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Category: Politics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Promoted as a win-win, Australia’s Pacific island guest worker scheme is putting those workers at risk

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matt Withers, Senior Lecturer, School of Sociology, Australian National University

    The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme (PALM) has been lauded by both sides of politics as a “win win” for the islanders who come here and the Australians who use their services.

    Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs has even labelled it a “triple win”, for the workers, their hosts and for their home nations who receive remittances.

    But beneath the surface serious questions are being asked about the safety of workers denied the right to leave their employers.

    A report by the NSW Anti-slavery Commissioner entitled Be Our Guests has identified signs of debt bondage, deceptive recruiting, forced labour and, in extreme cases, servitude, sexual servitude and human trafficking.

    The NSW parliament has launched its own inquiry into the risks faced by migrant workers in response and is seeking submissions.

    Employment Minister Murray Watt this month signalled changes, saying there had been “far too many abuses of the PALM scheme”.

    PALM allows rural and regional employers to hire workers from nine Pacific nations and Timor-Leste when there are not enough local workers available.

    Unplanned pregnancies, sleeping rough

    The workers hired do not have the right to change employers while in Australia, even for contracts of up to four years, except via a request from their original employer or a direction from the Department of Employment.

    This means workers who abandon their employers for reasons including underpayment of wages, excessive deductions and overcharging for accommodation become absconders and lose their rights.

    The NSW Modern Slavery Commissioner says there are several thousand absconded PALM workers in Australia, without access to health insurance and formal income. Among them are women with unplanned pregnancies denied antenatal care due to ineligibility for Medicare.

    The Commissioner says crisis accommodation services in the NSW Riverina report having exhausted all available resources, including tents, for PALM workers who have left their employers and are sleeping rough.

    Australia had 30,805 PALM workers at the end of August, one-third of them (11,420) in Queensland. Most work in farming (52%) and 39% in meat processing. The accommodation and care industries between them account for 6%.

    For many of these workers, the income is life-changing. An I-Kiribati worker I interviewed recently told me she makes more money cleaning hotel rooms in Queensland than is paid to the president of her country.

    The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says between July 2018 to October 2022 PALM workers sent home a total of A$184 million, but their employers made profits of $289 million and charged them a further $74 million in rent.

    Unable to switch employers, their bargaining power is weak.

    An estimated 45 workers on the PALM scheme died between June 2022 and June 2023. Nineteen deaths remain under investigation.

    After a Fijian abattoir worker died of a brain tumour in June, Fiji raised with Australia claims of racism, bullying, excessive workloads, unfair termination and unsafe working conditions under the program.

    Minimum pay, but no right to move

    Reforms introduced last year guaranteed workers a minimum of 30 hours per week and a minimum weekly take-home pay (after deductions) of $200.

    But until PALM workers are able to move freely between approved employers they will remain at risk of what the president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions Michele O’Neil calls modern-day slavery.

    O’Neil wants the government to blacklist bad employers and identify ethical ones in consultation with unions and civil society organisations. But she says until PALM workers can move, they risk being treated as disposable labour.

    Many employers treat their PALM workers well, but the current design of the scheme leaves that outcome to chance, and leaves badly-treated workers trapped.

    It’s time to give them the same sort of right to move between employers as the rest of us.

    Matt Withers 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. Promoted as a win-win, Australia’s Pacific island guest worker scheme is putting those workers at risk – https://theconversation.com/promoted-as-a-win-win-australias-pacific-island-guest-worker-scheme-is-putting-those-workers-at-risk-240333

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: With AI translation tools so powerful, what is the point of learning a language?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Elba Ramirez, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader BA International Studies, Auckland University of Technology

    In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), foreign language learning can seem like it’s becoming obsolete. Why invest the time and effort to learn another language when technology can do it for you?

    There are now translation tools to understand song lyrics, translate websites and to enable automated captions when watching foreign videos and movies. Our phones can instantly translate spoken words.

    At the same time, foreign language programmes are closing at New Zealand and Australian universities.

    But while technology can translate messages, it misses an important component of human communication – the cultural nuances behind the words.

    So, while AI translation might bridge language barriers and promote communication because of its accessibility, it’s important to be clear about the benefits and challenges it presents. Merely relying on technology to translate between languages will ultimately lead to misunderstandings and a less rich human experience.

    The rise of translation technology

    Translation technology has rapidly grown since its emergence between the 1950s and 1960s. This progress was bolstered by the commercialisation of computer-assisted translation systems in the 1980s.

    But recent advances in generative AI have led to significant breakthroughs in translation technologies.

    Google Translate has dramatically changed since its launch in 2006. Initially developed as a limited statistical translation machine, it has evolved into a “portable interpreter”.

    AI translation is useful in some circumstances. For example, helping teachers communicate with parents who speak a different language, or when travelling.

    Translation technology may even play a role in the preservation of Indigenous and minority languages on the verge of disappearing by supporting online collections of literature. Incorporating AI-powered technology in these digital libraries can help users access and understand these texts.

    But the new technology also comes with limitations.

    In 2019, staff at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre in the United States used AI translation to process an asylum application. The voice-translation tool was unable to understand an applicant’s regional accent or dialect, leading to the asylum seeker spending six months in detention without being able to meaningfully communicate with anyone.

    In 2021, a court in the US determined Google Translate wasn’t reliable enough to ensure someone’s consent. A trooper had used the translation app to ask a Spanish-speaking suspect if he could search her car. Google Translate used the word “registrar” (which translates as “register” but can be used to say “examine”) when, in fact, the word “buscar” (to search) would have been more appropriate.

    Brain health and other benefits

    Learning additional languages also stands out as one of the best ways to improve ourselves, with benefits for brain health, social skills, cultural understanding, empathy and career opportunities.

    An analysis of studies from 2012 to 2019 found speaking more than one language can enhance the brain’s flexibility, delay the onset of dementia, and improve cognitive health later in life. The analysis also recommended starting language learning early.

    In 2022, the Council of Europe emphasised the significance of plurilingual and intercultural education for fostering democratic culture, noting its cognitive, linguistic and social benefits.

    And this year, the council launched the “Language education at the heart of democracy” programme. The goal is to highlight the importance of learning language for a fairer society.

    Lost in translation

    In Aotearoa New Zealand, English is widely used. Te reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language are also recognised as official languages. Some 29% of citizens are born overseas. There are more than 150 languages spoken, with at least 24 spoken by more than 10,000 people.

    But interest in learning languages has fallen. In 2021, 980 full-time equivalent students studied a language other than Māori or New Zealand Sign Language at one of the country’s eight universities, falling from 1,555 less than a decade earlier.

    As a consequence, a number of universities have closed, or announced plans to close, their language programmes.

    While AI-powered translation technology has its uses, a great deal can be lost if we rely solely on it to communicate. The nuances of languages, and what they say about different cultures, are difficult to communicate via translation tools.

    And the benefits of being bilingual or multilingual – both personally and for the wider community – risk being lost if we don’t support second language learning.

    Elba Ramirez 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. With AI translation tools so powerful, what is the point of learning a language? – https://theconversation.com/with-ai-translation-tools-so-powerful-what-is-the-point-of-learning-a-language-238068

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government News – More and more people are turning to the Ombudsman for help

    Source: Office of the Ombudsman

    The Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier has today published his 2023/2024 Annual Report.
    “In 2023/24 I completed the highest number of complaints and protected disclosures ever,” Mr Boshier says.
    “I completed 6,269 complaints, eight percent more than the number completed last year and 58 percent more than the average number completed in each of the five years prior to the pandemic. I also completed 220 protected disclosures and enquiries, a 159 percent increase from the previous year.
    “Both complaints and protected disclosures have been at historically high levels over the last three years, which shows that this sustained high level may be becoming the new normal.”
    Mr Boshier also received 38 percent more official information complaints (2,222 complaints) related to both the Official Information Act and the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act than the average number received in each of the five years prior to the pandemic.
    He also received 98 percent more Ombudsmen Act (OA) complaints than the average number received in each of the five years prior to the pandemic.
    The Chief Ombudsman has also made every effort to help improve good practice across government, including in his recommendations to agencies where he has considered it is needed.
    “It has been a busy period in other respects as well. Over the past year I have made comment and submissions on 35 legislative, policy, or administrative proposals, provided advice to public sector agencies on 356 occasions and visited 108 places of detention.
    “I also published Open for business, a report on my investigation into meeting and workshop practices of eight councils. My call for greater openness and accountability has resonated across the country with a number of councils considering and many changing their meeting policies.
    “Another major report was Children in care: complaints to the Ombudsman 2019-2023, which called for the government and Oranga Tamariki to make profound changes to the way the Ministry operates.
    “I also continued my community outreach and engagement work which allows me to meet people face-to-face to talk about my work and how I can help them.
    “My overall goal is that people are treated fairly. I have continued to work to ensure that the public understands its rights and options, has reasonable expectations about what the public sector should provide, and understands what it can expect from me and my office.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Pappas, Acting Secretary of Labor Su Visit Child Care Facility, Host Roundtable on Child Care and Workforce Challenges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Brentwood, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01), alongside Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, visited A Place to Grow and hosted a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers. In March of this year, Shaheen sent a letter to Acting Secretary Su advocating for the establishment of A Place to Grow’s Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education (ECE) administrators. Photos from the event can be found here. 

    “I’ve met with child care providers across New Hampshire and all of them have underscored the challenges they face with workforce recruitment and retention,” said Senator Shaheen. “Without affordable child care options, families, the workforce and the overall economic development of our communities suffer. That’s why I was so pleased to join Acting Secretary Su in visiting A Place to Grow where their innovative, new Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education administrators provides the training and pathways needed to get workers into the child care industry and keep them there.” 

    “The cost of child care remains among the most pressing issues that families are facing. That’s why providing every federal resource available to families and child care providers in New Hampshire is critical,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to cap the amount of money that families pay for child care, strengthen our child care and education workforce, and expand the Child Tax Credit, a middle-class tax cut that helps families keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. I was grateful to join Acting Secretary Su, Senator Shaheen, and A Place To Grow owner Jennifer Legere today to hear from folks on the ground doing this work.” 

    “Paid care work is critical economic infrastructure in this country, because safe and dependable care allows working parents and other caregivers to get and keep their jobs while also ensuring safe, quality working conditions for workers who take care of our loved ones,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The Biden-Harris administration is making once-in-a-generation investments creating good jobs and know that without the care economy and all of the talented care workers we have in this country, our economy suffers. I am glad to be in New Hampshire today to highlight this forward-looking program.” 

    Joining Shaheen and Su for the discussion were leaders and New Hampshire residents including: Nicole Heller, Senior Policy Analyst at the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, MacKenzie Nicholson, Senior Director of New Hampshire MomsRising, Jen Legere, Owner and Founder of A Place to Grow and Kayte Kostinden, Director and Early Childhood Operations Apprentice at A Place to Grow Brentwood.  

    Senator Shaheen has been a leader in advocating for more affordable and accessible child care, including by delivering more than $77 million to New Hampshire through the American Rescue Plan and other COVID relief laws to the Granite State. Since then, Shaheen has urged state and local officials to distribute those federal funds, especially in communities that lack access to child care. In August, Shaheen visited Colebrook Community Child Care Center to discuss challenges and solutions to the child care crisis in rural communities.  

    Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced the Right Start Child Care and Education Act, which would make child care more affordable and accessible for working families by reforming the federal tax code. She also introduced the bipartisan Expanding Child Care for Military Families Act, portions of which have been included in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2025, which has been passed by the Senate Armed Services Committee. Additionally, she helped introduce the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act to permanently expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, which helps households offset their child care costs.

    In April, Shaheen convened a hearing as Chair of the U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee to hear testimony from expert witnesses on the child care industry’s broken business model and what Congress can do to support small business child care providers, employees and families. A recent U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy issue brief, in response to data challenges raised at the hearing, details the role of small businesses in the child care industry and fills data gaps in child care industry research.

    Earlier this Congress, Shaheen helped introduce the Child Care Stabilization Act, which would provide additional federal child care stabilization funding—which was provided in the American Rescue Plan—and ensure that child care providers can keep their doors open and continue serving children and families in every part of the country. Shaheen joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act, which would provide affordable child care for all working families, expand access to preschool programs and increase wages for early childhood workers. She also joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in reintroducing the bipartisan Childcare Workforce and Facilities Act to address the national shortage of affordable, quality child care, especially in rural communities. In the government funding bill for fiscal year (FY) 2024, Senator Shaheen worked to include a $1 billion increase for early education, including a $725 million increase to $8.75 billion for Child Care and Development Block Grants to states and a $275 million increase to Head Start, funding the program at more than $12 billion for FY 2024. The law additionally includes $315 million for Preschool Development Grants.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: E tū members ready to ‘Fight Back Together’ – E tū

    Source: Etu Union

    E tū members will join the wider union movement and our community allies at the ‘Fight Back Together – Maranga Ake’ hui happening nationwide tomorrow, Wednesday 23 October 2024.

    E tū is the biggest private sector union in Aotearoa New Zealand, covering a huge variety of workers including in aviation, communications, community support services, manufacturing, food, engineering, infrastructure, extractions, property services, and in many other industries.

    E tū National Secretary, Rachel Mackintosh, says E tū members will be out in force.

    “The hui are one part of the union movement’s mobilisation in the face of attacks from a shockingly anti-worker coalition Government,” Rachel says.

    “The Government has already cancelled Fair Pay Agreements, re-introduced 90-day ‘fire at will’ trials for all workplaces, and increased the minimum wage below the inflation rate – effectively giving Aotearoa’s lowest paid workers a pay cut during a cost-of-living crisis.

    “They aren’t stopping there. The Government has plans to remove the rights of workers to challenge their status as contractors, robbing them of an important legal protection. We’re deeply concerned about their proposals to meddle with health and safety legislation. They have deprioritised pay equity. We’re calling on the Government to reverse their dangerous agenda in workplace relations.”

    Rachel says E tū members are troubled by the Government’s actions and plans beyond workplace relations as well.

    “Luxon’s Government is overseeing a deliberate weakening of our public services, particularly in healthcare. They are stoking upsetting divisions in our society with their attacks on te Tiriti and te ao Māori. They have mucked up our social housing programme and cancelled modern transport solutions. It’s a Government of profits for rich mates ahead of people and the environment. Workers are angry, and they have every reason to be.

    “We have a vision for something better for working people in Aotearoa. This can be a place where we have decent work, good social and physical infrastructure to support communities, justice under Te Tiriti, an end to inequality and hope for the future.”

    Rachel says tomorrow will be a landmark event for E tū and the wider union movement’s activities to demand better for all, not just for a few.

    “This isn’t the start, nor the end, of our campaign to protect workers and our communities from the harms of bad political leadership. However the hui will be a significant milestone, and I am proud that E tū members’ voices will join the chorus tomorrow and beyond.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Luxon strips local governments’ power to protect fresh water

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace says the Government’s move to remove local government power to protect fresh water is an underhanded overreach that undermines democracy and puts vital fresh water at risk.
    The Government has signalled that it will introduce an amendment to the Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill to prevent local councils from notifying their freshwater plans until the Government replaces the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Sinead Deighton-O’Flynn says, “The anti-nature Luxon Government is stripping control from local and district councils who want to protect lakes, rivers, and drinking water for generations to come.
    “Christopher Luxon’s government has declared war on nature, but that should not stop responsible local governments from putting in place their own protections to safeguard their constituents’ access to safe, healthy drinking water.
    “Rural communities are suffering the consequences of nitrate-contaminated drinking water, lakes and rivers across Aotearoa are unswimmable, and the state of freshwater is getting worse. We need more protection of fresh water, not less,” says Deighton-O’Flynn.
    “We know that everyone, no matter where they live or who they voted for, wants and deserves access to safe, healthy drinking water, but right now, central government is stripping away the rules that ensure drinking water quality through this bill – and now they’ve gone one step further.
    “It’s clear that this amendment is a reaction to regional and district councils pushing for more effective freshwater policies rather than bowing down to Luxon’s push to strip back water protections.”
    The Otago Regional Council has been in the news recently over criticism from Luxon’s government due to plans to continue with notifying their freshwater plan, with farming industry lobby group Federated Farmers calling on the Government to stop this from happening.
    “Luxon must keep his hands off the freshwater protections and allow local councils to set strong and ambitious freshwater protections that safeguard lakes, rivers, and drinking water,” says Deighton-O’Flynn.
    A Greenpeace petition calling on Luxon to keep his hands off freshwater protections has been signed by more than twenty thousand people. The Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill passed its second reading in Parliament last week, and is set to go through the Committee of the Whole House later today.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall for the Eradicate Hate Global Summit | Pittsburgh,  PA

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
    Thank you to each of the speakers, including the survivors, who preceded me. You are each both humbling and inspiring, and I am deeply grateful to have listened to what you have shared with us.
    It is an honor to be here with you at the fourth convening of the Eradicate Hate Global Summit.
    Thank you, Brette for your generous words — and thank you for taking on this vital leadership role. 
    The Summit has convened thousands of experts and developed multiple innovative approaches – including the “Up End Hate” campaign that empowers young people to prevent violence.  And that is just the most recent example of the impact this solutions-oriented Summit has delivered.    
    Sunday, October 27th, will mark the sixth anniversary of the horrific day when a white supremacist who hated Jews and immigrants went to the Tree of Life synagogue here in Pittsburgh and attacked the innocent human beings who were worshipping during morning Shabbat services.
    He murdered eleven people that day, robbing the world of their futures. 
    For each of them, their loved ones still grieve, and in solidarity we each can say:  May their memories be a blessing.
    The phrase is a resonant and powerful one. It invites us all not just to remember those we have lost, but to honor them by continuing to pursue justice and heal our broken world in their names.
    Looking at this week’s agenda and each of you in this room, remembering them is indeed proving to be a blessing, by motivating this hard work to translate ideas into action.
    In the aftermath of that terrible and tragic day, this community and this city have shown that an act of terror should and can unite us rather than divide us. In the Summit, you have shown the world how you have taken the emotions and prayers that arose and the actions you are undertaking and channeled them into meaningful deeds.
    It is in that spirit of moving from hope to action that I come to you today.
    I will speak to you about three topics: the threat we face now, the responses we are pursuing to address that threat, and the actions we are taking to reduce that threat in the future.
    First, we unfortunately have to acknowledge that current forms of domestic terrorism and hate have fueled a dynamic threat landscape that is even more daunting following the savage Hamas attack on Israel one year ago and its ongoing aftermath.
    These threats present a new set of challenges that we must do everything we can to prevent, to disrupt, and to prepare for if they cannot be stopped.  
    Indeed, the Biden-Harris Administration’s response to hate and domestic terrorism is outlined in a series of innovative strategies and implementation plans that harness the full force of the Federal government of the United States. 
    But critically, they depend on intensive, enduring cooperation with civic, religious, private sector and international partners like you to generate a comprehensive response.
    And although it may not feel that way every day, this model is delivering results. I am the first to admit that the challenges are immense, and even growing.  But I also fervently believe that combining our full strengths, we can come together to make a difference. 
    The Normalization of Hate and Violence
    Let me begin with the threat landscape: As the White House Homeland Security Advisor over the past four years, I have seen firsthand that a fundamental threat to our democracy is the normalization of hate-fueled violence.
    Domestic terrorist movements, including racially and ethnically motivated violent extremists, continue to advocate for widespread violence on the premise that it would lead to outcomes they seek, including chaos and societal collapse among other dystopian ends.
    These dark minds celebrate attacks in El Paso, Buffalo, Poway, Colorado Springs, Charleston, and yes, just east of here, in Squirrel Hill — as well as numerous attacks abroad that they ascribe to their twisted worldview.
    The proliferation of these ideologies online reflects this trend, and its purveyors are reaching a growing number of people, including teenagers and even younger children.
    And as this threat has evolved both in the United States and especially online, we have seen its “domestic” dimensions become increasingly global.
    Let me give you one example of what I mean.  On September 9th of this year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice arrested and charged two leaders of the Terrorgram Collective in the United States.
    These two individuals created a global community of white supremacists to communicate online with like-minded people, disseminate violent propaganda, and encourage physical attacks on minority communities and government officials.
    The amplification of hate online has corresponded with a growth in antisemitism and other forms of hate, particularly in the wake of the October 7th Hamas attacks. 
    By just one measure, between October 7th, 2023, and January 30th of this year, the FBI opened over three times more anti-Jewish hate crimes investigations than in the four months prior to the October 7th attacks. I will return to the meaningful outcomes from these investigations in a moment. 
    And October 7th has had ramifications beyond the rise in hate. We have observed terrorist groups from across the ideological spectrum seeking to exploit the attack for their own goals. Images and messaging emerging from the conflict are expanding the pool of individuals susceptible to mobilization to violent acts, and causing terrorist groups that previously disdained each other to form common cause.
    And these effects are likely to persist long after hostilities cease— and will interact with future flashpoints and activating events, which could drive terrorist attacks against the United States and Israel, as well as against Jewish, Muslim, Arab, and other communities.  
    And it is not just terrorist organizations that are of high concern. The behavior of lone actors can have significant ramifications, even when they do not commit mass violence.
    For example, in February 2024, a joint investigation between the FBI and Florida authorities led to the arrest of a 17-year-old for swatting—which is the practice of making false reports to 9-1-1 to induce a law enforcement response at a residence or workplace.
    Over a two-year span, this particular young person targeted a Florida mosque and hundreds of high schools, historically black colleges and universities, and even the homes of FBI agents.
    Swatting distracts and drains valuable law enforcement resources, exposes police to a potentially life-threatening response, and traumatizes citizens, including students and worshippers, who experience these events.
    And as if this wasn’t bad enough, it emerged that the young suspect was selling swatting as a service on Telegram— which is another way in which that platform is being exploited for dangerous purposes.
    Now, some look at today’s threat landscape and assume the worst, and conclude that there is little if anything that can be done to stop the growth of these threats. 
    But I am here today to tell you that, like all of you, we do not see it that way.    
    The Biden-Harris Administration’s Strategic Approach
    Clearly what I have described is not how we wish our world had evolved. But we have come together here to affirm that we are not powerless in the face of hate and violence.
    From day one, President Biden and Vice President Harris have pursued a rigorously calibrated, integrated approach to countering hate and domestic terrorism that is aligned with our values and complements our broader national security interests.
    This is built on their core belief that domestic terrorism and hate strike at the very foundation of our democracy.
    Indeed, President Biden decided to run for the White House back in 2017 after men with tiki torches emerged from the shadows in Charlottesville spewing the same Antisemitic bile we heard in Germany in the 1930s. 
    That’s why, on his first day in office, President Biden directed me to lead a 100-day comprehensive review of U.S. Government efforts to address domestic terrorism.  This resulted in the development and release of the first-ever National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism in June of 2021.
    We went to work immediately on implementing that strategy.  And to complement it, recognizing how critical our partners beyond the Federal government would be to our success, in September of 2022, President Biden hosted the United We Stand Summit to mobilize communities to work with us in advancing an inclusive and bipartisan vision for a more united America and to push back against the growing normalization of hate in our society.
    In December of that year, Susan Rice – then the President’s Domestic Policy Advisor – and I launched an initiative to specifically tackle Antisemitism, Islamophobia and related forms of bias and discrimination.
    This led to our releasing, in May 2023, the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. And we have been working to develop a complementary strategy to address Islamophobia. 
    Importantly, our approach not only tackles the threats of today but prepares for emerging and future threats. 
    So I want to focus here on three key elements of the strategy: first, our efforts to hold accountable those who engage in hate-fueled violence and hate crimes; second, our efforts to protect vulnerable communities; and third, our efforts to prevent such acts from occurring in the first place.
    Accountability Measures
    Our Administration has prioritized the use of our legal authorities and tools to expand investigations and prosecutions. 
    As a result, from 2020 to 2022, the number of FBI domestic violent extremism and domestic terrorism investigations more than doubled to over 2,700. 
    In 2022, the Department of Justice also created a specific domestic terrorism unit within its National Security Division to handle these investigations and prosecutions.
    And a similar dynamic is occurring in our efforts to address hate crimes. The FBI has published and widely disseminated information about what constitutes a hate crime and how to report them, and reinforced this by conducting over 70 meetings with faith-based organizations since October 7th.
    These efforts, combined with the FBI’s tireless work to investigate every lead they receive, have delivered results.  Let me describe a few.  
    In November of 2023, a Tampa, Florida, resident was arrested by the FBI for allegedly leaving threatening voicemails at two Jewish organizations in New York.
    In January 2024, a Massachusetts man was arrested for threatening to kill members of the Jewish community and bomb places of worship.
    And just last month, the Department of Justice announced criminal charges against a Pakistani national arrested in Canada who was planning to travel to New York City to attack a Jewish Community Center on the anniversary of October 7th.
    Protection Measures
    We have also driven efforts to enhance the safety and security of Jewish and other communities targeted for hate and violence. For example, President Biden worked with Congress to secure an additional $400 million for the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS’s) Nonprofit Security Grant Program in February of this year.
    This grant program funds security improvements and training for nonprofits and houses of worship, including campus organizations and community centers.
    For example, the same program paid to install cameras and boost other security measures in Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas—actions that the congregation’s Rabbi credited with avoiding loss of life when a terrorist took hostages in the synagogue in January 2022. 
    We have also worked in partnership with a wide range of state and local leaders and non-governmental partners to help communities and institutions protect themselves against and prevent hate.
    As just one example, this past summer we provided 5,000 campus leaders all across the country with a detailed list of the federal resources available to help them establish safer and more secure learning environments for their students, faculty, and staff.  
    We sent Federal experts to campuses, hosted a variety of convenings to discuss challenges and identify solutions, and released updated toolkits to enhance their preparations for the new academic year that began in August.
    This effort is ongoing, and the fear and anxiety of those who feel threatened on campuses persists. But it is clear that the resources and toolkits we have shared align with the changes that many campuses have successfully implemented this Fall.  
    Prevention
    And this brings me to the third element of our response—the actions we are taking now to prevent hate-fueled violence and domestic terrorism in the future, before they occur. 
    We know that a complex process brings an individual to pursue targeted violence or terrorism. But we also know that there are behaviors and other signs that people see that are clues that an individual might be trending toward or contemplating an act of targeted violence or terrorism.   
    We have elevated the prevention of targeted violence and terrorism as a strategic priority for countering terrorism, antisemitism, and related forms of hate. 
    Our goal has been to build a prevention architecture that supports nation-wide state and local efforts to intervene and “offramp” individuals who appear to be moving toward committing acts of targeted violence and terrorism.
    At the Federal level, we have surged support to state and local behavioral Threat Assessment and Management, or “TAM” teams as we refer to them.
    For example, the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit has embedded specifically trained agents who are called “threat management coordinators” in their field offices and is working to ensure that each of their field offices are participating in the local Threat Assessment and Management teams. Some of these coordinators are here with us today.   
    Likewise, the U.S. Secret Service’s National Threat Assessment Center recently released a six-step guide for state and local law enforcement about how they can most efficiently establish a TAM team that can assess and intervene with individuals identified as posing a risk of violence.
    And there is the DHS Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships, which I know is well represented here in the room.  Among their many accomplishments, I want to highlight their work creating and curating the online Prevention Resource Finder, which you can Google at that name—literally a one-stop shop that lists all Federal resources available to help state and local governments prevent acts of targeted violence and terrorism. We recently expanded the website, and it now offers nearly 150 resources.
    It’s important to say again here that the Federal government cannot effectively tackle this metastatic challenge alone.
    Indeed, all of the evidence shows that prevention is most effective when led by our state and local partners, who are on the ground, embedded in our communities. This is especially true for TAM teams, which often operate at the county or municipal level.
    The good news is that we know state and local partners can do this quickly and successfully in partnership with Federal expertise and assistance. Let me give you an example.
    In the days and weeks following the appalling May 14th, 2022, domestic terrorist attack at the Tops Supermarket in Buffalo, the state of New York quickly reached out to the Federal Department of Homeland Security and other Federal agencies to explore how to expand existing partnerships and build a statewide prevention effort.
    To be clear, this was led by and implemented by the State of New York, but the Federal government offered substantial assistance to the State of New York.
    And by 2023, New York had launched a statewide targeted violence prevention strategy that included placing at least one TAM team in every county.
    Just two years after the Buffalo attack, New York had established TAM teams in forty-three counties and the City of New York.
    In May, New York noted that their TAM teams were collectively intervening in more than one thousand two hundred cases.
    And, more important, these TAM teams are saving lives, taking action with respect to certain individuals who were clearly planning acts of targeted violence.  
    This is critical, painstaking, lifesaving work, and I am encouraged to see that many more states are responding to our calls to move in this direction.
    This is progress, and if we persist, these efforts will reduce violence in our Homeland.  
    Closing
    In closing, I want to thank each of you for the work you do every day to prevent, to prepare, and to respond to this phenomenon that is tragically impacting so many of our communities and leaving families and neighborhoods devastated. 
    Your partnership with us is vital to stopping the normalization of hate-fueled violence that threatens our democracy. 
    Again, I want commend the work of this Summit. You are the embodiment of what I have spoken about today.  And there is a real feeling of solidarity in a group like this, and we can and must draw strength from one another.
    For a moment, I will take you back to another very dark time in our Nation’s history — the days and weeks after 9/11. Then I had very young children — and to focus them on the positive in a time of terror I would say to them, “look at all the helpers — there are so many people who are helping other people.”
    You are the helpers today, the doers, the healers in these times, and your work to scale up prevention efforts – and to mobilize the youth of our country to be a part of the solution to hate – are two of the numerous examples of how the agenda for the coming three days will build a stronger and safer America for all of us, and set an example for the world. 
    I salute you for all your commitment, your dedication, and everything you are doing — 
    And I will end where I began. While the threats are real and pernicious, we take inspiration from each other and from those we have lost.  
    May each of their memories be a blessing – and may our work together light the way to a brighter and more secure future.     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/21/2024 Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies about KOSA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    To: Interested Parties

