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Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children – Young ocean champions off to France for Global Summit

    Source: Save the Children

    Six young Kiwi ocean advocates, alongside representatives from WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand, will travel to France this week to attend a global Ocean Citizen Summit aimed at exploring solutions to better protect our ocean and accelerate youth-led ocean action.
    The global forum, hosted at Nausicaá, Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne sur Mer, France, brings together more than 60 youth representatives from around the world to share the insights and solutions from their regions.
    Together, with senior experts in marine science and advocacy, they will identify individual and collective responses to five key challenges of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development: changing humanity’s relationship with the ocean; unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change, protecting and restoring marine ecosystems and biodiversity, developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy and understanding and beating marine pollution from source to sea.
    The world’s oceans and seas are critical to our planet’s health, covering 71% of the Earth’s surface, producing 50% of our oxygen, feeding over 3 billion people, and absorbing 1/3 of global CO2 emissions. However, they face severe threats from climate change, pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification. The Ocean Citizen Summit aims to empower young people to address these pressing challenges at both local and global levels.
    “Young people have the most to lose from climate and ocean degradation, as they will experience the long-term consequences,” says Save the Children Advocacy Director Jacqui Southey.
    “That’s why youth voices are crucial in these global conversations, particularly Pacific youth who are experiencing the impact of the world’s changing climate first hand. Here in Aotearoa, our marine environment is an important part of our lives and national and cultural identities, but sadly it is facing many threats, with unsustainable fishing, plastic pollution and climate change pushing our marine species and habitats to the brink of extinction.”
    WWF-New Zealand’s CEO Dr Kayla Kingdon-Bebb says the global summit is an amazing opportunity for the New Zealand group to meet other ocean youth champions from around the world.
    “I’m so proud that our rangatahi will be representing us on the world stage in France. This is a chance for these talented ocean conservation advocates to discuss global ocean conservation issues, share a Pacific perspective, and help shape the United Nations’ Ocean Citizen Charter.”
    The six youth advocates were selected following a series of ocean workshops held by WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand in late 2024.
    Alongside Save the Children Youth Engagement Coordinator Vira Paky and WWF New Zealand’s Conservation Impact Advisor Carolyn Aguilar, the six youth delegates are:
    Quack Pirihi (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara, Patuharakeke) is a takatāpui activist, storyteller, and community organiser from Aotearoa, working at the intersection of indigenous sovereignty, climate justice, and queer liberation. Their mahi centres on rangatahi takatāpui empowerment, kaupapa Māori, and resisting environmental destruction. As the Founder and Director of Mana Āniwaniwa, Quack uplifts takatāpui and rangatahi Māori voices in decolonial and climate movements. A staunch opponent of deep-sea mining, Quack has spoken internationally, advocating for moana as an extension of whakapapa. In 2023, they joined the Pacific delegation to the International Seabed Authority conference, challenging corporate and colonial interests. Through storytelling and activism, Quack amplifies indigenous resistance to extractivism, pushing for solutions grounded in mātauranga Māori and a future where whenua, moana, and tangata thrive.
    Lottie Stevenson was born in Westport/Kawatiri on the West Coast of Te Waipounamu, and has lived close to the ocean her whole life. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Geography, studying at universities in Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara and The Netherlands. Her recently completed Master’s thesis examines Antarctic paleoclimate and glaciology, including a chapter advocating for decolonising Antarctic research. She aims to foster collaboration across borders, ultimately driving collective action for Papatūānuku (Earth Mother). Lottie largely splits her time between mountains and sea, being an avid tramper, beach-cleaner, and aspiring environmental activist.
    Kat Cooper’s background is in marine biology and geography with a special interest in sharks, the deep sea, and queer ecology. Having just submitted their Master’s in marine biology they spend their time baking, annoying their flatmates, and volunteering. Love of the ocean began for Kat with their dad in the big blue backyard of Tāmaki Makaurau, with summers spent camping by the beach or snorkelling. To Kat, the way forward for ocean conservation is taking a holistic view of ocean ecosystems that acknowledges the place of people within the ecosystem, and emphasises the importance of indigenous knowledge. The Citizens of the Ocean Summit is Kat’s first international event, and they’re excited to explore the varied perspectives of the other delegates, and work together to create change.
    Maia Horn Nō hea Whāngārā Mai Tawhiti ahau. Spending my childhood summers in Whāngārā fostered my deep love and connection to the ocean and there has never been any doubt in my mind about the career I have dreamt of. Growing up with the tale of the Whale rider, Paikea also meant that I aspire to study tohorā as they are not only ecologically significant, but also culturally significant to Māori.
    Wei Heng Pok (卜炜衡) is a Climate & Sustainability consultant based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) at Edge Impact. An advocate for indigenous solidarity, climate policy, and justice, Pok has contributed to prominent forums such as the Nobel Prize Dialogue, the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, COP26, and TIME Magazine. Outside of work, he serves on the Strategic Council of Climate Catalyst and was a former Climate Justice Design Partner for the World Economic Forum. Constantly unlearning and unlearning, he hopes to find his way home as he works on decolonising his identity. His most recent projects are building on regenerative soil practice within community-supported agriculture, alongside tracing his genealogy back to China.
    Veronica Rotman is a marine scientist, tertiary lecturer, science communicator and doctoral student. Her entire life revolves around the ocean, for work, for play and for kaimoana gathering, having grown up freediving and spearfishing in the frosty water of Te Waipounamu. Veronica is a TEDx speaker, has delivered many public talks and university lectures, and sat on the Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge Stakeholder Panel for five years. Her proudest mahi has been setting up and delivering the first remote tertiary training in sustainable aquaculture and marine science to Mana Whenua of the Muriwhenua in Kaitaia. The purpose of this was to empower students with knowledge and skills to get jobs and set up their own ventures. Veronica is in the final year of her PhD titled: Ki uta ki tai (mountains to sea): microplastics in Southern Aotearoa, that hopes to highlight the interconnectedness of terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments and to promote mountains to sea management. Her previous research looked into the physiological impacts of microplastics on snapper, incidence of microplastics in wild fish, and microplastics in aquaculture systems.
    The Citizen of the Ocean Youth-led Summit is being held March 25-28 2025. It aligns youth advocacy with global agreements like the Paris Agreement, the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and the European Union’s Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” 
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China continues efforts to strengthen international sci-tech cooperation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China has been strengthening international cooperation in science and technology over recent years. The country has established sci-tech partnerships with 161 countries and regions and supported over 10,000 young scientists from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative to come to China for research and exchange, according to the Ministry of Science and Technology on Thursday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier emphasizes need to safeguard farm produce supply

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

    BEIJING, March 20 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang has urged continued efforts to stabilize the supply of grains and other key farm produce, thereby laying solid groundwork to achieve the country’s annual output target.

    Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks in an instruction on spring agricultural production.

    All localities and departments must continue to prioritize agriculture and rural development, shoulder their share of responsibilities in ensuring food security, and improve their capacity to ensure the stable production and supply of grains and other major agricultural products, Li said.

    To boost rural revitalization, the country should improve its support systems to strengthen agriculture, benefit farmers and enrich rural areas, while continuing to consolidate and build on its achievements in poverty alleviation, Li said.

    Emphasizing the importance of spring agricultural production, Li called for efforts to stabilize the grain and oil crop planting areas. Work should also be done to accelerate the use of advanced and applicable agricultural machinery and equipment, as well as the large-scale application of advances in agricultural science and technology, he added.

    A national conference on spring agricultural production was held in the city of Suqian, east China’s Jiangsu Province, on Thursday.

    Liu Guozhong, Chinese vice premier and a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the conference, calling for solid preparations for spring plowing.

    The country should work to improve its arable land quality by cultivating high-standard farmland, and encourage various entities to increase their per unit crop yields, Liu said during the conference.

    Efforts must also be made to enhance the monitoring of and emergency response to natural disasters, and coordinate work related to the regulation of the grain market, support for beef and dairy cattle farming, and increasing farmers’ incomes, Liu added.

    Agriculture, rural areas and farmers remain top priorities for China’s economic and social development. To feeding a population of over 1.4 billion, the country aims to achieve a grain output of around 700 million tonnes in 2025.

    Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, speaks at a national conference on spring agricultural production in Suqian, east China’s Jiangsu Province, March 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Klobuchar, Cantwell, Colleagues Call on President Trump to Reverse the Illegal Firing of FTC Commissioners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    March 20, 2025
    [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and over two dozen of their Senate colleagues called on President Trump to reverse the illegal firing of Commissioners Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 
    “This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power,” wrote the Senators. “We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.”
    “Congress established the FTC in 1914 as an independent agency made up of bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissioners who are tasked with protecting consumers,” the Senators continued. “In 2024 alone, the FTC used this authority to return more than $330 million to consumers, while simultaneously blocking anticompetitive mergers and challenging monopoly power that can result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less opportunity for American consumers, workers, and small businesses. The FTC has consistently carried out this mandate as a bipartisan commission under Republican and Democratic administrations.”
    In addition to Duckworth, Durbin, Klobuchar and Cantwell, the letter was signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    The full text of the letter is available here and below.
    Dear President Trump,
    On March 18, 2025 you announced your intention to fire Commissioner Slaughter and Commissioner Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power. We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.
    Congress established the FTC in 1914 as an independent agency made up of bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissioners who are tasked with protecting consumers. In 2024 alone, the FTC used this authority to return more than $330 million to consumers, while simultaneously blocking anticompetitive mergers and challenging monopoly power that can result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less opportunity for American consumers, workers, and small businesses. The FTC has consistently carried out this mandate as a bipartisan commission under Republican and Democratic administrations.
    When establishing the FTC, Congress lawfully exercised its power to establish a bipartisan, multi-member, expert commission and to shield that commission from political pressure by allowing commissioners to serve 7-year terms and limiting the President’s power to remove commissioners only “for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.” Under the law, as you are aware, the President retains the sole authority to nominate new commissioners and to appoint the Chair of the Commission. The President may also appoint a new Chair among the sitting commissioners at any time. 
    Ninety years ago, the Supreme Court held that Congress’s authority to create bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissions—and specifically the FTC—“cannot well be doubted” because “it is quite evident that one who holds his office only during the pleasure of another cannot be depended upon to maintain an attitude of independence. . . .” In a 2020 decision involving whether Congress could insulate the single director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) from at-will removal by the President, the Supreme Court declined to revisit this precedent, finding important differences between the CFPB and the FTC, including that the FTC has multiple expert members to ensure the Commission retains relevant expertise at all times, that each President can influence the makeup of the Commission by nominating new members and appointing the Chair (as you have already done), and that the Commission is funded through the traditional appropriations process that the President may influence.  
    As such, the structure of the FTC does not undermine executive authority and is well within Congress’s power to establish independent agencies tasked with protecting Americans from harmful business practices, fraud, and outright corruption. As Commissioners duly appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, Commissioners Slaughter and Bedoya must be allowed to continue their work at the Commission. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada finalizes investment to support Canadian-Born AI leader, Cohere

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Investment will boost domestic compute capacity to strengthen the Canadian AI ecosystem

    March 20, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

    Today, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced that the Government of Canada has finalized its investment of up to $240 million in Cohere Inc.’s $725 million project to bring domestic compute capacity to Canada and support the development and scaling of AI capabilities here at home.

    This federal investment will incentivize new cutting-edge AI compute infrastructure with the development of a new multi-billion-dollar AI data centre, located in Canada, that will come online this year. This will enable Cohere to accelerate the commercialization of its large language models at a new domestic data centre, driving growth and allowing Cohere to compete for global market share against other well-funded international competitors. Access to additional domestic compute capacity will support the expansion of other Canadian firms developing AI technologies in this rapidly growing sector.

    Cohere is the first funding recipient of the AI Compute Challenge, announced in December 2024 under the Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy. The AI Compute Challenge supports the Canadian AI ecosystem through increased domestic AI compute capacity. Access to cutting-edge compute infrastructure, we are maintaining Canada’s leadership in AI, empowering researchers and industries to thrive.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leveraging Non-conventional Data Sources for Official Statistics

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The brainstorming session on Leveraging Non-Conventional Data Sources for Official Statistics, of Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), was concluded on 20th March, 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

    The inaugural session of the event was addressed by Sri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman Axilor Ventures and Co-founder of Infosys, Sri Rana Hasan, Regional Lead Economist, South Asia, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Sri Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator (UNRC), and Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

    Sri Kris Gopalakrishnan, one of the co-founders of Infosys, Chairman, The Council, IISc Bangalore, and the Chairman, Board of Governors of IIIT, Bangalore, in his keynote address, underpinned the importance of the non-conventional data by citing success of Aadhar, primarily developed as a tool of citizen services, however, now used for developing various applications. He said that in view of India’s tremendous potential in technology, it can lead from front in respect of using non-conventional datasets for decision making.

    He impressed upon the need of standardization of various datasets, strengthening data processing capabilities, and developing data governance framework. He emphasized further that there is a need for evolving a framework enabling access to private data, legally backed and for rightful usages. In addition, he underlined that there is a need of fostering data literacy amongst all stakeholders so that the non-conventional sources are effectively used. Further, he opined that a single source of data would empower not only to the data producers but also to the entrepreneurs. He concluded by stating that the deliberations like this would strengthen formalizing the non-conventional data sources.

    Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI, impressed upon the importance of such sessions for encouraging a concerted effort of all stakeholders for the optimal usages of available in the ecosystem. He urged upon the representatives of the Central Ministries/Departments, including the Statistical Advisors to explore the possibility of reusing datasets generated by the other agencies. Further, he also mentioned that the culture of data sharing, however, maintaining the sanctity of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) must be fostered in the working of all the stakeholders.

