3

    Jammu And Kashmir

    0

    10

    0

    10

    Jharkhand

    0

    68

    2

    66

    Karnataka

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Kerala

    0

    2

    0

    2

    Ladakh

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Madhya Pradesh

    0

    327

    2

    325

    Maharashtra

    0

    74

    1

    73

    Manipur

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Meghalaya

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Odisha

    0

    79

    0

    79

    Puducherry

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Punjab

    0

    10

    0

    10

    Rajasthan

    0

    55

    0

    55

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Tamil nadu

    0

    84

    0

    84

    Telangana

    0

    3

    0

    3

    Tripura

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Uttar Pradesh

    0

    824

    3

    821

    Uttarakhand

    0

    16

    0

    16

    West Bengal

    0

    59

    0

    59

    Total

    0

    2401

    14

    2387

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile

    In a first of its kind approach, Ministry has extended the services of childcare through Anganwadi cum Crèche

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Government’s sustained initiatives on education, skilling and employment of women have resulted in increased opportunities for their employment, and more and more women are now in gainful employment, working within or outside their homes. Growing industrialization and urbanisation have also led to increased migration into the cities. Past few decades have shown a rapid increase in nuclear families. Thus, the children of such working women, who were earlier getting support from joint families while they were at work, are now in need of day care services which have to provide quality care and protection for the children. Lack of proper day-care services is, often, a deterrent for women to go out and work. Hence, there is an urgent need for improved quality and reach of day care services/crèches for working women amongst all socioeconomic groups both in the organized and unorganized sectors.

    To address these difficulties faced by the working mothers in giving due child care and protection to their children, day-care crèche facilities are being provided through Palna Scheme. Crèche services formalise the child care responsibilities hitherto considered as part of domestic work. Formalization of care work supports the “decent work campaign” to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth. This will also enable more mothers, who will be free from unpaid child-care responsibilities, to take up gainful employment.

    Anganwadi centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions dedicated to providing essential care and support to children ensuring delivery of care facilities till the last mile. In a first of its kind approach, Ministry has extended the services of childcare through Anganwadi cum Crèche (AWCC). This will ensure whole day childcare support ensuring their well-being in a safe and secure environment. Anganwadi cum Crèche initiative aims to increase ‘women work force participation’ in the economy. The objective of Palna Scheme is to provide quality crèche facility in safe and secure environment for children (from ages 6 months – 6 years), nutritional support, health and cognitive development of children, growth monitoring & immunization. Crèche facilities under Palna are provided to all mothers, irrespective of their employment status.

    Palna is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme ensuring the participation of State/ UT government to ensure better day-to-day monitoring and proper implementation of scheme, and is implemented with a funding ratio of 60:40 between Centre and State Governments and UTs with legislature except North East & Special Category States where ratio is 90:10. For UTs without legislature, 100% funding is provided by the central government.

    Proposals for establishment and operation of AWCCs are received from the respective State Governments/UT Administrations. As on date, a total of 11,395 AWCCs have been approved as per proposals received from various States/UTs.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has undertaken cohesive convergent efforts for protection and empowerment of the girl child

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has undertaken cohesive convergent efforts for protection and empowerment of the girl child

    The scheme is 100% funded by Central Government and has been expanded to cover all districts of the country

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 4:01PM by PIB Delhi

    BBBP scheme launched on 22nd  January, 2015 aims to prevent Gender based sex selection and to ensure survival and protection of girl child and also to ensure education of the girl child. The scheme is 100% funded by the Central Government and has been expanded to cover all the districts of the country. The government of West Bengal is not implementing the Scheme.

    The objectives of the Scheme are as follows:

    • Improvement in the Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) by 2 points every year.
    • Improvement in the percentage of institutional deliveries to the rate of 95% or above.
    • 1% increase in 1st Trimester Anti-Natal Care (ANC) Registration per year.
    • 1% increase in enrolment at secondary education level and skilling of girls/women per year.
    • To check dropout rate among girls at secondary and higher secondary levels.
    • Raising awareness about safe Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM).

    The latest reports from Health Management Information System (HMIS) of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) reveal that Sex ratio at Birth (SRB) is showing improving trends and has increased from 918 to 930 at national level during 2014-15 to 2023-24 with a net positive change of 12 points.

    Further, Gross Enrolment ratio of girls in the schools at secondary level has increased from 75.51 percentage in 2014-15 to 78 percentage in 2023-24 [as per Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE)-data, Ministry of Education].

    As per reports taken from Health Management Information System (HMIS) of Ministry of Health & Family welfare (MoHFW), percentage of institutional deliveries has increased from 61% in 2014-15 to 97.3% in 2023-24.

    Similarly, as per the HMIS data, Percentage of 1st trimester Ante-natal care registration have increased from 61% in 2014-15 to 80.5% in 2023-24.