    Date:   October 21, 2024

    Re: Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies About the Kids Online Safety Act

    KOSA Does Not Censor Speech Nor Impact the 1st Amendment

    • KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. This bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral.
    • Online platforms cannot be held liable for hosting or promoting conservative voices or pro-life views as a result of this bill. The legislation does not include any enforcement powers or obligations related to content or speech.
    • To be clear on Congress’s intent to protect speech, the bill includes an explicit statement that it does not expand or limit Section 230, which provides online platforms broad legal immunities for third-party content. Furthermore, the bill provides legal safeguards to protect users’ ability to view and search for the content that they choose to see.

    KOSA Does Not Increase The Authority of the Federal Government or FTC

    • It is important to note that there is no new rulemaking power for the FTC in KOSA nor any ability to create rules about content. KOSA gives the FTC clear direction from Congress about how to apply its existing enforcement authorities to protect kids online.
    • Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law.

    What Does KOSA’s Duty of Care Actually Do?

    • The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media platforms accountable for their product designs – their own predatory business practices and deadly apps. This is the same responsibility and accountability that exists for almost every other industry in America
    • The duty of care simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. Those harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.
    • Big Tech will be required to ensure their platforms are safe for kids by default, and not put the burden exclusively on parents. This will also ensure that the protections for kids keep up with changes in technology.

    KOSA Will Not Require Anyone To Upload ID

    • KOSA does not impose age verification requirements or require platforms to collect more data about users (government IDs or otherwise). In fact, the bill explicitly states that it does not require age gating, age verification, or the collection of additional data.

    KOSA Protects Churches, Blogs, and News Outlets 

    • KOSA covers commercial, online platforms such as social media, social networks, online video games, social messaging applications, and video streaming services, such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Roblox.
    • Non-profit organizations, blogs, personal websites, news outlets, churches, broadband companies, etc. are not covered by KOSA. It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news, or a church sermon.

    KOSA Gives Parents A Seat At The Table

    • For decades, Big Tech lobbyists and their front groups have dominated the conversation, denying the suffering of American families. The Kids Online Safety Council is a place where parents have a seat across the table from big tech and they can raise the issues they are seeing with their kids. The Council has no rulemaking or enforcement power. 

    KOSA Uses The Same Methods Our Military Utilizes to Define “Mental Health Disorder”

    • For decades, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Mental Disorders (DSM) has been used by Congress and states, as well as our military, the VA, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

    How Can Companies Know Who Is Under 17?

    • Online platforms have been required to provide legal protections to kids for more than two decades under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Just as COPPA has not required age-gating or substantial burdens on business or privacy, neither will KOSA.
    • If an online platform truly doesn’t know the age of the user, then it does not face any obligation under the bill. It is not required online platforms collect more data to determine the user’s age.

     Click here to download the full memo. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rubio Calls Leaks of Israel’s Plan “Treason”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    ICYMI: Rubio Calls Leaks of Israel’s Plan “Treason”

    Oct 21, 2024 | Press Releases

    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined The Story with Martha MacCallum to discuss the leak of U.S. intelligence on Israel’s retaliation plans against Iran. See below for highlights, and watch the full interview on YouTube and Rumble.

    On the leak of U.S. intelligence on Israel’s retaliation plans against Iran: 

    “It’s a federal crime to leak that information. It’s also an act of treason. It’s aiding an enemy of the United States, a government in Iran that basically says, ‘Death to America, death to Israel’ every week. It’s their slogan…. 

    “Strategic leaks that have been designed to undermine American foreign policy and, in many cases, to help avowed enemies of the United States, that needs to stop, that needs to end. We need to know who did this, and they need to be punished.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Bilirakis, Colleagues Request Guidance on Debris Clean Up

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Bilirakis, Colleagues Request Guidance on Debris Clean Up

    Oct 21, 2024 | Press Releases

    Florida communities are trying to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Given the unique nature of the back-to-back emergencies and the sheer volume of damage, it is vital to recovery that these communities have clear guidance on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) debris clean up policy. 

    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and members of the Florida delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting written guidance on debris clean up efforts.

    • “Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response…. [W]e ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts.”

    Click here for a full list of signers.  

    The full text of the letter is below. 

    Dear Mr. President:

    In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several of Florida’s local governments are experiencing significant hardship as they seek to respond to the diverse needs of their constituents who are struggling to recover. Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.

    After major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal demolition and waste disposal. It is our understanding that FEMA has previously issued disaster specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and remain eligible for reimbursement while fully utilizing the program waivers that have been implemented.

    We acknowledge and appreciate FEMA’s letter dated October 13, 2024, which provided necessary flexibility and waivers from needing to identify which specific damage was caused by Hurricane Helene and which was caused by Hurricane Milton. In light of that letter, we ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts. This specifically includes:

    1. Formalizing prior verbal confirmation with clear written guidance that FEMA will fully reimburse debris clean-up activities that took place between the two hurricanes in order to prevent loss of life and further destruction of property.
    2. Granting additional flexibility with respect to Post-Milton debris clean-up that will enable expedited clean-up efforts.

    Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Bilirakis, Colleagues Request Guidance on Debris Removal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Rubio, Bilirakis, Colleagues Request Guidance on Debris Removal

    Oct 21, 2024 | Press Releases

    Given the extraordinary nature of consecutive hurricanes and the sheer volume of damage in Florida communities, clear guidance on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) debris removal policy is vital for the recovery of these communities. 

    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and members of the Florida delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting written guidance on debris removal efforts.

    • “Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response….[W]e ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts.”

    Click here for a full list of signers.  

    The full text of the letter is below. 

    Dear Mr. President:

    In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, several of Florida’s local governments are experiencing significant hardship as they seek to respond to the diverse needs of their constituents who are struggling to recover. Many of these local governments need FEMA to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.

    After major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal demolition and waste disposal. It is our understanding that FEMA has previously issued disaster specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and remain eligible for reimbursement while fully utilizing the program waivers that have been implemented.

    We acknowledge and appreciate FEMA’s letter dated October 13, 2024, which provided necessary flexibility and waivers from needing to identify which specific damage was caused by Hurricane Helene and which was caused by Hurricane Milton. In light of that letter, we ask that you issue additional guidance for these hurricanes that will further help facilitate recovery efforts. This specifically includes:

    1. Formalizing prior verbal confirmation with clear written guidance that FEMA will fully reimburse debris clean-up activities that took place between the two hurricanes in order to prevent loss of life and further destruction of property.
    2. Granting additional flexibility with respect to Post-Milton debris clean-up that will enable expedited clean-up efforts.

    Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is it possible to have a fair jury trial anymore?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Arlie Loughnan, Professor of Criminal Law, University of Sydney

    Shutterstock

    The decades-long mystery about what happened to 19-year-old Amber Haigh made it to court in New South Wales earlier this year. Those accused of murdering Haigh were found not guilty.

    Usually we don’t know precisely why someone was found guilty or not. But in this case, the reasons were given.

    This is because the trial was “judge alone”: a trial without a jury. This means the judge decides on the factual questions as well as the legal ones. And as judges are required to give reasons for their decisions, we learned what was behind the verdict, something usually hidden by the “black box” of the jury room.

    Judge alone trials are increasing in New South Wales. Moves are being made in some other Australian jurisdictions to increase access to judge alone trials.

    While it’s only possible to hold a judge alone trial in certain circumstances, and there are small numbers of such trials relative to other trials, some lawyers and judges think these trials have advantages over those with a jury.

    This is because jury trials face a lot of challenges. Some have pondered whether, in this media-saturated environment, there is such a thing as a fair jury trial. So what are these challenges, and where do they leave the time-honoured process?

    What happens in a jury trial?

    The criminal trial brings together knowledge of the facts that underpin the criminal charge. The task of the jury is to independently assess that knowledge as presented in the trial, and reach a conclusion about guilt to the criminal standard of proof: beyond reasonable doubt.

    Crucially, lay people provide legitimacy to this process, as individuals drawn from all walks of life are engaged in the decision-making around the guilt of the accused.

    The jury is therefore a fundamental part of our democracy.

    The changing trial

    For its legitimacy, the criminal trial traditionally relies on open justice, independent prosecutors and the lay jury (the “black box”), all overseen by the impartial umpire, the judge, and backed up by the appeal system.

    But these aspects of the criminal trial are being challenged by changes occurring inside and outside the courtroom.

    These challenges include high levels of media attention given to criminal justice matters.

    Another is the questioning about the way public prosecutors are using their discretion in bringing charges against individuals. This is happening in NSW, ACT and Victoria.

    There are also concerns about “junk science” being relied on Australian courtrooms. This is where unreliable or inaccurate expert evidence is introduced in trials.

    Some legal bodies are also demanding a post-appeal criminal cases review commission to prevent wrongful convictions.

    Added complexity

    It is not just juries that must come to grips with complex evidence in criminal matters. Judges and lawyers are also required to grasp intricate scientific evidence, understand new areas of expertise, and get across changing practices of validating expert knowledge.

    The difficulty of these tasks for judges and lawyers was on show in the two special inquiries into Kathleen Folbigg’s convictions for the murder of her children, held in 2019 and 2022–23. Rapid developments in genetic science, alongside other developments, came to cast doubt on the accuracy of Folbigg’s convictions. This was just a few years after the first inquiry concluded there was no reasonable doubt about her guilt.

    The challenges facing criminal trials are one dimension of much wider social and political dynamics. News and information is produced and consumed differently now. People have differing degrees of respect for scientific knowledge and expertise. Trust in authority and institutions is low.

    These factors come together in a perfect storm and pose existential questions about what criminal justice should look like now.

    What does the future look like?

    The future of criminal law and its institutions depends on their legitimacy. It’s legitimacy that gives courts the social license and power to proscribe conduct, prosecute crimes and authorise punishment. Juries are a vital piece of this picture.

    Amid the changing environment, there are things we can do to improve jury trials and in turn, safeguard and enhance their legitimacy.

    One is providing extremely careful instructions to juries to make sure jurors understand their tasks, and do not feel frustrated.

    Another is introducing higher and better standards for expert evidence. Experts testifying in court need firm guidance, especially on their use of industry jargon, to decrease chances of wrongful convictions.

    These sorts of changes might be coupled with changes in criminal laws, like enhancing laws of self-defence so they are more accessible to women in domestic violence situations.

    Together, this would help to future-proof criminal law, ready to meet the challenges of coming years and decades that we are yet to detect.

    Arlie Loughnan 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. Is it possible to have a fair jury trial anymore? – https://theconversation.com/is-it-possible-to-have-a-fair-jury-trial-anymore-239401

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s at stake in elections in Georgia and Moldova this week: a stark choice between Russia and the West

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Simpson, Senior Lecturer, International Studies, University of South Australia

    Two former Soviet republics have important elections this week that will likely be pivotal in their respective journeys toward tighter integration with the West against the backdrop of rising Russian influence and the Ukraine war.

    What happens in Georgia and Moldova is being closely watched across the European Union and Moscow. Russia has invested heavily in trying to influence the outcomes of both elections. If it succeeds, this will be a cause of significant concern in other ex-Soviet states, as well as the West.

    Moldova takes a tentative step towards the EU

    On Sunday, Moldovans voted in the first round of their presidential election. A referendum was also on the ballot to amend the country’s Constitution to include an aspiration to join the EU.

    Pre-election polls had suggested the referendum would easily pass and the popular pro-EU president, Maia Sandu, would be re-elected.

    However, Russia launched a significant “propaganda blitz” ahead of the vote, including credible allegations of widespread vote buying, to undermine the electoral process.

    Sandu won the first round comfortably, with over 42% of the vote, though not by enough to avoid a run-off on November 3. The country’s pro-Russia parties are now likely to coalesce behind the second-place candidate in an attempt to oust her.

    The referendum, however, teetered on the edge of failure before narrowly passing by the tightest of margins.

    Though Moldova’s negotiations with the EU were certain to continue under Sandu regardless of the outcome, the result was nonetheless concerning. It demonstrates the strength of Russia’s influence operations to destabilise a nation seen as key to security on the eastern boundaries of the EU and NATO.

    Moldova has a 1,200-kilometre border with Ukraine in the east and borders Romania, an EU and NATO member, in the west.

    Polling suggests a majority of Moldovans condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but a significant minority retain pro-Russian views.

    Russia also has a history of interference in Moldova’s sovereignty.

    Moldova declared independence in 1991 during the dissolution of the Soviet Union but Transnistria, a small part of the country along the border with Ukraine, was taken over by separatists in a military operation backed by Russian troops.

    Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe formally recognised Transnistria as Moldovan territory still occupied by Russia.

    What’s at stake in Georgia?

    On the day of Moldova’s vote, tens of thousands of pro-EU supporters staged a demonstration in Tblisi, Georgia’s capital, calling for their country to choose a pro-EU path in their own election

    The Georgian Dream party has been in power since 2012 and while it remains nominally pro-EU, it has gradually shifted towards a more pro-Russia stance.

    The Georgian Dream-dominated legislature recently passed an antidemocratic, Putinesque law that requires groups receiving at least 20% of their funding from overseas to register as “agents of foreign influence”. And earlier this month, it passed a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ bill that bans same-sex marriages, adoption by same-sex couples and changing one’s gender on identity documents.

    The EU suspended Georgia’s accession process after the foreign agents law was passed and has recently cancelled €121 million (A$196 million) in funding due to “democratic backsliding”. This month, the European Parliament also overwhelmingly adopted a resolution calling for a freeze on EU funding to Georgia until its undemocratic laws are repealed.

    The opposition parties are now working together to try to remove Georgian Dream from power, support the re-election of the current pro-EU president and return the country to the road of rapid integration with the EU.

    Polls show support for joining the EU remains very high at nearly 80%. However, as the Moldovan election demonstrates, this may not necessarily be reflected in the vote on election day.



    Read more:
    ‘We do not want to be like Russia’: a first-hand account of Georgia’s fight for democracy

    Russian interference

    Russia has long meddled in its southern neighbour. After an invasion of Georgia in 2008, Russian troops supported two pro-Russian breakaway republics, South Ossetia and Abkhazia, as they had done in Transnistria.

    Russia has now established military bases in both regions, as well as a new naval base in Abkhazia to serve as a permanent base for parts of Russia’s Black Sea fleet.

    These incursions set the stage for Russia’s invasion of Crimea and eastern Ukraine in 2014. As the post-Soviet Baltic states have argued, the lack of an adequate response from the West to these invasions set the stage for Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    Georgians are understandably concerned that Russia may invade their country again. Polls suggest two-thirds of people support joining NATO.

    There are concerns that Saturday’s election could also be tainted. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe issued a declaration earlier this month, saying there are “alarming reports” indicating the Russian-backed Georgian Dream party might be “preparing to steal” the election.

    The report accused the ruling party of a “massive intimidation campaign” against opposition candidates and their supporters, including physical attacks. It also said the Central Election Commission has apparently been brought under the control of Georgian Dream.

    The opposition and civil society groups claimed electoral fraud after the 2020 elections, which resulted in mass protests and a political crisis when the opposition boycotted parliament.

    Why these elections matter

    These elections in Georgia and Moldova are crucial for reinforcing democratic rights in vulnerable former Soviet states. Any outcome that shifts their trajectory towards Russia will likely result in increased repression of both minorities, including the LGTBQ+ community, and the political opposition.

    Wins by pro-Russian candidates and parties – legitimate or otherwise – will also drive greater military and economic integration with Russia. Despite popular support in both countries for joining NATO, wins by Russian-backed candidates will likewise undermine support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

    While it looks like pro-EU results might have squeaked through in Moldova, the elections in Georgia are potentially more hazardous for European relations.

    The stakes in both elections could not be higher.

    Adam Simpson 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. What’s at stake in elections in Georgia and Moldova this week: a stark choice between Russia and the West – https://theconversation.com/whats-at-stake-in-elections-in-georgia-and-moldova-this-week-a-stark-choice-between-russia-and-the-west-240675

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB to Help Improve Power Supply in West Bengal, India

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (22 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $241.3 million loan to improve the distribution of power supply in West Bengal, India, which will help enhance people’s quality of life by ensuring they have access to reliable, quality, and sustainable power supply.

    “This ADB program is aligned with the government’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, which aims to strengthen the operational efficiency of power distribution companies,” said ADB Principal Energy Specialist Roka Sanda. “Reliable and sustainable electricity distribution and service is essential to West Bengal’s growth and development.”

    The West Bengal Distribution System Strengthening Program will improve electricity distribution for 8.96 million consumers in seven districts in West Bengal. The program will replace low-tension overhead lines with aerial bundled cables, separate electricity feeders for agriculture and non-agriculture users, and develop an integrated information and operation management system for power supply quality, performance monitoring, and corporate financial management.

    The program will raise the operational efficiency of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited by building its capacity on asset and financial management, promotion and introduction of renewable energy, tariff rationalization, and on gender equity and social inclusion.

    ADB will help update relevant safety policies and manuals, while supplying health and safety equipment such as first aid kits and personal protective equipment. The program will contribute to awareness-building in communities, particularly on electrical safety, and train district technical and engineering staff on behavioral safety.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: From Camilla to the ‘ugly’ Elizabeth of Austria: a problematic history of obsessing over royal women’s looks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University

    Elizabeth of Austria and Casimir IV of Poland in the woodcut from the Łaski Statute. Archiwum Główne Akt Dawnych

    Throughout history, queens have often been judged on their looks. Beauty standards shaped early-modern queenship. Even today, royal women such as the UK royal family’s Camilla, Catherine and Meghan are scrutinised for their looks, while their male counterparts aren’t held to the same standard.

    One woman who faced particular scrutiny for her looks was Elizabeth of Austria (1436/37–1505). Known as the “mother of kings”, Elizabeth married Casimir IV of Poland and had 13 children, securing the Jagiellon dynasty’s future. Yet she is still remembered for her supposed lack of beauty.

    This obsession with her appearance overlooks what really mattered for queens in her time: fertility, motherhood, political alliances and dynastic stability.

    Beauty versus duty

    Elizabeth was a powerful queen consort of Poland who played a significant role in European politics. Yet for centuries, she has been chiefly labelled as unattractive. This narrative likely began as early as 50 years after her death, with commentators focusing on her supposed ugliness.

    But the foundation for these claims is shaky, at best. Medieval chroniclers, such as Jan Długosz, who documented the lives of Polish rulers and their families, made no mention of Elizabeth’s appearance.

    This omission is significant as Długosz often commented on the beauty, or lack thereof, of other royal women. The absence of such remarks in Elizabeth’s case suggests her physical appearance was not a matter of public concern during her lifetime.

    Later chroniclers such as Maciej of Miechów (1457–1523) and Marcin Bielski (1495–1575), who drew heavily from Długosz, also failed to comment on Elizabeth’s looks, further underscoring the lack of focus on her beauty.

    In 1548, Polish nobleman Andrzej Górka alleged in a rhetorical speech that King Casimir IV was disappointed by Elizabeth’s appearance and considered breaking off their engagement. Górka claimed the king expressed doubts about the impending marriage because of Elizabeth’s lack of beauty – and the only thing that persuaded him to wed was a sense of duty.

    However, Górka’s speech took place almost a century after the actual events. It was delivered in a political context where the goal was to influence Casimir’s grandson not to marry for love.

    This saga mirrors a well-known English story involving Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves. In 1540, Henry, eager to meet his new bride, rode in disguise to surprise her. The meeting didn’t go as planned. Henry’s disappointment in Anne’s appearance became notorious and the marriage was speedily annulled.

    Both of these stories reflect the pressure queens faced to meet idealistic beauty standards, often with serious consequences. Henry’s judgement of Anne based on her looks altered the course of their marriage and, by extension, future political alliances. His behaviour reinforced the idea that a queen’s worth was tied to her physical appearance, overshadowing her political or dynastic significance.

    Elizabeth as the ‘ugly queen’

    The primary role of a queen in early-modern Europe was to provide heirs and secure political alliances through marriage. Beauty was arguably not the most important factor.

    This 1454 painting depicts the marriage of Elizabeth of Austria to Casimir IV of Poland.
    Wikimedia

    Elizabeth of Austria’s marriage to Casimir IV of Poland was about strengthening ties between the Habsburg and Jagiellon dynasties, not about physical attraction. Of Elizabeth’s 13 children, several went on to become kings and queens across Europe. Her ancestry and status as a mother were the basis of her political influence – far more valuable than her looks.

    Around 1502, in anticipation of the birth of her grandchild, Elizabeth commissioned a treatise to provide practical advice on raising a future ruler. She believed a royal child should embody values, attitudes and behaviours befitting a future monarch.

    However, as history shows, the perception of a queen’s beauty could still end up influencing her legacy. While Elizabeth’s contemporaries didn’t seem to care about her appearance, later generations did.