    Sri Shombi Sharp, UNRC in his address shared some best practices regarding the citizen generated data and their usages in the official statistics especially in achieving the SDGs. Besides, he also emphasized upon a greater collaboration amongst the stakeholders to capitalize the full potentials of all possible alternate datasets.   

    Sri Rana Hasan in his presentation demonstrated the power of combining various datasets for an improved decision making.  He noted that the cities are hubs of growth and innovation, and thus India’s ongoing urbanization should be appropriately leveraged. He observed further that since the industrial parks are affecting neighboring settlements, they should be catalysed for structural transformation.

    The first technical session invited presentations from Shri. M. C. Gaur, Addl. Surveyor General (NZ), Survey of India; Shri. Ayago Wambile, Senior Economist, World Bank; Prof. Bappaditya Mukhopadhyay, Expert in Analytics, Great Lakes Institute of Management, New Delhi; and Shri. Ankur Bansal, Founder, GDi Partners. This session was moderated by Sh. P. R. Meshram, Director General (Data Governance), MoSPI.

    Sh. Gaur from Survey of India, in his presentation, highlighted the relevance of linking statistical data to geospatial locations and making the same easily accessible to various data users. While Shri. Wambile from World Bank, spoke about different non-traditional data sources such as, scanner data, mobile phone data, etc that can be leveraged to supplement the official statistical data in the country. Prof Mukhopadhyay from Great Lakes Institute of Management, presented a specific use case of using satellite data to assess SDG at district and sub-district levels over time. Shri Bansal from GDi Partners thereafter, brought attention to objectives, challenges, and potential way forward of using non-traditional data sources along with illustrations of use of such data sets by NSOs across the world.

    The second technical session invited presentations from Ms. Tanusree Deb Barma, Deputy Director General, UIDAI, M/o Electronics and Technology; Prof. Shalabh, Professor of Statistics & Data Science, IIT Kanpur; Shri Srinivasa Rao Sitiraju, DD, BGWSA, NRSC, Department of Space, ISRO; and Dr. Karan Nagpal, India Regional Director, IDinsight, New Delhi, India. The session was moderated by Ms. Geeta Singh Rathore, Director  General (NSS), MoSPI.

    Ms. Tansuree from M/o Electronics and Technology, provided an overview of the Aadhar Ecosystem and presented areas where non-traditional data is being used for authentication of data, identification of bugs, etc. Further, Shri Sitiraju from ISRO, presented various types and aspects of Geospatial data being collected by ISRO and products built using them within the official data ecosystem. Dr. Shalabh from IIT Kanpur, thereafter, presented a specific use case of grievance redressal mechanism leveraging emerging technologies for deriving insights from grievance data collected by Government of India, while Dr. Nagpal from IDinsight presented various use cases of alternative datasets and their usages in generating macro indicators. He, specifically, discussed various usages in price data in official statistics.

    The event has been attended by around 150 delegates, ranging representations from the central Ministries/Departments, UN agencies, Think Tanks, Independent organisations, and Universities and research institutions.

    The deliberations of the brainstorming session would be a sine qua non for the data innovation involving tapping into alternative data gathered from new or non-conventional data sources and combining and enhancing existing data sources with that new data to gain additional insights.

    One of the significant takeaways of the brainstorming session is that the digital revolution provides abundant opportunities to improve the way services are delivered, including harnessing valuable data and insights into products, services, and customer behaviors. Such data innovations are rapidly changing institutions and the data sources available to them. A well-designed intertwining of various data sources may provide better comprehension resulting into improved health care system, Strong supply chains and logistics, Convenient travel, Smart farming, and a transparent FinTech ecosystem.

    Further, it was discussed that the Ministries/Departments may use the alternative datasets for the real time monitoring and tracking the decision variables. In addition, it also emerged that the Ministries/Departments may make available Alternative/Administrative datasets to various stakeholders so that their integration with Census/Survey data may become possible.  Besides, it emerged that there should be concerted efforts of all the stakeholders for creation of enabling environment so that all possible data sources, Conventional and Non-Conventional are used for decision making.  

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: AMRIT GYAAN KOSH PORTAL

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Amrit Gyaan Kosh is a knowledge repository of governance good practices in the form of case studies. It focuses on India-centric ideas and scalable governance models, offering content accessible to government officials in Centre, State, ULBs, and Panchayats.

    Amrit Gyaan Kosh Portal contributes towards improving Public Service Delivery across various government departments in the following manner:

    1. Serving as valuable examples of real-life, solution-oriented approaches to governance challenges enabling officials to address similar issues more effectively.
    2. Providing actionable insights to tackle governance challenges, foster continuous innovation, and promote practical knowledge-sharing.
    3. Inspiring public servants, offering them successful governance models to emulate and adopt innovative strategies to improve public service delivery.
    4. Incentivizing high performance among government officials by recognizing their contributions on platforms like the iGOT Portal, motivating public servants to strive for excellence in their roles.

    The Amrit Gyaan Kosh Portal is integrated with the iGOT (Integrated Government Online Training) platform, which is a key digital learning tool under the Mission Karmayogi initiative offering online training and capacity-building content for government officials.

     All government training institutions are being encouraged to integrate Amrit Gyaan Kosh case studies into their training programs, strengthening the problem-solving and decision-making capabilities of government officials.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: GOVERNMENT SCHEMES TO PROMOTE SCIENCE EDUCATION AMONG GIRLS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

     The Department of Science and Technology is implementing Vigyan Jyoti programme to encourage meritorious girls to pursue higher education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields since 2019-20. The program aims to promote gender parity in STEM by sustaining the talent pool in science and technology through various year-round activities like hands-on experiential learning sessions, interactions with scientific role models, visits to R&D and industrial labs, career guidance workshops and student-parent counselling sessions that provide exposure to increase the interest and inclination of girls towards science. Since its inception, Vigyan Jyoti programme has benefitted over 80,000 high-achieving girls from 300 districts across 35 States/UTs. To strengthen its impact, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has engaged with over 250 premier national institutions, including universities, science and technology institutes, CSIR labs, and other reputed organizations, which serve as knowledge partners, contributing significantly to the program’s mission of fostering more girl’s participation in STEM.

    The details of girl students encouraged during the last three years, State/UT-wise is given below:

    State/UTs

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Total

    Andaman and Nicobar

    100

    100

    115

    315

    Andhra Pradesh

    692

    880

    889

    2461

    Arunachal Pradesh

    277

    233

    347

    857

    Assam

    925

    970

    1276

    3171

    Bihar

    694

    912

    1243

    2849

    Chandigarh

    100

    100

    103

    303

    Chhattisgarh

    739

    1066

    1397

    3202

    Dadar, Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu

    200

    200

    188

    588

    Delhi

    197

    195

    200

    592

    Goa

    93

    98

    100

    291

    Gujarat

    785

    1703

    1567

    4055

    Haryana

    583

    891

    1580

    3054

    Himachal Pradesh

    711

    856

    972

    2539

    Jammu and Kashmir

    366

    589

    939

    1894

    Jharkhand

    713

    1017

    1265

    2995

    Karnataka

    846

    1030

    1278

    3154

    Kerala

    686

    810

    975

    2471

    Ladakh

    88

    99

    200

    387

    Madhya Pradesh

    961

    1273

    1385

    3619

    Maharashtra

    1001

    1496

    1709

    4206

    Manipur

    291

    289

    463

    1043

    Meghalaya

    222

    300

    394

    916

    Mizoram

    47

    90

    87

    224

    Nagaland

    82

    104

    97

    283

    Odisha

    776

    1082

    1280

    3138

    Puducherry

    341

    399

    396

    1136

    Punjab

    653

    1091

    1480

    3224

    Rajasthan

    920

    1263

    1712

    3895

    Sikkim

    199

    167

    187

    553

    Telangana

    491

    745

    771

    2007

    Tripura

    213

    233

    299

    745

    Uttarakhand

    664

    861

    900

    2425

    Uttar Pradesh

    1285

    1502

    2566

    5353

    West Bengal

    925

    998

    1083

    3006

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SUPPORT MECHANISMS FOR WOMEN SCIENTISTS FACING CAREER BREAKS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:57PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is implementing a comprehensive initiative, Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN) to address the problems of Women Scientists due to “break-in-career” and strengthen women’s participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This initiative includes multiple programs that provide opportunities for women in STEM at different career stages. Department implemented the Women Scientist Scheme (WOS), which included three programs: WOS-A for research in basic and applied sciences, WOS-B for lab-to-land translational research for societal benefit and WOS-C for training in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Following a third-party review, these programs have been restructured into four new initiatives under WISE-KIRAN. The WISE Fellowship for Ph.D. (WISE-PhD) program supports women pursuing doctoral research in basic and applied sciences. The WISE Post-Doctoral Fellowship (WISE-PDF) and WISE-Societal Challenges with Opportunities (WISE-SCOPE) programs provide opportunities for women to conduct lab based basic/applied or translational lab-to-land research respectively in STEM. WISE-PDF focuses on laboratory-based research in basic and applied sciences, while WISE-SCOPE supports translational research with lab-to-land aspect that addresses societal challenges. The WISE Internship in Intellectual Property Rights(WISE-IPR) program provides training in the field of Intellectual Property Rights, with the goal of enabling self-employment opportunities in this sector. DST is also implementing the WIDUSHI program, which supports senior women scientists in two categories: retired women scientists and women scientists who are not in regular employment. This program allows them to continue contributing to the scientific advancements.

    The eligibility criteria and financial assistance provided under programs of WISE-KIRAN Scheme is given below:

    Sl. No.

    Name of Program

    Eligibility Criteria

    Financial Assistance

    Duration

    1

    WOS-A

    Post-Graduation in Basic or Applied Sciences/ PhD degree in STEM area.

    Age: 27-57 years.

    Up to 38 Lakh fund for project (including fellowship @ Rs. 67000 per month and HRA as per norms)

    3 Years

    2

    WOS-B

    Post-Graduation in Basic or Applied Sciences or PhD degree in STEM area.

     Age: 27-57 years.

    Up to 38 Lakh fund for project (including fellowship @Rs. 67000 per month and HRA as per norms)

    3 Years

    3

    WISE-PhD

    Post-Graduate Degree in Basic/ Applied Science or equivalent degree like M. Phil., M. Tech., M. Pharm., etc. or B.Tech.

    Age: 27-45 years

    Up to Rs. 35.69 Lakh fund for project (including (@ Rs. 37000 per month fellowship and HRA as per norms)

    5 Years

    4

    WISE-PDF

    (Lab based research)

    PhD or Equivalent Degree in STEM area. Age: 27-60 years.

    Up to Rs. 42.6 Lakh for project. (including Fellowship @67000 per month and HRA)

    3 Years

    5

    WISE-SCOPE

    (Lab-to-Land Research work)

    PhD or Equivalent Degree in STEM area. Age: 27-60 year

    Up to Rs. 44 Lakh for project. (including Fellowship @67000 per month and HRA)

    3 Years

    6

    WIDUSHI

    Two categories

    1. Category A: For retired Women Scientists,

    Age: 57-62 years

    1. Category B: For Women Scientists not in regular employment.

    Age: 45-62 years.

    All applicants must have Ph.D. in Basic/ Applied Science or equivalent degree like MD, MS, MDS.

    Category A: Up to Rs. 90 Lakh (including Rs. 75000/- fellowship per month)

    Category B: Up to Rs. 95 Lakh (including @Rs.85,000/- fellowship per month)

    5 Years

    The Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt. of India had initiated a special scheme “Biotechnology Career Advancement and Re-orientation (BioCARe)” in the year 2011 with the aim to enhance participation of women scientists in India towards research in Biotechnology and allied areas. It provides a unique opportunity to the unemployed women researchers/ scientists or those not working on regular positions up to age of 55 years and having a qualification of Ph.D.in any discipline of Life Sciences or allied areas/interdisciplinary sciences/ MD/ MDS/ M.V.Sc. (Category-I) or M.Tech. in Biotechnology or in allied areas/M. Pharma degree holders (Category-II). Women researchers/ scientists supported under BioCARe Scheme are being supported with a Research Grant up to Rs. 40.00- Rs.60.00 lakh for a period of 3 years to carry out their research endeavour’s in Indian universities, research institutions and laboratories which also includes consolidated monthly fellowship of Rs. 75,000/- (for Category-I) and Rs. 85,000/- (for Category-II).