    Ministry has developed an operational manual which inter-alia includes a thematic calendar for suggested convergence activities at district level with month wise specific themes for holistic development of the Girl Child and to ensure year-round engagement of girls, their families and communities.

    Under the Mission Shakti guidelines the allocation of funds to the districts is based on their differential SRB status. Keeping in mind the differential SRB status of districts as on 2020-21 (as per HMIS data of MoH&FW), three brackets for release of funds under BBBP component have been prescribed. The districts with SRB less than or equal to 918 is being provided assistance of Rs.40 Lakh per year, districts having SRB from 919 to 952 is being provided assistance of Rs. 30 lakh per year and districts having SRB more than 952 is being provided assistance of Rs. 20 lakh per year. Further, any new district formed in the coming years will also be kept under Rs. 30 lakh bracket.

    Over the past years, BBBP has successfully captured the national consciousness, mobilizing communities, government agencies, civil society, and media to work together in fostering a supportive and equitable environment for girls. Through focused interventions like awareness drives on PCPNDT act, opening of Sukanya Samriddhi Accounts for the girl child and provision of maternity benefit under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) seek to promote positive behavioral change towards girl child. They have achieved significant progress in improving the Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB), raising awareness about the importance of girl education, and ensuring better healthcare for girls and women.

    Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has undertaken cohesive convergent efforts for protection and empowerment of the girl child and has become a cornerstone for all schemes/programmes and policies at all levels for the safety, security and empowerment of the girl child through life cycle continuum.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case involving ocean-going vessel with goods worth about $30 million seized (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hong Kong Customs on January 23 detected a suspected case of using an ocean-going vessel to smuggle goods to Malaysia at the Kwai Chung Container Terminals. A batch of suspected smuggled electronic goods and parts with an estimated market value of about $30 million was seized.

         Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs discovered that criminals intended to use ocean-going vessels to smuggle goods and thus formulated strategies to combat related activities.

         On January 23, Customs officers identified an ocean-going vessel preparing to depart from Hong Kong for Malaysia for inspection and seized a batch of suspected smuggled electronic goods and parts, including computer main units, central processing units and printed circuit boards, inside a container that was declared as containing aluminium materials.

         An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

         Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to disrupt relevant crimes.

         Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

         Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Odisha implements “Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud), “Mo Gelha Jiya” (My Dear Daughter), “Kalpana Avijan”, “Swarna Kalika” and “Veerangana Yojana” under BBBP Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Odisha implements “Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud), “Mo Gelha Jiya” (My Dear Daughter), “Kalpana Avijan”, “Swarna Kalika” and “Veerangana Yojana” under BBBP Scheme

    Schemes launched for adolescent girls to prevent child marriages, to combat sex selection and female foeticide, and to boost Self-Esteem and Confidence

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 1:26PM by PIB Delhi

    “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” (BBBP) scheme was launched on 22nd January, 2015 to address the alarming gender imbalance and declining child sex ratio in India. Various initiatives have been implemented by Odisha Government to achieve the aims and goals of BBBP scheme. Major scheme of Odisha Governments under BBBP are “Nirbhaya Kadhi” (Fearless Bud), “Mo Gelha Jiya” (My Dear Daughter) in Ganjam , “Kalpana Avijan” in Dhenkanal, “Swarna Kalika” in Keonjhar and “Veerangana Yojana” in Deogarh district. These schemes are launched for adolescent girls to make them say “no to child marriage”, to combat sex selection and female foeticide, to continue their study with higher education and to boost Self-Esteem and Confidence through martial arts and self-defence techniques.

    1. “Nirbhay Kadhi” (The Fearless Bud) and “Mo Gelha Jhia” (My Lovely Daughter) of Ganjam district.

    “Nirbhay Kadhi (The Fearless Bud)”, l.e., the fearless adolescents is the special initiative of the Ganjam District Administration under BBBP to attain a just order fit for girl child. 183,933 adolescent girls of nearly 3,309 villages in Ganjam district in the age group of 11-18 years are covered under Nirbhaya Kadhi Scheme through awareness meetings.

    Another satellite programme of BBBP launched in the district is Mo Gelha Jhia (My Lovely Daughter) to combat sex selection and female foeticide in Ganjam district.

    As an outcome on 3rd January 2022, the administration declared Ganjam district as child marriage free. From 2019 to October 2024, almost 20 out of 953 child marriages were successfully prevented with the help of Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs), District Child Protection Units (DCPU), Child line and Police. Mostly 450,000 students from 3,614 government schools made a public declaration to say ‘No’ to child marriage. An award of 5,000 is given to those who provided first information about child marriage.

    On its 9th Foundation Day, the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) felicitated Collector, Ganjam district for taking proactive measures in prevention of child marriage and ensuring their rights.