    The myth of Elizabeth’s unattractiveness gained traction primarily after a 1973 investigation into the royal tombs at the Wawel Cathedral in Kraków. Skeletal remains identified as belonging to Elizabeth showed facial deformities, reinforcing the myth. However, there’s no solid proof these bones were even hers, and the findings have since been questioned.

    Nonetheless, the idea that a queen had to be beautiful to be politically capable took hold over time. Even though Elizabeth helped secure the future of one of Europe’s most powerful dynasties, her legacy is clouded by a narrative focused on her appearance.

    Royal beauty standards today

    Royal women in the 21st century continue to be haunted by the same narratives that plagued Anne of Cleves and Elizabeth of Austria. Queen Camilla, for instance, has been criticised for her looks throughout her public life, especially in comparison to the late Princess Diana.

    Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle also face intense media scrutiny over their appearance, with headlines dissecting everything from their fashion choices to their weight. Queen Mary of Denmark, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Queen Letizia of Spain face similar scrutiny.

    Sure, queens were and are aware of this. Many even weaponised beauty, ritual and fashion for their own gain. Cleopatra did this to hold onto power in ancient Egypt, and Marie Antoinette to protect herself from the hostile French court.

    A circa 1774 portrait of Marie Antoinette.
    Marie Antoinette, with her extravagant dresses, became as renowned for her fashion as her scandalous behaviour.
    British Museum, CC BY-NC-SA

    Elizabeth I’s reign in England gave rise to a concept of “Elizabethan beauty”, characterised by pale skin and rosy lips and cheeks. And the late Elizabeth II understood the need to dress the part.

    By reducing royal women to their looks – or framing them as fashion icons – we fail to reckon with their individual characters and influence in the world. Meanwhile, men such as King Charles, King Frederick of Denmark and King Felipe of Spain are more likely to be judged by their virility, actions and policies.

    Should beauty really matter when it comes to royal women? Shouldn’t we be more interested in their contributions to history, politics and society?

    It’s time to shift the conversation away from appearance and focus on what matters: the impact these women have on the world. Like their male counterparts, they are crucial figures in shaping history and politics, so we ought to think carefully about how we judge them.

    The Conversation

    Darius von Guttner Sporzynski receives funding from the National Science Centre, Poland as a partner investigator in the grant “Polish queen consorts in the 15th and 16th centuries as wives and mothers” (2021/43/B/HS3/01490).

    Magdalena Biniaś-Szkopek receives funding from the National Science Centre, Poland, as the principal investigator in the grant “Polish queen consorts in the 15th and 16th centuries as wives and mothers” (2021/43/B/HS3/01490).

    Robert Tomczak receives funding from the National Science Centre, Poland, as a post-doctoral fellow in the grant “Polish queen consorts in the 15th and 16th centuries as wives and mothers” (2021/43/B/HS3/01490).

    – ref. From Camilla to the ‘ugly’ Elizabeth of Austria: a problematic history of obsessing over royal women’s looks – https://theconversation.com/from-camilla-to-the-ugly-elizabeth-of-austria-a-problematic-history-of-obsessing-over-royal-womens-looks-241674

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Sandy Spring Bancorp Reports Third Quarter Earnings of $16.2 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OLNEY, Md., Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq-SASR), the parent company of Sandy Spring Bank, reported net income of $16.2 million ($0.36 per diluted common share) for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to net income of $22.8 million ($0.51 per diluted common share) for the second quarter of 2024 and $20.7 million ($0.46 per diluted common share) for the third quarter of 2023.

    Current quarter’s core earnings were $17.9 million ($0.40 per diluted common share), compared to $24.4 million ($0.54 per diluted common share) for the quarter ended June 30, 2024 and $27.8 million ($0.62 per diluted common share) for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. Core earnings exclude the after-tax impact of amortization of intangibles, investment securities gains or losses and other non-recurring or extraordinary items. The current quarter’s decline in net income and core earnings as compared to the linked quarter was driven by higher provision for credit losses combined with higher non-interest expense, partially offset by higher net interest income. The total provision for credit losses was $6.3 million for the third quarter of 2024 compared to $1.0 million for the previous quarter and $2.4 million for the third quarter of 2023.

    “We have a solid capital position and are seeing ongoing success with our core deposit strategies and our wealth management lines of business,” said Daniel J. Schrider, Chair, President & CEO of Sandy Spring Bank. “Our wealth teams – Sandy Spring Trust, and our subsidiaries, West Financial and RPJ – have an expanding number of referrals from current clients and work closely with business owners from early growth through maturity. The success of our wealth teams’ approach is reflected in our strong fee income results.”

    Third Quarter Highlights

    • Total assets at September 30, 2024 increased by 3% to $14.4 billion compared to $14.0 billion at June 30, 2024.
    • Total loans remained level at $11.5 billion as of September 30, 2024 compared to June 30, 2024. During the current quarter, AD&C and commercial business loans and lines increased by $71.3 million and $19.4 million, respectively, while the commercial investor real estate segment declined by $64.9 million. Total residential mortgage and consumer loan portfolios remained relatively unchanged during this period.
    • Deposits increased by $397.5 million or 4% to $11.7 billion at September 30, 2024 compared to $11.3 billion at June 30, 2024, as interest-bearing deposits increased $425.8 million, while noninterest-bearing deposits declined $28.3 million. Strong growth in the interest-bearing deposit categories was mainly experienced within money market, time deposits and savings accounts, which grew by $185.2 million, $151.5 million, and $66.1 million, respectively, compared to the linked quarter. The decline in noninterest-bearing deposit categories was driven by lower balances in personal and small business checking accounts. Total deposits, excluding brokered deposits, increased by $351.7 million or 3% quarter-over-quarter and represented 94% of total deposits as of September 30, 2024.
    • The ratio of non-performing loans to total loans was 1.09% at September 30, 2024 compared to 0.81% at June 30, 2024 and 0.46% at September 30, 2023. The current quarter’s increase in non-performing loans was mainly related to a single AD&C loan that was placed on non-accrual status during the current period. Net charge-offs for the current quarter totaled $0.7 million.
    • Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 grew $1.1 million or 1% compared to the previous quarter and decreased by $3.7 million or 4% compared to the third quarter of 2023. Compared to the previous quarter, interest income increased by $5.0 million, while interest expense increased by $3.9 million.
    • The net interest margin was 2.44% for the third quarter of 2024 compared to 2.46% for the second quarter of 2024 and 2.55% for the third quarter of 2023. During the current quarter, the net interest margin was negatively impacted by a reversal of previously accrued uncollected interest income on a single large AD&C loan placed on a non-accrual status. Compared to the linked quarter, the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities increased seven basis points, while the yield on interest-earning assets increased three basis points.
    • Provision for credit losses directly attributable to the funded loan portfolio was $6.3 million for the current quarter compared to $3.0 million in the previous quarter and $3.2 million in the prior year quarter. The current quarter’s provision expense is mainly attributable to higher individual reserves on collateral-dependent loans, primarily related to a single AD&C loan due to the borrower-specific circumstances, partially offset by lower qualitative adjustments due to the reduction in commercial investor real estate loans. In addition, during the current quarter, the provision for unfunded commitments was insignificant compared to a credit of $1.9 million from the previous quarter.
    • Non-interest income for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 1% or $0.1 million compared to the linked quarter and grew by 13% or $2.3 million compared to the prior year quarter. The quarter-over-quarter increase was mainly driven by higher wealth management income and other income, generated by higher credit-related fees, which was fully offset by lower income from bank owned life insurance due to a receipt of one-time mortality proceeds during the prior quarter.
    • Non-interest expense for the third quarter of 2024 increased by $4.8 million compared to the second quarter of 2024 and $0.5 million compared to the prior year quarter. The quarterly increase in non-interest expense was primarily due to higher salaries and benefits along with an increase in professional fees and services.
    • Return on average assets (“ROA”) for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 was 0.46% and return on average tangible common equity (“ROTCE”) was 5.88% compared to 0.66% and 8.27%, respectively, for the second quarter of 2024 and 0.58% and 7.42%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023. On a non-GAAP basis, the current quarter’s core ROA was 0.50% and core ROTCE was 5.88% compared to 0.70% and 8.27%, respectively, for the previous quarter and 0.78% and 9.51%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023.
    • The GAAP efficiency ratio was 72.12% for the third quarter of 2024, compared to 68.19% for the second quarter of 2024 and 70.72% for the third quarter of 2023. The non-GAAP efficiency ratio was 69.06% for the third quarter of 2024 compared to 65.31% for the second quarter of 2024 and 60.91% for the prior year quarter. The increase in non-GAAP efficiency ratio (reflecting a decrease in efficiency) in the current quarter compared to the previous quarter was the result of higher non-interest expense in the current quarter.

    Balance Sheet and Credit Quality

    Total assets were $14.4 billion at September 30, 2024, as compared to $14.0 billion at June 30, 2024. At September 30, 2024, total loans remained stable at $11.5 billion compared to the previous quarter. During this period, the growth in AD&C and commercial business loans and lines of $71.3 million or 6% and $19.4 million or 1%, respectively, were mostly offset by the decline in commercial investor real estate loans of $64.9 million or 1%. Total residential mortgage and consumer loan portfolios remained relatively unchanged.

    Deposits increased $397.5 million or 4% to $11.7 billion at September 30, 2024 compared to $11.3 billion at June 30, 2024. During this period, noninterest-bearing deposits decreased $28.3 million or 1%, while interest-bearing deposits increased $425.8 million or 5%. The slight decline in noninterest-bearing deposit categories was driven by decreases in personal and small business checking accounts, partially offset by an increase in commercial checking accounts. Growth in interest-bearing deposits was seen across all product categories, but most notably in money market and time deposit accounts which grew $185.2 million or 7% and $151.5 million or 6% during the current quarter, respectively. Total deposits, excluding brokered deposits, increased by $351.7 million or 3% quarter-over-quarter and remained at 94% of the total deposits as of September 30, 2024 compared to June 30, 2024, reflecting continued strength and stability of the core deposit base. Total uninsured deposits at September 30, 2024 were approximately 37% of total deposits.

    Total borrowings decreased $54.1 million or 6% at September 30, 2024 as compared to the previous quarter, primarily driven by a $50.0 million pay down of FHLB advances. At September 30, 2024, available unused sources of liquidity, which consist of available FHLB borrowings, fed funds, funds through the Federal Reserve Bank’s discount window, as well as excess cash and unpledged investment securities, totaled $6.3 billion or 146% of uninsured deposits.

    The tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio declined slightly to 8.83% at September 30, 2024, compared to 8.85% at June 30, 2024.

    At September 30, 2024, the Company had a total risk-based capital ratio of 15.53%, a common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 11.27%, a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 11.27%, and a tier 1 leverage ratio of 9.59%. These risk-based capital ratios compare to a total risk-based capital ratio of 15.49%, a common equity tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 11.28%, a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 11.28%, and a tier 1 leverage ratio of 9.70% at June 30, 2024. All of these ratios remain well in excess of the mandated minimum regulatory requirements.

    Non-performing loans include non-accrual loans and accruing loans 90 days or more past due. At September 30, 2024, non-performing loans totaled $125.3 million, compared to $93.0 million at June 30, 2024 and $51.8 million at September 30, 2023. The non-performing loans to total loans ratio was 1.09% compared to 0.81% on a linked quarter basis. These levels of non-performing loans compare to 0.46% at September 30, 2023. The current quarter’s increase in non-performing loans was mainly related to a single AD&C loan with the total outstanding principal balance of $28.0 million, which was placed on a non-accrual status during the current period. Total net charge-offs for the current quarter amounted to $0.7 million compared to $0.2 million for the second quarter of 2024 and $0.1 million for the third quarter of 2023.

    At September 30, 2024, the allowance for credit losses was $131.4 million or 1.14% of outstanding loans and 105% of non-performing loans, compared to $125.9 million or 1.10% of outstanding loans and 135% of non-performing loans at the end of the previous quarter and $123.4 million or 1.09% of outstanding loans and 238% of non-performing loans at the end of the third quarter of 2023. The increase in the allowance for the current quarter compared to the previous quarter mainly reflects higher individual reserves on collateral-dependent non-accrual loans, primarily driven by the aforementioned AD&C lending relationship, partially offset by lower qualitative adjustments as a result of declines in commercial investor real estate loans.

    Income Statement Review

    Quarterly Results

    Net income was $16.2 million ($0.36 per diluted common share) for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $22.8 million ($0.51 per diluted common share) for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and $20.7 million ($0.46 per diluted common share) for the prior year quarter. The current quarter’s core earnings were $17.9 million ($0.40 per diluted common share), compared to $24.4 million ($0.54 per diluted common share) for the previous quarter and $27.8 million ($0.62 per diluted common share) for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The decreases in the current quarter’s net income and core earnings compared to the previous quarter were driven primarily by higher provision for credit losses and non-interest expense.

    Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 increased $1.1 million or 1% compared to the previous quarter and declined $3.7 million or 4% compared to the third quarter of 2023. During the current quarter, interest income increased $5.0 million, while interest expense increased $3.9 million. The rising interest rate environment was primarily responsible for a $7.7 million year-over-year increase in interest income. This growth in interest income was more than offset by the $11.4 million year-over-year growth in interest expense as funding costs have also risen in response to the rising rate environment and significant competition for deposits.

    The net interest margin was 2.44% for the third quarter of 2024 compared to 2.46% for the second quarter of 2024 and 2.55% for the third quarter of 2023. The decrease in the net interest margin during the current quarter was a result of a seven basis point increase in the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, while the yield earned on interest-earning assets rose three basis points. The current quarter’s net interest margin was negatively impacted by approximately three basis points due to the reversal of previously accrued uncollected interest income on a single large AD&C loan placed on non-accrual status during the period. As compared to the prior year quarter, the yield on interest-earning assets increased 23 basis points while the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities rose 39 basis points, resulting in net interest margin compression of 11 basis points. The rate and yield increases year-over-year were driven by the higher interest rate environment, competition for deposits in the market, and customer movement of excess funds out of noninterest-bearing accounts into higher yielding products.

    The total provision for credit losses was $6.3 million for the third quarter of 2024 compared to $1.0 million for the previous quarter and $2.4 million for the third quarter of 2023. The provision for credit losses directly attributable to the funded loan portfolio was $6.3 million for the current quarter compared to $3.0 million for the second quarter of 2024 and $3.2 million for the third quarter of 2023. The current quarter’s provision is mainly a reflection of higher individual reserves on collateral-dependent non-accrual loans, primarily associated with the provision on a single AD&C lending relationship based on the current fair value of the collateral, partially offset by lower qualitative adjustments driven by an overall reduction in commercial investor real estate loan portfolio. In addition, during the current quarter, the reserve for unfunded commitments remained relatively stable at $1.5 million.

    Non-interest income for the third quarter of 2024 increased by 1% or $0.1 million compared to the linked quarter and grew by 13% or $2.3 million compared to the prior year quarter. The current quarter’s increase in non-interest income as compared to the previous quarter was mainly driven by the $0.4 million increase in other income, generated by credit-related fees, and $0.3 million increase in wealth management income, due to the $352.1 million or 6% growth in assets under management quarter-over-quarter and the overall favorable market performance, offset by $0.5 million decrease in BOLI income, due to the receipt of one-time death proceeds in the prior quarter.

    Non-interest expense for the third quarter of 2024 increased $4.8 million or 7% compared to the second quarter of 2024 and $0.5 million or 1% compared to the third quarter of 2023. The quarter-over-quarter increase is predominantly attributable to the $3.2 million increase in salaries and benefits, due to the increase in employee incentive compensation coupled with the $1.6 million increase in professional fees and services, mostly due to a one-time contract negotiation fee. The prior year quarter included $8.2 million of pension settlement expense related to the termination of the Company’s pension plan. Excluding this item, non-interest expense for the third quarter of 2024 increased $8.6 million or 13% compared to the third quarter of 2023.

    For the third quarter of 2024, the GAAP efficiency ratio was 72.12% compared to 68.19% for the second quarter of 2024 and 70.72% for the third quarter of 2023. The GAAP efficiency ratio rose from the prior year quarter primarily as a result of the 1% increase in GAAP non-interest expense coupled with the 1% decline in GAAP revenue. The non-GAAP efficiency ratio was 69.06% for the current quarter as compared to 65.31% for the second quarter of 2024 and 60.91% for the third quarter of 2023. The increase in the non-GAAP efficiency ratio (reflecting a decrease in efficiency) from the third quarter of the prior year to the current year quarter was primarily the result of the 12% increase in adjusted non-interest expense.

    ROA for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 was 0.46% and ROTCE was 5.88% compared to 0.66% and 8.27%, respectively, for the second quarter of 2024 and 0.58% and 7.42%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023. On a non-GAAP basis, the current quarter’s core ROA was 0.50% and core ROTCE was 5.88% compared to 0.70% and 8.27% for the second quarter of 2024 and 0.78% and 9.51%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023.

    Year-to-Date Results

    The Company recorded net income of $59.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to net income of $96.7 million for the same period in the prior year. Core earnings were $64.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $107.2 million for the same period in the prior year. Year-to-date net income and core earnings declined as a result of lower net interest income in combination with higher provision for credit losses, which was partially offset by higher non-interest income.

    For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net interest income decreased $31.8 million compared to the prior year as a result of the $61.1 million increase in interest expense, partially offset by the $29.3 million increase in interest income. The increase in interest expense was driven by the interest expense on deposits, primarily associated with savings and time deposit accounts. The net interest margin declined to 2.44% for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to 2.75% for the prior year, primarily as a result of higher funding costs due to the elevated interest rate environment and market competition for deposits during the period.

    The provision for credit losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $9.7 million as compared to a credit of $14.1 million for 2023. The provision for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily due to an increase in individual reserves on collateral-dependent non-accrual loans, as well as adjustments applied to specific industries within the commercial real estate segment during the first quarter of 2024. The prior year’s credit to provision was mainly attributable to the improving regional forecasted unemployment rate observed during the first half of 2023, and the declining probability of economic recession.

    For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, non-interest income increased 14% to $57.7 million compared to $50.5 million for 2023. During the current year, wealth management income increased $3.7 million or 14%, as assets under management increased $1.0 billion or 19% year-over-year. In addition, BOLI mortality-related income and service charges on deposit accounts increased $1.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

    Non-interest expense increased to $209.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $207.9 million for 2023. The drivers of the increase in non-interest expense were the $4.0 million increase in professional fees and services, $2.7 increase in amortization of intangible assets, $1.8 million increase in FDIC expense, and $1.2 million increase in outside data services. These year-over-year increases were offset by the $9.2 million decrease in compensation and benefits, as the prior year period included $8.2 million pension termination expense and $1.9 million of severance related expenses associated with staffing adjustments.

    For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the GAAP efficiency ratio was 69.98% compared to 64.29% for the same period in 2023. The non-GAAP efficiency ratio for the current year was 67.04% compared to 59.42% for the prior year. The growth in the current year’s GAAP and non-GAAP efficiency ratios compared to the prior year, indicating a decline in efficiency, was the result of the declines in GAAP and non-GAAP revenues combined with the growth in GAAP and non-GAAP non-interest expenses.

    Explanation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This news release contains financial information and performance measures determined by methods other than in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”). The Company’s management believes that the supplemental non-GAAP information provides a better comparison of period-to-period operating performance. Additionally, the Company believes this information is utilized by regulators and market analysts to evaluate a company’s financial condition and, therefore, such information is useful to investors. Non-GAAP measures used in this release consist of the following:

    • Tangible common equity and related measures are non-GAAP measures that exclude the impact of goodwill and other intangible assets.
    • The non-GAAP efficiency ratio excludes amortization of intangible assets, investment securities gains/(losses), severance expense, contingent payment expense, and includes tax-equivalent income.
    • Core earnings and the related measures of core earnings per diluted common share, core return on average assets and core return on average tangible common equity reflect net income exclusive of amortization of intangible assets, investment securities gains/(losses) and other non-recurring or extraordinary items, on a net of tax basis.
    • Pre-tax pre-provision net income excludes income tax expense and the provision (credit) for credit losses.

    These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for financial results in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. Please refer to the non-GAAP Reconciliation tables included with this release for a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measure.

    Conference Call Cancelled

    As a result of today’s announcement that the Company has entered into a merger agreement with Atlantic Union Bankshares Corporation, the Company has cancelled its conference call scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET today to discuss the Company’s results for the third quarter of 2024.

    About Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc., headquartered in Olney, Maryland, is the holding company for Sandy Spring Bank, a premier community bank in the Greater Washington, D.C. region. With over 50 locations, the bank offers a broad range of commercial and retail banking, mortgage, private banking, and trust services throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Through its subsidiaries, Rembert Pendleton Jackson and West Financial Services, Inc., Sandy Spring Bank also offers a comprehensive menu of wealth management services.

    Source: Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc.
    Code: SASR-E

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Sandy Spring Bancorp’s forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks identified in our quarterly and annual reports and the following: changes in general business and economic conditions nationally or in the markets that we serve; changes in consumer and business confidence, investor sentiment, or consumer spending or savings behavior; changes in the level of inflation; changes in the demand for loans, deposits and other financial services that we provide; the possibility that future credit losses may be higher than currently expected; the impact of the interest rate environment on our business, financial condition and results of operations; the impact of compliance with changes in laws, regulations and regulatory interpretations, including changes in income taxes; changes in credit ratings assigned to us or our subsidiaries; the ability to realize benefits and cost savings from, and limit any unexpected liabilities associated with, any business combinations; competitive pressures among financial services companies; the ability to attract, develop and retain qualified employees; our ability to maintain the security of our data processing and information technology systems; the impact of changes in accounting policies, including the introduction of new accounting standards; the impact of judicial or regulatory proceedings; the impact of fiscal and governmental policies of the United States federal government; the impact of health emergencies, epidemics or pandemics; the effects of climate change; and the impact of natural disasters, extreme weather events, military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events. Sandy Spring Bancorp provides greater detail regarding some of these factors in its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, including in the Risk Factors section of that report, and in its other SEC reports. Sandy Spring Bancorp’s forward-looking statements may also be subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those that it may discuss elsewhere in this news release or in its filings with the SEC, accessible on the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – UNAUDITED

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		       Nine Months Ended
    September 30,    		    
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)     2024       2023     %
    Change    		     2024       2023     %
    Change
    Results of operations:                        
    Net interest income   $ 81,412     $ 85,081     (4 )%   $ 241,040     $ 272,854     (12 )%
    Provision/ (credit) for credit losses     6,316       2,365     167 %     9,724       (14,116 )   N/M
    Non-interest income     19,715       17,391     13       57,669       50,518     14  
    Non-interest expense     72,937       72,471     1       209,047       207,912     1  
    Income before income tax expense     21,874       27,636     (21 )     79,938       129,576     (38 )
    Net income     16,209       20,746     (22 )     59,388       96,744     (39 )
                             
    Net income attributable to common shareholders   $ 16,205     $ 20,719     (22 )   $ 59,351     $ 96,552     (39 )
    Pre-tax pre-provision net income (1)   $ 28,190     $ 30,001     (6 )   $ 89,662     $ 115,460     (22 )
                             
    Return on average assets     0.46 %     0.58 %         0.56 %     0.92 %    
    Return on average common equity     4.01 %     5.35 %         4.99 %     8.50 %    
    Return on average tangible common equity (1)     5.88 %     7.42 %         7.17 %     11.67 %    
    Net interest margin     2.44 %     2.55 %         2.44 %     2.75 %    
    Efficiency ratio – GAAP basis (2)     72.12 %     70.72 %         69.98 %     64.29 %    
    Efficiency ratio – Non-GAAP basis (2)     69.06 %     60.91 %         67.04 %     59.42 %    
                             
    Per share data:                        
    Basic net income per common share   $ 0.36     $ 0.46     (22 )%   $ 1.32     $ 2.16     (39 )%
    Diluted net income per common share   $ 0.36     $ 0.46     (22 )   $ 1.31     $ 2.15     (39 )
    Weighted average diluted common shares     45,242,920       44,960,455     1       45,156,521       44,912,803     1  
    Dividends declared per share   $ 0.34     $ 0.34     —     $ 1.02     $ 1.02     —  
    Book value per common share   $ 36.10     $ 34.26     5     $ 36.10     $ 34.26     5  
    Tangible book value per common share (1)   $ 27.37     $ 25.80     6     $ 27.37     $ 25.80     6  
    Outstanding common shares     45,125,078       44,895,158     1       45,125,078       44,895,158     1  
                             
    Financial condition at period-end:                        
    Investment securities   $ 1,440,488     $ 1,392,078     3 %   $ 1,440,488     $ 1,392,078     3 %
    Loans     11,491,921       11,300,292     2       11,491,921       11,300,292     2  
    Assets     14,383,073       14,135,085     2       14,383,073       14,135,085     2  
    Deposits     11,737,694       11,151,012     5       11,737,694       11,151,012     5  
    Stockholders’ equity     1,628,837       1,537,914     6       1,628,837       1,537,914     6  
                             
    Capital ratios:                        
    Tier 1 leverage (3)     9.59 %     9.50 %         9.59 %     9.50 %    
    Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (3)     11.27 %     10.83 %         11.27 %     10.83 %    
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (3)     11.27 %     10.83 %         11.27 %     10.83 %    
    Total regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets (3)     15.53 %     14.85 %         15.53 %     14.85 %    
    Tangible common equity to tangible assets (4)     8.83 %     8.42 %         8.83 %     8.42 %    
    Average equity to average assets     11.37 %     10.92 %         11.32 %     10.84 %    
                             
    Credit quality ratios:                        
    Allowance for credit losses to loans     1.14 %     1.09 %         1.14 %     1.09 %    
    Non-performing loans to total loans     1.09 %     0.46 %         1.09 %     0.46 %    
    Non-performing assets to total assets     0.89 %     0.37 %         0.89 %     0.37 %    
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans     104.92 %     238.32 %         104.92 %     238.32 %    
    Annualized net charge-offs/ (recoveries) to average loans (5)     0.03 %     — %         0.02 %     0.02 %    
    N/M – not meaningful
    (1) Represents a non-GAAP measure.
    (2) The efficiency ratio – GAAP basis is non-interest expense divided by net interest income plus non-interest income from the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. The traditional efficiency ratio – Non-GAAP basis excludes intangible asset amortization, pension settlement expense, severance expense and contingent payment expense from non-interest expense; and investment securities gains/ (losses) from non-interest income; and adds the tax-equivalent adjustment to net interest income. See the Reconciliation Table included with these Financial Highlights.
    (3) Estimated ratio at September 30, 2024.
    (4) The tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio is a non-GAAP ratio that divides assets excluding goodwill and other intangible assets into stockholders’ equity after deducting goodwill and other intangible assets. See the Reconciliation Table included with these Financial Highlights.
    (5) Calculation utilizes average loans, excluding residential mortgage loans held-for-sale.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    RECONCILIATION TABLE – UNAUDITED (CONTINUED)
    OPERATING EARNINGS – METRICS

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (Dollars in thousands)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Core earnings (non-GAAP):                
    Net income (GAAP)   $ 16,209     $ 20,746     $ 59,388     $ 96,744  
    Plus/ (less) non-GAAP adjustments (net of tax)(1):                
    Amortization of intangible assets     1,727       932       4,864       2,851  
    Severance expense     —       —       —       1,445  
    Pension settlement expense     —       6,088       —       6,088  
    Contingent payment expense     —       —       —       27  
    Core earnings (Non-GAAP)   $ 17,936     $ 27,766     $ 64,252     $ 107,155  
                     
    Core earnings per diluted common share (non-GAAP):                
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted (GAAP)     45,242,920       44,960,455       45,156,521       44,912,803  
                     
    Earnings per diluted common share (GAAP)   $ 0.36     $ 0.46     $ 1.31     $ 2.15  
    Core earnings per diluted common share (non-GAAP)   $ 0.40     $ 0.62     $ 1.42     $ 2.39  
                     
    Core return on average assets (non-GAAP):                
    Average assets (GAAP)   $ 14,136,037     $ 14,086,342     $ 14,051,722     $ 14,043,925  
                     
    Return on average assets (GAAP)     0.46 %     0.58 %     0.56 %     0.92 %
    Core return on average assets (non-GAAP)     0.50 %     0.78 %     0.61 %     1.02 %
                     
    Return/ Core return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP):                
    Net Income (GAAP)   $ 16,209     $ 20,746     $ 59,388     $ 96,744  
    Plus: Amortization of intangible assets (net of tax)     1,727       932       4,864       2,851  
    Net income before amortization of intangible assets   $ 17,936     $ 21,678     $ 64,252     $ 99,595  
                     
    Average total stockholders’ equity (GAAP)   $ 1,607,377     $ 1,538,553     $ 1,590,682     $ 1,522,153  
    Average goodwill     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )
    Average other intangible assets, net     (30,679 )     (16,777 )     (29,940 )     (18,068 )
    Average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)   $ 1,213,262     $ 1,158,340     $ 1,197,306     $ 1,140,649  
                     
    Return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)     5.88 %     7.42 %     7.17 %     11.67 %
    Core return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)     5.88 %     9.51 %     7.17 %     12.56 %
    (1) Tax adjustments have been determined using the combined marginal federal and state rate of 25.48% and 25.37% for 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    RECONCILIATION TABLE – UNAUDITED

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (Dollars in thousands)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Pre-tax pre-provision net income:                
    Net income (GAAP)   $ 16,209     $ 20,746     $ 59,388     $ 96,744  
    Plus/ (less) non-GAAP adjustments:                
    Income tax expense     5,665       6,890       20,550       32,832  
    Provision/ (credit) for credit losses     6,316       2,365       9,724       (14,116 )
    Pre-tax pre-provision net income (non-GAAP)   $ 28,190     $ 30,001     $ 89,662     $ 115,460  
                     
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP):                
    Non-interest expense   $ 72,937     $ 72,471     $ 209,047     $ 207,912  
                     
    Net interest income plus non-interest income   $ 101,127     $ 102,472     $ 298,709     $ 323,372  
                     
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)     72.12 %     70.72 %     69.98 %     64.29 %
                     
    Efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP):                
    Non-interest expense   $ 72,937     $ 72,471     $ 209,047     $ 207,912  
    Less non-GAAP adjustments:                
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,323       1,245       6,527       3,820  
    Severance expense     —       —       —       1,939  
    Pension settlement expense     —       8,157       —       8,157  
    Contingent payment expense     —       —       —       36  
    Non-interest expense – as adjusted   $ 70,614     $ 63,069     $ 202,520     $ 193,960  
                     
    Net interest income plus non-interest income   $ 101,127     $ 102,472     $ 298,709     $ 323,372  
    Plus non-GAAP adjustment:                
    Tax-equivalent income     1,121       1,068       3,359       3,044  
    Less/ (plus) non-GAAP adjustment:                
    Investment securities gains/ (losses)     —       —       —       —  
    Net interest income plus non-interest income – as adjusted   $ 102,248     $ 103,540     $ 302,068     $ 326,416  
                     
    Efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP)     69.06 %     60.91 %     67.04 %     59.42 %
                     
    Tangible common equity ratio:                
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 1,628,837     $ 1,537,914     $ 1,628,837     $ 1,537,914  
    Goodwill     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )
    Other intangible assets, net     (30,514 )     (16,035 )     (30,514 )     (16,035 )
    Tangible common equity   $ 1,234,887     $ 1,158,443     $ 1,234,887     $ 1,158,443  
                     
    Total assets   $ 14,383,073     $ 14,135,085     $ 14,383,073     $ 14,135,085  
    Goodwill     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )     (363,436 )
    Other intangible assets, net     (30,514 )     (16,035 )     (30,514 )     (16,035 )
    Tangible assets   $ 13,989,123     $ 13,755,614     $ 13,989,123     $ 13,755,614  
                     
    Tangible common equity ratio     8.83 %     8.42 %     8.83 %     8.42 %
                     
    Outstanding common shares     45,125,078       44,895,158       45,125,078       44,895,158  
    Tangible book value per common share   $ 27.37     $ 25.80     $ 27.37     $ 25.80  

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONDITION – UNAUDITED

    (Dollars in thousands)   September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
    Assets        
    Cash and due from banks   $ 109,583     $ 82,257  
    Federal funds sold     —       245  
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks     640,763       463,396  
    Cash and cash equivalents     750,346       545,898  
    Residential mortgage loans held for sale (at fair value)     21,489       10,836  
    SBA loans held for sale     425       —  
    Investments held-to-maturity (fair values of $189,853 and $200,411 at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively)     220,296       236,165  
    Investments available-for-sale (at fair value)     1,149,056       1,102,681  
    Other investments, at cost     71,136       75,607  
    Total loans     11,491,921       11,366,989  
    Less: allowance for credit losses – loans     (131,428 )     (120,865 )
    Net loans     11,360,493       11,246,124  
    Premises and equipment, net     57,249       59,490  
    Other real estate owned     3,265       —  
    Accrued interest receivable     45,162       46,583  
    Goodwill     363,436       363,436  
    Other intangible assets, net     30,514       28,301  
    Other assets     310,206       313,051  
    Total assets   $ 14,383,073     $ 14,028,172  
             
    Liabilities        
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   $ 2,903,063     $ 2,914,161  
    Interest-bearing deposits     8,834,631       8,082,377  
    Total deposits     11,737,694       10,996,538  
    Securities sold under retail repurchase agreements     70,767       75,032  
    Federal Reserve Bank borrowings     —       300,000  
    Advances from FHLB     450,000       550,000  
    Subordinated debt     371,251       370,803  
    Total borrowings     892,018       1,295,835  
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities     124,524       147,657  
    Total liabilities     12,754,236       12,440,030  
             
    Stockholders’ equity        
    Common stock — par value $1.00; shares authorized 100,000,000; shares issued and outstanding 45,125,078 and 44,913,561 at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.     45,125       44,914  
    Additional paid in capital     748,202       742,243  
    Retained earnings     911,411       898,316  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (75,901 )     (97,331 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     1,628,837       1,588,142  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 14,383,073     $ 14,028,172  

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME – UNAUDITED

        Three Months Ended
    September 30,    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Interest income:                
    Interest and fees on loans   $ 154,339   $ 147,304   $ 456,309   $ 431,305  
    Interest on mortgage loans held for sale     364     238     801     697  
    Interest on SBA loans held for sale     2     —     2     —  
    Interest on deposits with banks     6,191     6,371     17,401     13,979  
    Interest and dividend income on investment securities:                
    Taxable     7,440     6,682     21,319     20,538  
    Tax-advantaged     1,762     1,811     5,385     5,376  
    Interest on federal funds sold     —     5     8     13  
    Total interest income     170,098     162,411     501,225     471,908  
    Interest expense:                
    Interest on deposits     79,287     63,102     227,062     155,215  
    Interest on retail repurchase agreements and federal funds purchased     452     4,082     4,890     10,377  
    Interest on advances from FHLB     5,001     6,200     16,394     21,623  
    Interest on subordinated debt     3,946     3,946     11,839     11,839  
    Total interest expense     88,686     77,330     260,185     199,054  
    Net interest income     81,412     85,081     241,040     272,854  
    Provision/ (credit) for credit losses     6,316     2,365     9,724     (14,116 )
    Net interest income after provision/ (credit) for credit losses     75,096     82,716     231,316     286,970  
    Non-interest income:                
    Service charges on deposit accounts     3,009     2,704     8,765     7,698  
    Mortgage banking activities     1,529     1,682     4,524     4,744  
    Wealth management income     10,738     9,391     31,151     27,414  
    Income from bank owned life insurance     1,307     845     4,283     3,003  
    Bank card fees     435     450     1,293     1,315  
    Other income     2,697     2,319     7,653     6,344  
    Total non-interest income     19,715     17,391     57,669     50,518  
    Non-interest expense:                
    Salaries and employee benefits     41,030     44,853     115,549     124,710  
    Occupancy expense of premises     4,657     4,609     14,278     14,220  
    Equipment expenses     3,841     3,811     11,672     11,688  
    Marketing     1,320     729     3,350     3,861  
    Outside data services     3,025     2,819     9,414     8,186  
    FDIC insurance     2,773     2,333     8,635     6,846  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,323     1,245     6,527     3,820  
    Professional fees and services     6,577     4,509     16,403     12,354  
    Other expenses     7,391     7,563     23,219     22,227  
    Total non-interest expense     72,937     72,471     209,047     207,912  
    Income before income tax expense     21,874     27,636     79,938     129,576  
    Income tax expense     5,665     6,890     20,550     32,832  
    Net income   $ 16,209   $ 20,746   $ 59,388   $ 96,744  
                     
    Net income per share amounts:                
    Basic net income per common share   $ 0.36   $ 0.46   $ 1.32   $ 2.16  
    Diluted net income per common share   $ 0.36   $ 0.46   $ 1.31   $ 2.15  
    Dividends declared per share   $ 0.34   $ 0.34   $ 1.02   $ 1.02  

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    HISTORICAL TRENDS – QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA – UNAUDITED

          2024       2023  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1
    Profitability for the quarter:                            
    Tax-equivalent interest income   $ 171,219     $ 166,252     $ 167,113     $ 166,729     $ 163,479     $ 159,156     $ 152,317  
    Interest expense     88,686       84,828       86,671       83,920       77,330       67,679       54,045  
    Tax-equivalent net interest income     82,533       81,424       80,442       82,809       86,149       91,477       98,272  
    Tax-equivalent adjustment     1,121       1,139       1,099       1,113       1,068       1,006       970  
    Provision/ (credit) for credit losses     6,316       1,020       2,388       (3,445 )     2,365       5,055       (21,536 )
    Non-interest income     19,715       19,587       18,367       16,560       17,391       17,176       15,951  
    Non-interest expense     72,937       68,104       68,006       67,142       72,471       69,136       66,305  
    Income before income tax expense     21,874       30,748       27,316       34,559       27,636       33,456       68,484  
    Income tax expense     5,665       7,941       6,944       8,459       6,890       8,711       17,231  
    Net income   $ 16,209     $ 22,807     $ 20,372     $ 26,100     $ 20,746     $ 24,745     $ 51,253  
    GAAP financial performance:                            
    Return on average assets     0.46 %     0.66 %     0.58 %     0.73 %     0.58 %     0.70 %     1.49 %
    Return on average common equity     4.01 %     5.81 %     5.17 %     6.70 %     5.35 %     6.46 %     13.93 %
    Return on average tangible common equity     5.88 %     8.27 %     7.39 %     9.26 %     7.42 %     8.93 %     19.10 %
    Net interest margin     2.44 %     2.46 %     2.41 %     2.45 %     2.55 %     2.73 %     2.99 %
    Efficiency ratio – GAAP basis     72.12 %     68.19 %     69.60 %     68.33 %     70.72 %     64.22 %     58.55 %
    Non-GAAP financial performance:                            
    Pre-tax pre-provision net income   $ 28,190     $ 31,768     $ 29,704     $ 31,114     $ 30,001     $ 38,511     $ 46,948  
    Core after-tax earnings   $ 17,936     $ 24,400     $ 21,916     $ 27,147     $ 27,766     $ 27,136     $ 52,253  
    Core return on average assets     0.50 %     0.70 %     0.63 %     0.76 %     0.78 %     0.77 %     1.52 %
    Core return on average common equity     4.44 %     6.21 %     5.56 %     6.97 %     7.16 %     7.09 %     14.20 %
    Core return on average tangible common equity     5.88 %     8.27 %     7.39 %     9.26 %     9.51 %     9.43 %     19.11 %
    Core earnings per diluted common share   $ 0.40     $ 0.54     $ 0.49     $ 0.60     $ 0.62     $ 0.60     $ 1.16  
    Efficiency ratio – Non-GAAP basis     69.06 %     65.31 %     66.73 %     66.16 %     60.91 %     60.68 %     56.87 %
    Per share data:                      
    Net income attributable to common shareholders   $ 16,205     $ 22,800     $ 20,346     $ 26,066     $ 20,719     $ 24,712     $ 51,084  
    Basic net income per common share   $ 0.36     $ 0.51     $ 0.45     $ 0.58     $ 0.46     $ 0.55     $ 1.14  
    Diluted net income per common share   $ 0.36     $ 0.51     $ 0.45     $ 0.58     $ 0.46     $ 0.55     $ 1.14  
    Weighted average diluted common shares     45,242,920       45,145,214       45,086,471       45,009,574       44,960,455       44,888,759       44,872,582  
    Dividends declared per share   $ 0.34     $ 0.34     $ 0.34     $ 0.34     $ 0.34     $ 0.34     $ 0.34  
    Non-interest income:                            
    Service charges on deposit accounts     3,009       2,939       2,817       2,749       2,704       2,606       2,388  
    Mortgage banking activities     1,529       1,621       1,374       792       1,682       1,817       1,245  
    Wealth management income     10,738       10,455       9,958       9,219       9,391       9,031       8,992  
    Income from bank owned life insurance     1,307       1,816       1,160       1,207       845       1,251       907  
    Bank card fees     435       445       413       454       450       447       418  
    Other income     2,697       2,311       2,645       2,139       2,319       2,024       2,001  
    Total non-interest income   $ 19,715     $ 19,587     $ 18,367     $ 16,560     $ 17,391     $ 17,176     $ 15,951  
    Non-interest expense:                            
    Salaries and employee benefits   $ 41,030     $ 37,821     $ 36,698     $ 35,482     $ 44,853     $ 40,931     $ 38,926  
    Occupancy expense of premises     4,657       4,805       4,816       4,558       4,609       4,764       4,847  
    Equipment expenses     3,841       3,868       3,963       3,987       3,811       3,760       4,117  
    Marketing     1,320       1,288       742       1,242       729       1,589       1,543  
    Outside data services     3,025       3,286       3,103       3,000       2,819       2,853       2,514  
    FDIC insurance     2,773       2,951       2,911       2,615       2,333       2,375       2,138  
    Amortization of intangible assets     2,323       2,135       2,069       1,403       1,245       1,269       1,306  
    Professional fees and services     6,577       4,946       4,880       5,628       4,509       4,161       3,684  
    Other expenses     7,391       7,004       8,824       9,227       7,563       7,434       7,230  
    Total non-interest expense   $ 72,937     $ 68,104     $ 68,006     $ 67,142     $ 72,471     $ 69,136     $ 66,305  

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    HISTORICAL TRENDS – QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA – UNAUDITED

          2024       2023  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1
    Balance sheets at quarter end:                        
    Commercial investor real estate loans   $ 4,868,467     $ 4,933,329     $ 4,997,879     $ 5,104,425     $ 5,137,694     $ 5,131,210     $ 5,167,456  
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate loans     1,737,327       1,747,708       1,741,113       1,755,235       1,760,384       1,770,135       1,769,928  
    Commercial AD&C loans     1,255,609       1,184,296       1,090,259       988,967       938,673       1,045,742       1,046,665  
    Commercial business loans     1,620,926       1,601,510       1,509,592       1,504,880       1,454,709       1,423,614       1,437,478  
    Residential mortgage loans     1,529,786       1,521,890       1,511,624       1,474,521       1,432,051       1,385,743       1,328,524  
    Residential construction loans     53,639       78,027       97,685       121,419       160,345       190,690       223,456  
    Consumer loans     426,167       417,161       416,132       417,542       416,436       422,505       421,734  
    Total loans     11,491,921       11,483,921       11,364,284       11,366,989       11,300,292       11,369,639       11,395,241  
    Allowance for credit losses – loans     (131,428 )     (125,863 )     (123,096 )     (120,865 )     (123,360 )     (120,287 )     (117,613 )
    Residential mortgage loans held for sale     21,489       18,961       16,627       10,836       19,235       21,476       16,262  
    SBA loans held for sale     425       —       —       —       —       —       —  
    Investment securities     1,440,488       1,401,511       1,405,490       1,414,453       1,392,078       1,463,554       1,528,336  
    Total assets     14,383,073       14,008,343       13,888,133       14,028,172       14,135,085       13,994,545       14,129,007  
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits     2,903,063       2,931,405       2,817,928       2,914,161       3,013,905       3,079,896       3,228,678  
    Total deposits     11,737,694       11,340,228       11,227,200       10,996,538       11,151,012       10,958,922       11,075,991  
    Customer repurchase agreements     70,767       75,038       71,529       75,032       66,581       74,510       47,627  
    Total stockholders’ equity     1,628,837       1,599,004       1,589,364       1,588,142       1,537,914       1,539,032       1,536,865  
    Quarterly average balance sheets:                        
    Commercial investor real estate loans   $ 4,874,003     $ 4,964,406     $ 5,057,334     $ 5,125,028     $ 5,125,459     $ 5,146,632     $ 5,136,204  
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate loans     1,741,663       1,734,106       1,746,042       1,755,048       1,769,717       1,773,039       1,769,680  
    Commercial AD&C loans     1,253,035       1,133,506       1,030,763       960,646       995,682       1,057,205       1,082,791  
    Commercial business loans     1,579,001       1,551,798       1,508,336       1,433,035       1,442,518       1,441,489       1,444,588  
    Residential mortgage loans     1,526,445       1,518,748       1,491,277       1,451,614       1,406,929       1,353,809       1,307,761  
    Residential construction loans     64,684       86,638       110,456       142,325       174,204       211,590       223,313  
    Consumer loans     421,003       417,206       417,539       419,299       421,189       423,306       424,122  
    Total loans     11,459,834       11,406,408       11,361,747       11,286,995       11,335,698       11,407,070       11,388,459  
    Residential mortgage loans held for sale     19,889       14,497       8,142       10,132       13,714       17,480       8,324  
    SBA loans held for sale     65       —       —       —       —       —       —  
    Investment securities     1,531,378       1,538,624       1,536,127       1,544,173       1,589,342       1,639,324       1,679,593  
    Interest-earning assets     13,474,697       13,292,995       13,411,810       13,462,583       13,444,117       13,423,589       13,316,165  
    Total assets     14,136,037       13,956,261       14,061,935       14,090,423       14,086,342       14,094,653       13,949,276  
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits     2,783,906       2,790,620       2,730,295       2,958,254       3,041,101       3,137,971       3,480,433  
    Total deposits     11,483,524       11,245,476       11,086,145       11,089,587       11,076,724       10,928,038       11,049,991  
    Customer repurchase agreements     63,436       62,161       72,836       66,622       67,298       58,382       60,626  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     9,600,905       9,441,015       9,583,074       9,418,666       9,332,617       9,257,652       8,806,720  
    Total stockholders’ equity     1,607,377       1,579,582       1,584,902       1,546,312       1,538,553       1,535,465       1,491,929  
    Financial measures:                            
    Average equity to average assets     11.37 %     11.32 %     11.27 %     10.97 %     10.92 %     10.89 %     10.70 %
    Average investment securities to average earning assets     11.36 %     11.57 %     11.45 %     11.47 %     11.82 %     12.21 %     12.61 %
    Average loans to average earning assets     85.05 %     85.81 %     84.71 %     83.84 %     84.32 %     84.98 %     85.52 %
    Loans to assets     79.90 %     81.98 %     81.83 %     81.03 %     79.94 %     81.24 %     80.65 %
    Loans to deposits     97.91 %     101.27 %     101.22 %     103.37 %     101.34 %     103.75 %     102.88 %
    Assets under management   $ 6,567,752     $ 6,215,697     $ 6,165,509     $ 5,999,520     $ 5,536,499     $ 5,742,888     $ 5,477,560  
    Capital measures:                            
    Tier 1 leverage (1)     9.59 %     9.70 %     9.56 %     9.51 %     9.50 %     9.42 %     9.44 %
    Common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (1)     11.27 %     11.28 %     10.96 %     10.90 %     10.83 %     10.65 %     10.53 %
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets (1)     11.27 %     11.28 %     10.96 %     10.90 %     10.83 %     10.65 %     10.53 %
    Total regulatory capital to risk-weighted assets (1)     15.53 %     15.49 %     15.05 %     14.92 %     14.85 %     14.60 %     14.43 %
    Book value per common share   $ 36.10     $ 35.45     $ 35.37     $ 35.36     $ 34.26     $ 34.31     $ 34.37  
    Outstanding common shares     45,125,078       45,109,671       44,940,147       44,913,561       44,895,158       44,862,369       44,712,497  

    (1) Estimated ratio at September 30, 2024.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    LOAN PORTFOLIO QUALITY DETAIL – UNAUDITED

          2024     2023
    (Dollars in thousands)   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,   December 31,   September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
    Non-performing assets:                            
    Loans 90 days past due:                            
    Commercial real estate:                            
    Commercial investor real estate   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ —   $ 215
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate     —     —     —     —     —     —     —
    Commercial AD&C     —     —     —     —     —     —     —
    Commercial business     —     —     20     20     415     29     3,002
    Residential real estate:                            
    Residential mortgage     399     338     340     342     —     692     352
    Residential construction     —     —     —     —     —     —     —
    Consumer     —     —     —     —     —     —     —
    Total loans 90 days past due     399     338     360     362     415     721     3,569
    Non-accrual loans:                            
    Commercial real estate:                            
    Commercial investor real estate     57,578     55,498     55,579     58,658     20,108     20,381     15,451
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate     9,639     9,403     4,394     4,640     4,744     4,846     4,949
    Commercial AD&C     31,816     2,127     556     1,259     1,422     569     —
    Commercial business     9,044     8,455     7,164     10,051     9,671     9,393     9,443
    Residential real estate:                            
    Residential mortgage     11,996     12,228     11,835     12,332     10,766     10,153     8,935
    Residential construction     539     539     542     443     449     —     —
    Consumer     4,258     4,400     4,011     4,102     4,187     3,396     4,900
    Total non-accrual loans     124,870     92,650     84,081     91,485     51,347     48,738     43,678
    Total non-performing loans     125,269     92,988     84,441     91,847     51,762     49,459     47,247
    Other real estate owned (OREO)     3,265     2,700     2,700     —     261     611     645
    Total non-performing assets   $ 128,534   $ 95,688   $ 87,141   $ 91,847   $ 52,023   $ 50,070   $ 47,892
        For the Quarter Ended,
    (Dollars in thousands)   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024    		   March 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		   September 30,
    2023    		   June 30,
    2023    		   March 31,
    2023
    Analysis of non-accrual loan activity:                            
    Balance at beginning of period   $ 92,650     $ 84,081     $ 91,485     $ 51,347     $ 48,738     $ 43,678     $ 34,782  
    Non-accrual balances transferred to OREO     (565 )     —       (2,700 )     —       —       —       —  
    Non-accrual balances charged-off     (787 )     —       (1,550 )     —       (183 )     (2,049 )     (126 )
    Net payments or draws     (3,095 )     (1,427 )     (4,017 )     (7,619 )     (1,545 )     (1,654 )     (10,212 )
    Loans placed on non-accrual     36,667       10,038       1,490       47,920       4,967       9,276       19,714  
    Non-accrual loans brought current     —       (42 )     (627 )     (163 )     (630 )     (513 )     (480 )
    Balance at end of period   $ 124,870     $ 92,650     $ 84,081     $ 91,485     $ 51,347     $ 48,738     $ 43,678  
                                 
    Analysis of allowance for credit losses – loans:                            
    Balance at beginning of period   $ 125,863     $ 123,096     $ 120,865     $ 123,360     $ 120,287     $ 117,613     $ 136,242  
    Provision/ (credit) for credit losses – loans     6,310       2,961       3,331       (2,574 )     3,171       4,454       (18,945 )
    Less loans charged-off, net of recoveries:                            
    Commercial real estate:                            
    Commercial investor real estate     397       (3 )     (2 )     (3 )     (3 )     (14 )     (5 )
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate     (27 )     (27 )     (27 )     (27 )     (25 )     (27 )     (26 )
    Commercial AD&C     111       (23 )     (283 )     —       —       —       —  
    Commercial business     250       (28 )     1,550       (105 )     15       363       (127 )
    Residential real estate:                            
    Residential mortgage     (35 )     39       (6 )     (6 )     (4 )     35       21  
    Residential construction     —       —       —       —       —       —       —  
    Consumer     49       236       (132 )     62       115       1,423       (179 )
    Net charge-offs/ (recoveries)     745       194       1,100       (79 )     98       1,780       (316 )
    Balance at the end of period   $ 131,428     $ 125,863     $ 123,096     $ 120,865     $ 123,360     $ 120,287     $ 117,613  
                                 
    Asset quality ratios:                            
    Non-performing loans to total loans     1.09 %     0.81 %     0.74 %     0.81 %     0.46 %     0.44 %     0.41 %
    Non-performing assets to total assets     0.89 %     0.68 %     0.63 %     0.65 %     0.37 %     0.36 %     0.34 %
    Allowance for credit losses to loans     1.14 %     1.10 %     1.08 %     1.06 %     1.09 %     1.06 %     1.03 %
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans     104.92 %     135.35 %     145.78 %     131.59 %     238.32 %     243.21 %     248.93 %
    Annualized net charge-offs/ (recoveries) to average loans     0.03 %     0.01 %     0.04 %     — %     — %     0.06 %   (0.01 )%

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    CONSOLIDATED AVERAGE BALANCES, YIELDS AND RATES – UNAUDITED

        Three Months Ended September 30,
          2024       2023  
    (Dollars in thousands and tax-equivalent)   Average
    Balances    		   Interest (1)   Annualized
    Average
    Yield/Rate    		   Average
    Balances    		   Interest (1)   Annualized
    Average
    Yield/Rate
    Assets                        
    Commercial investor real estate loans   $ 4,874,003     $ 58,133   4.74 %   $ 5,125,459     $ 60,482   4.68 %
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate loans     1,741,663       21,609   4.94       1,769,717       20,865   4.68  
    Commercial AD&C loans     1,253,035       24,553   7.80       995,682       20,503   8.17  
    Commercial business loans     1,579,001       26,953   6.79       1,442,518       23,343   6.42  
    Total commercial loans     9,447,702       131,248   5.53       9,333,376       125,193   5.32  
    Residential mortgage loans     1,526,445       14,223   3.73       1,406,929       12,550   3.57  
    Residential construction loans     64,684       876   5.39       174,204       1,680   3.83  
    Consumer loans     421,003       8,653   8.18       421,189       8,491   8.00  
    Total residential and consumer loans     2,012,132       23,752   4.71       2,002,322       22,721   4.52  
    Total loans (2)     11,459,834       155,000   5.38       11,335,698       147,914   5.18  
    Residential mortgage loans held for sale     19,889       364   7.32       13,714       238   6.93  
    SBA loans held for sale     65       2   11.28       —       —   —  
    Taxable securities     1,197,301       7,440   2.49       1,239,564       6,682   2.16  
    Tax-advantaged securities     334,077       2,222   2.66       349,778       2,269   2.59  
    Total investment securities (3)     1,531,378       9,662   2.52       1,589,342       8,951   2.25  
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks     463,531       6,191   5.31       505,017       6,371   5.00  
    Federal funds sold     —       —   —       346       5   5.38  
    Total interest-earning assets     13,474,697       171,219   5.06       13,444,117       163,479   4.83  
                             
    Less: allowance for credit losses – loans     (125,962 )             (122,348 )        
    Cash and due from banks     82,172               93,354          
    Premises and equipment, net     58,035               71,956          
    Other assets     647,095               599,263          
    Total assets   $ 14,136,037             $ 14,086,342          
                             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                        
    Interest-bearing demand deposits   $ 1,427,739     $ 6,256   1.74 %   $ 1,419,934     $ 4,229   1.18 %
    Regular savings deposits     1,718,475       15,341   3.55       861,634       5,571   2.57  
    Money market savings deposits     3,018,799       28,999   3.82       2,866,744       25,122   3.48  
    Time deposits     2,534,605       28,691   4.50       2,887,311       28,180   3.87  
    Total interest-bearing deposits     8,699,618       79,287   3.63       8,035,623       63,102   3.12  
    Repurchase agreements     63,436       334   2.09       67,298       356   2.10  
    Federal funds purchased and Federal Reserve Bank borrowings     8,543       118   5.53       300,435       3,726   4.92  
    Advances from FHLB     458,152       5,001   4.34       558,696       6,200   4.40  
    Subordinated debt     371,156       3,946   4.25       370,565       3,946   4.26  
    Total borrowings     901,287       9,399   4.15       1,296,994       14,228   4.35  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     9,600,905       88,686   3.68       9,332,617       77,330   3.29  
                             
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits     2,783,906               3,041,101          
    Other liabilities     143,849               174,071          
    Stockholders’ equity     1,607,377               1,538,553          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 14,136,037             $ 14,086,342          
                             
    Tax-equivalent net interest income and spread       $ 82,533   1.38 %       $ 86,149   1.54 %
    Less: tax-equivalent adjustment         1,121             1,068    
    Net interest income       $ 81,412           $ 85,081    
                             
    Interest income/earning assets           5.06 %           4.83 %
    Interest expense/earning assets           2.62             2.28  
    Net interest margin           2.44 %           2.55 %
    (1) Tax-equivalent income has been adjusted using the combined marginal federal and state rate of 25.48% and 25.37% for 2024 and 2023, respectively. The annualized taxable-equivalent adjustments utilized in the above table to compute yields aggregated to $1.1 million and $1.1 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    (2) Non-accrual loans are included in the average balances.
    (3) Available-for-sale investments are presented at amortized cost.

    Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    CONSOLIDATED AVERAGE BALANCES, YIELDS AND RATES – UNAUDITED

        Nine Months Ended September 30,
          2024       2023  
    (Dollars in thousands and tax-equivalent)   Average
    Balances    		   Interest (1)   Annualized
    Average
    Yield/Rate    		   Average
    Balances    		   Interest (1)   Annualized
    Average
    Yield/Rate
    Assets                        
    Commercial investor real estate loans   $ 4,964,914     $ 176,504   4.75 %   $ 5,136,059     $ 177,067   4.61 %
    Commercial owner-occupied real estate loans     1,740,608       63,090   4.84       1,770,812       61,038   4.61  
    Commercial AD&C loans     1,139,517       68,779   8.06       1,044,907       61,005   7.81  
    Commercial business loans     1,546,498       79,026   6.83       1,442,858       68,258   6.33  
    Total commercial loans     9,391,537       387,399   5.51       9,394,636       367,368   5.23  
    Residential mortgage loans     1,512,209       41,968   3.70       1,356,530       35,925   3.53  
    Residential construction loans     87,177       3,208   4.92       202,856       5,302   3.49  
    Consumer loans     418,591       25,693   8.20       422,861       24,403   7.72  
    Total residential and consumer loans     2,017,977       70,869   4.69       1,982,247       65,630   4.42  
    Total loans (2)     11,409,514       458,268   5.36       11,376,883       432,998   5.09  
    Residential mortgage loans held for sale     14,197       801   7.52       13,192       697   7.04  
    SBA loans held for sale     22       2   11.28       —       —   —  
    Taxable securities     1,195,481       21,319   2.38       1,275,407       20,538   2.15  
    Tax-advantaged securities     339,881       6,785   2.66       360,348       6,727   2.49  
    Total investment securities (3)     1,535,362       28,104   2.44       1,635,755       27,265   2.22  
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks     434,083       17,401   5.35       368,829       13,979   5.07  
    Federal funds sold     288       8   3.79       433       13   4.00  
    Total interest-earning assets     13,393,466       504,584   5.03       13,395,092       474,952   4.74  
                             
    Less: allowance for credit losses – loans     (122,971 )             (125,558 )        
    Cash and due from banks     83,265               94,960          
    Premises and equipment, net     59,124               70,130          
    Other assets     638,838               609,301          
    Total assets   $ 14,051,722             $ 14,043,925          
                             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                        
    Interest-bearing demand deposits   $ 1,467,517     $ 18,858   1.72 %   $ 1,413,876     $ 10,465   0.99 %
    Regular savings deposits     1,602,997       42,597   3.55       660,211       7,831   1.59  
    Money market savings deposits     2,847,006       79,190   3.72       3,067,810       68,976   3.01  
    Time deposits     2,586,639       86,417   4.46       2,658,225       67,943   3.42  
    Total interest-bearing deposits     8,504,159       227,062   3.57       7,800,122       155,215   2.66  
    Repurchase agreements     66,134       1,043   2.11       62,126       561   1.21  
    Federal funds purchased and Federal Reserve Bank borrowings     99,303       3,847   5.17       264,580       9,816   4.96  
    Advances from FHLB     501,277       16,394   4.37       637,015       21,623   4.54  
    Subordinated debt     371,009       11,839   4.25       370,412       11,839   4.26  
    Total borrowings     1,037,723       33,123   4.26       1,334,133       43,839   4.39  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     9,541,882       260,185   3.64       9,134,255       199,054   2.91  
                             
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits     2,768,331               3,218,226          
    Other liabilities     150,827               169,291          
    Stockholders’ equity     1,590,682               1,522,153          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 14,051,722             $ 14,043,925          
                             
    Tax-equivalent net interest income and spread       $ 244,399   1.39 %       $ 275,898   1.83 %
    Less: tax-equivalent adjustment         3,359             3,044    
    Net interest income       $ 241,040           $ 272,854    
                             
    Interest income/earning assets           5.03 %           4.74 %
    Interest expense/earning assets           2.59             1.99  
    Net interest margin           2.44 %           2.75 %
    (1) Tax-equivalent income has been adjusted using the combined marginal federal and state rate of 25.48% and 25.37% for 2024 and 2023, respectively. The annualized taxable-equivalent adjustments utilized in the above table to compute yields aggregated to $3.4 million and $3.0 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    (2) Non-accrual loans are included in the average balances.
    (3) Available-for-sale investments are presented at amortized cost.

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s address at the first convocation ceremony of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh State University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 2:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Smt. Anandiben Patel, Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh, and chancellor of this university, Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh State University. The Governor exemplifies passionate commitment to education. She has brought about big change and I have seen one here, names and certificates and mark sheets all electronically uploaded.

    She is very forward looking and handheld me when I was governor of West Bengal, when it came to the role of Chancellor. The Hon’ble Governor defines the role of chancellor with exemplification of highest virtuosity and commitment. She has been here twice and the state of Uttar Pradesh is lucky to have such an educationist, such a motivational, inspirational governor, particularly for the field of education.

    When I stepped into the premises हमने सबसे पहले एक काम किया महामहिम राज्यपाल ने और मैने ‘मां के नाम एक पेड़’ और जब यहां आकर देखा how thoughtful it was, Vedic chanting related to environment.

    हमें याद रखना पड़ेगा हमारे पास रहने के लिए पृथ्वी के अलावा कोई दूसरी जगह नहीं है इसी का सृजन करना पड़ेगा

    I therefore appeal to every student, every member of the staff, member of the faculty, everyone present here इस premises के अंदर इस प्रांगण में मां के नाम पेड जरूर लगाए यहां देखा है मैंने सब ठीक उन्नति के ऊपर है पर यह पक्ष कमजोर है यह अति शीघ्र होना चाहिए climate change time bomb is ticking we have to act while there is a time.

    Friends, it is an honour to be present at this convocation and for a very special reason. It is named after Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, a patriot, national hero and freedom fighter. Another very fascinating aspect is being in Brijbhoomi is always spiritually rewarding. My congratulations to all the graduating students, medalists their proud parents also and more importantly, my greetings and congratulations to the members of the faculty.

    My young friends, your high academic qualifications are an asset to the country. In whatever field you work, and the number of fields is now increasing day by day, you will be part of India’s developing growth story. This story of Bharat is full of promises. The next 25 years are with immense potential which you all are required to exploit.

    Friends, the most important component of our youth with high qualifications like you are our spinal strength.

    Our national ambitions are well defined. Our national ambition is well set out and that is to be a developed nation, develop Bharat by 2047.

    Young minds are the most vital stakeholders in this journey. You will define this journey, you will fuel this journey and you will make everyone proud. You are the future leaders, you are the creators of positive change, driving economic, technological and social progress.

    Our national ambitions are well defined, our national ambition is well set out, and that is to be a developed nation, developed part at 2047. Young minds are the most vital stakeholders in this journey, you will define this journey, you will fuel this journey and we will make everyone proud. You are the future leaders, you are the creators of positive change, driving economic, technological, and social progress. You have to be the change you believe in. Don’t be swept by the change. Bring about the change you want as per your aptitude and attitude.

    Friends it is a testament present governance that this university has emerged so well in a such short time with the foundation stone being led by our visionary Prime Minister just 3 years ago.

    This achievement alongside exemplary law and order, highways, infrastructure august well for its northward progress and rise.

    it is a historical fact – Civilizations survive by institutions and ordering their heroes. Imagine in the field of education, Nalanda, Takshashila and many more global beacon of knowledge and education. This university establishment is a step in the right direction to befittingly immortalise Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, a hero like others who ought to have been given space in our independence movement history, he should have occupied huge space. In 1915, he established first provisional Government of India in Kabul that was two decades before the Britishers could even imagine of the 1935 Government of India Act. It was a very great attempt. It was a thought to proclaim freedom, which we got later on and he had the good occasion to be a Member of Parliament. We thrive in an independent environment today because of sacrifices made by heroes like him.

    These inspiring stories of such great heroes unfortunately have had so far brief or no mention in our textbooks. A painful aberration is the history of independence was manipulated with credit being denied to those undeterred.

    It is our bounden ordainment to make aware our youth of our real heroes of freedom struggle. The next generation of historians should ensure that the sacrifice of multitude freedom fighters inspired this generation. It is soothing in recent times, vigorously we are celebrating all over the country our unsung heroes or well sung heroes.

    Belated conferment of the highest civilian award to Bharat Ratan to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1990, to Chaudhary Charan Singh and Karpoori Thakur in 2023 are steps in the right direction. I was privileged on both the occasions to be in the theatre of parliament. In 1990 I was a union minister and now Vice-President, Chairman Rajya Sabha.

    I feel blessed but a cause of concern. Why it took us so long to recognise our heroes?

    Similarly, very good developments have taken place recently. We celebrate 15th November Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to pay tributes to Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary. A great tribal freedom fighter, know about him. You will be enthused, motivated, inspired. In the prime of youth he went away but left indelible mark on our freedom movement struggle. The day is dedicated to the memory of brave tribal freedom fighters so that our coming generations and this generation know about their sacrifices, about this country.

    Similarly, another great hero who was denied rightful space. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, gifted with indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation. The government has decided to celebrate his birthday 23rd January every year as Prakram Diwas and rightly so. I was again privileged and honoured when the main function was held.

    In Kolkata, I happened to be governor of the state of West Bengal. The honourable Prime Minister inaugurated this great day remembering one of the finest human beings, finest souls, visionary who laid down everything, all comforts to serve the nation.

    Friends, our youth must always remember The fortitude these people exhibited in the face of grave adversity, this will infuse in all of you a fervour for nationalism.

    “शहीदों की चिताओं पर जुड़ेंगे हर बरस मेले।

    वतन पर मरनेवालों का यही बाक़ी निशाँ होगा॥

    कभी वह दिन भी आएगा जब अपना राज देखेंगे।

    जब अपनी ही ज़मीं होगी और अपना आसमाँ होगा॥“

    यह आज चरितार्थ हो रहा है आजादी के लंबे समय बाद इसको हर पल महसूस किया जा रहा है हर दृष्टि से किया जा रहा है।

    My young friends, I have adverted to some of such recent steps to remind you all that our commitment to nationalism should ever be unflinching and uppermost. राष्ट्र से ऊपर कुछ नहीं है। राष्ट्रवाद हमारा धर्म है, निजी हित या कोई भी हित हो राष्ट्रहित से ऊपर नहीं रख सकते यही हमारा संकल्प होना चाहिए, यही हमारी संस्कृति का निचोड़ है।

    Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh was also a visionary educationist who foresaw the need for technical education establishing the Prem Mahavidyalaya.

    Friends, history is proof of it. No country has excelled without being at the forefront of technological revolution. If we want to see Pax Indica becoming a reality, we must lead in technology.

    We are living virtually in the fourth industrial revolution where information is key to all our activities, from agriculture to education to communication. Everything is around communication these days. Technology is a game-changer.

    In our country, it has affected very fortunately, much-needed, transparent, accountable governance, ease of service delivery, and accomplishment of the last in the row, getting benefits.

    As we march towards Viksit Bharat@2047, driven by a knowledge economy, our goal should be to create institutions of excellence, rivalling the best in the world. Because this country had institutions of global excellence and eminence, people from all over the planet swarmed to get enlightenment.

    I appeal to industries and corporates to invest in India’s educational ecosystem. Investment in education is investment in your present, investment in your future, investment for economic growth, investment for peace, investment for harmony.

    This endeavour should be driven, now here is a word of caution by me. I can call it a caveat. We should never make education a commodity, we should never make education commerce. This endeavour, this enterprise, this spirit should not be driven by commodification and commercialisation of education but it should align with our traditional Gurukul system. गुरुकुल में क्या होता था कोई फीस नहीं होती थी, कोई रोक-टोक नहीं होती थी और यही कारण है कि भारत के संविधान निर्माता ने बहुत सोच समझकर जो 22 चित्र संविधान में रखे हैं आपसे अपील करूंगा उन चित्रों का आप अध्ययन कीजिए। आजकल सोशल मीडिया गूगल सब आपकी मदद करेगा उसमें जहां सिटीजनशिप है वहां गुरुकुल का चित्र है, शिक्षा को क्या इंपोर्टेंस दी गई है। They have to be crucibles of character formation, they have to inflame us with the spirit of commitment to our Bharat.

    To those shaping curricula, those who are devising curricula, the members of the faculty, I urge you to make the National Education Policy a success. The honourable Governor and myself have been associated at various stages in the evolution of National Education Policy. Thousands of stakeholders’ inputs have been considered. We have it after more than three decades, it presents a visionary roadmap for transforming our education system. It promotes multidisciplinary learning, skill development, innovation. It does not need a great emphasis on degrees. I want every teacher, every professor, every person associated with education to please go through National Education Policy. You can’t implement it unless you understand it, you have to understand it with a mindset to implement it.

    Our Bharat today, fortunately, and a great development for the world, is emerging as an intellectual powerhouse in terms of technology. My young friends, boys and girls, will know about it.  We rank fifth in terms of patents filed. You know the importance of patents, you know its economic results.  You can realise how it’s a soft diplomatic weapon also and with a significant increase of 25% year-on-year growth, our annual growth in terms of filing patents is 25%.

    In artificial intelligence, India with its dense human interaction and deep technological penetration is poised to lead data set creation. As a matter of fact, our digitisation, our technological penetration, utilisation for service delivery has been accoladed by global institutions, the World Bank, that India is a role model when it comes to service delivery by digitisation but India’s accomplishments in six years are normally not attainable even in more than four decades.

    Friends, we are entering the Amrit Kaal of technological revolution. That has to be driven by young minds, ignited minds like yours. Be the change makers, lead innovation, and find Indian solutions to Indian problems and make available also to the global fraternity.

    To the graduating class of 2024, congratulations on your success. Be inspired by heroes like Radha Mahendra Pratap Singh, who placed national interest above everything else. Exploit the opportunities that new Bharat presents, use your education wisely and for greater good.

    Friends, as you enter and step into the world, you will have challenges, you will have serious challenges, you might get some setbacks also all these are natural.

    It will not be a dream entry for you, it will be fiercely competitive and it should be. Never fear failure. Any failure is a stepping stone to success, if you get a good idea in your mind, don’t harbour it, act on it.

    To the affiliated colleges and academics, my appeal is ensure your activities, prepare graduates for this emerging technological world. Imbibe in them a spirit of nationalism.

    It is no good, you may be brilliant, you may be technologically genius, you may be admired but if your attachment to the nationalism is fragile,

    ‘काट्यो काट्यो कपास हो जाए’ कपास को जब काटते हैं तो धागा बनता है, तो थोड़ा भी मिस डायरेक्शन हो तो वापस कपास बन जाता है। Your efforts go in vain.

    Friends, India, home to one-sixth of humanity, the oldest civilisation on the planet, with exponential economic surge. दुनिया का कोई भी देश 7.5% से 8%, GDP ग्रोथ के साथ आगे नहीं बढ़ रहा है।

    आंखों से देख रहे हैं जिसका सपना लेते हुए भी डर लगता था मेरी उम्र के लोगों को। World class infrastructure of rail, road, connectivity, waterways, digitisation all over the country is happening in this nation.

    It is time for our youth, now my special appeal to you, you are in silos. लगता है नौकरी सरकार की ही है लगता है नौकरियां कहां है थोड़ा सा देखोगे तो पता लगेगा की जो Basket of Opportunities है is enlarging.

    एक जानकारी के अनुसार सिर्फ 10% छात्रों को ही पता है कि कहां संभावनाएं हैं, 90% को नहीं पता है। Please come out of the silos.

    भारत को यदि अगर आज के दिन International Monetary Fund कह रहा है कि it’s a land of opportunity, destination and investment, क्यों? नौकरी के लिए तो नहीं कह रहा। Make most of it, look around you will find your talent can be used in blue economy in the sea, in a space economy.

    चाणक्य के शब्द बताता हूं आपको और चाणक्य का नाम आते ही चाणक्य का नाम लेते ही एक नई ऊर्जा अपने में आ जाती है जो चाणक्य का रोल करते हो वह कैसे बोलते हैं, लगता है चाणक्य कितना महान था। चाणक्य ने कहा था “Education is the best friend, an educated person is respected everywhere.”

    और स्वामी विवेकानंद जी ने कहा था “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.” that you should never forget

    To those who are outgoing, stepping out, the cohort and the current students, my very best wishes. You couldn’t be more lucky with an ecosystem and the ecosystem is that you can fully exploit your talent and potential to realise your dreams and aspirations.

    To those who have got degrees today, my one appeal, you are in a very distinguished category, you are the first alumni of this institution. You should take a place to be ever attached to this institution, be in connect with this institution, make annual contributions. Amount does not matter, financial contribution, quantum is immaterial, making financial contribution is all important. Do it. You will find over the years, this will grow like a balloon and help students in need. This will be a great service to the field of education and your institution.

    अंत में एक बात कहूंगा आपको सदैव सचेत रहने के लिए एक सिख दे रहा हूं उसी को सदा याद रखना ‘नायमात्मा बलहीनेन लभ्यः’

    इसका अर्थ है अंग्रेजी में self realisation cannot be achieved by weak willed. हम रिलाइज करना चाहते हैं पर अगर weak willed हैं तो हम नहीं कर पाएंगे। so be strong willed, never be in fear of failure, never suffer from stress and tension because of the fear of failure. It is the earnestness and commitment in efforts that is all important and that was the lesson imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjun at Kurukshetra that should be guiding star for your future working.

    I am honoured to deliver the first lecture, the first convocation address. It will ever be etched in my memory. It is an occasion for me to pay tribute to one of the greatest sons of this soil.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2066642) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi

    When the world is immersed in worry, India is spreading hope: PM

    Today India is working in every sector, in every area with unprecedented speed : PM

    India today is both a developing country and an emerging power: PM

    India is one of the youngest countries in the world with the potential of achieving great heights: PM

     India is now moving ahead with a forward looking thinking: PM

    140 crore people of India have joined the resolution of Viksit Bharat , they themselves are driving it: PM

    India has the advantage of double AI power, First AI, Artificial Intelligence, Second AI, Aspirational India: PM

    India does not believe in taken for granted relationships, the foundation of our relations is trust and reliability: PM

    India has shown the world a new path to digital public infrastructure by democratizing technology: PM

    India has shown that digital innovation and democratic values ​​can coexist: PM

    Posted On: 21 OCT 2024 12:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the NDTV World Summit 2024 in New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister welcomed all dignitaries and said that discussions on a multitude of issues would take place at the Summit. He also acknowledged the presence of global leaders from different sectors who would put forth their views.

    Reflecting on the past 4-5 years, the Prime Minister pointed out that discussions on the concerns of the future have been a common theme. He mentioned that the recent challenges of Covid pandemic, post covid economic stress, inflation & unemployment, climate change, ongoing wars, disruption of supply chains, death of innocents, geopolitical tensions and conflicts had become a point of discussions in all global summits. Drawing parallels with the discussions taking place in India at the time, the Prime Minister underlined that India is deliberating its century. “India has become a ray of hope in this era of global turmoil. When the world is worried, India is spreading hope”, the Prime Minister remarked. He underlined that even though India is affected by the global situation and the challenges before it, there is a sense of positivity that can be experienced.

    “Today, India is working in every sector and area with unprecedented speed”, the Prime Minister said. Noting the completion of 125 days of the third term of the government, Shri Modi threw light on the work done in the country. He mentioned the government’s approval for 3 crore new pucca houses for the poor, initiation of infrastructure projects worth Rs 9 lakh crore, flagging off of 15 new Vande Bharat Trains, foundation stone laying of 8 new airports, a 2 lakh crore package for the youth, Rs 21,000 crore transferred into the bank accounts of farmers, free treatment scheme for citizens above 70 years of age, installation of rooftop solar plants in about 5 lakh homes, plantation of 90 crore saplings under Ek Ped Maa ke Naam campaign, approval for 12 new industrial nodes, SENSEX and NIFTY growing about 5-7 percent, and India’s forex rising to USD 700 billion dollars among others. The Prime Minister also touched upon the global events taking place in India in the past 125 days and mentioned International SMU, Global Fintech Festival, discussion on Global Semiconductor Ecosystem, International Conference for Renewable Energy and Civil Aviation. “This is not merely a list of events but a list of hope associated with India that shows the country’s direction and the world’s hopes”, the Prime Minister said, underlining that these are issues which will shape the future of the world and these are being discussed in India.

    The Prime Minister stated that in the third term, India’s growth has accelerated to such an extent that many rating agencies have raised their growth forecasts. He also pointed out the enthusiasm of experts like Mark Mobius, who advised global funds to invest at least 50% of their funds in India’s share market. “When such seasoned experts advocate for major investments in India, it sends a strong message about our potential”, he added.

    “India of today is both a developing nation and an emerging  power”, the Prime Minister emphasized, stressing that India understands the challenges of poverty and knows how to pave the path of progress. He highlighted the government’s fast-paced policy-making and decision-making processes and new reforms. Addressing the issue of complacency, the Prime Minister said that this mindset does not drive a nation forward. He underlined that 25 crore people have come out of poverty over the past 10 years and 12 crore toilets have been built and 16 crore gas connections have been provided, but it is not enough.

    The Prime Minister further informed that in the last 10 years, India has built over 350 medical colleges and more than 15 AIIMS, established over 1.5 lakh startups and handed out Mudra loans to 8 crore young people. “This is not enough”, the Prime Minister stressed, emphasizing the need for continuous progress of India’s youth. He underlined that India’s potential as one of the world’s youngest nations can take us to great heights, and we have much more to achieve quickly and efficiently.

    Highlighting the nation’s shift in mindset, the Prime Minister noted that Governments often compare their achievements with previous administrations, considering surpassing them as success looking back 10-15 years. He emphasized that India is changing this approach and success is no longer measured by achievements but by course of the future’s direction. The Prime Minister further remarked on India’s forward-looking vision and said that India is now moving ahead with a future-focused approach. “Our goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 is not just a vision of the government but reflects the aspirations of 140 crore Indians. It’s no longer just a campaign for public participation, but a movement of national confidence”, Shri Modi remarked. He mentioned that lakhs of citizens contributed their suggestions when the government began working on the vision document for Viksit Bharat. He informed that debates and discussions were held in schools, colleges, universities and various organizations and the government set the goals for the next 25 years based on these inputs. “Today, discussions on Viksit Bharat are part of our national consciousness and have become a true example of transforming public power into national strength”, he added.

    Talking about AI, the Prime Minister said this is the era of AI and the present and future of the world is linked to AI. He said  India has the advantage of double AI power, the first AI, Artificial Intelligence and the second AI,Aspirational India. Shri Modi said when the power of Aspirational India and Artificial Intelligence combines then it is natural for the pace of development to be faster. Shri Modi underlined that artificial intelligence is not just a technology for India, but a gateway to new opportunities for India’s youth. He mentioned the launch of India AI Mission this year and laid emphasis on increasing the use of AI across sectors like healthcare, education and startups. “India is committed to delivering world-class AI solutions, and through platforms like Quad, we are taking significant initiatives to drive this forward”, he said. Focusing on Aspirational India, the Prime Minister said that the middle class, general citizens, enhancing the quality of life, empowering small businesses, MSMEs, youth, and women is at the heart of the government’s policy making process. The Prime Minister pointed to India’s remarkable progress in connectivity as a prime example of fulfilling national aspirations and said that the government has focused on fast, inclusive physical connectivity which is essential for a developing society, especially in a vast and diverse country like India. Due to this, the Prime Minister said that air travel was given special emphasis. Recalling his vision of affordable air travel, he said those wearing ‘hawai chappal’ should be able to afford air travel and mentioned the UDAN scheme which has completed 8 years in operation. He informed that new airport networks in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have made air travel affordable for the masses. Highlighting the success of UDAN scheme, the Prime Minister mentioned that around 3 lakh flights have operated under UDAN, carrying 1.5 crore common citizens so far. He further added that there are over 600 routes under this initiative most connecting smaller towns. He pointed out that the number of airports in India have grown to more than 150 compared to around 70 airports in 2014.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering India’s youth to become a driving force for global growth and highlighted the government’s focus on education, skill development, research, and employment. He said that the result of the efforts in the last 10 years are now visible and mentioned India’s highest improvement globally in research quality as reflected in the latest Times Higher Education ranking. He noted that the participation of Indian universities in international rankings has grown from 30 to over 100 in the past 8–9 years. The Prime Minister  underlined that India’s presence in the QS World University Rankings has increased by more than 300% in the last ten years while the number of patents and trademarks filed in India is at an all-time high. He said that India is fast becoming a global hub for research and development where over 2,500 companies worldwide now have research centers in India, and the country’s startup ecosystem is undergoing unprecedented growth.

    Highlighting India’s rising global prominence as a trusted friend,  Shri Modi said India is taking the lead in providing direction to global future in several areas. Reflecting on the Covid-19 pandemic, Shri Modi said that India could have earned millions of dollars from its capacity of essential medicines and vaccines. “India would have benefited from that but humanity would have lost. These are not our values. We supplied medicines and life-saving vaccines to hundreds of countries during these challenging times,’ he said, adding,” I am satisfied that India was able to help the world in difficult moments.” Reinforcing India’s commitment towards building strong international relations, the Prime Minister said that the foundation of India’s relationships is trust and reliability ,it does not believe in taking relationships for granted and the world is also understanding this. Referring to India’s harmonious ties with the rest of the world, Shri Modi said, “India is a country whose progress does not invoke envy or jealousy from others. “The world rejoices from our progress because the entire world benefits from it.” Reflecting on India’s rich contribution to the world, Shri Modi said that in the past Bharat has played a positive role in increasing global growth, adding that its ideas, innovations and products left an indelible mark on the world for centuries. The Prime Minister said that Bharat could not take advantage of the industrial revolution due to colonization. “This is the era of Industry 4.0. India is no longer a slave. It has been 75 years since we gained independence, and therefore, now we are ready with our belts tightened,” Shri Modi added. 

    The Prime Minister emphasized that India is working swiftly on the skill sets and infrastructure required for Industry 4.0. He noted that during the past decade, he has participated in various global platforms, including G-20 and G-7 summits significant discussion about India’s Digital Public Infrastructure have taken place. “Today, the whole world is looking at India’s DPI,” he stated, referencing his discussions with Paul Romer, who praised India’s innovations like Aadhaar and DigiLocker. “India did not have the first-mover advantage in the era of the internet”, Shri Modi pointed out, noting that private platforms led the digital space in countries with the advantage. He said that India has provided a new model to the world by democratizing technology and highlighted the JAM trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, and Mobile which provides a robust system for faster and leakage-free service delivery. He also touched on UPI facilitating over 500 million daily digital transactions and said that the driving force behind this is not corporations but our small shopkeepers and street vendors. He also mentioned the PM Gati Shakti platform created to eliminate silos in infrastructure project construction which is now helping to transform the logistics ecosystem. Similarly, the ONDC platform is proving to be an innovation that democratizes and enhances transparency in online retail. Shri Modi underlined that India has demonstrated that digital innovation and democratic values can coexist and reinforced the notion that technology is a tool for inclusion, transparency, and empowerment, rather than control and division.

    Shri Modi stated that the 21st century is the most significant period in human history, emphasizing the urgent needs of today’s era: Stability, Sustainability, and Solutions. He noted that these elements are essential for a better future for humanity, with India striving to address them. He noted the unwavering support of the Indian public and said that the people have given a government their mandate for a third consecutive term, sending a strong message of stability for the first time in six decades referring to the recent elections in Haryana where the public reinforced this sentiment.

    The Prime Minister highlighted the global crisis of climate change, stating that this is a crisis faced by all of humanity. Despite India’s minimal contribution to the global climate challenge, the country is taking the lead in addressing it, he said. Shri Modi explained that the government has made green transition a key driver of growth adding that sustainability is at the core of India’s development planning. He gave examples of this commitment and mentioned PM Suryagarh Free Electricity Scheme and solar pump schemes for agriculture, EV revolution, Ethanol Blending Program, large wind energy farms, the LED light movement, solar Powered Airports and Biogas Plants. He further added that every program reflects the strong commitment to a green future and green jobs.

    The Prime Minister highlighted that alongside Stability and Sustainability, India is also focusing on providing Solutions to address global challenges. He said that over the past decade, India has worked on numerous initiatives essential for tackling these challenges, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the India-Middle East Economic Corridor, the Global Biofuel Alliance, as well as efforts in Yoga, Ayurveda, Mission Life, and Mission Millets. “All these initiatives represent India’s commitment to finding solutions to the world’s pressing issues” he stated.

    Expressing pride in India’s growth, the Prime Minister remarked, “As India progresses, the world will benefit even more.” He envisions a future where India’s century becomes a victory for all of humanity. He said that India’s century thrives on everyone’s talent and is enriched by innovations. Shri Modi stressed the significance of India’s efforts in promoting global stability and peace. “This is a century in which India’s initiatives contribute to a more stable world and enhance global peace”, Shri Modi concluded.

    Addressing the #NDTVWorldSummit. @ndtvhttps://t.co/92yfOt9vBF

    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 21, 2024

    जब दुनिया चिंता में डूबी है, तब भारत आशा का संचार कर रहा है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/1vHKLPq8Tc

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    आज भारत हर सेक्टर में, हर क्षेत्र में जिस तेजी से काम कर रहा है, वो अभूतपूर्व है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/FdVDGvAWXZ

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    भारत आज एक विकासशील देश भी है और उभरती हुई शक्ति भी है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/EutjT37shN

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    आज भारत दुनिया के सबसे युवा देशों में से एक है।

    इस युवा देश का पोटेंशियल…हमें आसमान की ऊंचाई पर पहुंचा सकता है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/k7jJwR72O6

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    अब भारत forward looking सोच के साथ आगे बढ़ रहा है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/nidsZlucxi

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    विकसित भारत के संकल्प से आज भारत के 140 करोड़ लोग जुड़ गए हैं। वो खुद इसे ड्राइव कर रहे हैं: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/zEN8jVWFCO

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    भारत के पास डबल AI पावर की एडवांटेज है।

    पहली AI…Artificial Intelligence…

    दूसरी AI…Aspirational India… pic.twitter.com/KBpMnmSNNB

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    भारत टेकन फॉर ग्रांटेड रिश्ते नहीं बनाता… हमारे रिश्तों की बुनियाद- विश्वास और विश्वसनीयता है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/XllkeZclgh

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    भारत ने टेक्नॉलॉजी को डेमोक्रटाइज़ करके डिजिटल पब्लिक इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर का नया रास्ता दुनिया को दिखाया है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/gTzgttGegN

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    भारत ने दिखाया है कि digital innovation और democratic values, coexist कर सकती हैं: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/OewYyydqcQ

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 21, 2024

    *****

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at the inauguration of RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:13PM by PIB Delhi

    Har Har Mahadev!

    Shankaracharya of the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, venerable Jagatguru Sri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati; Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel; Chief Minister, Shri Yogi Adityanath; Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak ji; RV Ramani of the Sankara Eye Foundation; Dr. SV Balasubramaniam; Shri Murali Krishnamurthy; Rekha Jhunjhunwala; and all other distinguished members of the organization, ladies and gentlemen!

    Visiting Kashi during this sacred month is, in itself, a profound spiritual experience. Present here are not only the residents of Kashi but also saints and philanthropists, making this occasion a truly blessed convergence! I am fortunate to meet and receive the prasad and blessings of the revered Shankaracharya ji. It is through his blessings that Kashi and the Purvanchal region have been bestowed with another modern hospital today. In this divine city of Lord Shankar, the RJ Sankara Eye Hospital is dedicated to the people from today. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the families of Kashi and Purvanchal.

    Friends,
    Our scriptures proclaim: “तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय:” – meaning, lead us from darkness to light. This RJ Sankara Eye Hospital will remove the darkness from the lives of countless people in Varanasi and this region, guiding them towards the light. I have just returned from visiting this eye hospital, and in every sense, it represents a fusion of spirituality and modernity. This hospital will serve the elderly and give new sight to children. A significant number of poor people will receive free treatment here. Moreover, this eye hospital has created new employment opportunities for the youth. Medical students will be able to do internships and practise here, and numerous individuals will find work as support staff.

    Friends,

    I have had the privilege of being associated with the noble endeavours of the Sankara Eye Foundation in the past as well. During my tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, I was involved in the inauguration of the Sankara Eye Hospital there. I had the honour of undertaking that work under the guidance of your revered Guruji. Today, I once again have the opportunity to contribute under your guidance, and this fills me with immense satisfaction. In fact, Pujya Swami Ji reminded me that I have been blessed in another way. I was fortunate to have received the blessings of Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peethadheepati Jagatguru Shankaracharya Chandrashekharendra Saraswati Mahaswamigal. I had the privilege of sitting at the feet of Param Acharya Ji on numerous occasions and received immense affection from Param Pujya Jagatguru Shankaracharya Shri Jayendra Saraswati Swamigal Ji. I have completed several important projects under his guidance, and now I am blessed with the company of Jagatguru Shankaracharya Shri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati Ji. In a way, being connected with three Guru traditions is one of life’s greatest blessings. This is something that gives me deep personal satisfaction. Today, Jagatguru has kindly taken time out to come to my parliamentary constituency for this programme. As the representative of the people here, I extend my heartfelt welcome to you and express my profound gratitude.

    Friends,

    On this occasion, it is only natural to remember my dear friend, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala Ji. The world is well aware of his stature in the business community, and much has been said about him in that regard. However, his dedication to social causes is evident here today. His family is now continuing his legacy, and Rekha Ji is devoting considerable time to this noble work. I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet Rakesh Ji’s entire family today. I recall requesting both the Sankara Eye Hospital and the Chitrakoot Eye Hospital to establish themselves in Varanasi, and I am deeply grateful to both institutions for honouring the wishes of the people of Kashi. In the past, thousands of individuals from my parliamentary constituency have received treatment at Chitrakoot Eye Hospital. Now, the people of this region will benefit from two new modern institutions right here in Varanasi.

    Friends,

    Kashi has long been recognized as a centre of religion and culture. Now, it is also gaining recognition as a major healthcare hub for Uttar Pradesh and the Purvanchal region. Whether it is the trauma centre at BHU, the super-specialty hospital, the enhanced facilities at Deendayal Upadhyay Hospital and Kabirchaura Hospital, specialised hospitals for the elderly and government employees, or the medical college – many healthcare advancements have been made in Kashi over the past decade. Today, Banaras also boasts a modern cancer treatment facility, enabling patients who once had to travel to Delhi or Mumbai to receive quality care locally. Thousands of people from Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and other parts of the country now come here for treatment. Our Mokshadayini Kashi is evolving into a centre of new vitality, offering fresh energy and enhanced healthcare resources.

    Friends,

    During the tenure of previous governments, the healthcare infrastructure in Purvanchal, including Varanasi, was grossly neglected. The situation was so dire that, just 10 years ago, there were no block-level treatment centres for brain fever in Purvanchal. Children would tragically lose their lives, and the media would be filled with reports of this distress. Yet, the former governments did nothing to address the issue. I am gratified that over the past decade, we have seen an unprecedented expansion of healthcare facilities, not only in Kashi but across the entire Purvanchal region. Today, more than 100 centres are operational, providing treatment for brain fever throughout Purvanchal. Over the last 10 years, more than 10,000 new hospital beds have been added to primary and community health centres across the region. In the same period, over 5,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established in the villages of Purvanchal. A decade ago, there were no dialysis facilities in the district hospitals of Purvanchal. Today, more than 20 dialysis units are functioning, offering patients these services free of charge.

    Friends,

    The new Bharat of the 21st century has transformed the outdated thinking and approach to healthcare. Today, Bharat’s healthcare strategy is built on five key pillars. The first is preventive healthcare – taking steps to prevent illness before it occurs. The second is timely diagnosis of diseases. The third is providing free and affordable treatment, including access to inexpensive medicines. The fourth is ensuring quality medical care in smaller towns, addressing the shortage of doctors. And the fifth pillar is the expansion of technology in healthcare.

    Friends,

    Protecting individuals from disease is a top priority of Bharat’s health policy and forms the first pillar of the health sector. Illness only deepens the poverty of the disadvantaged. As you know, over the past 10 years, 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty. However, a serious illness could easily push them back into the depths of poverty. This is why the government is placing significant emphasis on disease prevention. Our government is focusing particularly on cleanliness, yoga and Ayurveda, nutritious food, and related areas. We have also extended the vaccination campaign to as many households as possible. Just 10 years ago, the country’s vaccination coverage stood at only around 60 percent, leaving crores of children unvaccinated. Furthermore, the rate of increase in vaccination coverage was a mere 1 to 1.5 percent annually. At that pace, it would have taken another 40 to 50 years to achieve universal vaccination coverage for every child and every region. You can imagine the great injustice this was doing to the younger generation of the nation. Therefore, upon forming the government, we prioritised child vaccination and expanding its coverage. We launched Mission Indradhanush, involving multiple ministries in this effort simultaneously. As a result, not only did the vaccination rate rise significantly, but crores of pregnant women and children who were previously excluded from it were vaccinated. The strong emphasis Bharat placed on vaccination proved highly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the vaccination campaign continues to progress rapidly across the country.

    Friends,

    In addition to disease prevention, timely detection of illnesses is equally important. For this reason, lakhs of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established nationwide, enabling early detection of diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Today, we are also building a network of critical care units and modern laboratories across the country. This second pillar of the health sector is saving the lives of lakhs of people.

    Friends,

    The third pillar of healthcare is affordable treatment and inexpensive medicines. Today, the average medical expenditure for every citizen in the country has reduced by 25 percent. People are now able to purchase medicines at an 80 percent discount through PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras. Whether it be heart stents, knee implants, or cancer medicines, the prices of these essential treatments have been significantly reduced. The Ayushman Yojana, which offers free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for the poor, has become a lifesaver for many. So far, more than 7.5 crore patients across the country have benefited from free treatment under this scheme. Moreover, this service is now being extended to the elderly in every family throughout the nation.

    Friends,

    The fourth pillar of healthcare aims to reduce the dependency on major cities like Delhi and Mumbai for treatment. Over the past decade, we have established AIIMS, medical colleges, and super-specialty hospitals in smaller cities. To address the shortage of doctors in the country, thousands of new medical seats have been added in the last decade. Looking ahead, we have decided to add 75,000 more seats in the next five years.

    Friends,

    The fifth pillar of healthcare is increasing access to health services through technology. Today, digital health IDs are being created, and patients can receive consultations from the comfort of their homes through platforms like the e-Sanjeevani app. I am pleased to share that over 30 crore people have already taken advantage of consultations via the e-Sanjeevani app. We are also advancing towards integrating drone technology with healthcare services.

    Friends, 

    A healthy and capable young generation is essential for achieving the vision of a developed Bharat. I am immensely pleased that in this mission, we are blessed with the support of the revered Pujya Shankaracharya Ji. I pray to Baba Vishwanath that this mission for a healthy and capable Bharat continues to grow stronger. Today, as I sit at the feet of Pujya Shankaracharya Ji, I am reminded of memories from my childhood. When I was young, a doctor from my village would travel to Bihar for a month each year with a group of volunteers. There, he would conduct a large-scale cataract surgery campaign, which he referred to as “Netra Yagna.” He dedicated one month every year to this cause, and many people from my village would accompany him as volunteers. Even as a child, I was aware of the immense need for such services in Bihar. Therefore, today, I make a heartfelt request to Pujya Shankaracharya Ji to consider opening a similar Sankara Eye Hospital in Bihar. Those memories from my childhood remind me of how impactful such a service would be for the people of Bihar. Maharaj Ji has a vision of reaching every corner of the country, and I am confident that Bihar will be given priority and receive your blessings. It would be a tremendous honour to serve the diligent and hardworking people of Bihar, and contributing to their well-being would bring us great fulfilment in life. Once again, I extend my best wishes to all of you, especially our dedicated doctors, paramedical staff, and all the brothers and sisters working in this noble mission. With deep reverence, I bow before Pujya Jagatguru Ji, offering my heartfelt prayers for his continued blessings and guidance. With gratitude in my heart, I conclude my speech.

    Har-Har Mahadev!

     

    ***

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    (Release ID: 2066527) Visitor Counter : 427

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address at the laying of foundation stone and inauguration of multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 7:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Namah Parvati Pataye …

    Har Har Mahadev!

    Present on the stage Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji, the esteemed Governors and Chief Ministers of other states who are connected to this event via technology, my colleague in the Union Cabinet, Shri Naidu ji, other members of the Union Cabinet connected via technology, Deputy Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak ji, other ministers of the UP government, members of parliament, and legislators, and my dear brothers and sisters of Banaras!

    Today, once again, I have the opportunity to visit Banaras… today the Nakkataiya Fair is also happening in Chetganj … Dhanteras, Diwali, and Chhath festivals are approaching… and today Banaras is witnessing a celebration of development before these festivals. Heartiest congratulations to all of you.

    Friends,

    Today is an auspicious day for Banaras. I have just inaugurated a big eye hospital and then came here, which is why I was a bit late. The Sankara Eye Hospital will be a great help to the elderly and children. With the blessings of Baba Vishwanath, projects worth thousands of crores of rupees have been either inaugurated or their foundation stones laid. These projects will boost the development of the country and UP to new heights. Today, airports in UP, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have been inaugurated. This includes not only Babatpur Airport but also airports in Agra and Sarsawa in Saharanpur. In total, projects from education, skill development, sports, health, and tourism sectors have been granted to Banaras. These projects will not only bring convenience but also create numerous employment opportunities for our youth. This land boasts of Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his teachings. I recently participated in the Abhidhamma Mahotsav. Today, I also had the opportunity to inaugurate development projects worth crores of rupees related to Sarnath, and as you know, we recently recognized some languages as classical languages, including Pali and Prakrit. Both Pali and Prakrit have special connections to Sarnath and Kashi. Their recognition as classical languages is a matter of pride for all of us. I congratulate all my fellow citizens of Kashi and the nation on these development projects.

    Friends,

    When you entrusted me with the responsibility of serving for the third consecutive time, I had promised to work at triple speed. It has not even been 125 days since the government was formed, and in such a short period, projects worth more than 15 lakh crore rupees have been started across the country. Most of this budget has been allocated for the poor, farmers, and youth. Just think, headlines in newspapers were dominated by scams worth lakhs of crores of rupees 10 years ago. The conversation always revolved around corruption worth lakhs of crores of rupees. Today, discussions in every household are about projects worth 15 lakh crore rupees within 125 days. This is the change the country desires. It is our priority that the people’s money is spent on the people, on the development of the country, and spent honestly.

    Friends,

    We have launched a massive infrastructure development campaign in the country in the last 10 years. This infrastructure campaign has two major goals. The first is to increase the convenience of citizens through investments, and the second is to create jobs for the youth through investments. Today, modern highways are being built across the country, new railway tracks are being laid on new routes, and new airports are being built. This is not just about the work of bricks, stones, iron, and iron rods; it is also increasing convenience for people and providing jobs for the country’s youth.

    Friends,

    Look at the Babatpur Airport Highway we built and the modern facilities added to the airport. Did only those travelling to and from the airport benefit from it? No, it provided jobs to many people in Banaras. It boosted agriculture, industry, and tourism. Today, the number of people coming to Banaras has increased rapidly. Some come for tourism, and some come for business, and you are benefiting from it. Therefore, now that the expansion of Babatpur Airport is underway, you will benefit even more. The work on this airport has started today. Once it is completed, more planes will be able to land here.

    Friends,

    In this ‘maha yagna’ of building modern infrastructure, our airports, their magnificent buildings, and the most advanced facilities are being talked about worldwide. In 2014, our country had only 70 airports. And as Naidu ji has explained in detail, today we have more than 150 airports. We are also renovating older airports. Last year, new facilities were built at over a dozen airports across the country—on average, one airport per month. This includes airports in Aligarh, Moradabad, Shravasti, and Chitrakoot. Ayodhya now has a grand international airport, welcoming Ram devotees every day. Remember the time when Uttar Pradesh was mocked for its poor roads. Today, UP is known as the state of expressways. Today, UP is recognized for having the most international airports. A grand international airport is also nearing completion in Noida’s Jewar. I commend Yogi ji, Keshav Prasad Maurya ji, Brajesh Pathak ji, and their entire team for this progress in UP.

    Friends,

    As a Member of Parliament from Banaras, I feel happy when I see the development here. We all have a shared dream of making Kashi a model city for urban development—one where progress is made while heritage is also preserved. Today, Kashi is known for the grand and divine Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Rudraksh Convention Centre, and infrastructure projects like the Ring Road and Ganjari Stadium. A modern ropeway system is also being built in Kashi. These wide roads, alleys, the beautiful ghats of the Ganga—all are captivating.

    Friends,

    We are making continuous efforts to turn Kashi and the entire Purvanchal region into a major business hub. Just a few days ago, the government approved the construction of a new rail-road bridge over the Ganga. Near the Rajghat Bridge, a grand new bridge will be built. Trains will run underneath, and a six-lane highway will be constructed on top. This will benefit lakhs of people in Banaras and Chandauli.

    Friends,

    Our Kashi is also becoming a major centre for sports. The Sigra Stadium has been renovated and is now in front of you in a new form. The new stadium is equipped for national competitions and for the Olympics as well. Modern sports facilities have been built here. We witnessed the potential of Kashi’s young athletes during the Sansad Khel Pratiyogita. Now, our sons and daughters from Purvanchal have access to excellent facilities for major sports preparations.

    Friends,

    A society develops when its women and youth are empowered. Keeping this in mind, the government has given new strength to ‘Nari Shakti’ (women power). Millions of women have been given Mudra loans to help them start their own businesses. Now we are working to create ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in villages across the country. Today, our sisters from the villages are even becoming drone pilots. And this is Kashi, where even Lord Shiva seeks alms from Mother Annapurna. Kashi teaches us that society prospers when women are empowered. With this belief, we have placed ‘Nari Shakti’ at the centre of every goal for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has gifted millions of women their own homes. Many women in Banaras have also benefited from this scheme. You know the government is now planning to build 3 crore more homes. Women in Banaras who haven’t yet received homes under the PM Awas Yojana will soon get them. We have already provided tap water, Ujjwala gas, and piped water to homes. Now, we are launching a scheme for free electricity and earning income from electricity. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana will make the lives of our sisters even easier.

    Friends,

    Our Kashi is a vibrant cultural city. It is home to the sacred Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, Manikarnika, the holy site of Moksha, and Sarnath, the place of knowledge. After so many decades, so much development work is happening in Banaras simultaneously. Otherwise, Kashi was left as if abandoned. So today, I pose a question to every resident of Kashi: What was the mentality that kept Kashi deprived of development? Think about the situation 10 years ago when Banaras was starved for development. The parties that ruled UP for long periods, and those who enjoyed power in Delhi for decades, never cared about Banaras. The answer lies in the politics of dynasties and appeasement. Be it Congress or Samajwadi Party, Banaras’s development was never a priority for such parties, nor will it ever be in the future. These parties even discriminated in development. But our government works with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. Our government does not discriminate in any plan. What we say, we do loudly and clearly. A grand Ram Temple is being built in Ayodhya. Today, lakhs of people visit Ram Lalla every day. The reservation for women in assemblies and parliament was stalled for years. This historical work has also been achieved by our government. Many families were suffering due to the evil practice of triple talaq. Our government worked to free Muslim daughters from it. It was the BJP government that gave constitutional status to the OBC Commission, and it was the NDA government that gave 10% reservation to the economically weaker sections without taking away anyone’s rights.

    Friends,

    We have done our work. We implemented policies with good intentions and worked honestly to transform the lives of every family in the country. That is why the nation continues to bless us. We saw how the BJP government was re-elected for the third consecutive time in Haryana. The BJP received a record number of votes in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Friends,

    Today, Bharat faces a significant threat from family-based politics. These dynastic politicians cause the most harm to the youth of the country. They never believe in giving opportunities to young people. That is why, I called upon the nation from the Red Fort that I will bring 100,000 such young individuals into politics who have no family ties to politics. This is a campaign that will change the direction of Indian politics. It is a mission to eradicate corruption and the dynastic mentality. I urge the youth of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh to openly become the pillars of this new political movement. As the Member of Parliament from Kashi, I am committed to bringing the youth of this region forward as much as possible.

    Friends,

    Once again, Kashi has become the launching ground for new standards of development across the country. Kashi has once again witnessed a new surge for the nation. I extend my congratulations to all the states, Hon’ble governors, chief ministers, the people of Kashi, and citizens of the country who are associated with today’s development programs.

    Join me in saying: 

    Namah Parvati Pataye…

    Har Har Mahadev!

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST/VK

    (Release ID: 2066550) Visitor Counter : 368

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Dedicates Key Maritime Projects at 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival

    Source: Government of India

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Dedicates Key Maritime Projects at 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival

    Steps to Enable Coastal Communities around Lighthouses to Preserve, Protect & Promote as Tourist Hubs: Shri Sonowal

    The Union Minister announced Two New Lighthouses at Chaumuck and Dhamra on Odisha’s Coastline

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal dedicates ‘New Kalwan Lighthouse’ in Jamnagar, Gujarat along with Stacker-cum-Reclaimant & a Flyover at the Paradip Port Authority, Odisha, to the nation

    Under the Visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, Lighthouse Tourism soared by more than 400% since 2014: Shri Sonowal

    Shri Sonowal inaugurates multifaceted celebration with beach activities like Sand Art, Boat Art competition, Yoga session

    Shri Sarbananda Sonowal leads Swachhata Abhiyan at Niladri Beach, lauds efforts of people’s Participation

    2nd edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival witnessed electrifying performances by noted singers like Papon, Sona Mohapatra among others

    The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal at the Valedictory Session of the Festival

    Assam & Odisha share a close spiritual, historical, cultural, commercial ties as Srimanta Sankardeva, Lakshminath Bezbarua & Bholanath Barooah strengthened it over the years: Shri Sonowal

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 7:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal dedicated key maritime projects to the nation during the 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival here today. At the valedictory session here, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also announced that the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Govt of India, would take necessary steps to enable coastal communities around the Lighthouses in order to empower them to preserve & promote the lighthouses – the rich heritage of India’s marine sector. The Union Minister also announced two new lighthouses on Odisha’s coastline – one at Chaumuck at Narayanpur in Balasore district and another at Dhamra in Bhadrak district of the state. The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined Sonowal as the second edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival draws a closure here today.

    The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the coastal communities of the country would be developed as societies in order to enable and empower the communities within the vicinity of lighthouses. The effort is aimed at community engagement to take pride in the lighthouses for their preservation, protection, and promotion. A central association of all these societies would be created to give a national momentum to celebrate the lighthouse as national icons as cultural heritage & legacy of India’s rich maritime sector.

    The new Kalwan reef Lighthouse at Jamnagar in Gujarat as well as two projects in Padadip Port, Odisha; i.e., Stacker-cum-Reclaimant & a Flyover bridge, were inaugurated. The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also inaugurated Sand Art Competition, Boat Art Competition, Beach run, Beach Yoga and many other activities at the second day of the 2nd edition of multifaceted Indian Lighthouse Festival. Sonowal also led a Swachata Abhiyan at the Niladri beach where the collective effort led to removal of garbage.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, “The Indian Lighthouse Festival or Bharatiya Prakash Sthamb Utsav has been receiving laurels from all quarters of the country as we continue our effort to further bolster facilities for the tourists – both domestic and foreign – for a memorable experience at these wonderful monuments. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the government is taking all steps to realise the full potential of India’s rich cultural heritage as well as its historical legacy in propelling the economic growth of the country. Modiji’s call for an Atmanirbhar Bharat has resonated well with people and we, the Ministry, remain committed to usher in a new chapter of growth in India’s blue economy. Lighthouse Tourism is part of this vision of Modi ji. It gives me immense pleasure to inform you that a rise of more than 400% footfall of tourists in the lighthouses since 2014. From 4 lakhs in 2014, it reached 16 lakhs tourists in the last fiscal. We have already crossed 9 lakhs in the first half of the current fiscal, and it is evident, that the growing trend of lighthouses as tourists hotspots to continue. For years, the guardians of our shores have remained unnoticed, even while they guided vessels and seafarers through the most challenging nights. The ‘Lighthouse Festival’ is our effort to shift this perception. Our goal is to raise awareness, foster involvement, and enlighten people about the significant contribution these iconic structures have made to our country’s maritime legacy.”

    Shri @sarbanandsonwal, Union Minister, MoPSW said that this initiative seeks to showcase the significance of India’s centuries-old lighthouses, spread across our vast coastline & celebrate their rich heritage at the inauguration of the 2nd Lighthouse Festival. @PIBBhubaneswar pic.twitter.com/7YZYbSwoE9

    — Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (@shipmin_india) October 19, 2024

    Highlighting the importance of coastal communities in preservation of the Lighthouses, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced, “In order to rope in the coastal community, the government is keen to enable and empower them to preserve, conserve, and promote these iconic structures. A national framework is being mooted to ensure that a well thought out system is in place for the coastal communities to preserve, protect & promote the lighthouses as the torchbearers of India’s rich maritime history and legacy.”

    During the festival, the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi and the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal felicitated eminent personalities from the fields of education, sports and culture. Among them, Odishi dancer, Mamta Ojha; artist Dr Ramesh Prasad Panigrahi; sand sculptor, Om Prakash Sahu; Mariner Nividita Acharya; Oriya Literary figure & poet, Dr Haldar Nath; footballer Sasmita Malik and social worker Sujit Mahapatra, were felicitated. Eight employees of the Directorate General of Lighthouse & Lightships (DGLL) were also felicitated for their good performance.

    Earlier, the 2nd edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival was inaugurated by the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The festival, in its second avatar here, aimed at rejuvenating the rich maritime history of India iconic lighthouses in a culturally vibrant atmosphere. The festival showcased rich flavours of coastal cuisine, amusement park, folk dance & music, coastal hut among many other interesting performances.

    On the historic relationship between Assam and Odisha, Sarbananda Sonowal added, “Assam & Odisha have always shared a close spiritual, historical, cultural, commercial ties through the lives of great saint Srimanta Sankardeva, literary genius Lakshminath Bezbarua & visionary trader Bholanath Barooah which has only strengthened over the years. It is heartening to witness cultural show by the artists of both Assam and Odisha here today celebrating the vibrancy of this festival.”

    The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi joined the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at the valedictory session of the festival. The event was also attended by Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State, MoPSW; Pravati Parida, the Deputy Chief Minister, Odisha; Suresh Gopi, the Union Minister of State of Tourism & Petroleum and Natural Gas; Sambit Patra, MP as well as TK Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, MoPSW among others.

    During the first day, the festival witnessed sessions on ‘Lighthouse Tourism & Heritage,’ ‘Preservation and conservation of Lighthouse.’

    The festivities began with the invocation dance, Ganesh Vandana, followed by a captivating medley of traditional Assamese performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Assam. The concluding performance began with the invocation dance, Shiva Stuti, followed folk dance. The festival was enthralled by some electrifying performances by noted singer Papon on the first night of the festival while Sona Mahapatra was slated to perform on the concluding night.

    With an investment of ₹60 crore, 75 iconic lighthouses across 9 coastal states and 1 union territory have been developed under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. Each lighthouse has become a beacon of both heritage and recreation, with modern amenities such as museums, amphitheaters, children’s parks, and more. In Odisha, five lighthouses—Gopalpur, Puri, Chandrabhaga, Paradip, and False Point—have been developed as part of this initiative to promote lighthouse tourism.

     

    In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, the 75 dedicated lighthouses attracted an impressive 16 lakh visitors. As of September 2024, the current fiscal year 2024-25 has already welcomed more than 10 lakh visitors. These developments have also resulted in job creation, with 150 direct and 500 indirect employment opportunities emerging in nearby hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation services, and local shops and artisans.

    In 2023, the maiden edition of Indian Lighthouse Festival took place in Goa with a spotlight on 75 historical sites to be developed into tourists destinations. The ‘Bharatiya Prakash Sthamb Utsav’ was conceived with an intent to transform these historical sites into tourist destinations with the help of Public Private Partnerships. The key highlights of India’s First Lighthouse Festival were cultural exhibitions, session highlighting maritime history and culture, classical performances, light and sound shows, melodious evenings with celebrity singers, flavours of the coast and community engagements.

    In Odisha, the Sagarmala Programme encompasses 36 projects with a total value of ₹20,200 Cr. Among these, 15 projects, valued at approximately ₹4,330 Cr., have been successfully completed, while 21 projects, totalling around ₹15,850 Cr., are currently in various stages of implementation. One standout achievement of the Sagarmala Programme is the living example of Paradip Port’s growth Story. This Port today is the number one major port in cargo handling. Paradip Port will transform into a mega port with a formidable cargo handling capacity of over 300 MTPA very soon and will exceed 500 MTPA capacity by Amrit Kaal 2047. The mammoth traffic volume growth at the port in the recent years has been due to the successful implementation of Capacity augmentation projects under the Sagarmala projects. The Sagarmala program also envisions uplifting the fishermen community with the Modernization of Paradip Fishing Harbour project, with a project cost of  ₹108 Crores. The modern fishing harbour will be a strong step towards the coastal community development initiative in Odisha. For upliftment of fishermen community, a fishing harbour at Chandipur in Odisha has also been sanctioned under Sagarmala at a cost of ₹50 Cr. Paradip port is also being developed as a green hydrogen hub in the country.

    Odisha, a principal maritime state situated on the eastern coast of India, has a coastline of about 480 km. Paradip Port (290 MTPA Capacity, Cargo handled in 2023-24 – 145.38 MTPA) is the only Major Port in the State under the control of the Government of India. The Government of Odisha has already identified 14 potential sites for the development of Non – Major Ports, out of which, Dhamra (Adani – 100 MTPA Capacity) and Gopalpur (Shapoorji Pallonji & Odisha Stevedore Ltd. – 25 MTPA capacity) are already functioning.

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    (Release ID: 2066548) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr Jitendra Singh releases first of its kind, largest ICMR-India Diabetes ‘INDIAB’ Study, all-India survey’s Jammu related data on prevalence of Diabetes in Jammu region

    Source: Government of India (2)

     Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who is also a nationally renowned Diabetologist, today released the Jammu related data of the ‘first of its kind’ world’s largest survey ‘ICMR-India Diabetes ‘INDIAB’ Study to assess the prevalence of Diabetes in India, including Jammu & Kashmir in Jammu today.

    According to the survey, the overall burden of the disease in Jammu region covering its 10 districts is 18.9 percent, with 26.5 percent in urban areas and 14.5 per cent in rural areas which is higher than the national average.

    Expressing concern over the rising cases of Diabetes in the region, Dr Jitendra Singh called upon everyone, including medical institutions, NGOs and the media to create awareness in the society about the disease in order to prevent and control it before it assumes an alarming proportion. He said the study offers an opportunity for prevention and control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). He called for adopting a multi-sectoral approach involving the government, non-governmental agencies, the community at large as well as the individual to slow down or stop the rising tide Diabetes and other NCDs.

    Describing the ICMR- India Diabetes (INDIAB) nationwide study as landmark, he said its findings will help to estimate the health burden due to Diabetes, prediabetes and metabolic NCD. He added that the study will also help in shifting focus to the prevention and control of Diabetes and other NCDs in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

    Dr Jitendra Singh further said that the findings of the study are expected to help policymakers, health professionals and stakeholders to develop targeted interventions for prevention and management of Diabetes and other NCDs in Jammu and across India as it was a national responsibility. He also mentioned the need for early detection of the disease as well as the need to break the chain of passing from one generation to another by focussing diabetic pregnant women.

    The Union Minister said that all-out efforts must be made to prevent the youth from falling prey to this preventable disease. Calling the youth architects of a Vikisit Bharat, the Minister said that proper care of their health and well-being must be taken by all the stakeholders. He said that the energy and potential of youngsters cannot be consigned to this silent killer, but must be nurtured and preserved to realise the goal of a developed India by the year 2047.

    Dr Jitendra Singh informed that the Government is setting up nearly 1,50,000 Health and Wellness Centres all over the country with a focus on prevention and control of NCDs like Diabetes, hypertension and some forms of cancer. The Union Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with bringing in a preventable healthcare ecosystem in the country, saying prior to COVID pandemic, this concept was alien to India. “Credit goes to Prime Minister Narendra for awakening the nation to the virtues of preventable healthcare, using traditional medicines like Ayurveda and Unani, and practising yoga for health”, the Minister noted.

    “It is at the initiative of PM Modi that 1.5 lakh Wellness Centres are to be opened across the country” , the Minister said.

    Dr Jitendra Singh called for tapping the vast expanse of unexplored Himalayan resources of J&K. He said these resources have a huge potential for making value addition to India’s economy. He expressed happiness at the recent impressive economic growth of India and said that India has now joined the league of top five economies of the world while mentioning that the journey from fragile five to top five economies of the world has been momentous.

    Further elaborating Dr Jitendra Singh said if the vast bio resources of J&K are tapped, they will contribute to India’s growth story in the times to come.

    According to the ICMR-INDIAB study, 10.8 per cent of the population in Jammu region is affected by prediabetes, emphasizing the urgent need for action against the growing burden of NCDs in the region.

    The Jammu phase surveyed 1,520 participants across urban and rural areas, providing critical insights into the region’s health landscape. As per the survey, the overall prevalence of hypertension, generalised obesity and abdominal obesity in Jammu is 27.1 %, 41.7 % and 62.7 % respectively. The study was conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation with the collaboration of ICMR and the Department of Health Research.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone and inaugurates multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

    Inaugurates and lays foundation stone of multiple airport projects worth over Rs 6,100 crore

    Development initiatives of today will significantly benefit the citizens, especially our Yuva Shakti: PM

    In the last 10 years, we have started a huge campaign to build infrastructure in the country: PM

    Kashi is model city where development is taking place along with preservation of heritage:PM

    Government has given new emphasis to women empowerment ,society develops when the women and youth of the society are empowered: PM

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh today. The projects of today include multiple airport projects worth over Rs 6,100 crore and multiple development initiatives in Varanasi.

    Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that today is a very auspicious occasion for Kashi as he mentioned inaugurating RJ Sankara Eye Hospital earlier today. He said that the Hospital would be very helpful for the elderly and children. Referring to the development projects of today, the Prime Minister mentioned the inauguration of new airport terminals in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh including Babatpur Airport and Sarsawa Airport of Agra and Saharanpur. He emphasized that development projects pertaining to Education, Skill Development, Sports, Healthcare and Tourism among other sectors have been presented to Varanasi today which would not only boost services but also create employment opportunities for the youth. Shri Modi recalled participating in Abhidhamma Diwas a few days ago and mentioned inaugurating multiple development projects worth crores of rupees today related to the development of Sarnath, the land of Lord Buddha’s sermons. The Prime Minister highlighted the association of Sarnath and Varanasi With Pali and Prakrit languages and mentioned granting them the status of classical language recently. He said that it is a matter of great pride that languages used in the scriptures have been granted classical language status. The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Kashi and India for the development projects of today. 

    Recalling his promise to work three times more when he was given the opportunity to serve the people of Varanasi, the Prime Minister remarked that in less than 125 days of the formation of Government, the work on various schemes and projects worth more than Rs. 15 lakh crore had already begun. He added that the maximum budget of these was dedicated to the poor, farmers and the youths. Shri Modi said that today there was a discussion in every household about the work of Rs. 15 lakh crore as against the scams which were being reported in the newspapers a decade ago. He added that the change that the country desired where the money of the people was spent on the people along with the progress of the country with utmost honesty were the top priorities of the Government. 

    The Prime Minister underlined that the government has initiated a huge campaign for infrastructural development in the country in the last 10 years with two main objectives of improving services for the people and creating employment opportunities for the youth through investments. Giving examples of development works of modern highways, laying of railway tracks on new routes and establishment of new airports, the Prime Minister emphasized that it is enhancing convenience for the people and creating employment at the same time. He said that the construction of the highway for Babatpur Airport not only benefited the travelers but also gave a boost to agriculture, industry and tourism. He informed that work is already underway for the expansion of Babatpur Airport to increase its flight handling capacity.  

    Shri Modi highlighted that India’s airports and their magnificent buildings with amazing facilities is a topic of discussion all over the world. Shri Modi said that in 2014, there were only 70 airports, while today, there are more than 150 airports along with the renovation work of the old airports. He added that last year, the construction of new facilities was completed at more than a dozen airports in the country which include Aligarh, Moradabad, Shravasti and Chitrakoot airports. Shri Modi remarked that the grand international airport in Ayodhya was welcoming Ram devotees every day. The Prime Minister highlighted that today UP was known as ‘state of expressways’ as against the past when it was taunted for its dilapidated roads. He added that today UP was also known as a state with the most number of international airports with a grand international airport going to be built soon in Jewar, Noida. Shri Modi lauded the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers of UP along with the entire team for the progress of UP.

    The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the rate of progress as a Member of Parliament from Varanasi and reiterated his dream of making Kashi a model city of urban development where progress and heritage go hand in hand. He said that today Kashi is identified by the grand and divine Dham of Baba Vishwanath, Rudraksh Convention Center, infrastructure projects like Ring Road and Ganjari Stadium and modern facilities like ropeway. “City’s wide roads and beautiful ghats of Ganga ji are captivating everyone today”, he added.

    The Prime Minister said that it is the Government’s constant endeavor to make Kashi and Purvanchal a huge center of trade and business as he mentioned  the construction of a new rail-road bridge over River Ganga a few days ago which would comprise a 6 lane highway and railway lines for several trains. He said that it would hugely benefit the people of Varanasi and Chandauli. 

    “Our Kashi is now becoming a very big center for sports”, said Shri Modi. He added that the revamped Sigra Stadium was in front of the people now and arrangements were made in the new stadium for preparations from national competitions to Olympics along with modern facilities for sports. The Prime Minister highlighted the potential of young players of Kashi, which was evident during the Member of Parliament sports competition and now youngsters of Purvanchal were provided with good facilities for preparing for bigger competitions.

    Underlining that development of society occurs when its women and youth are empowered, the Prime Minister stressed that the government has given new strength to women. He mentioned schemes like Mudra Yojna where crores of women have been facilitated loans to start their own businesses. “Today, efforts are being made to create ‘Lakhpati Didis’ in villages and women are even becoming drone pilots”, PM Modi said. Highlighting the belief in Kashi that even Lord Shiva seeks alms from Goddess Annapurna, the Prime Minister said that this belief has driven the government to place Nari Shakit at the center of every initiative for the goal of Viksit Bharat. He emphasized that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, millions of women have been handed out their own homes including women of Varanasi. The Prime Minister also highlighted that the government is set to construct another three crore houses and assured that those women who have yet to receive homes under the PM Awas scheme will be given their houses soon. In addition to providing piped water, Ujjwala gas, and electricity, PM Modi said that the new PM Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme will further ease the lives of women, allowing them to benefit from free power and even earn from it.

    “Our Kashi is a multi-hued cultural city, with the holy Jyotirlinga of Lord Shankar, a Moksha Tirtha like Manikarnika and also a place of knowledge like Sarnath”, said Shri Modi. He remarked that it was only after decades, that so much work was simultaneously carried out for the development of Banaras. Questioning the previous governments on the poor development and progress of Varanasi, Shri Modi remarked that his Government worked on the mantra of Sabka Saath. Sabka Vikas without any discrimination in any scheme. He added that the Government stuck to its words and cited the example of the grand Ram temple built in Ayodhya, as promised. He also mentioned the historic reservation for women in the Vidhan Sabha and Lok Sabha completed by the government. Shri Modi also mentioned the other achievements of abolition of Triple Talaq, granting constitutional status to the Backward Class Commission and granting 10 percent reservation to the economically backward classes of people.

    “We have done our work with sincerity, implemented policies with good intentions and strive to improve the lives of every family in the country,” said Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized that the nation’s continuous blessings are a result of the government’s efforts as recently seen in Haryana, where the ruling dispensation secured its third consecutive government. He also noted the record number of votes received in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Noting that dynastic politics is a significant danger to the country, especially to the youth, the Prime Minister explained that such form of politics often deprives young people of opportunities. He reiterated his clarion call from the Red Fort to bring one lakh young individuals into politics whose families have no political background. He stressed that this initiative will change the direction of Indian politics eradicating corruption and family-driven mindsets. Encouraging the youth of Kashi and Uttar Pradesh, the Prime Minister said, “I urge the youth to become the pivot of this new political movement. As the Member of Parliament of Kashi, I am committed to bringing forward as many young people as possible.” Concluding the address, the Prime Minister said that Kashi stands as a symbol of new benchmarks of development for the entire nation. He congratulated the states and people of Kashi on the new development programs launched today.

    Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu were present on the occasion among others. 

    Background

    In line with his commitment to boost connectivity, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the expansion of the airport runway and construction of a new terminal building and allied works of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi worth around Rs 2870 crore. He also laid the foundation stone of New Civil Enclave at Agra Airport worth more than Rs 570 crore, Darbhanga Airport worth around Rs 910 crore and Bagdogra Airport worth around Rs 1550 crore.

    The Prime Minister inaugurated new terminal buildings of Rewa Airport, Maa Mahamaya Airport, Ambikapur and Sarsawa Airport worth over Rs 220 crore. The combined passenger handling capacity of these airports increases to more than 2.3 crore passengers annually. The designs of these airports are influenced and derived from the common elements of heritage structures of the region.

    In line with his vision to provide top-quality infrastructure for sports, the Prime Minister inaugurated Phases 2 and 3 of the redevelopment of Varanasi Sports Complex worth over Rs 210 crore under Khelo India scheme and the Smart City Mission. The project aims to create a state-of-the-art sports complex featuring a National Centre of Excellence, players’ hostels, sports science center, practice fields for various sports, indoor shooting ranges and combat sports arenas among others. He also inaugurated 100-bed girls’ and boys’ hostels and a public pavilion at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Sports Stadium, Lalpur.

    The Prime Minister inaugurated tourism development works in Buddhism-related areas in Sarnath. These enhancements include the construction of pedestrian-friendly streets, new sewer lines and upgraded drainage systems and organized vending zones with modern designer vending carts to promote local handicraft vendors, among others. The Prime Minister also inaugurated multiple other initiatives like tourism development works at Banasur Temple and Gurudham Temple along with beautification and redevelopment of parks etc.

     

    Speaking at the launch of infrastructure projects in Varanasi. These development initiatives will significantly benefit the citizens, especially our Yuva Shakti.https://t.co/wwzjuVyFW8

    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 20, 2024

    बीते 10 सालों में हमने देश में इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर निर्माण का एक बहुत बड़ा अभियान शुरू किया है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/G4EYxqkUeV

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2024

    समाज का विकास तब होता है, जब समाज की महिलाएं और नौजवान सशक्त होते हैं।

    इसी सोच के साथ सरकार ने नारी शक्ति को नई शक्ति दी है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/ooZmWvXt7W

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 20, 2024

     

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    (Release ID: 2066539) Visitor Counter : 26

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Saharanpur, Rewa and Ambikapur airports under RCS-UDAN

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Saharanpur, Rewa and Ambikapur airports under RCS-UDAN

    RCS-UDAN celebrates 08 Years in service of the Nation

    1.44 crore people already flown under RCS-UDAN

    601 UDAN routes operationalized so far

    RCS key element of NCAP 2016 to promote Regional Air Connectivity

    Posted On: 20 OCT 2024 6:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated three airports, developed under the  Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. These airports are: Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, Ambikapur in Chhatisgarh and Saharanpur in UP. Flights under RCS-UDAN will begin from these airports shortly.

    The RCS- UDAN, a government-backed initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity in India, especially in remote and underserved regions, completes seven years. It is a vital component of India’s National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016, launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on October 21, 2016, with a 10-year vision.

    The first RCS-UDAN flight was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on April 27, 2017, connecting Shimla to Delhi. The scheme focuses on improving unserved air routes in underserved regions of the country and fulfilling the aspirations of the common citizens.

    So far, the RCS-UDAN has facilitated travel of more than 144 lakh passengers, demonstrating its success in enhancing air travel accessibility.

    Over the period of 7 years, various versions of UDAN Scheme were launched, as follows:

     

    • UDAN 1.0: Five airlines companies were awarded 128 flight routes to 70 airports (including 36 newly made operational airports)
    • UDAN 2.0: 73 underserved and unserved airports were announced and for the first time, helipads were also connected.
    • UDAN 3.0: In coordination with the Ministry of Tourism, Tourism Routes were included. In addition to Seaplanes for connecting Water Aerodromes, several routes in the North-East Region came under the ambit of the scheme.
    • UDAN 4.0: Gave impetus to North-Eastern Regions, Hilly States, and Islands. The operation of helicopters and seaplanes incorporated.

     

    UDAN Version 5 – 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 &5.4

    Following the four successful rounds of bidding, the Ministry of Civil Aviation launched the 5thversion of RCS-UDAN with numerous improvements based on stakeholder feedback.

    UDAN 5.0 where the focus is on Category-2 (20-80 seats) and Category-3 (>80 seats) aircraft. Similarly, the cap of 600 km has been removed and there is no restriction on the distance between the origin and destination of the flight. This round prioritizes the routes that will connect the airports that are ready for operations or will be ready soon, which will lead to quicker operationalization of awarded routes. Consequently, Airlines would now be required to commence operations within 4 months of the award of the route, and they are welcoming this change as this helps them to better plan their operations.

    This was soon followed by UDAN 5.1, This round of RCS-UDAN is designed specifically for helicopter routes by increasing the scope of operations for helicopter operators, enhancing VGF and reducing Airfare Caps. The Scheme will now allow operations on routes provided that at least one origin or destination is in a priority area and at least one origin or destination is a heliport, thereby enhancing the potential range of connectivity. VGF caps have been enhanced to improve viability for operators and airfare caps have been reduced to make flying more affordable for passengers respectively.

    Later, bidding for UDAN 5.2 was launched to further enhance the connectivity to remote and regional areas of the country, achieve last-mile connectivity, and provide impetus to the tourism sector through small aircraft (<20 seats). The Scheme will provide greater operational flexibility to the small aircraft operators, by allowing them to operate a maximum of 40% of annually quoted RCS seats and a minimum of 10% of annually quoted RCS seats in any given quarter.

    The Ministry of Civil Aviation further launched special bidding rounds to operationalize the routes those have been discontinued before completion of tenure or cancelled/terminated due to multiple reasons. In order to further enhance point-to-point air connectivity on such previously identified routes, bids under UDAN 5.3 and UDAN 5.4 were invited from all categories of airline operators. Consequently, UDAN 5.3 was launched in January 2024, while UDAN 5.4 is underway.

    Fueling Growth in the Aviation Industry

    RCS-UDAN is contributing to the growth of the civil aviation industry as many new and successful airlines have come up in the last seven years. The scheme has helped airline operators to start up and develop a sustainable business model. Additionally, it’s providing opportunities to small regional airlines Flybig, Star Air, IndiaOne Air and Fly91 to scale up their businesses and their successful run is evidence of the fact that the scheme is creating an amiable ecosystem conducive to airline business.

    Demand for new aircraft of all sizes

    The scheme’s incremental expansion has generated an escalating demand for new aircraft, concurrently broadening the spectrum of aircraft deployed. This augmentation encompasses a comprehensive range of aircraft and encompasses helicopters, seaplanes, 3-seat propeller planes, and jet planes. Presently, a diversified fleet, including Airbus 320/321, Boeing 737, ATR 42 and 72, DHC Q400, Twin Otter, Embraer 145 and 175, Tecnam P2006T, Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX, Dornier 228, Airbus H130, and Bell 407 is actively serving on the RCS routes. The heightened demand for aircraft is substantiated by Indian carriers’ orders, which exceed 1,000 aircraft slated for delivery over the next 10-15 years, representing a significant augmentation of India’s existing fleet, which currently comprises approximately 800 planes operated by various airlines.

    Promoting tourism

    RCS-UDAN is not solely dedicated to offering last-mile connectivity to tier-2 and tier-3 cities; it also stands as a prominent contributor to the burgeoning tourism sector. UDAN 3.0 introduced tourism routes connecting several destinations in the Northeast region, while UDAN 5.1 is dedicated to expanding helicopter services in hilly regions to stimulate tourism, hospitality, and local economic growth.

    This initiative has successfully connected destinations such as Khajuraho, Deoghar, Amritsar, and Kishangarh (Ajmer), which have substantial relevance in religious tourism. The entire Northeast region’s tourism industry is experiencing a considerable upsurge due to the introduction of Pasighat, Ziro, Hollongi, and Tezu airports, fostering greater accessibility.The Scheme also achieved another milestone by bringingAgatti Island on the Indian aviation map, further boosting tourism in Lakshadweep.

    Boosting air connectivity

    From Mundra (Gujarat) to Tezu in Arunachal Pradesh andKullu in Himachal Pradesh to Salem in Tamil Nadu, RCS-UDAN hasconnected 34 States/UTs across the length and breadth of the country. A total of 86 aerodromes have been operationalized under UDAN. Ten airports have been operationalized in the Northeast regionin addition to two heliports. Many airports that were operationalized under UDAN such as Darbhanga, Prayagraj, Hubli, Belgaum, Kannur, etc. have or may soon become sustainable with many non-RCS commercial flights operating from these airports.

    ******

    PSF/DK

    (Release ID: 2066529) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government provides certainty to horticulture and poultry businesses  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government has underlined its commitment to the horticultural and poultry sectors by confirming measures to provide stability, including the allocation for the Seasonal Worker visa route for 2025.

    A package of measures to provide certainty and stability to farmers and growers in the UK’s horticulture, poultry and sheep sectors has been announced by the government today (Monday 21 October).   
     
    Underlining the government’s commitment to the horticultural and poultry sectors, the Seasonal Worker visa route has been confirmed for 2025, with a total of 43,000 Seasonal Worker visas available for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry next year. 

    This will provide certainty and will help the sector secure the labour and skills needed to bring high quality British produce, including strawberries, rhubarb, turkey and daffodils to market.  

    Alongside this, the government is taking action to keep costs down and protect poultry farmers from the impact of avian influenza and delivering fairness in the supply chain for sheep farmers by ensuring producers receive a fair price for their livestock through legislation to mandate sheep carcase classification and price reporting.  

    Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner said:  

    This government recognises that food security is national security, and this can only be achieved by supporting food and farming businesses.  

    Confirming the seasonal worker visa allocation for 2025 gives growers and producers certainty, allowing them to plan ahead and secure the labour they need to grow and thrive.    

    This package of measures will also support farmers by protecting our poultry producers from the impact of avian flu outbreaks and ensuring fairness in the sheep supply chain.

    As well as confirming visa numbers for 2025, Defra has also published the 2023 Seasonal Worker’s Survey report. This is an important part of Defra’s commitment to monitoring the welfare of the seasonal migrant workers who help bring home the horticulture harvest each year.

    Conducted in early 2024, the survey shows that the vast majority of respondents (91.0%) reported a positive experience from their time in the UK and 95% expressed a desire to return.  

    The government is working with industry to improve these numbers further through its farm compliance checks to ensure sponsors are adhering to their duties and undertaking welfare checks on workers, and working with international partners to ensure workers know what work to expect before they arrive and can avoid unnecessary costs and fees.  

    Measures announced on egg and poultry labelling will help farmers to deal with the impact of future avian influenza outbreaks.  

    Currently, when mandatory housing measures are introduced to protect birds from the spread of disease, eggs from free-range birds can only continue to be labelled as ‘free-range’ for 16 weeks after the housing order has come into effect – leading to significant costs to industry. The changes will mean that free-range eggs can continue to be labelled as such throughout mandatory housing measures.  

    This will be brought in through legislation due to be laid on 4 November, and is expected to take effect in January 2025, ensuring a level playing field for UK free-range egg producers against producers in the EU.    

    A consultation on introducing similar measures for the labelling of free-range poultry is also being launched – proposing the removal of the current restrictions which mean that free range poultry can only be labelled as such for 12 weeks after the introduction of housing measures, and the removal of the need for optional indicator certificates to accompany imported poultry meat.  

    The government is also taking action to ensure fairness across the food supply chain to ensure producers receive a fair price for their livestock by bringing forward legislation to mandate sheep carcase classification and price reporting, bringing the sheep sector in line with the beef and pork sectors.

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    Published 21 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Over 120 thousand people have taken part in the Abilympics championship in 10 years

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among Disabled People and People with Limited Health Abilities “Abilympics” will be held at the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Center in Moscow from October 26 to 29.

    October 21, 2024

    The final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among Disabled People and People with Limited Health Abilities “Abilympics” will be held at the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Center in Moscow from October 26 to 29.

    October 21, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    The final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among Disabled People and People with Limited Health Abilities “Abilympics” will be held at the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Center in Moscow from October 26 to 29.

    The final of the National Championship of Professional Skills among Disabled People and People with Limited Health Abilities “Abilympics” will be held in the Gostiny Dvor Exhibition Center in Moscow from October 26 to 29. The championship is being implemented within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism”. This year it will be held under the motto “Dream! Act! Win!”

    “In 2024, the Russian Abilympics movement turns 10. This is an important event in the history of inclusive education in Russia. Over the past time, the championship has become more than just a competition for people with disabilities, but a real guide to the world of professions. It helps schoolchildren, students and specialists realize their potential and develop talents – in accordance with the national goal set by President Vladimir Putin. Over 120 thousand people have taken part in the championship at all stages over 10 years. We are especially proud of the high level of employment: more than 93% have already found work, including those who are still studying,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The main goal of the Russian movement “Abilympics” is to form mechanisms for the comprehensive professional rehabilitation of people with disabilities and limited health capabilities, as well as the development of socio-cultural inclusion in society.

    Today, the championship covers all 89 regions of the country, and the number of competitive competencies has increased sevenfold over 10 years – from 29 to 206. About 2.5 thousand enterprises have become partners of the movement at all levels, and all key decisions are now made with the participation of representatives of public organizations of disabled people.

    “The Abilympics Championship includes two main stages. This year, regional stages were held from March to June in 89 subjects of the Russian Federation. Over 25 thousand people competed in 206 competencies, of which over 10 thousand were with disabilities of the first and second groups. I would like to note separately that this year the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, the Kherson and Zaporizhia regions held regional championships for the first time on the basis of their professional institutions. I thank all the organizers for this work,” said Minister of Education Serhiy Kravtsov.

    Traditionally, the final of the national championship will be held in Moscow, where innovative approaches to ensuring special educational needs are widely implemented and an accessible environment is actively being formed. The site will host competitions in 50 basic and 11 presentation competencies, more than 1 thousand people from all regions of the country will compete for medals and the title of the best in their competence. This event is the largest and most recognizable in Russia in the field of skill development among disabled people and people with disabilities.

    This year, the championship final will be attended by more than 12 thousand people, including participants, heads of executive authorities of the regions of Russia, representatives of all-Russian organizations of the disabled, employer organizations, manufacturers of equipment for people with disabilities, educational and non-profit organizations, as well as delegations from friendly countries. Guests of the championship will be treated to a variety of events and activities: a job fair, career guidance consultations and testing, as well as many master classes.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://government.ru/nevs/53066/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman Travels to Italy

    Source: USAID

    Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman will travel to Italy on October 21-24 to engage development partners on key priorities, as well as lead the U.S. delegation to the G7 Development Ministerial Meeting.

    The Deputy Administrator will have engagements in Rome on October 21, which will include convening donors and implementing partners to discuss the dire humanitarian conditions in Sudan, and speaking at a panel discussion on combating the ongoing crisis of child wasting. Deputy Administrator Coleman will emphasize U.S. government support for programs to prevent and treat malnutrition and continued evidence generation and learning. 

    Alongside other G7 development leaders in Pescara, Deputy Administrator Coleman will discuss approaches to mitigating the global food security crisis, the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI), global health, and humanitarian needs around the world. She will also emphasize the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to partnerships and collaboration with our allies and partners, showcase USAID’s efforts to support increased investment in sustainable infrastructure that delivers mutual economic benefits, and call for greater cooperation to increase access to quality health care for vulnerable populations around the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPA Announces Over $5.5M to Missouri Selectees to Upgrade Older Diesel Engines to Cleaner and Zero-Emission Solutions

    Source: US Environment Protection Agency

    Selectees have projects benefitting Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska

    October 18, 2024

    LENEXA, KAN. (OCT. 18, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced selections totaling nearly $125 million under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grants program, including over $5.5 million to Missouri selectees.

    This funding will incentivize and accelerate the upgrade or retirement of older diesel engines to cleaner and zero-emission solutions, leading to significant emission reductions and air quality and public health benefits.

    These awards are in final workplan negotiations with the tentatively selected applicants. The DERA program prioritizes projects in areas that face air quality impacts, especially those projects that benefit disadvantaged communities and other areas that face particular public health or environmental justice risks or impacts.

    “Every community deserves to breathe clean air, but too many communities are still over-burdened by pollution from older diesel equipment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the latest round of funding, EPA’s successful DERA program will upgrade these sources of harmful pollution, and accelerate real progress toward a cleaner, more just, and healthier future for all Americans.”

    In total, EPA has tentatively selected approximately 70 national DERA projects to reduce diesel emissions across a range of transportation sectors, including the engine replacements and upgrades to school buses, port equipment, and construction equipment. In addition to funding new cleaner diesel technologies, over half of these selections will support replacing older equipment and vehicles with zero-emission technologies, such as all-electric school buses, terminal tractors, drayage trucks, and provide shore power to marine vessels.

    Missouri selectees may have projects in additional Region 7 states, as noted below:

    • The American Lung Association was selected to receive $1,715,131 to replace one diesel terminal tractor with one zero-emission terminal tractor; replace three diesel regional-haul delivery trucks with three zero-emission, regional-haul delivery trucks; replace 11 diesel refuse haulers with 11 compressed natural gas refuse haulers; and purchase eight auxiliary power units for line-haul locomotives. This selection will benefit projects in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska.
    • The Metropolitan Energy Center Inc. was selected to receive $2,832,804 to replace three diesel school buses with propane buses; replace four terminal trucks with battery-electric and install two direct-current, fast charger charging stations; and replace eight Class 6-7 delivery vans with battery-electric models. This selection will benefit projects in Kansas and Missouri.
    • The Southeast Missouri Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission was selected to receive $117,164 to replace three dump trucks with new diesel engine vehicles.
    • The Leonardo Academy Inc. was selected to receive $912,017 to replace 16 diesel school buses with 16 propane-powered school buses. This selection will benefit projects in Missouri.

    All selected projects will reduce diesel pollution and benefit local communities, including disadvantaged communities and other areas facing environmental justice concerns. A small number of awards are still being processed. Once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied and additional selections are finalized, EPA will update the DERA National Awards webpage.

    Background

    Eligible activities include the retrofit or replacement of existing diesel engines, vehicles, and equipment with EPA- and California Air Resources Board (CARB)-certified engine configurations and verified retrofit and idle reduction technologies. Reducing emissions from diesel engines is one of the most important air quality challenges facing the country. New diesel engines must meet tight standards, however, nearly 8 million legacy diesel engines across transportation sectors remain in service and emit higher levels of harmful nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than newer diesel engines. These pollutants are linked to a range of serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease, other respiratory ailments, and premature death.

    In selecting projects for awards, priority was given to projects that:

    • Are in areas designated as having poor air quality.
    • Reduce emissions from ports and other goods movement facilities.
    • Benefit local communities.
    • Incorporate local communities in project planning.
    • Demonstrate planning or action toward reducing vulnerabilities to climate impacts.
    • Illustrate preparation for workforce development.
    • Demonstrate an ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended.

    DERA advances environmental justice by prioritizing emissions reductions in areas particularly affected by health and environmental impacts from diesel fleets. EPA is committed to ensuring that the DERA program delivers on the Biden-Harris administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

    Read more about the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program.

    # # #

    Learn more about EPA Region 7

    Visit the Region 7 Media page

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris EPA announces nearly $2 million to upgrade older diesel engines to cleaner and zero-emission solutions at three New England ports

    Source: US Environment Protection Agency

    Connecticut Maritime Foundation, Inc. one of 70 selectees nationwide to reduce diesel emissions across a range of projects

    October 18, 2024

    Contact Information

    BOSTON (Oct. 18, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced selections totaling nearly $125 million under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act National Grants Program which will incentivize and accelerate the upgrade or retirement of older diesel engines to cleaner and zero-emission solutions leading to significant emission reductions and air quality and public health benefits. These awards are in final workplan negotiations with the tentatively selected applicants. The DERA program prioritizes projects in areas that face air quality impacts, especially those projects that benefit disadvantaged communities and other areas that face particular public health or environmental justice risks or impacts.

    “Every community deserves to breathe clean air, but too many communities are still over-burdened by pollution from older diesel equipment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the latest round of funding, EPA’s successful DERA program will upgrade these sources of harmful pollution, and accelerate real progress toward a cleaner, more just, and healthier future for all Americans.”

    “Thanks to the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration, EPA is tackling air pollution through innovative technologies, making a difference in everyday people’s lives, especially for those living in areas overburdened by pollution,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “With the selection of the Connecticut Maritime Foundation under EPA’s DERA program, we will implement cost-effective emission reductions at the port, improving air quality and protecting the health of surrounding communities and port workers.”

    The Connecticut Maritime Foundation, Inc. was selected to receive $1,999,953 to replace two Tier 0 propulsion engines with two Tier 4 certified propulsion engines and replace two Tier 0 auxiliary generator set engines with two Tier 3 auxiliary generator sets in a single tugboat which operates at the ports of New Haven, Connecticut; Providence, Rhode Island and Charlestown, Massachusetts. These higher tiered engines emit significantly less pollution.

    In total, EPA has tentatively selected approximately 70 national DERA projects to reduce diesel emissions across a range of transportation sectors including the engine replacements and upgrades to school buses, port equipment, and construction equipment. In addition to funding new cleaner diesel technologies, more than half of these selections will support replacing older equipment and vehicles with zero-emission technologies, such as all-electric school buses, terminal tractors, drayage trucks and provide shore power to marine vessels. All selected projects will reduce diesel pollution and benefit local communities, including disadvantaged communities and other areas facing environmental justice concerns. A small number of awards are still under processing. Once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied and additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the DERA National Awards webpage.

    Eligible activities include the retrofit or replacement of existing diesel engines, vehicles, and equipment with EPA and California Air Resources Board certified engine configurations and verified retrofit and idle reduction technologies. Reducing emissions from diesel engines is one of the most important air quality challenges facing the country. New diesel engines must meet tight standards, however, nearly 8 million legacy diesel engines across transportation sectors remain in service and emit higher levels of harmful nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than newer diesel engines. These pollutants are linked to a range of serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease, other respiratory ailments, and premature death.

    In selecting projects for award, priority was given to projects that:

    • Are in areas designated as having poor air quality.
    • Reduce emissions from ports and other goods movement facilities.
    • Benefit local communities.
    • Incorporate local communities in project planning.
    • Demonstrate planning or action towards reducing vulnerabilities to climate impacts.
    • Illustrate preparation for workforce development.
    • Demonstrate an ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended.

    DERA advances environmental justice by prioritizing emissions reductions in areas particularly affected by health and environmental impacts from diesel fleets. EPA is committed to ensuring the DERA Program delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

    Read more information on the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $125 Million to Upgrade Older Diesel Engines to Cleaner and Zero-Emission Solutions that are Better for Our Communities

    Source: US Environment Protection Agency

    Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition in Kentucky to receive $689,772 to replace sixteen municipal on-road and nonroad utility vehicles with ten new vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction

    October 18, 2024

    LEXINGTON, Ky. (October 18, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced selections totaling nearly $125 million under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grants Program which will incentivize and accelerate the upgrade or retirement of older diesel engines to cleaner and zero-emission solutions leading to significant emission reductions and air quality and public health benefits. These awards are in final workplan negotiations with the tentatively selected applicants. The DERA program prioritizes projects in areas that face air quality impacts, especially those projects that benefit disadvantaged communities and other areas that face public health or environmental justice risks or impacts.

    “Every community deserves to breathe clean air, but too many communities are still over-burdened by pollution from older diesel equipment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the latest round of funding, EPA’s successful DERA program will upgrade these sources of harmful pollution, and accelerate real progress toward a cleaner, more just, and healthier future for all Americans.”

    “By promoting clean diesel technologies, these grants help to update fleets with cleaner equipment and reduce harmful diesel exhaust,” said Acting EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “Through these upgrades, communities will continue to see improved health outcomes for their residents, ensuring all communities breathe cleaner air.” 

     

    In total, EPA has tentatively selected approximately 70 national DERA projects to reduce diesel emissions across a range of transportation sectors including the engine replacements and upgrades to school buses, port equipment, and construction equipment. In addition to funding new cleaner diesel technologies, more than half of these selections will support replacing older equipment and vehicles with zero-emission technologies, such as all-electric school buses, terminal tractors, drayage trucks and provide shore power to marine vessels. All selected projects will reduce diesel pollution and benefit local communities, including disadvantaged communities and other areas facing environmental justice concerns. A small number of awards are still under processing. Once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied and additional selections are finalized, the EPA will update the DERA National Awards webpage.

    Eligible activities include the retrofit or replacement of existing diesel engines, vehicles, and equipment with EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) certified engine configurations and verified retrofit and idle reduction technologies. Reducing emissions from diesel engines is one of the most important air quality challenges facing the country. New diesel engines must meet tight standards, however, nearly eight million legacy diesel engines across transportation sectors remain in service and emit higher levels of harmful nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than newer diesel engines. These pollutants are linked to a range of serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease, other respiratory ailments, and premature death.

    In selecting projects for award, priority was given to projects that:

    • in areas designated as having poor air quality;
    • reduce emissions from ports and other goods movement facilities;
    • benefit local communities;
    • incorporate local communities in project planning;
    • demonstrate planning or action towards reducing vulnerabilities to climate impacts;
    • illustrate preparation for workforce development; and
    • demonstrate an ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended.

    DERA advances environmental justice by prioritizing emissions reductions in areas particularly affected by health and environmental impacts from diesel fleets. EPA is committed to ensuring the DERA Program delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

    Read more information on the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025
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