    The details of beneficiaries from the DST-WISE-KIRAN and DBT- BioCARe schemes for the past five year’s state/UT-wise is given below:

    DST-WISE-KIRAN Scheme:

    Name of State/UT

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Andhra Pradesh

    4

    4

    2

    4

    5

    Andaman & Nicobar

    1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Assam

    5

    1

    5

    3

    17

    Bihar

    1

    1

    1

    0

    0

    Chandigarh

    2

    0

    9

    1

    9

    Chhattisgarh

    3

    1

    0

    0

    3

    Delhi

    19

    16

    26

    24

    52

    Goa

    0

    2

    0

    0

    3

    Gujarat

    5

    0

    4

    7

    9

    Haryana

    4

    4

    2

    3

    11

    Himachal Pradesh

    3

    1

    1

    0

    4

    Jammu and Kashmir

    5

    0

    11

    6

    17

    Jharkhand

    0

    1

    3

    1

    2

    Karnataka

    15

    7

    16

    11

    24

    Kerala

    10

    16

    19

    6

    36

    Madhya Pradesh

    7

    4

    3

    1

    16

    Maharashtra

    31

    14

    20

    11

    41

    Manipur

    3

    0

    2

    1

    2

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    0

    3

    4

    Nagaland

    0

    0

    1

    2

    0

    Orissa

    1

    3

    4

    1

    10

    Puducherry

    2

    0

    1

    0

    2

    Punjab

    8

    1

    12

    8

    16

    Rajasthan

    3

    3

    5

    4

    9

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    1

    0

    1

    Tamil Nadu

    17

    14

    20

    18

    39

    Telangana

    13

    3

    19

    12

    34

    Tripura

    0

    0

    0

    0

    3

    Uttar Pradesh

    20

    9

    17

    16

    44

    Uttarakhand

    9

    3

    2

    3

    13

    West Bengal

    12

    7

    16

    14

    34

    DBT- BioCARe Scheme

    Name of State/UT

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    2024-25

    Andhra Pradesh

    1

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Assam

    1

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Bihar

    2

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Chandigarh

    1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Goa

    00

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Gujarat

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Haryana

    3

    1

    0

    1

    1

    Jammu and Kashmir

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Jharkhand

    2

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Karnataka

    3

    2

    1

    5

    5

    Kerala

    1

    2

    0

    3

    3

    Madhya Pradesh

    1

    0

    0

    2

    2

    Maharashtra

    3

    4

    1

    6

    8

    Manipur

    0

    1

    0

    2

    1

    Mizoram

    0

    0

    0

    1

    1

    New Delhi

    12

    13

    2

    12

    10

    Orissa

    1

    1

    0

    0

    0

    Punjab

    1

    3

    0

    6

    5

    Rajasthan

    1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    Tamilnadu

    3

    2

    0

    7

    6

    Telangana

    2

    1

    0

    4

    4

    Uttar Pradesh

    3

    1

    0

    6

    6

    Uttarakhand

    2

    0

    0

    0

    0

    West Bengal

    1

    2

    0

    4

    3

    DST-WISE-KIRAN and DBT- BioCARe schemes are Central Sector Schemes and the total funds allocated/utilized for the past five years is given below:

    Scheme

    2020-21

    (Rs. In cr.)

    2021-22

    (Rs. In cr.)

    2022-23

    (Rs. In cr.)

    2023-24

    (Rs. In cr.)

    2024-25

    (Rs. In cr.)

    DST-WISE-KIRAN

    95.00

    96.80

    79.71

    79.72

    77.59

    DBT- BioCARe

    5.82

    4.29

    0.7329

    12.57

    5.00

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: “ONE DISTRICT, ONE EQUIPMENT” PROGRAMME UNDER I-STEM

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi

    I-STEM (Indian Science Technology and Engineering facility Map) is a National Portal for sharing of publicly funded scientific equipment available at various R&D and Academic institutions. It facilitates sharing of expensive R&D resources/equipment/software available at R&D and Academic institutions with other academic institutions and colleges, in order to optimize the usage of these resources across the country by researchers and start-ups. It is not true that the lab equipment in scientific and educational institutions remains underutilized. The facilities are widely utilized by scientific community, researchers, MSMEs, start-ups and industries and around 34,000 users have already been registered in I-STEM portal and more than 26,000 instruments are uploaded by 3300 institutes PAN-India. In addition to the usage data captured through I-STEM Portal, by numerous ways researchers from scientific and academic institutions book slots to utilise scientific facilities such as online booking through intranet system, spot booking and other booking methods.

    State-wise, Union Territory-wise and District-wise equipment distribution and region-wise number of Institutions registered their facilities in I-STEM portal, is indicated at Annexure.

    Annexure

    I-STEM Statistics as of 13-03-2025

    1) State-wise Equipment Distribution

    State

    Active Equipment

    Andhra Pradesh

    474

    Arunachal Pradesh

    132

    Assam

    780

    Bihar

    553

    Chhattisgarh

    1150

    Goa

    180

    Gujarat

    561

    Haryana

    802

    Himachal Pradesh

    451

    Jharkhand

    887

    Karnataka

    2397

    Kerala

    1560

    Madhya Pradesh

    982

    Maharashtra

    2050

    Manipur

    261

    Meghalaya

    286

    Mizoram

    90

    Nagaland

    71

    Odisha

    1264

    Punjab

    1239

    Rajasthan

    789

    Sikkim

    15

    Tamil Nadu

    3235

    Telangana

    1494

    Tripura

    316

    Uttar Pradesh

    1365

    Uttarakhand

    966

    West Bengal

    957
    • Union Territory-wise equipment counts

    Union Territory

    Active Equipment

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    1

    Chandigarh

    6

    Delhi

    1178

    Jammu and Kashmir

    220

    Ladakh

    11

    Pondicherry

    51
    1. District-wise Distribution

    Institutes from 192 districts have registered on the I-STEM Portal.

    Sr.

    No.

    District

    Equipment

    ( In Nos.)

    		  

    Sr.

    No.

    District

    Equipment

    ( In Nos.)

    1

    Bengaluru

    1741

    		  

    101

    Srinagar

    43

    2

    Chennai

    1395

    		  

    102

    Raigad

    41

    3

    New Delhi

    1154

    		  

    103

    Belagavi

    40

    4

    Hyderabad

    1131

    		  

    104

    Madurai

    40

    5

    Khurda

    916

    		  

    105

    Gurugram

    38

    6

    Raipur

    813

    		  

    106

    Puducherry

    38

    7

    Haridwar

    759

    		  

    107

    Rajouri

    35

    8

    Pune

    742

    		  

    108

    Salem

    34

    9

    Kozhikode

    697

    		  

    109

    Alappuzha

    30

    10

    Kurukshetra

    656

    		  

    110

    Bhavnagar

    30

    11

    Dhanbad

    621

    		  

    111

    Delhi

    30

    12

    Prayagraj

    550

    		  

    112

    Korba

    30

    13

    Indore

    543

    		  

    113

    Theni

    30

    14

    Coimbatore

    481

    		  

    114

    Kapurthala

    28

    15

    Tiruchirappalli

    461

    		  

    115

    Sonipat

    27

    16

    Jaipur

    445

    		  

    116

    Guntur

    26

    17

    Chandigarh

    440

    		  

    117

    West Godavari

    26

    18

    Patna

    366

    		  

    118

    Kangra

    25

    19

    Kolkata

    361

    		  

    119

    Nadia

    23

    20

    Warangal

    358

    		  

    120

    Ajmer

    22

    21

    West Tripura

    316

    		  

    121

    Aligarh

    21

    22

    Sundergarh

    315

    		  

    122

    Mandya

    21

    23

    Mandi

    305

    		  

    123

    Patiala

    21

    24

    Kamrup Metropolitan

    304

    		  

    124

    Sri Sathya Sai

    21

    25

    Bilaspur

    292

    		  

    125

    Anantpur

    21

    26

    Thiruvananthapuram

    290

    		  

    126

    Kalaburagi

    20

    27

    East Khasi Hills

    286

    		  

    127

    Dindigul

    19

    28

    Bhopal

    275

    		  

    128

    Jhansi

    19

    29

    Sangrur

    256

    		  

    129

    Palghar

    19

    30

    Manipur

    248

    		  

    130

    Erode

    18

    31

    Ghaziabad

    232

    		  

    131

    Ganjam

    18

    32

    Sonitpur

    214

    		  

    132

    Mahbubnagar

    18

    33

    Ernakulam

    204

    		  

    133

    Malappuram

    18

    34

    Surat

    204

    		  

    134

    Durg

    15

    35

    Malda

    198

    		  

    135

    Mahendergarh

    15

    36

    Dakshina Kannada

    196

    		  

    136

    South Sikkim

    15

    37

    Ranchi

    195

    		  

    137

    Udupi

    15

    38

    Jodhpur

    194

    		  

    138

    Anantnag

    14

    39

    Kancheepuram

    193

    		  

    139

    Kanyakumari

    14

    40

    Mumbai

    181

    		  

    140

    Khordha

    14

    41

    Bagalkot

    174

    		  

    141

    Ludhiana

    14

    42

    Jalandhar

    172

    		  

    142

    Vadodara

    14

    43

    Visakhapatnam

    169

    		  

    143

    Imphal

    13

    44

    Paschim Medinipur

    165

    		  

    144

    Jalgaon

    13

    45

    Jabalpur

    164

    		  

    145

    Karaikal

    13

    46

    Tirupati

    162

    		  

    146

    Muzaffarnagar

    12

    47

    Lucknow

    155

    		  

    147

    Tirunelveli

    12

    48

    Dehradun

    154

    		  

    148

    Leh

    11

    49

    Anand

    153

    		  

    149

    Mathura

    11

    50

    Mohali

    149

    		  

    150

    Chikkaballapur

    10

    51

    Paschim Bardhaman

    141

    		  

    151

    Hassan

    10

    52

    Samastipur

    136

    		  

    152

    Itanagar

    10

    53

    Thanjavur

    130

    		  

    153

    Amravati

    9

    54

    Amritsar

    123

    		  

    154

    Karnal

    9

    55

    Nagpur

    122

    		  

    155

    Nainital

    9

    56

    Papum Pare

    122

    		  

    156

    Shimoga

    8

    57

    Mysuru

    119

    		  

    157

    Bareilly

    7

    58

    Jhunjhunu

    117

    		  

    158

    Chitradurga

    7

    59

    Hamirpur

    116

    		  

    159

    Navsari

    7

    60

    Namakkal

    114

    		  

    160

    Bhagalpur

    6

    61

    Kolhapur

    112

    		  

    161

    Dibrugarh

    6

    62

    Kanpur

    111

    		  

    162

    Udham

    6

    63

    Virudhunagar

    111

    		  

    163

    Uttara Kannada

    6

    64

    North Goa

    109

    		  

    164

    Vizianagaram

    6

    65

    Gandhinagar

    107

    		  

    165

    Agra

    5

    66

    Cachar

    106

     

    166

    Ahmednagar

    5

    67

    Palakkad

    103

     

    167

    Hisar

    5

    68

    GautamBuddh Nagar

    100

     

    168

    Raichur

    5

    69

    Varanasi

    97

     

    169

    Thiruvarur

    5

    70

    Chandrapur

    95

     

    170

    Thoothukudi

    5

    71

    Dharwad

    95

     

    171

    Gwalior

    4

    72

    Aurangabad

    91

     

    172

    Sangli

    4

    73

    Kottayam

    91

     

    173

    Shimla

    4

    74

    Aizawl

    90

     

    174

    Thiruvallur

    4

    75

    Jorhat

    88

     

    175

    Vanasthali

    4

    76

    Kasaragod

    88

     

    176

    Bikaner

    3

    77

    Nashik

    83

     

    177

    Davanagere

    3

    78

    Faridabad

    79

     

    178

    Eluru

    2

    79

    South Goa

    78

     

    179

    Mau

    2

    80

    Jammu

    77

     

    180

    Nandyal

    2

    81

    Ahmedabad

    75

     

    181

    Sikar

    2

    82

    Tumkur

    74

     

    182

    Tonk

    2

    83

    East Singhbhum

    72

     

    183

    Cuttack

    1

    84

    Kokrajhar

    72

     

    184

    Gorakhpur

    1

    85

    Dimapur

    71

     

    185

    Kota

    1

    86

    Thane

    71

     

    186

    Pudukkottai

    1

    87

    Thrissur

    71

     

    187

    Rajkot

    1

    88

    Kollam

    67

     

    188

    Solan

    1

    89

    Meerut

    61

     

    189

    South Andaman

    1

    90

    Villupuram

    56

     

    190

    Tiruvallur

    1

    91

    Howrah

    55

     

    191

    Murshidabad

    1

    92

    Rupnagar

    55

     

    192

    Karimnagar

    1

    93

    Sagar

    55

     

     

    94

    Krishna

    53

     

    95

    Pulwama

    53

     

    96

    Sivagangai

    53

     

    97

    Vellore

    52

     

    98

    Bathinda

    46

     

    99

    Cuddalore

    46

     

    100

    Gaya

    45

     

    3. Total Institutions (Registered):

    Sr. No.

    Regions

    Institutions (Nos.)

    1

    Northern

    1639

    2

    Western

    294

    3

    Central

    86

    4

    Eastern

    202

    5

    North Eastern

    149

    6

    Southern

    939

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2113274) Visitor Counter : 82

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: ESTABLISHMENT OF RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS AND PROMOTION OF SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION IN ODISHA

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry has already established several Research Institutions, Innovation Hubs and Technology Parks in Odisha to strengthen scientific research and technological advancements. The details are given in Annexure – I

    ANNEXURE – I

    1. Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

    Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneshwar, an autonomous research institution established by DBT carries out high-quality multidisciplinary research in the field of life sciences. ILS has core strength in four areas (a) Infectious Diseases, (b) Cancer Biology, (c) Genetic & Autoimmune Disorders, and (d) Plant and Microbial Biotechnology. ILS uses modern biology techniques to acquire insights at cellular and molecular levels in pathogen biology, immune-regulation and inflammation, cancer biology, and plant biotechnology for the overall development and betterment of human health, longevity, agriculture, and the environment. ILS undertakes cutting-edge research using state-of-the-art technologies in the fields of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and filaria, viral infections, cancer biology, allergy and auto-immune disorders, genetic disorders, and agricultural productivity. The Institute also focuses on generating Human Resources by creating trained scientific personnel in the area of modern biosciences and biotechnology research.