     

    2. “Kalpana Avijan” scheme of Dhenkanal district

     

    This scheme was launched in Dhenkanal district of Odisha to track and monitor adolescent girls (10-19 years) and prevent child marriage through committees at various levels. This scheme prevented 343 child marriages between year 2019-2024.  About 1,13,515 adolescent girls identified and enrolled under the scheme. Around 4,45,000 students from 3,425 schools declared saying ‘NO’ to child marriage in the form of oath taking in a public place. Awareness programme were organized in 1,211 villages and strategic forums formed for engagement with youth and traditional leaders.

    On the Observation of International Girl Child Week 2024, felicitated by ADM, Dhenkanal for taking proactive measures in the prevention of child marriage and ensuring their rights of childcare and protection. Women Ambassador, WCD and Mission Shakti, Odisha felicitated District social welfare officer, Dhenkanal for taking proactive measures in the prevention of child marriage.  Ms Barsha Priyadarshini Sahoo of Odapada Block in Dhenkanal District awarded by the District Administration for raising voice against her early marriage and take the initiative to stop Child Marriage in their Block. The administration felicitated the Mountaineer who said no to her child marriage and was rescued by the District Administration with help from other functionaries was declared as the brand ambassador of Kalpana Abhiijan programme.

     

    3. “Swarna Kalika” scheme of Keonjhar district

     

    Through “Swarna Kalika” scheme awareness raised in villages on the harmful effects of child marriage. Over 2,000 stakeholders involved in the campaign Promoted ADVIKA app for awareness and intervention in Keonjhar district of Odisha.

    Successful district-level campaign involving adolescents and community leaders and strengthened community systems to protect children resulted in  reduction in child marriages by 50% by 2024 through awareness campaigns and community mobilization.

     

     

    4. “Veerangana” scheme of Deogarh district

    With the growing crimes against women and girls, it is important to know more than just the use of pepper spray, Different forms of Martial Arts can help a lot to defend girls in the time of need. Under BBBP scheme, the “VEERANGANA” is one such innovative and scaled-up approach of District Administration, Deogarh, with an objective to Boost Self-Esteem and Confidence in the adolescent girls through martial arts and self-defence techniques to keep protected girls from cheap comments, eve-teasing, harassment, being followed, groping, molestation, etc., facing in day-to-day affair through defending skills.

    A 30-Day Training Camp on Self-Defence and Martial Art under title VEERANGANA was organized in the Indoor Stadium; Deogarh with the technical support from State KUDO Association of Odisha, Cuttack, Apart from this, in the Training Camp Awareness and Counselling sessions by the experts was also conducted for Adolescent and their parents on legal rights and entitlements of Girls.

    More than 500 adolescents from various schools and colleges, in the age group of 14-19 years participated in the 30-day long training camp on Martial Art. About 300 guardians and teachers were also involved and imparted orientation on the legal rights and entitlements of the girts, As a way forward, 50 female master trainers as developed from this initiative, imparted short training session on the basics of martial arts in 300 schools of rural pockets extending the training to around 6,000 girl students.

    This Special Drive-VEERANGANA, won the appreciation of mass media and were institutionalized in many schools and colleges. The District Administration in the District Festival awarded VEERANGANA.

    VEERANGANA also begged the Prestigious SKOCH Award as the Semi Finalist, 50 female master trainers developed from this initiative, imparted short training session on the basics of martial arts in 300 schools of rural pockets extending the training to around 6,000 girl students.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ENHANCEMENT OF PRODUCTION OF STEEL UNDER PLI SCHEME

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 1:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for specialty steel was launched with the objective of attracting investment to boost the production of value-added steel in the country. PLI Scheme for specialty steel covers five broad product categories, namely Coated/Plated Steel Products, High Strength/Wear resistant Steel, Specialty Rails, Alloy Steel Products & Steel wires and Electrical Steel.

    Steel is a de-regulated sector and the government acts as a facilitator by creating a conducive policy environment for the development of steel sector. Government has taken the following measures to create a conducive policy environment for boosting the steel sector in the country:-

    1. Promotion of ‘Made in India’ steel and expanding investments:-

      1. Implementation of Domestically Manufactured Iron & Steel Products (DMI&SP) Policy for promoting ‘Made in India’ steel for Government procurement.

      2. Launch of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel to promote the manufacturing of ‘Specialty Steel’ within the country and reduce imports by attracting capital investments.

    1. Improve raw material availability and reduce raw material cost:-  

      1. Reduction in the Basic Customs Duty on Ferro Nickel, a raw material from 2.5 percent to zero, making it duty free.

      2. Extension of duty exemption on ferrous scrap upto 31st March 2026, in the Budget 2024.

    3. Import monitoring and quality control:-

      1. Revamping of Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) for effective monitoring of imports to provide granular details on imports to the domestic steel industry.