    The Department is also implementing ‘Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio- RIDE)’ scheme in the country, including the State of Odisha to foster innovation, promote bio-entrepreneurship, and strengthen India’s position as a global leader in biomanufacturing and biotechnology. The scheme aims at harnessing the potential of bio-innovation to tackle national and global challenges such as healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and clean energy through its 3 components i.e. (i) Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D); (ii) Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED) and (iii) Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry.

    2. Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)

    CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar established by CSIR conducts basic scientific research and technology development in a wide range of subjects to address the R&D problems of mining, mineral and metals industries and ensure their sustainable development. For the last one decade, the main thrust of R&D at CSIR-IMMT has been to empower Indian industries to meet the challenges of globalization by providing advanced and zero waste process know-how and consultancy services for commercial exploitation of natural resources through the public-private-partnership (PPP) approach. CSIR-IMMT also carved out a niche in processing of advanced materials for greater value addition and working on resource use efficiency of critical raw materials.

    • Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) at CSIR-IMMT has been established in 2019 to nurture and promote innovations in MSMEs and provide them R&D or knowledge-based support in the area of new materials and chemical processes. CRTDH has provided more than 4 number of technological solutions to agro and metallurgical/minerals industries and 10 know-hows related to fighting against COVID like sanitisers, liquid soap, disinfection kits etc. to around 14 MSMEs since its inception. CRTDH has trained more than 200 manpower, including agro entrepreneurs, self-help group leaders, artisans etc. Number of know-how/process/technology developed have been transferred to more than 20 MSMEs/MSEs. The CRTDH trained 30 Women Self Help Group Leaders on Agarbatti manufacturing using Charcoal technology from locally available Rice husk. These 30 leaders represent 1000 Groups and eventually, 15000 women are currently working in Agarbatti manufacturing using rice husk Charcoal.
    • Innovative Technology Enabling Centre (InTEC) has been established at CSIR-IMMT for translation of Innovative Technologies into successful business ventures through intervention of science & technology. InTEC has been recognized by StartupOdisha and supporting the startups in terms of mentoring, technical and intellectual support, analytical and instrumentation support and IPR.

    3. Department of Science and Technology (DST)

    DST, over the years had established Several Innovation Hubs, Technology Parks, Incubation Centres in Odisha to promote scientific research, technology development and innovation through various Schemes and Programmes. The details are given below:

    • Four Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Hubs were established in Koraput, Bolangir, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha under the Tribal Sub Plan Scheme. These hubs focus on improving the livelihood systems of SC/ST communities by identifying weak and strong links, developing and delivering innovative technologies, and promoting social enterprises. Two more STI Hubs are proposed to be established during 2025-26 in Mayurbhanj district.
    • Rural Women Technology Parks have been established in Sundergarh, Jagat singh pur, Kandhmahal and Ganjan districts of Odisha State for providing technological interventions for alternative livelihood creation for ST Women under the Scheme Science and Technology for Women supported to Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Bhubaneshwar.
    • Under the National Quantum Mission, four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs), in key technology verticals of Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology and Quantum Materials & Devices have been established. These Thematic Hubs consist of 14 Technical Groups, covering 17 states and 2 Union Territories, including Odisha. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bhubaneswar is one of the member institutes under the Thematic Hub for Quantum Materials and Devices and National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar is one of the member institutes under the Thematic Hub for Quantum Computing.
    • Under National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI), a NIDHI Centre of Excellence (CoE) has been established at Kalinga Institute of Industry Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar. 2 NIDHI TBIs at National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT-Rourkela) and CV Raman College of Engineering, Bhubaneshwar and 2 NIDHI iTBIs at Sophitorium Institute of Technology & Lifeskills, Bhubaneshwar and Sri Sri University, Cuttack have been established for promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
    • A Technology Enabling Centre (TEC) has been established at KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha to create an Ecosystem for Technology and to provide a platform to network researchers with other Institutes, National laboratories and Industry. The focus of Centre will be on providing an enabling eco system, process and support system for technology development, deployment and diffusion.
    • More than 20 academic institutions/universities (including PG Colleges) located in the State of Odisha were supported under Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST) scheme for augmenting basic infrastructural facilities for conducting quality research in basic and applied sciences.
    • Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT-Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar was supported during 2023-24 under the Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE) Scheme to enhance R&D infrastructure and undertake mission-oriented research in various fields of S&T that align with national priorities.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DAC clears capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore to enhance defence capabilities

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DAC clears capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore to enhance defence capabilities

    Procurement of 1350 HP engines for T-90 tanks, Varunastra Torpedoes & Airborne Early Warning & Control Aircraft systems gets the nod

    Guidelines approved to reduce timelines in capital acquisition process

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), on March 20, 2025, accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) to eight capital acquisition proposals amounting to over Rs 54,000 crore. For the Indian Army, AoN for procurement of 1350 HP Engine was accorded to upgrade the present 1000 HP Engine for the T-90 Tanks. This will enhance the battlefield mobility of these tanks especially in high-altitude area by increasing the power to weight ratio. 

    For the Indian Navy, AoN for procurement of Varunastra Torpedoes (Combat) was accorded by DAC. Varunastra Torpedo is an indigenously-developed ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo developed by Naval Science & Technological Laboratory. Induction of additional quantities of this torpedo would enhance the Navy’s capability against adversaries’ submarine threats. 

    For the Indian Air Force, AoN for procurement of Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems was accorded by DAC. AEW&C systems are capability enhancers which can change the complete spectrum of warfare and exponentially increase the combat potential of every other weapon system. 

    As a part of celebrating 2025 as ‘Year of Reforms’ in the Ministry of Defence, DAC also approved the guidelines for reducing the timelines at various stages of the Capital Acquisition Process to make it faster, more effective and efficient.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: NUCLEAR ENERGY MISSION

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The nuclear energy mission announced in the budget-2025 envisages deployment of 100 GWe of nuclear energy by 2047, which is essential for NetZero by 2070. The mission aims to provide reliable energy alternative to fossil fuel energy sources with an objective to replace retiring thermal power-plants, set up captive plants for energy intensive industry & providing energy for remote as well as off-grid location with objective to decarbonize the energy sector.

     

    DAE is designing and developing SMRs mentioned below:

    1. Bharat Small Modular Reactor(BSMR)-200MWe,
    2. Small Modular Reactor(SMR) -55Mwe,and
    3. Gas-cooled high-temperature reactor meant for hydrogen production.

     

    Fund of INR 20,000 Crore allocated in the budget-2025for deployment of five SMRs by 2033. Fund is also allocated for supporting to development of Small Modular Reactors mentioned above.

    In Financial Year 2024-25, as part of Budget Announcement, policy directive has been set to partner with the private sector for setting up Bharat Small Reactor (BSR), and in pursuance of the same, NPCIL has floated Request-for-Proposal to private industries to finance and build small-sized 220 MW-PHWR based NPPs as captive plants for electricity production.

    A Task Force has been constituted in Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to look into the amendments required in the Atomic Energy Act. This Task Force has members from DAE, AERB, NPCIL, NITI Aayog, MoLJ and MEA. The Task Force is looking into various aspects like build, own, operation of NPPs by Private Sector, nuclear safety, security, safeguards, fuel procurement/ fabrication, waste, management, spent fuel reprocessing, etc. In addition, a separate Task Force is also looking into Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLND Act) to address the concerns raised by private suppliers.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RADIATION–BASED FOOD PRESERVATION

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Department of Atomic Energy

    PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RADIATION–BASED FOOD PRESERVATION

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The irradiation technology has been transferred to private entrepreneurs for commercialization for food preservation. Presently 37 Gamma Radiation Processing Plants are operational in the country in private, cooperative, semi government and government sector, out of which 21plants are capable of carrying out radiation processing of agricultural/ food products. List of 21 plants is enclosed in Annexure.

     

    ANNEXURE

     

    DETAILS OF RADIATION PROCESSING PLANTS CAPBALE OF FOOD PRESERVATION

     

    Sr.

    No.

    Name and Location

    1

    M/s Organic Green Foods Ltd, Dankuni, Kolkata, West Bengal

    2

    Mis Gamma Agro Medical Processing, Hyderabad, Telangana

    3

    M/s Jhunsons Chemicals Pvt Ltd, Bhiwadi, Rajasthan

    4

    M/s Innova Agri BioPark Ltd., Malur, Dist.Kolar, Karnataka

    5

    M/s Hindustan Agro Co-Operative Ltd., Rahuri, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra

    6

    M/s Impartial AgroTech (P) Ltd., Unnao, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

    7

    M/s Gujarat Agro Industries Corpn. Ltd, Bavla, Ahmadabad, Gujarat

    8

    M/s Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB),Vashi,Navi

    Mumbai, Maharashtra

    9

    M/s Aligned Industries, Dharuhera, Haryana

    10

    M/s Avantee Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd, Indore, Madhya Pradesh

    11

    M/s Electro Magnetic Industries, Vadodara

    12

    M/s Pinnacle Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd, Vadodara

    13

    M/s Jamnadas Industries, Indore, Madhya Pradesh

    14

    M/s Solas Industries, Mathura,Uttar Pradesh

    15

    M/s Microtrol Sterilisation Services Pvt. Ltd., Baval, Haryana

    16

    M/s AV Gamma Tech LLP, Ambernath, Maharashtra

    17

    Deptt. Of Agricultural Marketing and Agri Business (DAMAB), Krishnagiri,

    Tamil Nadu

    18

    Infrastructure Development authority, Patna, Bihar

    19

    M/S LION FOODS PVT. LTD., Gir Somnath, Gujarat

    20

    Radiation Processing Plant, Vashi, Maharashtra (DAE facility)

    21

    KRUSHAK, Lasalgaon, Naskik, Maharashtra (DAE facility)

     

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

     

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: DAE INITIATIVES REGARDING CANCER TREATMENT

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 MAR 2025 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    DAE has developed and launched several radio-pharma products. BARC has been continuously working towards ensuring uninterrupted supply of radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals in the country through its research reactors. BARC is constantly carrying out research to develop new radiopharmaceuticals for cancer care and achieved indigenization of clinically established radiopharmaceuticals and allied products at an affordable cost. A list of radio pharmaceuticals indigenously developed are given below. These radio pharma products are available on demand through Board of Radiation and Isotope Technology (BRIT).

    List of indigenously developed radio-pharmaceuticals

    Sr.

    no.

    Product description

    Use/ Applications

    1.

    90Y-labeled hydroxyapatite (HA)

    Radiation synovectomy

    2.

    177Lu-labeled hydroxyapatite (HA)

    Radiation synovectomy

    3.

    177Lu-DOTA TATE

    Therapy of neuro endocrine tumors

    4.

    177Lu-DOTA-TRASTUZUMAB

    Breast cancer expressing HER-2 receptors

    5.

    Clinical grade NCA Radio chemical copper-64 chloride (64CuCl2)

    PET imaging of cancer/ radiochemical for 64Cu-RPh preparation

    6.

    177Lu-DOTMP

    Bone pain palliation

    7.

    90Y-GLASSMICROSPHERES

    Liver cancer therapy

    8.

    188ReN-DEDC/Lipiodol (improved method)

    Liver cancer therapy

    9.

    177Lu-CHX-A”-DTPA-Rituximab

    Therapy        of        non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

    10.

    Copper-64chloride(64CuCl2)

    PET imaging of cancer

    11.

    99mTc-HYNIC-[cycle(RGDfk)]2

    Imaging of malignant tumor

    12.

    188ReN-DEDC/Lipiodol

    Liver cancer therapy

    13.

    99mTc-HYNIC-TATE

    Imaging neuro endocrine tumors

    14.

    188Re-HEDP

    Bone pain palliation

    15.

    131I-lipiodol

    Liver cancer therapy

    16.

    68Ga-PSMA-11

    Imaging of prostate cancer

    17.

    99mTc-UBI(29-41)

    Infection imaging

    18.

    68Ga-DOTATATE

    Imaging neuro endocrine tumors

    The National Cancer Grid was established with support from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). The DAE provided Rs 72 Crores for all the activities of NCG from 2013-2023. Subsequently, to expand the scope of several projects under the NCG, DAE has further granted Rs 177.05 Crores for next 5 years.