      2. Introduction of steel Quality Control Orders thereby banning sub-standard/ defective steel products in domestic market as well as imports to ensure the availability of quality steel to the industry, users and public at large.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NITI Aayog Hosts a Conclave on ‘Towards Viksit Bharat@2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law’

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 12:12PM by PIB Delhi

    NITI Aayog organized a conclave titled “Towards Viksit Bharat @ 2047: Strengthening Economy, National Security, Global Partnerships, and Law” on 6th February 2025 at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. The conclave saw participation of the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Members of NITI Aayog, the CEO of NITI Aayog, and keynote addresses from the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence. The event featured a lineup of panel discussions, keynotes, and deliberations, addressing critical themes essential to India’s development journey over the next two decades.

    A key highlight was the panel discussion on Economic Growth and Global Competitiveness by 2047, where distinguished experts from policy, academia, and industry examined India’s trajectory toward becoming a global economic powerhouse. Discussions emphasized the importance of regulatory reforms, innovation, infrastructure expansion, and India’s strategic role in global trade. Panelists stressed the need for increased private sector investment in research and development, fiscal consolidation, and integration into global supply chains. Sovereign credit ratings, energy security, and access to critical raw materials were identified as essential for long-term economic resilience. Education, skill development, and infrastructure investments were recognized as crucial for leveraging India’s demographic advantage. The consensus was that bold reforms, sustainable energy strategies, and a leadership role in global trade would be key to achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Another significant session, Strategic Partnerships for Development, focused on India’s diplomatic strategies in securing alliances with both the Global South and North. The discussion highlighted India’s economic resilience and its ability to navigate geopolitical trade disruptions. Experts underscored India’s leadership in renewable energy and stressed the importance of international cooperation in critical mineral resources. Trade liberalization, tariff reductions, and technological collaborations were explored as potential avenues to enhance India’s global trade standing. The session also emphasized the role of digital public infrastructure in fostering multilateral and bilateral partnerships, while legal reforms were acknowledged as pivotal in attracting investment and improving ease of doing business.

    In the session on Supply Chain Resilience and National Defence, panelists addressed practical solutions for mitigating supply chain disruptions and the role of public-private partnerships in national defence. Discussions highlighted the need for a robust logistical supply chain and its impact on both military and civilian operations. A key takeaway was the distinction between the Just in Time model in civil supply chains and the Just in Case model employed in military logistics. Experts deliberated on the role of legal frameworks in ensuring efficient procurement, stocking, and supply chain management. Proposals were made for enhancing procurement procedures, fostering public-private collaborations, and refining organizational structures to streamline defence supply chains. Cybersecurity emerged as a critical factor in safeguarding supply chain integrity and ensuring operational efficiency.

    The conclave provided valuable insights into India’s economic trajectory, strategic partnerships, and national security preparedness. The discussions reinforced the nation’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, paving the way for the vision of the Prime Minister of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Commission for Minorities Chairman Iqbal Singh Lalpura Engages with Minority Leaders and District Officials in Sambhal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 11:59AM by PIB Delhi

    The Hon’ble Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) Shri Iqbal Singh Lalpura visited Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh today. In Sambhal he visited Shahi Masjid that attracted attention after the November 24, 2024 incident of communal strife and inquired about the situation from locals.

    He met the people from minority communities and also held a significant meeting with prominent social, educational, and religious leaders of the notified minority communities that included Sikh, Jain, Christian, and Muslim. The discussions with the community leaders focused on key issues concerning religious harmony, minority welfare, education, socio-economic development, and community empowerment. The community leaders highlighted concerns and suggestions aimed at fostering religious harmony, inclusive growth and ensuring equitable opportunities for all sections of society and ensuring religious harmony for national unity and integrity.

    In addition, the Hon’ble Chairman held discussions with the District Magistrate (DM), Superintendent of Police (SP), Additional District Magistrate (ADM), and other concerned officials of Sambhal District. The meeting addressed various governance issues, implementation of welfare schemes, and measures to strengthen minority rights and security in the region. The Chairman emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the administration and community representatives to ensure inclusive development and social harmony.

    The Hon’ble Chairman reiterated the Commission’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by minority communities and assured proactive steps in collaboration with the State government authorities. The meeting underscored the importance of dialogue in strengthening social harmony and advancing the welfare of notified minorities. 

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Europe: Poland: EIB supports sustainable development of medium-sized cities

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • EIB loaned over PLN 1 bln (ca. €274 mln) to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów in 2024.
    • Talks with other medium-sized Polish cities are under way.
    • In Kielce, EIB financing will underpin investment in urban infrastructure, transport and environmental projects.
    • EU bank backed sustainable development of Polish cities and regions with €7.89 bln since 2022.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) approved PLN 224 million in financing to support sustainable urban development of Poland’s south-eastern city of Kielce. The first agreement signed with the city under the framework loan covers PLN 112 million and will underpin investment in urban infrastructure and transport, as well as environmental and climate policies.