    NCG has worked towards uniform standards of cancer care, developing trained workforce in oncology and supporting high-quality multi-centric cancer research to develop cost-effective solutions for prevention and treatment of cancer. Through its several initiatives, NCG is striving for delivery of uniform cancer care to all irrespective

    of their geographical location or socioeconomic status. There are 362-member organizations in the NCG. In the last two years a total of 70 cancer centres have been added to the NCG. Between these centres, a total of 800,000 new cancer cases are treated annually. Initiative of the NCG has potential of massive and far-reaching impact

    The key initiatives undertaken by NCG to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment protocols and research in India

    1. Resource stratified guidelines for management of cancers based on the cost- effectiveness and infrastructure availability.
    2. The guidelines are linked with AB-PMJAY to ensure quality of care delivery to the AB-PMJAY beneficiaries.
    3. Capacity building to conduct health technology assessment to ensure that oncology packages and treatments promote value-based care.
    4. Group negotiation for all the high-value anticancer drugs which resulted in a median of 82% price reduction leading to improvement in access and affordability
    5. Standardization of diagnosis by NCG-surgical pathology quality assurance program which helps ensure correct diagnosis at all the participating centres.
    6. Quality improvement programs which train the centre in improving the quality of all the cancer care pathways.
    7. Training of health-care professionals including nurses, pathologists and technicians from across the country to deliver high quality cancer care.
    8. Virtual tumour boards to provide inputs on diagnosis and treatment from a multidisciplinary team of cancer experts for all the complex cancer cases at any ofthe cancer centers at any location.
    9. Development of interoperable oncology specific electronic medical record solution
    10. Establishment of Koita Centre of digital oncology to leverage digital technologies to improve cancer care from prevention to treatment. This is in complete alignment with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
    11. Integrated data collection & aggregation – a “National Cancer Database to guide all the cancer policies and national cancer control plan. Initial databases established for five common cancers.
    12. Partnering with digital tech companies to deliver cancer care near to patients’ home
    1. Initiation of national tumor tissue biobank across NCG to understand the cancer causation, identification and development of new anti cancer treatment and preventive technologies.
    2. Optimization of treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia to increase cure rates – the largest trial done till date anywhere in the world
    3. Repurposing of drugs (aspirin, metformin and curcumin) to provide cost-effective treatment options for common cancers
    4. Training the early career oncologists in conducting high-quality cancer research. Till date more than 400 oncologists have been trained
    5. Setting a priority agenda for cancer research and collaborating with ICMR (with joint matched funding) to fund the country-relevant research questions. These include the following
      • Reduce burden of patients presenting with advanced disease
      • Improve access, affordability and outcomes in cancer care via solution-oriented research
      • Country-level health economic assessment of cancer interventions and technologies
      • Quality improvement and implementation research
      • Leverage technology to improve cancer control supported by robust scientific evidence

    Homi  Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Punjab is a unit of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, working under the aegis of Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. It has 2 centres, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Sangrur was set up in 2015 and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital &Research Centre, New Chandigarh has been setup in 50 acres of land and is functional since August, 2022. HBCH&RC, New Chandigarh is a 300 bedded facility and HBCH, Sangrur is 150 bedded facility.

    Hospital is providing round the clock Emergency, IPD, ICU, laboratory, Blood bank and pharmacy services. The hospital is fully functional and is providing all types of cancer care services including Medical Oncology (including chemotherapy in daycare), Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Pediatric Oncology, Preventive oncology, Palliative Oncology, Oncopathology,

    Microbiology, Imaging services, Interventional Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Blood bank and Bone marrow transplant services. The laboratories and diagnostic departments are equipped with high end machineries and equipments including 3 Tesla MRI, CT scan, DEXA scanner, Mammography machine, Fluoroscopy machine, PET scanner, SPECT etc. which helps in early diagnosis of cancer. Advanced machines like LINAC are available to extend treatment with precision targeting only the cancerous area, ensuring the neighbouring normal soft tissue is not affected or damaged; through procedures like 3D CRT, IMRT, IGRT, IGBT, Stereotactic Body Radio therapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radio surgery (SRS). The Modular OTs with advanced machinery ensures delivery of world class treatment to its patients including HIPEC and PIPAC surgeries etc.

    The hospital has registered more than 18,000 new cancer patients in the year 2024. Out of these, approx. 13,000 patients were from Punjab while others hailed from the adjoining states of Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and the union territories of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Chandigarh. In year 2024, OPD footfall was approx. 1.5 lakhs, approx. 6000 surgeries were done, more than 40,000 chemotherapies were administered, approximately 52,000 radiological investigations were done, 2300 patients were attended in Nuclear medicine and more than 5 lakhs investigations were carried out.

    Cancer prevention and early diagnosis is an important mandate of public health department of the hospital for which multiple public health programs are being run like Early Detection Program (EDP), ISHA project (Indian Study of Healthy Aging) for detecting cancer in women where more than 1.5 lakh women have been screened cancer; population-based cancer registries (PBCR) and hospital-based cancer registries (HBCR).

    HBCH & RC, Punjab is focused in providing world class services for cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-Evening Report: We found a new wasp! Students are discovering insect species through citizen science

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy G Howe, Research Fellow (Entomology), University of the Sunshine Coast

    Andy Howe, CC BY

    Playgrounds can host a variety of natural wonders – and, of course, kids! Now some students are not just learning about insects and spiders at school — they are putting them on the map and even discovering and naming new species.

    Studies indicate insect populations are declining, and species are going extinct every week in Australia. But scientists have only described about a third of Australia’s estimated total of insect species.

    This means around 150,000 of our insect species do not have formal scientific names. We know little about where they are and what they do in ecosystems — vital information for stopping biodiversity loss.

    So, our team developed the citizen science project Insect Investigators.

    We took scientists to 50 regional schools across three states to learn about insects and other arthropods such as spiders. Students of all ages got to survey insect diversity, search for new species, and engage with entomologists and taxonomists throughout the school year.

    Students helped name new species, including several species of parasitoid wasp.

    Some of the scientific names include Apanteles darthvaderi (Back Plains State School students thought the wasp had gone to the “dark side” because of the way the wasp “sucks the life out of caterpillars”), Mirax supremus (named after the pinnacle science class at Beerwah State High School), and Coccygidium mellosiheroine, which means “honey-coloured hero” (named by students collaborating from several Queensland schools, who considered the wasp a hero as it attacks a crop pest).

    Our latest paper on the project is now published. We learned hands-on citizen science increased students’ interests in insects, nature and science.

    Apanteles darthvaderi – the wasp that’s gone to the dark side.
    Katherine Oestmann & Olivia Portmann, CC BY

    How many insects?

    Around 1,800 students and more than 70 teachers collected insects in or near their schools.

    Teachers sent samples to the project team, which sorted and sent a selection of specimens to be DNA barcoded. This method involves sequencing a small section of the genome to tell different species apart.

    The specimens were then sent to experts around Australia, who are working to describe any new species collected.

    The students collected more than 12,000 insect specimens, including 5,465 different species – many of which are probably not described.

    It will take years to identify all the species and work out how many are new to science, but we already know 3,000 had not been recorded in the Barcode of Life DNA database (BOLD).

    Queensland Mount Molloy students and their Malaise trap.
    Andy Howe, CC BY

    Good for insects, good for learning

    Getting to know insects as part of this citizen science project was great for kids’ active learning and developing an appreciation of the natural world.

    Students said they felt more interested in insects, nature and science, and it inspired them to spend more time outdoors.

    “I learnt there are many insect and plant species… that I haven’t seen before and how in different ecosystems you can find different insects,” said a student from South Australia.

    When students are engaged, it’s no surprise teachers enjoy their jobs more too — and this is exactly what we found. The more enthusiastic the students were about nature and science experiences through the project, the more interested the teachers were in teaching these topics.

    One teacher reported “students gained an understanding of the work of scientists, how to participate in research, protocols to follow, and gained a huge interest in insects!”

    Insect Investigators won the 2024 Eureka Prize for Innovation in Citizen Science (Australian Museum)

    What did students get out of it?

    After the insect survey was completed, we asked 118 students and 22 teachers in nine of the schools about what they experienced, and how they see insects and nature now.

    Students said the chance to find a new species, as well as discovering and catching insects they had not seen before, were highlights of Insect Investigators.

    Experiencing a hands-on learning style, outside in nature, was also mentioned as a benefit of the program.

    Many students said they now wanted to spend more time outdoors, act and encourage others to protect nature, and pay more attention to insect conservation and science classes. This implies the experience and discovery associated with hands-on citizen science has motivated greater engagement with nature and science.

    Queensland Cameron Downs kids show off an insect they found.
    Andy Howe, CC BY

    The potential of school-based citizen science

    Insect surveys offer an accessible way for students to actively learn about science and nature. Insects are virtually everywhere and by photographing them, students can observe natural insect behaviour – without the need to collect them.

    The iNaturalist App and Atlas of Living Australia facilitate citizen scientists to explore nature around them. We’ve also created resources for teachers who want to introduce lessons on insects into their school homepage.

    It’s never too early to develop science literacy skills and give children the chance to develop their curiosity, critical thinking and problem solving.

    Connecting schools and scientists is a great way to engage young learners and foster connections to nature. It has the added bonus of inventorying our natural world which is vital to conserving Australia’s biodiversity.

    Andy G Howe receives funding from the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Forest & Wood Products Australia. Since 2019, he is active with CSIRO Stem Professionals in Schools.

    Erinn Fagan-Jeffries receives funding from the Australian Government and Queensland Government. She sits on scientific advisory committees for Invertebrates Australia and Earthwatch.

    Patrick O’Connor receives funding from the Australian Research Council, State and Commonwealth Government Agencies and he is a board director of the Nature Conservation Society of SA, a committee member of the Restoration Decade Alliance and a councilor of the Biodiversity Council.

    Trang Nguyen receives funding from the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre and the Australian Government.

    – ref. We found a new wasp! Students are discovering insect species through citizen science – https://theconversation.com/we-found-a-new-wasp-students-are-discovering-insect-species-through-citizen-science-244960

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Antarctic bases are hotbeds of stress and violence. Space stations could face the same challenges

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Kaiser, PhD Candidate, School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania

    The South African National Antarctic Expedition research base, SANAE IV, at Vesleskarvet, Queen Maud Land, Antarctica.
     Dr Ross Hofmeyr/Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

    Earlier this week, reports emerged that a scientist at South Africa’s SANAE IV Antarctic research base had accused a colleague of physical assault.

    We research Antarctic governance and crime in isolated, confined and extreme environments such as Antarctic and space stations. Rebecca specifically investigates how station cultures evolve in isolation and what factors significantly influence conflict – and what can be done to improve safety in these environments.

    What happened on SANAE IV?

    SANAE IV is located on the edge of a steep cliff in Vesleskarvet in east Antarctica. The alleged assault stemmed from a dispute over a task the team leader wanted the team to do. In an email published by the South African Sunday Times, the alleged victim said the alleged attacker had also:

    threatened to kill [name withheld], creating an environment of fear and intimidation. I remain deeply concerned about my own safety, constantly wondering if I might become the next victim.

    Psychologists are now in touch with the research team. They aren’t due to leave the extremely isolated and remote base until December.

    This latest incident fits within a broader pattern of crime and misconduct in Antarctica. Research stations on the icy continent are often portrayed as hubs of scientific cooperation. But history has shown they can also become pressure cookers of psychological strain and violence.

    Multiple cases of misconduct

    There have been multiple cases of misconduct in Antarctica over the years.

    In 1959, a scientist at Russia’s Vostok Station allegedly attacked his colleague with an ice axe after losing a game of chess. In 2018, another Russian research station became the site of a stabbing. The alleged cause? Spoiled book endings.

    In 1984, the leader of Argentina’s Almirante Brown Station set fire to the facility after being ordered to stay through the winter. This resulted in the station’s evacuation.

    The 2000 death of an astrophysicist at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station was a suspected murder.

    And recent investigations into sexual harassment at multiple Antarctic stations highlight ongoing safety concerns.

    Drivers of conflict

    Research suggests several psychological and social factors contribute to conflict in remote locations such as Antarctica. These include prolonged isolation, extreme environmental conditions, and the necessity of constant close contact.

    In combination, these factors can amplify even minor frustrations. And over time, the lack of external social support, the monotony of daily routines, and the psychological weight of confinement can lead to heightened emotional responses and conflict.

    Without structured outlets for stress relief and effective de-escalation mechanisms (such as gyms, libraries, or quiet spaces where mediation between people can happen), tensions can reach breaking points.

    Power dynamics also play a crucial role. With limited external oversight, leadership structures and informal hierarchies take on an outsized influence. Those in positions of authority have significant control over how disputes are resolved. This has the potential to exacerbate tensions rather than reducing them.

    The process for reporting and responding to incidents in these kinds of environments also remains inconsistent. There’s a lack of policing, and traditional justice systems are also largely absent. Many stations rely on administrative action and internal conflict resolution mechanisms, rather than legal enforcement.

    But these mechanisms can be biased or inadequate. In turn, this can leave victims of harassment or violence with few options. It can also lead to more conflict.



    Read more:
    Antarctic stations are plagued by sexual harassment – it’s time for things to change

    From Antarctica to space

    As Antarctica and space become more accessible for research and commercial ventures, proactive approaches to crime and conflict prevention in these remote and extreme environments is vital.

    The psychological and social challenges observed in Antarctic stations provide a valuable model for understanding potential conflicts in long-duration space missions. Lessons learned from incidents in Antarctica can inform astronaut selection, training, and onboard conflict resolution strategies.

    A key area requiring refinement is psychological screening for personnel.

    Current screening methods may not fully account for how individuals will react to the social shift that takes place in a remote environment. This includes the altering of attitudes, personal priorities and tolerances.

    More advanced stress tolerance assessments and social adaptability training could improve candidate selection. It could also reduce the likelihood of conflicts escalating to violence.

    It’s also vital that we gain a better understanding of the unique conflict dynamics that evolve in these equally unique environments.

    Research can help. So too can thorough investigations of incidents, such as the one that allegedly occurred at SANAE IV.

    This knowledge can be used to recognise early signs of potential conflicts. It can also be integrated into case study-based training modules for expeditioners prior to their deployment. These training modules should include role-playing scenarios, crisis intervention techniques, and integrating the lived experiences of past expeditioners.

    This would better equip personnel to navigate interpersonal challenges.

    Going to extremes

    The recent alleged events at SANAE IV are indicative of a broader pattern of human behaviour in extreme environments.

    If we are to successfully expand scientific exploration and habitation in these settings, we must acknowledge the realities of human conflict and develop strategies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those who live and work in these challenging conditions.

    Studying crime and conflict in environments such as Antarctica is not just about understanding the past. It’s about safeguarding the future of exploration – whether on Earth’s harshest frontier or in the depths of space.

    Hanne E F Nielsen receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Dutch Research Council.

    Rebecca Kaiser 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. Antarctic bases are hotbeds of stress and violence. Space stations could face the same challenges – https://theconversation.com/antarctic-bases-are-hotbeds-of-stress-and-violence-space-stations-could-face-the-same-challenges-252720

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nathan Kilah, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, University of Tasmania

    Karynf/Shutterstock

    There is something special about sharing baked goods with family, friends and colleagues. But I’ll never forget the disappointment of serving my colleagues rhubarb muffins that had failed to rise. They were dense, rubbery and an embarrassment to the reputation of chemists as good cooks (#ChemistsWhoCook feeds on social media are full of delicious food).

    The cause of my failure was an imbalance between the acidity of rhubarb and the chemical raising agents I used in baking.

    Both baking powder and baking soda can play a role in giving baked goods their bubble-filled texture and taste. They are sold side-by-side in the supermarket, and have similar uses. But what’s the difference between them and how can we use those differences to our advantage?

    What’s in the box?

    A quick look at the packaging shows the difference between the two products.

    Baking soda contains one ingredient: sodium hydrogen carbonate, also known as sodium bicarbonate or simply bicarb. Baking soda is well known for its uses in cleaning, cooking and deodorising.

    Baking powder is typically a mixture of three ingredients: baking soda, an acid, and a starch derived from corn, rice or wheat. The starch makes it easier to measure the powder and also prevents the acid and base from reacting prematurely in the pantry. Baking powder is used exclusively for cooking.

    The common ingredient in both products is the baking soda. This salt can be purified from natural sources, or can be prepared synthetically.

    The acid is the key

    Baking soda is a base, which means it can chemically react with acids. This fizzy reaction produces bubbles of carbon dioxide, water and a mix of new salts. Baking soda can also release carbon dioxide gas when it is heated at temperatures above 80°C.

    When you mix baking soda into a cake batter, you will see some initial chemical activation by food acids. This causes bubbles to form and the mixture to rise.

    The acids come from other ingredients in the mix, such as yogurt, buttermilk, or the rhubarb in my failed muffins. Too much acid, and the majority of the carbon dioxide will be released at this batter stage.

    Once you place the mixture in the hot oven, the high temperature will form further carbon dioxide bubbles. This thermal activation forms a new salt, sodium carbonate, which can give a residual taste and “soapy” mouthfeel if there’s too much of it left in the final product.

    Baking soda produces bubbles when mixed with acid, and when exposed to a high temperature in the oven.
    SergeyKlopotov/Shutterstock

    Mixing baking powder into a cake batter will also result in chemical activation to form bubbles. The baking soda in the mixture will react with the acid included in the baking powder mix, as well as any acidic ingredients in the batter.

    The type of acid included in the baking powder can subtly change the way the baking powder behaves. The more soluble the acid in the batter, the faster the carbon dioxide will form bubbles.

    Recipes that ask for both baking powder and baking soda are likely looking to do two things: neutralise an abundance of food acid from another ingredient, and provide time-delayed, temperature-activated rising.

    Baking soda can also increase the surface browning of food by enhancing the Maillard reaction. This class of reactions results in delicious chemical transformations in roasted coffee, seared steaks, baked bread and more.

    Meanwhile an excess of baking soda can change the appearance of foods, for example turning blueberry anthocyanins green in muffins or pancakes.

    Too much sodium carbonate left over during baking can contribute to a ‘soapy’ mouthfeel – a real risk for scones, for example.
    Zain Abba/Pexels

    Can I substitute baking powder and baking soda?

    Baking (like chemistry) is a precise science. It’s best not to substitute baking soda for baking powder or vice-versa: they have subtly different chemical effects.

    If you really need a substitution, the general rule is that you need three times the baking powder for the equivalent quantity of baking soda (so, if the recipe asks for a teaspoon of baking soda, you’d add three teaspoons of baking powder).

    But it’s not a precise conversion: it doesn’t take into account the key role of acid that’s already in the baking powder. This could affect the final acid-base balance in your recipe.

    You can compensate by adding an acid such as cream of tartar or citric acid. But it can be difficult to get the relative quantities of acid and base correct. These acids are also likely to promote immediate release of carbon dioxide, with less left to activate in the oven – potentially leading to a dense bake.

    You definitely shouldn’t substitute baking powder for baking soda when cleaning. The acid in the baking powder will neutralise any cleaning activity of the sodium bicarbonate, while the starch may leave a sticky, streaky mess.

    It’s best to keep both baking powder and baking soda in your pantry for their distinct uses. Be sure to share whatever delicious treats you bake with others, as well as sharing your new knowledge of the bubbly chemistry contained within.

    Nathan Kilah 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 the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-baking-powder-and-baking-soda-its-subtle-but-significant-251050

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Demands Answers from NIH Leaders on Funding Cuts, Citing “Ongoing Chaos” and Lack of Transparency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    March 20, 2025

    “Your lack of transparency and action during this de facto funding freeze is unacceptable.”

    “[M]any researchers in Massachusetts and beyond who depend on the NIH to keep their critical and lifesaving work moving forward deserve answers.”

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Acting Director Dr. Matthew Memoli and Director Nominee Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, demanding answers for the NIH funding cuts that are causing “ongoing chaos” and harm to research institutions across Massachusetts. Although the Trump administration’s initial funding pause was blocked by a federal judge, new information obtained by Sen. Warren’s staff indicates that continued cuts and disruptions to research funding are still having a devastating impact on research institutions in Massachusetts and beyond.

    “Neither of you appear to have answers about what is going on at this agency, nor a willingness to resolve these problems. But the situation at the NIH remains dire, and it is imperative that you provide clarity immediately,” wrote Senator Warren.

    Dr. Bhattacharya’s vote to be confirmed as NIH Director is expected to be on the Senate floor next week. The NIH plays a critical role in funding scientific and medical research across the country, and is particularly important in Massachusetts, where innovative research fuels the local economy and powers life-saving breakthroughs.

    On February 12, Senator Warren wrote to Acting Director Memoli about the chaos and confusion caused by funding pauses at the NIH and the impacts of these disruptions at Massachusetts research institutions. Dr. Memoli failed to answer questions about what caused the funding cuts and when operations would resume.

    In the meantime, the situation at the NIH has only worsened. Days after she sent her letter, the NIH terminated more than 1,000 workers. According to reports, NIH is expecting to cut up to 5,000 workers, which would account for a quarter of the current workforce. Top Massachusetts research universities like Harvard, MIT and UMass have since announced hiring freezes and pauses or reductions in graduate student admissions. The NIH also abruptly cancelled a decades-long internship program that historically supported more than 1,000 college students in summer research programs to develop skills for careers in the biomedical sciences. 

    “The Trump Administration’s disruption of billions of dollars of funding for basic scientific and medical research will have a devastating long-term impact on the nation’s technological and scientific breakthroughs that have created miraculous cures for deadly diseases and health problems, and led to trillions of dollars in economic growth,” continued Senator Warren.

    Earlier this month, Bhattacharya, President Trump’s nominee for NIH Director, testified before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP). When asked about grant freezes and pauses, he failed to provide basic answers about the current situation, refusing to acknowledge the extent of the devastating impacts of the disruptions or take a clear position.

    “As the Acting Director and Director Nominee of this agency, it is important that you provide clarity to Congress and the American public during this crisis,” concluded Senator Warren.

    Senator Warren urged the directors to end the funding freeze and cuts to grant expenditures, and demanded answers to her specific questions by April 2.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to highlight the importance of the critical minerals value chain

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 20, 2025 – Temiskaming Shores, Ontario 

    Marc G. Serré, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, on behalf of the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, will highlight the importance of Canada’s critical minerals value chain.

    Date: Friday, March 21, 2025

    Time: 10:00 am (ET)

    Location: Temiskaming Shores, Ontario

    Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca to receive event location details and confirm their attendance. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government partnering with Siemens Canada to establish new R&D centre in Oakville, Ontario

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Proposal would see the establishment of an R&D hub focused on battery technologies

    March 20, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario

    The Government of Canada recognizes the critical role batteries and battery components play in the global movement toward a net-zero economy. As the world shifts to electric vehicles and cutting-edge technologies, the demand for batteries is surging, and Canada has a unique opportunity to capitalize on this demand by fostering strategic investments.

    Today, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building Canada’s clean energy future by announcing her support for Siemens Canada’s proposal to establish a Global AI Manufacturing Technologies R&D Centre for Battery Production in Canada. This centre will focus on pioneering research and development aimed at advancing battery efficiency and production methods, ensuring Canada remains competitive in the race to lead the clean energy revolution.

    By supporting this initiative, the Government of Canada is positioning the country as a global leader in the battery industry and reinforcing its commitment to building a robust national ecosystem. This project will foster collaboration between academia, industry leaders and researchers to accelerate battery innovations, solidifying Canada’s role as a key player in the green economy.

    This announcement is a significant step in the government’s strategy to strengthen Canada’s position in the global supply chain, reduce emissions and build a clean, competitive economy that delivers good jobs and lasting prosperity for Canadians. The Government of Canada is sending a clear message: We are committed to a cleaner, more resilient future, and we will take bold action to ensure Canada thrives in a low-carbon world.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: SCOR SE announces the availability of its 2024 Universal Registration Document

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    20 March 2025 – N° 04

    SCOR SE announces the availability
    of its 2024 Universal Registration Document

    The 2024 Universal Registration Document of SCOR SE (“SCOR” or the “Company”) prepared in ESEF format (European Single Electronic Format) was filed with the French Autorité des marchés financiers (“AMF”) on Thursday 20 March 2025 under number D.25-0124.

    This document is available on the website of the Company www.scor.com and the website of the AMF www.amf-france.org.

    Hard copies of the 2024 Universal Registration Document are also available at SCOR’s headquarters, located at the following address:

    SCOR SE
    5, avenue Kléber
    75795 Paris Cedex 16
    France

    The 2024 Universal Registration Document includes the following information:

    • the 2024 annual financial report including the report of the board of directors on corporate governance and the information on sustainability matters;
    • the description of the share buyback program; and
    • the reports of the statutory auditors and certification report regarding sustainability.

    *

    *         *

     

    SCOR, a leading global reinsurer

    As a leading global reinsurer, SCOR offers its clients a diversified and innovative range of reinsurance and insurance solutions and services to control and manage risk. Applying “The Art & Science of Risk”, SCOR uses its industry-recognized expertise and cutting-edge financial solutions to serve its clients and contribute to the welfare and resilience of society.

    The Group generated premiums of EUR 20.1 billion in 2024 and serves clients in more than 150 countries from its 37 offices worldwide.

    For more information, visit: www.scor.com

    		 Media Relations
    Alexandre Garcia
    media@scor.com

    Investor Relations
    Thomas Fossard
    InvestorRelations@scor.com

    Follow us on LinkedIn
     

    All content published by the SCOR group since January 1, 2024, is certified with Wiztrust. You can check the authenticity of this content at wiztrust.com.
         

    General

    The 2024 universal registration document filed on 20 March 2025, under number D.25-0124 with the AMF is available on SCOR’s website www.scor.com.

    Figures presented throughout the 2024 universal registration document may not add up precisely to the totals in the tables and texts. Percentages and percent changes are calculated on complete figures (including decimals); therefore, this universal registration document might contain immaterial differences in sums and percentages due to rounding. Unless otherwise specified, the sources for the business ranking and market positions are internal.

    Forward-looking statements

    The 2024 universal registration document includes forward-looking statements, assumptions, and information about SCOR’s financial condition, results, business, strategy, plans and objectives, including in relation to SCOR’s current or future projects.

    These statements are sometimes identified by the use of the future tense or conditional mode, or terms such as “estimate”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “have the objective”, “intend to”, “plan”, “result in”, “should” and other similar expressions.

    It should be noted that the achievement of these objectives, forward-looking statements, assumptions and information is dependent on circumstances and facts that may or may not arise in the future.

    No guarantee can be given regarding the achievement of these forward-looking statements, assumptions and information. These forward-looking statements, assumptions and information are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements, assumptions and information (including on objectives) may be impacted by known or unknown risks, identified or unidentified uncertainties and other factors that may significantly alter the future results, performance and accomplishments planned or expected by SCOR.

    In particular, it should be noted that the full impact of the economical and geopolitical risks on SCOR’s business and results cannot be accurately assessed.

    Therefore, any assessments, any assumptions and, more generally, any figures presented in this universal registration document will necessarily be estimates based on evolving analyses, and encompass a wide range of theoretical hypotheses, which are highly evolutive.

    Information regarding risks and uncertainties that may affect SCOR’s business are included in the 2024 universal registration document.

    In addition, such forward-looking statements, assumptions and information are not “profit forecasts” within the meaning of Article 1 of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/980.

    SCOR has no intention and does not undertake to complete, update, revise or change these forward-looking statements, assumptions and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Financial information

    The Group’s financial information contained in this universal registration document is prepared on the basis of IFRS and interpretations issued and approved by the European Union.

    Unless otherwise specified, prior-year balance sheet, income statement items and ratios have not been reclassified.

    The calculation of financial ratios (such as return on invested assets, regular income yield, return on equity and combined ratio) is detailed in the 2024 universal registration document, notably in section 1.3.9.

    The financial results for the full year 2024 included in this universal registration document have been audited by SCOR’s statutory auditors. Unless otherwise specified, all figures are presented in Euros.

    Any figures or financial results for a period subsequent to December 31, 2024 should not be taken as a forecast of the expected financials for these periods.

    The solvency ratio is not audited by SCOR’s statutory auditors. The Group solvency final results are to be filed to supervisory authorities by April 2025 and may differ from the estimates expressed or implied in this universal registration document.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s economic vulnerabilites show why it must invest in the wealth of local communities

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Audrey Jamal, Assistant Dean, Strategic Partnerships and Societal Impact, University of Guelph

    Five years after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020, Canada now faces a new challenge — unprecedented economic pressure from its closest trading partner, the United States.

    Canadians are once again being forced to confront the country’s economic vulnerabilities. While the pandemic underscored the economic importance of place and social connections, economic aggression from the U.S. highlights the need for greater local autonomy.

    Canada needs a new approach to economic development. Yet, as the government searches for solutions to bolster “Team Canada,” policymakers risk falling back on the same tired strategies: corporate bailouts, tax breaks for big business and top-down stimulus.

    This played out during the pandemic. Policies favoured large corporations, leaving small businesses and workers struggling, despite their critical role in economic resilience. This time, Canada needs to do things differently.

    A renewed approach to economic development

    For Canada to build a more resilient economy, it must strengthen its communities by securing local assets, democratizing the economy and ensuring wealth circulates within communities rather than being extracted by distant, corporate interests.

    A promising solution lies in community wealth building, a local-first approach to building the economy that emerged in the early 2000s. This approach offers a tonic to current economic policies that concentrate wealth into the hands of a small group of individuals, leaving communities vulnerable.

    By prioritizing more inclusive and democratic ownership, investment and decision-making, community wealth building empowers communities to take control of their economic future. The strategy moves away from the current extractive economy, which prioritizes the exploitation of land, resources and people, toward one that builds wealth from the ground up.

    5 pillars of community wealth building

    The Democracy Collaborative’s community wealth-building framework offers five pillars for building strong local economies. These include progressive procurement, locally rooted finance, inclusive and democratic enterprise, fair work and the just use of land.

    Many communities across Canada and globally are experimenting with one or more of these pillars. For example, social purpose organizations are experimenting with locally rooted financial instruments that flow profits back into their mission.

    In Canada, community bonds allow social purpose organizations to raise capital from their community members to finance projects that benefit communities, such as affordable and green housing and regenerative food systems, among many others.

    When locally rooted finance is combined with just use of land, and inclusive and democratic ownership, these initiatives can ensure wealth-generating assets — land, housing, infrastructure and businesses — stay in the communities so more people benefit from economic development.

    Strengthening local economies

    Canada has a history of inclusive and democratic enterprise, with many co-operatives and social enterprises owned by charities and non-profits. Now, Canadian businesses also have the option of transferring ownership to employee ownership trusts.

    The diversity of ownership options challenges the false choice often presented when local businesses face closure: either shut down or be “saved” by an extractive investor.

    Despite these positive developments, many community wealth building projects in Canada continue to exist as one-offs and sit on the margins of mainstream economic development policy. Local projects challenge the status quo and, as community-led projects, can struggle with governance and access to financing.

    The federal government, non-profits and businesses all have the opportunity to shape a more resilient economic future for Canada by putting local businesses and local ownership first. But to transform local economies, action is needed across all five community wealth building pillars.

    Through our research on community bonds, community wealth building in mid-sized cities and community ownership, we have suggestions for how Canadian governments and businesses can help communities understand what strategies work, and how they can adapt and scale them as needed.

    This work is everyone’s business

    Real progress in this area requires action from all levels of government, as well as from policymakers, businesses and community leaders.

    As experience from Scotland and the U.S. shows, ground-up initiatives must be met with government support in the form of innovative policies, action and investments.

    In practical terms, this means aligning government procurement policies and partnerships with local initiatives for new businesses, introducing legislation that supports inclusive and democratic ownership, and building wealth from local assets rather than importing it.

    Local governments should commit to embedding community wealth building into their economic development planning. This is not a stretch, as many already support local business and entrepreneurship. The key is expanding on these efforts.

    For instance, both large cities like Toronto and coalitions of smaller local governments are using their purchasing power to buy goods and services from suppliers that strengthen the local economy.

    At the federal level, policy innovations like community right-to-buy legislation and related supports could give workers and communities the time, financing and expertise to compete with extractive investors and retain wealth and assets.

    By investing in community wealth building, governments can help shift economic power, build Canada’s economic resilience and ensure communities have agency in shaping their economic futures.

    Audrey Jamal receives funding from the Government of Canada’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

    Heather Hachigian receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and has received funding from the Vancouver Foundation to support research related to this article.

    – ref. Canada’s economic vulnerabilites show why it must invest in the wealth of local communities – https://theconversation.com/canadas-economic-vulnerabilites-show-why-it-must-invest-in-the-wealth-of-local-communities-250221

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Researcher Spotlight: Susan Habas’ Journey to Catalytic Innovation at NREL

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    From Sci-Fi Dreams to Scientific Discovery

    NREL’s Susan Habas stands in front of plasma catalysis equipment in her team’s lab. Photo by Frederick Baddour, NREL

    Susan Habas, now a senior scientist and distinguished member of research staff in the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) Catalytic Carbon Transformation and Scale-Up Center, had an unconventional start to her career in chemistry.

    Her research focuses on developing innovative catalysts for selective transformations of carbon sources into fuels and chemicals. She is a principal investigator in the Chemical Catalysis for Bioenergy Consortium, where she leads a multinational laboratory effort to advance new synthesis approaches and operando characterization capabilities for catalytic systems.

    “In high school, I thought I wanted to become a ‘biomedical genetic engineer.’ I had no idea what that meant (and I’m fairly sure it’s not a thing), but it was the ’90s, and there was so much compelling science out in the world—Michael Crichton’s ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘ER,’ ‘The Hot Zone’ by Richard Preston, and advances in DNA analysis in forensics, as just a few examples,” she recalled. “For someone interested in science, the career options were exciting but overwhelming.”

    A freshman seminar at Wheaton College, titled “Science in Society,” intensified her love for sci-fi books—cyberpunk via Neal Stephenson in particular—but did not get her closer to choosing a career path. Habas majored in biology, thinking she might go to medical school, but classes in molecular biology and a summer program at The Jackson Laboratory working with mouse models for genetic research led her toward biochemistry.

    Encouragement from her chemistry professors helped her land a summer program in lanthanide and actinide chemistry at Los Alamos National Laboratory, solidifying her growing interest in chemistry and the national laboratory research environment.

    Finding Focus in Advanced Energy

    Habas’ journey to advanced energy R&D was not linear. Before completing her Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley, she spent a year and a half as a Fulbright Scholar at Massey University in New Zealand working on carbon nanotube-based materials.

    Returning to the United States, Habas explored photoactive nanocrystals at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

    “At this point, I felt like I had finally found a reasonably focused career goal, at the intersection of materials chemistry and energy applications,” she shared.

    Curious about how fundamental discoveries transition to real-world applications, she found NREL to be a perfect fit for a postdoctoral position, where she could continue materials chemistry work while learning about photovoltaics and industry-scale challenges.

    Innovating With Catalysis and Plasma Science

    Today, Habas’ research focuses on developing tailored catalysts for a variety of chemical conversions targeted at fuels and chemicals production. One particularly exciting area is plasma catalysis, where applying an electrical potential to a gas can activate stable molecules like carbon dioxide and methane at low temperatures.

    “The excited species of the plasma can then react with one another to form higher-value products including long-chain hydrocarbon fuels and structured carbon materials,” Habas explained. “Another promising application is the use of plasmas at gas-liquid interfaces to precipitate and recover, ideally selectively, critical metals from dilute wastewater sources.”

    Habas also serves on the editorial board of EES Catalysis as an associate editor and is on the advisory board of Sustainable Energy & Fuels, contributing her expertise to help guide the future of catalytic research.

    “It has been an exciting (and challenging!) area of research to get involved in,” she added, “and it has been fantastic to work with and learn from incredibly talented early-career researchers with plasma expertise and to discover related programs and experts already at NREL.”

    The Joy of Lifelong Learning

    For Habas, the most rewarding aspect of her work is the constant evolution of science and her own learning journey.

    “The best part of my job, which is also emblematic of my career path, is learning about new science. And the best part about science is how it keeps advancing and how your career path can move with it,” she said. “I appreciate that NREL has enabled me to keep learning and branching into new areas of research and that there are great people here who are willing to help me learn and who share this enthusiasm.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Study illuminates the structural features of memory formation at cellular and subcellular levels

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Thursday, March 20, 2025

    NIH-funded study uses cutting-edge imaging techniques to reconstruct features underlying learning and memory in the mouse brain.

    What
    In a study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers revealed the structural underpinnings of memory formation across a broad network of neurons in the mouse brain. This work sheds light on the fundamentally flexible nature of how memories are made, detailing learning-related changes at the cellular and subcellular levels with unprecedented resolution. Understanding this flexibility may help explain why memory and learning processes sometimes go awry.
    The findings, published in Science, showed that neurons assigned to a memory trace reorganized their connections to other neurons through an atypical type of connection called a multi-synaptic bouton. In a multi-synaptic bouton, the axon of the neuron relaying the signal with information contacts multiple neurons that receive the signal.  According to the researchers, multi-synaptic boutons may enable the cellular flexibility of information coding observed in previous research.
    The researchers also found that neurons involved in memory formation were not preferentially connected with each other. This finding challenges the idea that “neurons that fire together wire together,” as would be predicted by a traditional theory of learning.   
    In addition, the researchers observed that neurons allocated to a memory trace reorganized certain intracellular structures that provide energy and support communication and plasticity in neuronal connections. These neurons also had enhanced interactions with support cells known as astrocytes.
    Using a combination of advanced genetic tools, 3D electron microscopy, and artificial intelligence, Scripps Research scientists Marco Uytiepo, Anton Maximov, Ph.D., and colleagues reconstructed a wiring diagram of neurons involved in learning and identified structural changes to these neurons and their connections at the cellular and subcellular levels.

    To examine structural features associated with learning, the researchers exposed mice to a conditioning task and examined the hippocampus region of the brain about 1 week later. They selected this time point because it occurs after memories are first encoded but before they are reorganized for long-term storage. Using advanced genetic techniques, the researchers permanently labeled subsets of hippocampal neurons activated during learning, which enabled reliable identification. They then used 3D electron microscopy and artificial intelligence algorithms to produce nanoscale reconstructions of the excitatory neural networks involved in learning.
    This study provides a comprehensive view of the structural hallmarks of memory formation in one brain region. It also raises new questions for further exploration. Future studies will be crucial in determining whether similar mechanisms operate across different time points and neural circuits. In addition, further investigation into the molecular composition of multi-synaptic boutons is needed to determine their precise role in memory and other cognitive processes.
    The research was supported by funding from the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and NIH’s Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® Initiative, or The BRAIN Initiative®.
    Who
    Jamie Driscoll, National Institute of Mental Health and Dr. Eunyoung Kim, National Institute of Mental Health
    Study
    Uytiepo, M., Zhu, Y., Bushong, E., Chou, K., Polli, F. S., Zhao, E., Kim, K.-Y., Luu, D., Chang, L., Yang, D., Ma, T. C., Kim, M., Zhang, Y., Walton, G., Quach, T., Haber, M., Patapoutian, L., Shahbazi, A., Zhang, Y., …  Maximov, A. (2025). Synaptic architecture of a memory engram in the mouse hippocampus. Science. http://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado8316
    Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® and The BRAIN Initiative® are registered trademarks of HHS.
    About the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): The mission of the NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery and cure. For more information, visit the NIMH website.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated the Moscow Aviation Institute on its 95th anniversary

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    March 20, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated the Moscow Aviation Institute on its 95th anniversary.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted the rich history of the university and its outstanding graduates. Among them are one of the founders of Russian cosmonautics Mikhail Reshetnev, helicopter designer Sergei Mikheev, physicist Sergei Kapitsa and many others.

    “The Moscow Aviation Institute makes an important contribution to the development of the research and development sphere and successfully works to achieve technological leadership – the national goal set by our President Vladimir Putin. The university is one of the universities participating in the Priority 2030 program of the Youth and Children national project, and an advanced engineering school has been created there. I am sure that MAI will have many more new achievements and victories in the future,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that, by decree of the head of state, the Moscow Aviation Institute is participating in a pilot project to improve the higher education system.

    “Today, almost 20 thousand students study at the university. More than 40% of them are in specialties related to such important areas as aviation and rocket and space technology. I wish them interesting studies, further professional development and work for the benefit of our entire country,” added Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    MAI students participate in the creation of breakthrough technologies. For example, they are involved in the design of unmanned aircraft systems and their components. Students participate in the development of manufacturing and certification technologies for composite structures, as well as methods for computational and experimental research, which make it possible to significantly reduce the time and cost of their testing.

    The advanced engineering school of the Moscow Aviation Institute is working on projects that are important for the industry. Thus, specialists from the Moscow Aviation Institute have developed a series of electric motors for small and medium-sized drones. In addition, an engine for heavy vehicles weighing up to 120 kg has already passed flight tests.

    In addition, within the framework of the Decade of Science and Technology announced by President Vladimir Putin, MAI employees are implementing media projects to popularize science and engineering activities and are developing a program of popular science tourism.

    In honor of the 95th anniversary of the university’s foundation, thematic events will be held. In March, there will be a gala evening and exhibition “MAI in Faces” on Rozhdestvensky Boulevard, and in May, a technology festival.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE Representatives Elected to New Moscow Public Chamber

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On March 19, the Moscow City Duma approved 15 members of the 5th convocation of the Moscow Public Chamber, nominated by public organizations of the capital. The 5th convocation includes the Vice-Rector, Professor of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Alexey Koshel and Research Professor at the Faculty of Social Sciences Oksana Gaman-GolutvinaThey had previously worked in the IV convocation of the chamber.

    Alexey Koshel

    Vice-Rector, Professor of the National Research University Higher School of Economics

    — In order to maintain a dialogue between city residents, representatives of NGOs and institutions of social and economic development of Moscow, it is necessary to constantly develop the level of expertise in the development of city projects and formats for representing public opinion in decision-making aimed at the development of the capital.

    I am inspired by the opportunity to combine the expertise of leading research centers of the National Research University Higher School of Economics with the experience of the Public Chamber of Moscow in supporting and implementing civil initiatives to solve a key task – creating a reliable legal and instrumental basis for protecting the interests of Muscovites who participate in public discussions and propose their project solutions for the development of the city. I am grateful to the Mayor of Moscow and the deputies of the Moscow City Duma for their trust and the opportunity to continue working in this direction.

    The Public Chamber of the City of Moscow is an independent collegial and advisory body, a link between residents of the capital, non-profit organizations and the authorities for discussing the city’s pressing problems. The Chamber organizes public control, attracts citizens and NGOs to participate in city management, supports and implements civil initiatives and makes recommendations to the Moscow Government.

    Over the 3 years of work of the IV convocation, the capital’s Public Chamber held over a thousand events – large-scale forums, thematic round tables, meetings, public discussions, photo exhibitions and cultural events, in which more than 500 thousand people took part.

    March 20

    “Vyshka” in Telegram

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: England’s national curriculum is up for review – lessons from abroad show how it could work better for everyone

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mark Boylan, Professor of Education, Sheffield Hallam University

    arrowsmith2/Shutterstock

    A review of the English school curriculum is currently underway. The review’s recently released interim report makes clear that the current education system is not working well for all young people – in particular those with special educational needs and from more deprived backgrounds.

    However, the report does not recommend radical change. It proposes sticking with the curriculum approach brought in through reforms over the last decade or so under the previous Conservative government, but that these need to be built on to have a more inclusive approach.

    In 2014, there were significant changes in the national curriculum and to GCSE exams. These changes were branded a “knowledge-rich” curriculum, which meant more content to learn and a greater emphasis on memorising and final exams.

    Defenders of the changes, such as former schools minister Nick Gibb, say that the success of this curriculum is shown by improvements in England’s performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa). This is a global series of tests for 15-year-olds in maths, science and reading, taken in each country’s national language, that run usually every three years.

    In 2022, the most recent round of tests, England’s country rank was 14th for maths, 14th for science and 13th for reading out of 81 countries. This compares with 2009’s rankings of 28th for maths, 16th for science and 25th for reading.

    Understanding the stats

    The story is that Pisa tests dropped in the noughties due to a “skills-based curriculum” but have risen under a knowledge-rich curriculum. Pisa is important to this argument because the changes to national examinations in England mean GCSE exam results 20 years ago cannot be directly compared with GCSE results today. The curriculum review interim report notes that England’s results compare well internationally.

    However, this proof of the success of a knowledge-rich curriculum is not clear cut. To understand why, we need to look at the Pisa tests and how Pisa sampling works, the importance of not cherry-picking evidence, and what has really changed and not changed in the curriculum in England.

    Reading is one of the measures assessed by Pisa.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    To compare two people’s knowledge or how the knowledge of the same person changes over time, the same or equivalent tests need to be used. But the Pisa tests taken in 2022 are not the same as the ones taken previously. Each time Pisa tests are taken, some items from the last test are kept but other items are added. There are various ways that the OECD, who run Pisa, try to make sure that tests are equivalent, but changes do make a difference.

    What’s more, Pisa is not usually a test of everyone in a country. The government’s official research report on the 2022 Pisa results states that higher performing pupils were overrepresented and disadvantaged pupils underrepresented.

    Adjusting for the bias in the sample, the OECD estimated that the 2022 result might have been up to eight points lower. Still above the OECD national averages but very similar to 2009, and so hardly the resounding success claimed by some.

    All the evidence

    More generally, we need to be careful that evidence isn’t being cherry-picked – choosing the evidence that supports a case rather than all the evidence. Any success in Pisa 2022 for England appears to be due to success for those already doing well. The gap between advantaged and disadvantaged pupils in England is not closing. This backs up the headline goal of the curriculum review – to improve the curriculum so it works better for everyone.

    Regardless of pupil performance, the pupil survey done alongside the test contained some worrying findings. Pupils reported the second lowest levels of life satisfaction across OECD countries, and headteachers said that difficulties recruiting teachers are negatively affecting pupils.

    Pisa scores were not the main reason for changing the curriculum in 2014 in England. They were used to justify the changes. But the amount of change is overstated, and this also undermines the claims made for the success of the current curriculum and also the fear that any change would undermine England’s comparative success in tests like Pisa.

    It is a myth that the before the 2014 curriculum reforms, England had a skills-based national curriculum. With colleagues, I looked at skills in the curriculum in England in the past and now and found that generic life skills were hardly mentioned before the reforms. Looking at maths, the content of the curriculum hasn’t changed much at all.

    We also compared the current curriculum in England with other countries that do better than England in Pisa and are also seen as examples of knowledge-rich systems. These include Singapore, the world leader, and Estonia, who are top in Europe. What we found is that those countries’ Pisa success is based on a curriculum that works better for everyone.

    Part of that comes from including aspects of a skills-based approach. These curricula balance a focus on knowledge with inclusion of skills, particularly digital literacy. They pay attention to making sure school is a good basis for vocational education, working life and taking part in society, and not only for further academic study.

    Taking a closer look at Pisa outcomes and the differences between our curriculum and other countries’ backs up the central message of the curriculum review’s interim report. The English system works well for some but not well for everyone, and could do better as an education system. It also points to practical lessons from countries like Singapore and Estonia about how vocational education and skills can be valued without losing sight of the importance of knowledge.

    Mark Boylan currently receives funding for research from the Education Endowment Foundation and the Department for Education

    – ref. England’s national curriculum is up for review – lessons from abroad show how it could work better for everyone – https://theconversation.com/englands-national-curriculum-is-up-for-review-lessons-from-abroad-show-how-it-could-work-better-for-everyone-248509

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: My team discovered ‘dark oxygen’ on the seafloor – now we’re trying to understand how it was made

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Sweetman, Professor of Seafloor Ecology and Biogeochemistry, Scottish Association for Marine Science

    Love Employee/Shutterstock

    Children are always asking “Why?” As they experience things for the first time, it’s natural to want to find out more. But as children grow into adults, they often dismiss something new that challenges their experience and understanding.

    This is what happened to me when I discovered a source of oxygen production in the deep sea – but ignored it for nine years.

    In 2013, I was conducting experiments to measure seafloor carbon cycling in the Clarion-Clipperton zone of the Pacific Ocean in 2013. I deployed a lander system (a remote-operated platform used to carry scientific equipment) to a depth of 4,000 metres and it came back with bubbles inside it. This was highly unusual, so two years later, when we returned to the same site, I took some optodes (oxygen sensors) with me.

    These are designed to measure oxygen consumption, but instead they were showing me oxygen production, the exact opposite of what I was expecting. Instead of questioning why I was getting these results, I dismissed the reading as the result of a faulty sensor.

    We are all taught from very early on in our education that oxygen is only produced through photosynthesis and that requires light – something in short supply at thousands of metres below the sea surface. It took me until 2021, when I measured oxygen production with a second method, that I realised we’d found something exceptional: dark oxygen – oxygen that’s produced without sunlight.

    In the summer of 2024, my team and I published our findings in the journal Nature Geoscience.



    Read more:
    Deep sea rocks suggest oxygen can be made without photosynthesis, deepening the mystery of life

    The discovery of dark oxygen has shifted our understanding of the deep sea and potentially life on Earth. But we still don’t know for sure how this oxygen is produced, and to what extent, and whether it is ecologically significant to the deep-sea ecosystems where it happens.

    In our paper, we suggest that the source could be polymetallic nodules, rock-like formations composed of lots of different metals, including manganese, which can create differences in electrical potential when interacting with seawater. We proposed that these could produce a voltage sufficient to split the seawater into hydrogen and oxygen. A new Chinese study has just shown that oxygen can potentially be produced when these manganese nodules are forming.

    More ‘why’ questions

    This year, thanks to funding from The Nippon Foundation, we will probe some of these scientific questions. If we show that oxygen production is possible in the absence of photosynthesis, this discovery would change the way we look at the possibility of life on other planets too.

    Indeed, we are already in conversation with experts at Nasa who believe that dark oxygen could reshape our understanding of how life might be sustained on other ocean worlds like Enceladus and Europa, moons that have ice crusts that limit sunlight penetration to the ocean below.

    We’re also in the process of analysing the potential of dark oxygen in the central Pacific Ocean and developing purpose-built and autonomous landers, or rigs. This will be the UK’s first opportunity to sample below depths of 6,000m. These vehicles will carry specialist instrumentation to depths of 11,000 metres, where the pressure is more than one tonne per square centimetre (that’s equivalent to 100 elephants sitting on top of you).

    We will investigate whether hydrogen is released during the creation of dark oxygen, and whether it is used as an energy source for an unusually large community of microbes in parts of the deep ocean. We also want to find out more about how climate change might impact biological activity in the deep sea.

    This project is the first of its kind to directly explore these processes. My team will be able to study the deep seafloor into the hadal zone, an area which reaches 6,000 – 11,000 metres depth and makes up around 45% of the entire ocean. This habitat, full of deep ocean trenches, is still poorly understood.

    The discovery of dark oxygen clearly has potential implications for the deep-sea mining industry. Deep-sea mining would extract polymetallic nodules that contain metals such as manganese, nickel and cobalt, which are required to produce lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and mobile phones.

    We don’t yet know how an industry such as this would affect the seabed, but our research over the coming years should help to answer many of the questions posed and perhaps better inform where the seabed should be more protected from deep-sea mining. One thing is for sure: whatever we find, I’ll try and feed my childlike sense of enthusiasm and be sure to ask “Why?”

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Andrew Sweetman receives funding from The Nippon Foundation.

    – ref. My team discovered ‘dark oxygen’ on the seafloor – now we’re trying to understand how it was made – https://theconversation.com/my-team-discovered-dark-oxygen-on-the-seafloor-now-were-trying-to-understand-how-it-was-made-250445

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 03.20.2025 ICYMI: Sen. Cruz, USDA Secretary Rollins, Rep. De La Cruz Address Agricultural Challenges in the Rio Grande Valley

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    McAllen, Texas – Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), joined by USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, and Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas-15), hosted a roundtable and press conference in San Juan, Texas, to address challenges producers are facing in the Rio Grande Valley.

    Sen. Cruz said, “I was proud to lead the effort in the U.S. Senate to secure this $280 million block grant, which is critical for Texas producers in the Rio Grande Valley, and to work with Secretary Rollins and President Trump in getting it across the finish line. Secretary Rollins is a champion of agriculture, and we are working together on the crisis facing Texas agriculture across the board, including holding Mexico accountable for its obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty.”
    USDA Secretary Rollins said, “Farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley have worked for generations to feed communities across Texas, the U.S., and beyond. A lack of water has already ended sugarcane production in the Valley and is putting the future of citrus, cotton, and other crops at risk. Through this grant, USDA is expediting much-needed economic relief while we continue working with state leadership to push for long-term solutions that protect Texas producers.”
    Sen. Cornyn said, “The Texas agriculture community helps feed, clothe, and fuel our entire country, and it is critical that they have the help and resources they need to keep their industry thriving. Today’s announcement of more than $280 million in emergency assistance is great news for South Texans, many of whom have been greatly impacted by Mexico’s failure to deliver water under the 1944 Water Treaty. I was proud to help lead the fight to secure this important funding alongside Senator Cruz, Congresswoman De La Cruz, and Senate Ag Committee Chairman Boozman, who joined me in the Rio Grande Valley last year to hear firsthand from farmers about the challenges they are facing. I will continue advocating for the needs of Texas farmers and ranchers in Washington, and with the help of the Trump administration, I look forward to seeing this industry continue to grow.”
    Rep. De La Cruz said, “Farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our South Texas communities and economy. The funding deployment announced by Secretary Rollins today will provide critical relief for the South Texas agricultural industry after suffering tremendous losses due to drought conditions and the Government of Mexico’s refusal to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty. I am proud to work alongside the Administration to deploy this critical aid and deliver solutions for the families, businesses, and communities across the nation that rely on Texas agriculture to thrive.”
    BACKGROUND
    Sen. Cruz is a key defender of Texan producers:

    Sen. Cruz championed a provision providing support for South Texas agricultural producers suffering from Mexico’s blatant failure to meet its obligations under the 1944 Treaty on Utilization of Waters of the Colorado, Tijuana, and Rio Grande Rivers. This funding will provide immediate relief for hardworking Texans.
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Livestock Indemnity Program Enhancement Act to help Texas livestock producers recover from wildfires in the Texas Panhandle.
    U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee,spearheaded the passage of legislation to streamline the permitting process for new and expanded bridges across the Rio Grande in Brownsville, Laredo, and Eagle Pass, Texas, into law. This victory was made possible by a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of Texas legislators dedicated to expanding Texas’s economy and enhancing our bilateral relationship with Mexico, including Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Reps. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas), and Monica de la Cruz (R-Texas). 

    MIL OSI USA News –