    “Promoting dynamic development of medium-sized cities is one of the EIB’s key lines of action. As the EU’s climate bank, the EIB finances upgrades to and expansion of top-notch urban infrastructure, as well as climate and environmental projects, especially in cohesion regions. Last year, the EIB allocated almost €2.4 billion to sustainable development of regions and cities in Poland,” EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska said during a visit to Kielce. “Thanks to the EIB loan, Kielce will be able to enhance city greeneries, transport network and sports facilities, carrying out investments that bring tangible benefits to inhabitants. Through this partnership with Kielce, and similar ones with Rybnik, Chorzów and Radom, the EIB contributes to improving the quality of life for people in Poland, including those living outside the largest centres.”

    Long-term, beneficial financing from the EIB will allow Kielce to co-finance projects that also receive direct grants from the European Union budget, helping with their effective absorption in Poland. An agreement for the second tranche of financing for the city is expected next.

    “Kielce will use this funding as the required own contribution to projects co-financed externally. We envisage the modernisation of a central city square, the establishment of a business incubator and major investment in public transport, including a new bus fleet. The city’s total investment plan amounts to PLN 761 mln,” said Kielce Mayor Agata Wojda.

    Multibillion-euro support for Polish cities, including medium-sized ones

    The EIB has signed 24 financing agreements with cities and municipal companies totalling over €1.7 billion since 2022. Including infrastructure financing and intermediated loans, the bank’s support to sustainable investment of cities and regions has reached €7.89 bln in the last three years. Alongside big cities, beneficiaries have also included the medium-sized ones with between 100,000 and 250,000 inhabitants. Last year, the EIB granted framework loans totalling over PLN 1 billion to Kielce, Radom, Rybnik and Chorzów.

    “Working together with the EIB is a real step forward in the continued sustainable development of Chorzów. This EIB loan will help the city make strategic investments in key areas such as urban infrastructure and environmental protection. Used effectively, the funding will help improve quality of life for our city’s inhabitants and make Chorzów more competitive on the regional map,” said Chorzów Mayor Szymon Michałek.

    In Radom, EIB funds are being put to use to build nurseries and social housing, create green spaces, promote sustainable urban mobility and improve energy efficiency of public buildings.

    Radom Mayor Radosław Witkowski, said: “Partnering with the EIB will provide economic benefits and help our city to keep on developing, which is what our residents expect.”

    According to Piotr Kuczera, the mayor of Rybnik, EIB financing is making the city “greener and a nicer place to live.”

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the EU, and the Capital Markets Union.   

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024. Nearly two-thirds of which was allocated to tackle the climate crisis and protect the environment. Almost half of the invested funds were allocated in cohesion regions, while €17.2 billion was earmarked specifically for the sustainable development of cities and regions. In Poland, EIB support for economic and territorial cohesion last year amounted to €5 billion, while investments in the development of cities and regions reached almost €2.4 billion. The EIB Group will soon share the full results of its activities in Poland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Lack of transparency in how the COVID-19 pandemic was managed – E-000421/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000421/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Jorge Martín Frías (PfE)

    The US House of Representatives recently published an investigation offering an in-depth assessment of the United States’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, its causes and the vaccination campaigns.

    The investigation concludes that the measures adopted, such as quarantining and requiring masks to be worn, were arbitrary and not based on any scientific evidence, and, what is more, that they were ineffective and detrimental.

    Regarding the vaccines, the investigation indicates that they did not prevent the spread of the virus as hoped for and that the decisions taken in respect of the vaccines were partly politically motivated.

    In light of these conclusions:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to launch an investigation – one that includes the full declassification of documents between pharmaceutical companies and Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen – into what took place in the European Union?
    • 2.Will there be an assessment of the way in which the COVID-19 passport was used to restrict the freedoms of European citizens in some Member States, despite this being contrary to the intent of the legislator?
    • 3.Does any data exist on the cost of these measures, both economically and to mental health, in the EU?

    Submitted: 30.1.2025

    Last updated: 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden and the Republic of Moldova deepen defence cooperation

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden and the Republic of Moldova deepen defence cooperation – Government.se

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    Article from Ministry of Defence, Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    On 4 February Minister for Defence Pål Jonson and Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin received the Republic of Moldova’s Minister of Defence Anatolie Nosatîi at Karlberg Palace.

    • Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Moldova Anatolie Nosatîi and Minister for Defence Pål Jonson at Karlberg Palace.

      Photo: Niklas Forsström/Government Offices

    • The flag of the Republic of Moldava and the flag of Sweden.

      Photo: Niklas Forsström/Government Offices

    • Minister of Defense of the Republic of Moldova Anatolie Nosatîi and Minister for Defence Pål Jonson at Karlberg Castle.

      Photo: Niklas Forsström/Government Offices

    The aim of the visit was to intensify and expand defence cooperation between Sweden and the Republic of Moldova and signal robust support for the Republic of Moldova’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

    In addition to bilateral defence cooperation, issues regarding the security situation in the region, the war in Ukraine and related EU and NATO matters were discussed.

    Representatives of the Swedish Armed Forces, the Defence Materiel Administration and the Psychological Defence Agency also attended the meeting. 

    During his visit to Stockholm Mr Nosatîi also met Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, Diana Janse, State Secretary to Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa, and representatives of the Riksdag.

    The visit followed the Government’s 30 January proposal to donate m/86 AT4 anti-tank weapons to the Republic of Moldova within the framework of the additional amending budget that includes the 18th support package to Ukraine.

    Related

    The meeting on 4 February was held after Sweden and the Republic of Moldova signed a Letter of Intent on 20 August 2024 on deepened defence cooperation during a visit to the Republic of Moldova by Minister for Defence Pål Jonson and Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin. The Letter of Intent enables both countries’ armed forces and other defence agencies to expand existing cooperation and promote new initiatives. The Letter of Intent enables both countries’ armed forces and other defence agencies to expand existing cooperation and promote new initiatives.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev and Lipetsk Region Governor Igor Artamonov discussed the development of the agro-industrial complex in the region

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a working meeting with Lipetsk Region Governor Igor Artamonov. The meeting discussed issues of developing the agro-industrial complex, ecology and nature management.

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    February 7, 2025

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    Working meeting of Dmitry Patrushev with the Governor of Lipetsk region Igor Artamonov

    Dmitry Patrushev noted that Lipetsk Region invariably remains among the leaders in the development of the agro-industrial complex. The region ranks first in Russia in the production of greenhouse vegetables in agricultural organizations and processed potatoes.

    Igor Artamonov emphasized that the Lipetsk region is attractive to investors. The volume of invested funds from 2019 to 2024 amounted to more than 200 billion rubles, more than 4 thousand jobs were created. The volume of agricultural exports of the region has increased by 2.5 times since 2019, which allowed the region to enter the top ten subjects of the Russian Federation in terms of export volume of agricultural products.

    The meeting raised issues of education. There are 18 agricultural classes in the Lipetsk Region. 80% of their graduates become students of universities and colleges specializing in agricultural fields. The region has opened the first “Agrokvantorium” in Russia, where children get acquainted with agricultural machinery.

    The meeting also discussed issues of environmental management. Lipetsk Region has successfully completed the implementation of the national project “Ecology” and shows good results in the field of solid municipal waste management – 53% of MSW is processed at disposal facilities.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “The situation in Russian science looks stable and positive”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    On the eve of Russian Science Day, TASS held a press conference dedicated to the results of the third round of the comprehensive study “We do science in Russia” He was conducted Institute for Statistical Research and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEZ) HSE. The authors of the study and experts representing higher education, research institutes and industry spoke about the state of domestic science, the drivers of its development, the dynamics of change and the barriers that need to be overcome.

    The first “Making Science in Russia” study was conducted in 2017, the second round took place in 2022, and the third from October to November 2024.

    Present and future

    As explained by the first vice-rector, director of the HSE ISSEK Leonid Gokhberg, the basis of the study was the results of a survey of the heads of 719 universities and leading scientific organizations, which make up almost the entire core of Russian science. These are “the key players who make the weather in this area and determine its development with their daily practices.”

    The assessment was carried out on 87 factors grouped into 8 large blocks, which made it possible to determine the sentiment index in Russian science. In the second step, the researchers identified 47 measures of state scientific and technical policy, assessed their effectiveness on a number of parameters and rated them.

    “The situation in Russian science looks stable and positive, there is progress compared to previous rounds of the study,” Leonid Gokhberg noted. For example, assessments related to the institutional conditions of functioning of universities and scientific organizations have improved – first of all, we are talking about increasing awareness of policy measures and regulation of important aspects of their daily life (regulation of state assignments and state purchases, tender procedures, etc.).

    Representatives of the scientific sphere assess the prospects for the coming years even more optimistically. Expectations are connected with further increase in the efficiency of scientific research, cooperation with business and stimulation of investment inflow from commercial structures, development of the information base of science.

    At the same time, the situation looks different in different sectors. “Universities are feeling the best, and this correlates with the measures of their support that have been launched in recent years and have had a rather positive impact on the development of university science,” Leonid Gokhberg stated.

    Financing

    The director continued the topic Center for Statistics and Monitoring of Science and Innovation ISSEK Ekaterina Streltsova, touching upon “the most sensitive issue” – funding of science.

    This block received the most restrained assessment from the scientific community, but this does not mean that everything is bad. Science is financed from many sources, and the study showed that the situations with different sources differ for different organizations. Key sources of budgetary financing are assessed more restrainedly in general, since they may not be very relevant for non-profit organizations that participated in the survey (for example, grants from Russian scientific foundations).

    “We see a significant improvement in the situation for all types of organizations compared to 2022, as budget expenditures on science are steadily increasing. This year, almost 3% of federal budget funds are planned to be allocated to support science, this is the highest figure in the last ten years, and we hope that funding for science will continue to increase,” Ekaterina Streltsova emphasized.

    Organizations of all types were skeptical about the provision of funding from state companies and especially from business, and, in her opinion, this is a predictable result given the current structure of funding for Russian science. In recent years, the business sector has provided about 30% of the costs of science, and although this figure has increased compared to 2010, measures are needed to stimulate investment.

    Of all the sources of funds, foreign organizations received the lowest ratings. “It was these ratings that influenced the overall score for the entire area and pulled it down, and this is understandable,” says Ekaterina Streltsova. “Foreign resources have never been significant for the development of Russian science; in the last five to six years, the share of these sources in the total volume of expenses has not exceeded 2.5%.”

    Personnel and equipment

    Ekaterina Streltsova noted that the human resources potential received a positive assessment for most factors: the managers are satisfied with both the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the scientific personnel they work with. Compared to 2022, some values have improved due to the implementation of a whole range of measures. Difficulties are associated with attracting foreign researchers and participation in international projects.

    The assessment of material and technical conditions is also quite stable: organizations are generally optimistic about the availability of scientific equipment and consumables, but many note the complication of supplies from abroad. The availability of access to specialized domestic software and Russian AI-based systems is assessed cautiously, but it is in this area that expectations are high and positive.

    The weak point remains the commercialization of results – their promotion and implementation in the economy. For example, universities and research organizations are actively involved in patent activities, but their contribution to the development of licensing activities in the domestic market is still limited. Obviously, this is due, among other things, to insufficient dialogue between science and business. “Although the situation has improved somewhat compared to 2022, we see that the intensity of interaction with business in the form of joint laboratories, basic departments, and so on is still assessed rather restrainedly, which, of course, requires further implementation, including of the measures already in force,” concluded Ekaterina Streltsova.

    “A most interesting analysis”

    The results of the study “Making Science in Russia” were commented on by representatives of science, higher education and industry.

    Director of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Grigory Trubnikov noted that HSE scientists conducted “a most interesting analysis.” In his opinion, over three rounds of research, “analytics has taken off,” it has a large audience, and the data can be trusted.

    Commenting on the conclusions about science funding, he put forward the hypothesis that the problem is not that it should be increased, say, twofold, but that “science should be done faster” — this is the main request of the scientific community. If we remove the obstacles associated with control, procurement procedures, academic mobility, and foreign restrictions, then the competitiveness of Russian science will increase.

    Grigory Trubnikov also noted that in terms of international cooperation, everything depends on the specific organization, and things are going well at his institute in Dubna – cooperation with China, Mexico, Brazil is developing, and this is a noticeable trend in general.

    Stanislav Terekhov, head of the laboratory of antibiotic resistance at the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, highly praised the existing measures to support science, including the creation of youth laboratories (his laboratory is one of them). In his opinion, this allows the best personnel to be retained in the country and students and postgraduates to be integrated into laboratory practice, but state support should be supplemented by private initiatives.

    Science and Business

    Director of the Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology at Sechenov University Vadim Tarasov emphasized the links between science and business in his speech. In his opinion, the Priority 2030 program “gave universities a huge opportunity to be flexible in their interactions with industry,” and now it is necessary to set goals for 10-15 years ahead, understanding what technologies the country needs to ensure sovereignty, and which ones are worth entering foreign markets with.

    First Vice President for MTS Technologies, Head of the MTS Basic Department at HSE Pavel Voronin also highly praised the study, calling it very complete and high-quality.

    In his opinion, science is the foundation for technology, and “the geopolitical situation requires us to invest more in this fundamental part,” but the economic situation forces many companies in the market to approach finances prudently. When it is necessary to monitor expenses more closely, the first thing that is cut is unpredictable, long-term investments. “From a business point of view, it is important not to get caught in these scissors, to correctly determine priorities and leave a certain share of investments for long-term research,” concluded Pavel Voronin.

    Head of the scientific and technical cooperation department of the State Corporation Rosatom Ekaterina Chaban stated that in her corporation “every scientific project is also a business project” and confirmed the researchers’ findings on the successful attraction of young people to science. In the scientific division of Rosatom, out of 2 thousand scientists, 38% are under 35 years old, 48% are under 39 years old, and among the directors of institutes there are scientists and designers under 40 years old. “The corporation does a lot to maintain the influx of young people and retain young personnel,” she explained.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Palestine & 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
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Sudan
    – Central African Republic
    – Air Pollution
    – Female Genital Mutilation
    – Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL
    This morning, in a press encounter, the Secretary-General made a special appeal for peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ahead of a summit tomorrow with the leaders from the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community in Tanzania. He added that next week in Addis Ababa, he will take part in a Summit-level meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council where the crisis will be front and centre.
    The Secretary-General said his message is clear: Silence the guns. Stop the escalation. Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uphold international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, accompanied a UN aid convoy into the Gaza Strip today, where the UN and its partners continue responding to immense needs as part of a prepared scaling up of our operations.
    In northern Gaza, Mr. Fletcher toured two hospitals – Al Shifa in Gaza City and Al Awda in Jabalya – where he met with patients, staff and management. Leaving the Al Awda hospital, Mr. Fletcher spoke with survivors and returnees in Jabalya who are trying to rebuild their lives amid the rubble.
    The Under-Secretary-General also visited the only operational water well in North Gaza governorate. This well, which is run by theUnite d Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) serves as a crucial lifeline for clean water, given the extensive destruction of Gaza’s water infrastructure. From the north of the Strip, the Under-Secretary-General crossed the Netzarim area into Deir al Balah in central Gaza.
    Throughout his visit, Mr. Fletcher held discussions with humanitarian workers from local and international non-governmental organizations, as well as UN agencies, stressing the need to seize the opportunities presented by the ceasefire to sustain and expand relief efforts.
    Partners of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) supporting water, sanitation and hygiene services report that they are distributing 2,500 cubic metres of safe drinking water daily across Gaza and North Gaza governorates, serving 411,000 people. One of our partners is also providing cleaning services at 17 displacement sites in northern Gaza, benefiting nearly 12,000 people.
    Water, sanitation and hygiene partners are carrying out assessments in locations across the Strip to repair water wells, install dosing pumps, and set up water filling points.
    While some repairs are already underway, further progress hinges on teams being able to clear debris and carry out assessments of explosive hazards.
    Meanwhile in the West Bank, OCHA reports that Israeli forces’ operations are intensifying in Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas, severely restricting Palestinians’ access to essential assistance, including water, food, medicine and supplies for infants.
    In Tubas governorate, Israeli forces have been operating in the El Far’a refugee camp for five consecutive days. They have imposed a curfew, reportedly prohibiting residents from leaving their homes. They also bulldozed roads and damaged water networks, forcing residents to rely on collecting rainwater.

    SUDAN
    The Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, today warned that South Kordofan and Blue Nile States are on the brink of catastrophe, as the violence there continues to escalate at an alarming rate.
    As of yesterday, the civilian death toll following recent shelling in South Kordofan’s capital Kadugli had increased to 80, with some three dozen others injured.
    In a statement, Ms. Nkweta-Salami condemned the reported use of women and children as human shields in Kadugli, as well as the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the detention of civilians, including children.
    The western Nuba Mountains, which extend into South Kordofan and West Kordofan States, are among the areas in which famine has been identified by the Famine Review Committee of the International Food Security Phase Classification system, or IPC.
    Ms. Nkweta-Salami stressed that humanitarian needs also remain critical in Blue Nile State, amid reports of mass mobilization for conflict. She also called on all sides to the conflict in Sudan to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and allow humanitarian organizations safe and unrestricted access to those in desperate need.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=06+February+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MYbKGAp7Y0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sir Ian Bauckham named as permanent Chief Regulator of Ofqual

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Sir Ian Bauckham CBE is appointed Chief Regulator of Ofqual by the Education Secretary.

    The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has today (7 February 2025) announced the appointment of Sir Ian Bauckham CBE as Chief Regulator of Ofqual .  

    The privy council has confirmed his appointment through an order in council, after a thorough recruitment process conducted in line with the requirements set by the commissioner for public appointments. 

    Sir Ian will start the permanent five-year position after serving as interim Chief Regulator since 1st Jan 2024.  

    Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson said:    

    This government is committed to high and rising standards and fair assessments are crucial to this, opening the door to opportunity for children and young people and breaking the link between background and success. 

    With his vast expertise in education, Sir Ian is exceptionally suited to lead Ofqual in maintaining a system that provides all young people with high-quality, rigorous qualifications and training, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed.

    Appointed Chief Regulator, Sir Ian Bauckham CBE said:    

    I’m honoured to take on this permanent role, after dedicating my career to improving education and opportunities for young people. 

    Qualifications are the currency of education. Ofqual, as guardian of standards, will protect their value and integrity to ensure they remain trusted by students, teachers, universities and employers alike. 

    Only through rigorous assessment and stable qualifications can we measure education performance and highlight areas where we can improve opportunities for all students.

    Ofqual is the independent body responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. It plays a crucial role in maintaining standards and public trust in GCSEs, A levels, and vocational and technical qualifications. 

    The Chief Regulator’s key responsibility is to ensure that Ofqual meets its statutory objectives and duties, including upholding standards and fostering confidence in qualifications and assessments. 

    Knighted in January 2023 for his services to education, Sir Ian has been a member of the Ofqual Board since 2018. He served as Chair from January 2021 until January 2024, when he became the interim Chief Regulator. Previously, he was the Chief Executive Officer of the Tenax Schools Academy Trust, a position he stepped down from to assume his current role. Since 2020, Sir Ian has also chaired the board of Oak National Academy.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 7 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –