NewzIntel.com

Category: Sport

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: Albanese promises 30% discount on household batteries in latest energy bill help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    In the government’s latest initiative on energy prices, Anthony Albanese on Sunday will promise that if re-elected, Labor will reduce the cost of installing a typical home battery by 30% from July 1.

    This would cut about $4,000 from the upfront cost of an 11.5 kWh battery, which is the typical household size.

    Small businesses and community facilities would be eligible for the discount, as well as households.

    The government says the discount would save a household with existing rooftop solar panels up to $1,100 off their power bill every year. For those with new solar panels and battery, the saving would be up to $2,300 annually – up to 90% of a typical power bill.

    More than one million installations would be expected by 2030 under the measure. The initiative would cost an estimated $2.3 billion over the forward estimates, including in the 2025-26 budget.

    The discount would be applied on installing virtual power plant-ready battery systems beside new or existing rooftop solar until 2030. The absolute value of the discount would decline over the five years in line with the expected fall in the cost of batteries.

    Albanese said the measure was “good for power bills and good for the environment”.

    Labor’s number one priority is delivering cost-of-living relief. That’s why we want to make sure Australians have access to cheaper, cleaner energy.

    Energy Minister Chris Bowen said:

    The contrast is clear – a re-elected Albanese government will take pressure off household energy bills, while Peter Dutton’s Liberals will spend $600 billion on a nuclear plan that drives power bills up.

    Mixing politics and sport can be risky on campaign trail

    For the second election campaign in a row, a Liberal leader has claimed a victim on the football field.

    At least, some relieved Liberals might be saying, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton felled a member of the media, not a child.

    Dutton, campaigning in Darwin on Saturday with a few million dollars in hand to promise for the local footy ground, was happy to have a kick with kids for the cameras.

    But the ball hit a TV camera, which went into the face of Channel Ten cameraman Ghaith Nadir. A federal policeman helped with a bandage for Nadir’s forehead. Dutton promised a compensatory beer.

    In the 2022 campaign, Prime Minister Scott Morrison joined some youngsters in their junior soccer training.

    Becoming rather too competitive, Morrison crashed into a boy, and they both ended on the ground. It made for plenty of jokes about the man who’d admitted in the campaign that “I can be a bit of a bulldozer”. The clip was replayed again and again.

    After Saturday’s incident, Dutton quipped, “If the prime minister kicked it, he would have told you that it didn’t hit anyone”.

    Last week, Albanese stepped back off a stage, appearing to fall, during an event. He later insisted he hadn’t fallen. “I stepped back onto a step, I didn’t fall off the stage,” he said. “Just one leg went down, and I was sweet.”

    Way back in 1984, there was another unfortunate incident on the sporting field during a campaign. That time, the perpetrator was a journalist and the victim was Prime Minister Bob Hawke.

    Hawke had called an election a few days before playing in a cricket match against the parliamentary press gallery. A ball from Gary O’Neill, a journalist with the Melbourne Herald, caught the edge of Hawke’s bat and smashed into his glasses.

    Hawke went to the Canberra Hospital, where (after he jumped the queue) a patch was put on his eye. He returned to the match, watching from the sidelines.

    At least he scored 27 before the incident. However, the accident set him back for the early days of what was an eight-week campaign.

    Over the years there are plenty of examples of leaders losing their (physical) footing.

    A few months before the 2007 election, Prime Minister John Howard tripped and fell on his hands on the way to a radio interview in Perth.

    Visiting India in 2012, Prime Minister Julia Gillard tumbled when her shoe got stuck in grass. She explained:

    For men who get to wear flat shoes all day every day, if you wear a heel it can get embedded in soft grass and when you pull your foot out the shoe doesn’t come.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Election Diary: Albanese promises 30% discount on household batteries in latest energy bill help – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-albanese-promises-30-discount-on-household-batteries-in-latest-energy-bill-help-253736

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: Albanese promises 30% discount on solar batteries, in latest energy bill help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    In the government’s latest initiative on energy prices, Anthony Albanese on Sunday will promise that if re-elected, Labor will reduce the cost of installing a typical home solar battery by 30% from July 1.

    This would cut about $4,000 from the upfront cost of an 11.5 kWh battery, which is the typical household size.

    Small businesses and community facilities would be eligible for the discount, as well as households.

    The government says the discount would save a household with existing rooftop solar panels up to $1,100 off their power bill every year. For those with new solar panels and battery, the saving would be up to $2,300 annually – up to 90% of a typical power bill.

    More than one million installations would be expected by 2030 under the measure. The initiative would cost an estimated $2.3 billion over the forward estimates, including in the 2025-26 budget.

    The discount would be applied on installing virtual power plant-ready battery systems beside new or existing rooftop solar until 2030. The absolute value of the discount would decline over the five years in line with the expected fall in the cost of batteries.

    Albanese said the measure was “good for power bills and good for the environment”.

    Labor’s number one priority is delivering cost-of-living relief. That’s why we want to make sure Australians have access to cheaper, cleaner energy.

    Energy Minister Chris Bowen said:

    The contrast is clear – a re-elected Albanese government will take pressure off household energy bills, while Peter Dutton’s Liberals will spend $600 billion on a nuclear plan that drives power bills up.

    Mixing politics and sport can be risky on campaign trail

    For the second election campaign in a row, a Liberal leader has claimed a victim on the football field.

    At least, some relieved Liberals might be saying, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton felled a member of the media, not a child.

    Dutton, campaigning in Darwin on Saturday with a few million dollars in hand to promise for the local footy ground, was happy to have a kick with kids for the cameras.

    But the ball hit a TV camera, which went into the face of Channel Ten cameraman Ghaith Nadir. A federal policeman helped with a bandage for Nadir’s forehead. Dutton promised a compensatory beer.

    In the 2022 campaign, Prime Minister Scott Morrison joined some youngsters in their junior soccer training.

    Becoming rather too competitive, Morrison crashed into a boy, and they both ended on the ground. It made for plenty of jokes about the man who’d admitted in the campaign that “I can be a bit of a bulldozer”. The clip was replayed again and again.

    After Saturday’s incident, Dutton quipped, “If the prime minister kicked it, he would have told you that it didn’t hit anyone”.

    Last week, Albanese stepped back off a stage, appearing to fall, during an event. He later insisted he hadn’t fallen. “I stepped back onto a step, I didn’t fall off the stage,” he said. “Just one leg went down, and I was sweet.”

    Way back in 1984, there was another unfortunate incident on the sporting field during a campaign. That time, the perpetrator was a journalist and the victim was Prime Minister Bob Hawke.

    Hawke had called an election a few days before playing in a cricket match against the parliamentary press gallery. A ball from Gary O’Neill, a journalist with the Melbourne Herald, caught the edge of Hawke’s bat and smashed into his glasses.

    Hawke went to the Canberra Hospital, where (after he jumped the queue) a patch was put on his eye. He returned to the match, watching from the sidelines.

    At least he scored 27 before the incident. However, the accident set him back for the early days of what was an eight-week campaign.

    Over the years there are plenty of examples of leaders losing their (physical) footing.

    A few months before the 2007 election, Prime Minister John Howard tripped and fell on his hands on the way to a radio interview in Perth.

    Visiting India in 2012, Prime Minister Julia Gillard tumbled when her shoe got stuck in grass. She explained:

    For men who get to wear flat shoes all day every day, if you wear a heel it can get embedded in soft grass and when you pull your foot out the shoe doesn’t come.

    Michelle Grattan 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. Election Diary: Albanese promises 30% discount on solar batteries, in latest energy bill help – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-albanese-promises-30-discount-on-solar-batteries-in-latest-energy-bill-help-253736

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: A former football captain turning into business trailblazer

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    From an unheralded football player to a businessman across multiple sectors, Wang Dong’s journey over the past 10 years has been more dramatic than most.

    Wang began playing football at age 4 and went to a school known for its football tradition when he was 7. It was during his junior high school years that he discovered his deep interest in the sport. He then attended a football school in Beijing, where he resolved to become a professional player.

    For Wang, the beginning seemed promising. Possessing both talent and ability, he was selected for the junior team of Beijing Guoan and, at the age of 17, was promoted to its first team.

    However, things began to go awry as a young and less adaptable Wang struggled to handle the pressure. Additionally, the presence of established figures within the club, including Xu Yunlong and Shao Jiayi, made it challenging for him to stand out.

    During his 12 years with Guoan, where the team won the 2009 Chinese Super League (CSL), Wang received limited playing time, which ultimately led to his decision to leave.

    In 2010, he joined Shenzhen FC, where he became a key player and later the captain. However, due to the team’s relegation, unpaid wages, and his subsequent methods of demanding pay ment, he found it difficult to return to the club and the field, ultimately leading to his retirement.

    “At 30, a prime age for a footballer, retirement was tough for me,” Wang admitted. “But it was the long wait that made me realize that my football career did not give me a greater sense of fulfillment.”

    With limited education and a lack of social experience, he initially felt lost.

    However, his athletic background provided him with knowledge about diet and nutrition, which inspired his decision to enter the catering industry. He introduced Chaoshan beef hotpot, a dish popular in south China’s Guangdong Province, to his hometown, the northern Chinese city of Tianjin.

    He traveled to Shantou City, the birthplace of Chaoshan beef hotpot, where he spent four months working as a kitchen helper in a restaurant to learn how to prepare the cuisine.

    This period was the most challenging. He had to work 15 hours a day and lived in a cramped dormitory shared by eight people. Without air conditioning, the dormitory was stifling and humid during the summer.

    Despite feeling hesitant to admit his former identity when diners asked if he was the football player Wang Dong, he considered the experience valuable as it allowed him to master the art of making the delicacy and earn a living before opening his own restaurant in Tianjin.

    The initial days of his restaurant were difficult. He had to wake up at 4 or 5 a.m. to purchase fresh beef and would close the restaurant late at night after the last diners left, resulting in a 10-kilogram weight loss within a month.

    After navigating this challenging period, Wang’s business began to grow rapidly. He not only opened multiple branches of his restaurant in Tianjin but also expanded to other provinces and cities across China.

    “I was among the first to introduce Chaoshan beef hotpot to Tianjin and gained the early market advantages,” Wang noted.

    As this year marks the 10th anniversary of Wang’s retirement from professional football, his business interests have broadened beyond catering to include sports, health care, cinemas, tourism, animal husbandry, and real estate.

    Among these diverse ventures, he has a particular interest in the sports industry, encompassing training, venue operation, equipment, and rehabilitation. He has also sponsored CSL club Tianjin Jinmen Tiger.

    “As I was an athlete, sport is part of my DNA,” he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces Boards and Commissions Appointments and Nominations

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces Boards and Commissions Appointments and Nominations

    Governor Stein Announces Boards and Commissions Appointments and Nominations
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced Boards and Commissions appointments and nominations.

    Governor Stein has nominated the following to the Governor’s Crime Commission: 

    • The Honorable Erin S. Hucks of Union County as a Chief District Court Judge. Hucks is the Chief District Court Judge for Judicial District 30, where she created the Union County Family Drug Treatment Court and serves as a member of the Union County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council and the Union County Child Fatality Prevention Team.
    • Sheriff Bobby F. Kimbrough of Forsyth County in a Sheriff’s seat. Kimbrough has been serving as the Sheriff of Forsyth County since 2018. His career in law enforcement began in the Winston-Salem Police Department, where he served as a Police Officer and Arson Investigator. He also served as a Special Agent in the Drug Enforcement Administration in the US. Department of Justice
    • Nisha G. Williams of Durham County as a representative from a domestic or sexual assault program. Williams is the Legal Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the Historic Hillsborough Commission:

    • Joseph (Joe) Petrizzi of Orange County as an At-large member. Petrizzi is the Vice President of the Chapel Hill Historical Society and serves as the Associate Director of Development of the Office of University Development at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.
    • Laura Juel of Orange County as an At-large member. Juel is currently the Lead Clinical Evaluator of Rare Disease Research and is an Occupational Therapist at Duke University Medical Center. She is also an active member of the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners: 

    • Dr. Kenneth Brown of Durham County as a Chiropractor. Brown has successfully owned and operated Back to Health Chiropractic Medical Center in Durham for over 25 years. Dr. Brown is an active member of the American Chiropractic Association, North Carolina Chiropractic Association, and a Lifetime Member of the American Black Chiropractic Association
    • Dr. Chad Robertson of Mecklenburg County as a Chiropractor. Robertson is the Co-Owner and Clinical Director of Queen City Chiropractic & Sports Performance and the Official Team Chiropractic Provider of the Charlotte Checkers Hockey Club. He is also a member of the National Athletic Training Association, the North Carolina Chiropractic Association, and the North Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Board of Transportation: 

    • Graham Bennett of Forsyth County as a Representative of NCDOT District 9. Bennett was previously the Chairman and CEO of the Quality Oil Company in Winston-Salem. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Piedmont Triad Partnership and the Piedmont Triad Airport Authority.
    • Theresa (Tess) Judge of Dare County as a Representative of NCDOT District 1. Judge’s career has been dedicated to hospitality management and development. She serves on the Outer Banks Hospital Board of directors and is Vice Chair of the East Carolina University Health Foundation. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina College Foundation Incorporated Board of Trustees:

    • Shannon Trapp of Durham County as an At-large member. Trapp serves as the Chief of Staff at the Durham County Government. She also serves on the Leadership Triangle Alumni Board, the Museum of Life + Science Board of Directors, and the Durham Homeless Services Advisory Committee. Trapp is also a member of the International City/County Management Association, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, and the National Association of Counties. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Emergency Response Commission: 

    • Sheriff Willie Rowe of Wake County in a Sheriff’s seat. Rowe is a 30-year veteran of the Wake County Sheriff’s Office. He also serves on the Governor’s Crime Commission and the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association Legislative and Audit Committees and as a board member of the Wake County ABC Board, the Raleigh Inter-Church Housing Corporation, and the Foundation Board of the Fellowship Home of Raleigh.
    • Chief Robert Hassell of Nash County in a Chief of Police seat. Hassell currently serves as the Chief of Police at the City of Rocky Mount and is an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Mount Olive.

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System Board: 

    • Commissioner Shinica Thomas of Wake County in a County Commissioner seat. Thomas currently serves as Chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners. Before Thomas was elected as Wake County Commissioner, she was the Director of Advocacy and Educational Partnership for the Girl Scouts North Carolina Coastal Pines. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Military Affairs Commission: 

    • Raquel Painter of Onslow County as a retired servicemember residing near Camp Lejeune. Painter is a retired Marine Corps Sergeant with more than 26 years of military service. She is currently serving as the President/Chief Professional Officer for United Way of Onslow County. After retiring from the Marine Corps in 2016, Painter began working with Hope For The Warriors as its Community Development Manager and subsequently as the Director of Community Development.

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board: 

    • Felita Livingston of Mecklenburg County as a public/at-large member. Livingston is a Professor of Management and Business Technologies at Sandhills Community College, where she also serves as an Academic Advisor and on the Student Success Committee.

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners: 

    • The Honorable Teresa H. Vincent of Guilford County as an at-large member. Vincent previously served as the District Court Judge of the 24th Judicial District serving Guilford County and has approximately 31 years of experience in the legal profession. 

    Governor Stein has nominated the following to the North State Board of Education: 

    • Dr. Janet Mason of Rutherford County as a Representative from the 8th Educational District. Dr. Mason currently serves as the Town Manager of the Town of Forest City and previously served as the Superintendent of Rutherford County Schools. She also serves as Chair of the Rutherford County Schools Education Foundation Board.

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Respiratory State Board of Examiners for Plumbing, Heating and Fire: 

    • Tommy Dean Rowland of Cleveland County as a Municipal Plumbing or Mechanical Inspector. Rowland serves as the Director of Building Inspections at the Town of Mooresville, a role he has served in since 2023. 

    Governor Stein has nominated the following to the North Carolina Utilities Commission: 

    • Michael Hawkins of Transylvania County as an at-large member. Hawkins currently works as a Business Officer in the Public Protection Section of the North Carolina Department of Justice. He is a former Transylvania County Commissioner. Hawkins also serves as a Trustee of Blue Ridge Community College, as a Board Member of the Transylvania Economic Alliance, and was a member of the Task Force for Racial Equity in Criminal Justice from 2020-2024. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Veterans Affairs Commission: 

    • Louis D. Harvin-Ravin of Durham County as a representative of the 4th Congressional District. Harvin-Ravin serves as the Director of Veteran Services at the Curham County Department of Veterans Services. She also serves as the chair of the VA Greater Durham Community Veteran Engagement Board and as Vice President of the North Carolina Association of County Veteran Service Officers. Havin-Ravin served in the United States Army in multiple roles, finishing as a Non-commissioner Officer In-Charge of Security Plans and Operation.
    • The Honorable David Grier Martin III of Wake County as a representative of the 2nd Congressional District. Grier most recently served as the Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and previously as the Assistant United States Secretary of Defense for Manpower & Reserve Affairs and as a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Martin also served as a judge advocate and field artillery officer in the United States Army Reserve.
    • Pastor Charles Thomas Dudley of Craven County as a representative of the 3rd Congressional District. Pastor Dudley founded and currently serves as Senior Pastor of New Beginnings Ministry of Faith church and was consecrated to Bishop in 2009. He previously served in the United States Marine Corps, having been awarded the Meritorious Service, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement, Marine Corps Good Conduct, National Defense Service, Kuwait Liberation (Kuwait and Saudi Arabia), Southwest Asia Service and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medals.
    • Jeff Joyner of Durham County of Durham County as a representative of the 8th Congressional District. Jeff served aboard the USS James Monroe in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea as a launcher technician in the US Navy. Joyner has been a member of Rockingham American Legion Post 147 since 1970. He retired as a salesman in the fertilizer and chemical industry. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the Underground Damage Prevention Review Board: 

    • Daryl Larimore of Forsyth County as a representative from a hazardous liquid transmission pipeline company. Larimore is the Right of Way Supervisor at the Colonial Pipeline Company. Larimore previously served as a CH-46 & MV-22 Crew Chief, Mechanic, and Shop Supervisor in the United States Marine Corps. 

    Governor Stein has appointed the following to the North Carolina Agricultural Hall of Fame Board of Directors: 

    • Larry Wooten of Wake County as an at-large member. Wooten joined the staff of North Carolina Farm Bureau in March of 1994, serving as Assistant to the President until his election as President in December 1999. He served as President of the North Carolina Farm Bureau Federation, the North Carolina Farm Bureau Insurance Companies, and all affiliated corporations, until his retirement in December 2019. Wooten actively farmed for 21 years in partnership with his brother in a diversified tobacco and grain operation. 
    Apr 4, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Statement on President Trump’s Joint Address

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) issued the following statement after President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress:“Tonight’s Joint Address from President Trump was a welcome change from what we heard for the last four years. In less than two months, President Trump has already taken action at a whirlwind pace to turn our country around, reversing the damage done by President Biden and Vice President Harris, and making serious down payments on the promises he made to the American people to put America first. President Trump is working tirelessly for families that have been struggling for four years, from securing the border, to combating Bidenflation and cutting wasteful spending, to unleashing American energy, and reinstating common sense in Washington.  “Starting on day one, President Trump issued critical executive orders to reverse the Biden border crisis, with immediate results: in February, Border Patrol recorded only 8,326 encounters and apprehensions at the southern border – the lowest documented numbers in history – compared to 189,913 in February 2024 under President Biden. That represents an over 90% drop in illegal border crossings in just one full month of Donald Trump’s Presidency!“President Trump has also begun dismantling the Biden Administration’s anti-American energy agenda, rescinding Biden’s production-killing regulations, pushing policies that unleash American energy, shoring up our energy security, and empowering consumer choice in everything from vehicles to household appliances.  “Through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the President has taken major strides to return common sense to the way Washington spends taxpayer money, cutting waste, fraud, and abuse from the government agencies, even while far left Washington progressives fight him at every turn. He also passed executive orders to cut harmful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion mandates and reinstate merit-based hiring. To protect women, President Trump issued an executive order preventing biological males from participating in women and girls’ sports, preserving fairness and safety for female athletes. “Under the leadership of President Trump, America once again commands respect on the world stage. President Trump has stood up to terrorists, from Hamas to Mexican drug cartel members, and made clear that the United States will pursue peace through strength on a global level. As America’s greatest negotiator, he has fought against unfair trade policies and agreements that take advantage of the United States, empowering American workers and businesses. “Thanks to President Trump, the state of our union is finally getting stronger. Our President has already accomplished so much in just a few weeks, but the best is yet to come. There is much work left to do, and House Republicans will continue working closely with President Trump to enact his America First agenda and usher in the golden age of the United States of America. The renewal of the American Dream is finally here!”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: WEEK 11 WINS: President Trump Unleashes Economic Prosperity

    Source: The White House

    It was another highly successful week for the American people as President Donald J. Trump continues his relentless pursuit of strength, prosperity, and peace — and lays the foundation for America to be the global powerhouse for generations to come.

    Here is a non-comprehensive list of wins in week 11:

    • Illegal crossings hit a stunning new record low — down 95% over last year.
      • The number of unaccompanied illegal immigrant children also reached a record low.
      • Los Angeles Times: “California-Mexico border, once overwhelmed, now nearly empty”
      • Bloomberg: “US-Bound Migration Plunges 99% Along Panama Jungle Route”
    • President Trump continued to rid our communities of illegal immigrant criminals.
      • The Trump Administration directed the successful arrests of three illegal immigrant MS-13 gang members in Florida, wanted on first-degree murder charges, and another high-ranking MS-13 member in New York, linked to 11 murders.
      • The Trump Administration directed the transfer of 17 violent illegal immigrant terrorists from the U.S. to El Salvador.
      • The Trump Administration, with state and local law enforcement, successfully arrested more than 40 individuals in a Texas operation targeting the brutal Tren de Aragua gang.
      • The Trump Administration deported an illegal immigrant “influencer” who infamously encouraged fellow illegal immigrants to become squatters.
      • Since taking office, the Trump Administration has arrested 113,000+ illegal immigrants, deported 100,000+ illegal immigrants, and released just nine illegal immigrants into the U.S. — a staggering 99.995% decrease over the same period last year under Biden.
    • President Trump implemented his bold plan for reciprocal trade as he seeks to reverse the decades of globalization that has decimated our industrial base.
      • Coalition for a Prosperous America: “A permanent, universal baseline tariff resets the global trade environment and finally addresses the destructive legacy of decades of misguided free-trade policies. President Trump’s decision to implement a baseline tariff is a game-changing shift that prioritizes American manufacturing, protects working-class jobs, and safeguards our economic security from adversaries like China. This is exactly the type of bold action America needs to restore its industrial leadership.”
      • National Cattlemen’s Beef Association: “For too long, America’s family farmers and ranchers have been mistreated by certain trading partners around the world. President Trump is taking action to address numerous trade barriers that prevent consumers overseas from enjoying high-quality, wholesome American beef.”
    • Americans saw early results of President Trump’s declaration that the days of economic surrender are over.
      • Nissan abandoned plans to eliminate a shift at its Tennessee production facility.
      • General Motors announced it will increase truck production at its Indiana assembly plant.
      • Guardian Bikes announced it will expand its production capacity and grow its U.S.-based investment.
      • Equipment giant JCB committed to doubling the size of its new U.S. manufacturing facility.
      • Ford Motor Company and Stellantis both announced they will offer U.S. consumers employee pricing on their vehicles.
    • President Trump continued to pursue peace through strength around the world.
      • President Trump deployed additional military assets to the Middle East as a warning to the Iranian regime.
      • The Trump Administration inked a $2 billion air defense deal with Poland.
      • President Trump secured a pledge from Finland to raise its defense spending to 3% of its GDP.
      • President Trump held a successful call with Egyptian President El-Sisi to discuss the immense progress the U.S. has made in eliminating Houthi terrorists.
      • President Trump had a “productive call” with Vietnamese leader To Lam, who expressed willingness to cut the country’s tariffs on U.S. imports.
    • President Trump’s economic agenda delivered more relief for Americans.
      • The latest jobs report shattered expectations for the second straight month — highlighted by massive private sector job growth, a spike in full-time employment, wage growth, and an expanding labor market.
      • CNBC: “Private companies added 155,000 jobs in March, more than expected”
      • Wholesale egg prices continued to drop, falling to an average price of $3 per dozen — or nearly 60% since January amid the Trump Administration’s efforts to combat the avian bird flu and repopulate the chicken supply.
    • President Trump secured the release of two U.S. citizens detained in Mexico.
    • President Trump signed an executive order to crack down on price gouging and ticket scalping in the entertainment industry.
    • President Trump established the United States Investment Accelerator to attract and facilitate billion-dollar investments in the U.S.
    • The Department of Energy unveiled plans to use thousands of acres of its land — including national laboratory campuses, nuclear sites, and former enrichment plants — to quickly develop data centers that will power the artificial intelligence revolution.
    • The Department of Energy removed additional regulatory barriers on liquefied natural gas exports.
    • The Department of the Treasury launched a new public-private partnership to safeguard the financial system against illicit activities by the Iranian regime and announced additional sanctions against Iran as part of the Trump Administration’s maximum pressure strategy.
    • The Department of the Treasury leveled new sanctions against financiers of the Sinaloa drug cartel, which has flooded our country with deadly fentanyl.
    • The Department of the Treasury announced additional sanctions against a network of Houthi terrorist facilitators.
    • The Department of the Treasury withdrew burdensome, duplicative climate-based financial risk guidelines from the banking industry.
    • The Department of the Interior announced its next oil and gas lease sale in the Gulf of America, fulfilling President Trump’s pledge to unleash American energy.
    • The Department of the Interior implemented President Trump’s executive order to enhance public safety, clean up lands, protect federal parks, and preserve historic monuments in the District of Columbia.
    • The Department of Health and Human Services launched a department-wide restructuring to realign with its core mission and save taxpayers billions of dollars.
    • The Department of Health and Human Services announced states can bar welfare recipients from using taxpayer dollars to purchase unhealthy soft drinks.
    • The Department of Labor announced it will return $1.4 billion in unused COVID funds back to the U.S. Treasury.
    • The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced a record number of new agent applications under its new leadership.
    • The Department of Justice dismissed a Biden-era lawsuit against common-sense, effective Georgia election law reforms.
    • The Department of Justice launched investigations into DEI initiatives at Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, and University of California, Irvine.
    • The Department of Justice said it will pursue the death penalty for the accused cold-blooded killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
    • The Environmental Protection Agency continued cutting wasteful spending, shuttering a politicized museum erected by the Biden Administration, consolidating office space, and eliminating duplicative grants and contracts — saving taxpayers tens of billions of dollars.
    • The Department of Defense directed a review of the military’s physical fitness standards to ensure it remains the strongest, most lethal fighting force on the planet.
    • The Department of Education and the Department of Justice launched a joint effort to ensure rapid investigations into violations of women’s civil rights.
    • The Department of Education issued a final warning to Maine over its ongoing refusal to comply with Title IX by forcing women to compete against men in athletics.
    • The Department of Education warned states with unlawful K-12 “diversity, equity, and inclusion” programs that they are at risk of losing federal funding.
    • The Department of Education encouraged state education officials to leverage federal funds to support school choice initiatives — a key part of President Trump’s education agenda.
    • The Department of Agriculture paused federal funding to Maine over its unlawful policies forcing women to compete against men in athletics.
    • The Department of Agriculture announced sweeping reforms to protect forests and boost domestic timber production.
    • The Department of Transportation announced an updated Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program, eliminating DEI and environmental justice requirements that prevented money from getting where it is needed.
    • The Department of Transportation continued making progress on the unprecedented backlog of unfulfilled grants left over by the Biden Administration.
    • The Department of Housing and Urban Development launched a streamlined website that efficiently provides vital information to Americans and saves taxpayers in the long run.
    • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services formally removed the option of a third gender on immigration paperwork, further restoring common sense to government.
    • Dr. Mehmet Oz was confirmed as Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Matthew Whittaker was confirmed as the U.S. Ambassador to NATO — continuing the rapid pace at which President Trump’s nominees receive final approval.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Kit For All’ will help more young people get active in Inverness

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by High Life Highland

    Ruby Younger (IHS), Bailey MacCuish (IHS), Steve Walsh (HLH), Andrea MacKenzie (HLH), Gregor Campbell (DYW), Craig Carswell (HLH), Garry Reid (Sportscotland), Cllr Michael Cameron, Lauren Ramsay (IHS), Abbie Mackie (IHS)

    Active Schools is all about making more children, more active, more often but sometimes barriers exist that prevent this from happening – including access to suitable clothing.

    To help combat this, Active Schools Coordinators for the Inverness High School High cluster are establishing two ‘Kit for All’ drop off points in Inverness where sports clothing and footwear – which is no longer used but still in good condition – can be donated and then distributed to young people in the community who’ll benefit the most.

    The project, which is supported nationally by Sportscotland, was launched at Inverness High School this morning (Friday 4 April), which was recently voted School of the Year at the Highland Heroes Awards.

    The Highland Council has generously donated two blue recycling bins for the initiative, and these will be located at Inverness Leisure and at the Forge Gym on Carsegate Road North, with the items collected being distributed to the Inverness High School’s cluster primaries.
    Developing the Young Workforce Inverness is also playing an instrumental part in the project offering storage and sorting space.

    Craig Carswell, High Life Highland’s Active Schools Coordinator for the Inverness High School cluster explained: “We want to widen participation in sport and physical activity while encouraging recycling and reducing the amount of textile waste going to landfill. We would be especially grateful for donations of items for children and young people including sport trainers and boots, strips, t-shirts, socks, athletic jackets and other associated kit.”

    All items should be clean, in good condition and placed in tied bags. The donations will then be collected, sorted and distributed accordingly, with High Life Highland Young Leaders involved in the process.

    Speaking at this morning’s ‘Kit For All’ launch Steve Walsh, High Life Highland Chief Executive said: “Removing barriers to participation is so important and suitable clothing is a barrier that is often overlooked. At High Life Highland our sole purpose is Making Life Better and this is an initiative that will help improve the lives of local children. I’d encourage anyone who can, to donate their unused or unwanted items so we can make sure all young people can access the kit they need to get active and get involved with sports.”

    Joining High Life Highland staff and Young Leaders at today’s launch was former Inverness High School pupil, Councillor Michael Cameron. He said: “The Council is delighted to support this new project to recycle clothing and kit to those who can make good use of it. I’m sure it will be a great success. Not only does it cut down items with lots of life still left in them from going to landfill, but it will remove any stigma from not having the right kit when participating in sports. I’m sure lots of young people will benefit.”

    The Highland Council’s Education Chair Cllr John Finlayson added: “Encouraging young people to have active lifestyles is very important. I’m sure people will relish this opportunity to pass on items they no longer use, so they can get a new lease of life by someone else.”

    Chief Executive of sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop commented: “Established by the sportscotland Young People’s Sport Panel several years ago, I am thrilled to see the continuance and expansion of the Kit for All initiative. With the focus on improving access to sport and physical activity, as well as supporting sustainability, it is fantastic to see more groups and schools like the Inverness High School cluster, collaborating and creating new drop points to donate sports clothing and footwear. As the national agency, we are continuing to work with our partners to address the barriers to participation in sport and physical activity.”

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Empowering Indian Startups: Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal Reaffirms Government’s Commitment at Startup Mahakumbh

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 9:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Following the grand inauguration of the Startup Mahakumbh on April 3, 2025, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, returned to Bharat Mandapam for a walk through of the mega exhibition on Day 2 of the event.

    Addressing the media during his walk through, the minister heaped lavish praise on the work of startups. “Having visited the exhibition, the flavor that I got–the taste of innovative work that our young men and women have created through their sheer tenacity, hardwork, spirit of enquiry, research and innovation–is music to one’s ears,” he added.  “You can see the work of world-class quality, experience the technologies created on energy efficiency, powering electronics, see the defence equipment that young startups are creating, and realise how fintech is becoming a source of empowerment for the common citizen…” he said, referring to his visit to Startup Mahakumbh as “truly an experience of a lifetime.”

    The second edition of Startup Mahakumbh features 10 thematic pavilions covering key industries such as AI, DeepTech & Cybersecurity, HealthTech & BioTech, AgriTech, Climate Tech, Incubators & Accelerators, D2C, FinTech, Gaming & Sports, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, Defence & Space Tech, and Mobility. Shri Piyush Goyal visited a number of exhibits showcasing groundbreaking innovations in Climate Tech, BioTech, AI, and DeepTech and more, ranging from intelligent air purifiers and EV tractors to AI-driven platforms for functional brain mapping and cutting-edge manufacturing drones for defense applications.

    Specially curated Startup Booths/Pods within each pavilion offer startups and organizations a platform to showcase their innovations to key stakeholders, including angel investors, venture capitalists, corporate and ecosystem-driven incubators, accelerators, government agencies, and international investors. Startup Mahakumbh features over 3,000 startups, 1,000+ investors and incubators, and 10,000+ delegates from 50+ countries, making it a prime opportunity for startups to pitch their businesses, build investor relationships, and secure crucial funding.
    The union minister emphasized that he was confident India would emerge as a global leader in innovation and technology-driven growth. “This is the base–the foundation–on which I am confident, India will foray in a very big way into the world of innovation. We will make our presence felt on the global stage. I go back extremely satisfied with the work done with our young startups. Young India is raring to go. And they are ready to capture the world,” he said. 

    A landmark moment in India’s fintech journey with the launch of the India Fintech Foundation was also witnessed in the esteemed presence of Shri Amitabh Kant, Shri Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, and Shri NS Vishwanathan, former deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a sustainable, innovative, and self-regulated fintech ecosystem in India.

    Shri Amardeep Bhatia, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade also engaged with startups from various sectors today at the Startup Mahakumbh. During the event, he also visited the startups showcased at the SCO Pavilion.

    Building on the success of the inaugural edition, which featured over 1,300 exhibitors and attracted more than 48,000 visitors, Startup Mahakumbh 2025 is one of India’s largest innovation and entrepreneurship events and promises an even bigger and more impactful platform for startups, investors, and industry leaders. The event witnessed a remarkable turnout, with a footfall of 107823 over two days.

    About Startup Mahakumbh

    Startup Mahakumbh is a first-of-its-kind event bringing together the entire startup ecosystem of India including startups, investors, incubators and accelerators, and industry leaders from several sectors. led by FICCI, ASSOCHAM, NASSCOM, TiE, IVCA and Bootstrap Foundation, and supported by GEM, SIDBI, ECGC, DPIIT and MeitY.

    The second edition of Startup Mahakumbh is set to make a grand return in 2025, building on the tremendous success of its inaugural edition. The flagship startup event was an extraordinary success, attracting over 50,000 business visitors engaging with 3000 exhibitors including finest startups, soonicorns, and unicorns, from 26+ states and 50+ countries. It also hosted 1000+ incubators and accelerators and 1000+ leading angel investors, VCs, and family offices.

    For more information, visit www.startupmahakumbh.org.

     

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2119100) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AYUSH Chair in foreign universities to promote and strengthen traditional Indian medicine systems globally

    Source: Government of India

    AYUSH

    AYUSH Chair in foreign universities to promote and strengthen traditional Indian medicine systems globally

    50 Institute-to- Institute Memorandum of Understanding with foreign institutions to facilitate research and academic exchange in AYUSH

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) Chair Programme is an initiative by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, to promote and strengthen traditional Indian medicine systems (AYUSH) globally. Under this program, AYUSH Chairs are established in foreign universities and institutions to facilitate academic collaboration, research, and awareness about AYUSH systems. The Ministry of Ayush, has established AYUSH academic chairs in Bangladesh, Australia, Mauritius, Latvia and Malaysia.

    These chairs are part of a broader strategy to promote AYUSH systems of medicine internationally. The specific objectives being pursued through this initiative are as under:

     

    1. Undertake academic and research activities related to AYUSH Systems of Medicine.
    2. Design and finalize the curriculum for the short term/ medium term courses as per need of the University and AYUSH education guidelines in India.
    3. Take tutorials/ lectures / practical sessions as per the curricular requirements of the University and will take part in the activities such as departmental seminars, conferences, faculty meetings, etc. as mutually agreed between University and the Chair.
    4. Explore feasibility of undertaking collaborative research.
    5. Act as credible source of information related to AYUSH systems of medicine for the host country and other neighboring countries.
    6. Liaise with Indian Embassy/ High Commission of India, host University and Ministry of AYUSH.
    7. Conduct workshops/ seminars on AYUSH Systems in cooperation with the host organization.
    8. Identify existing academic/ research programmes on AYUSH systems, their strength & gaps and provide inputs to the Ministry of Ayush and concerned institute in India.
    9. Carry on other incidental responsibilities as may be determined by the host University such as providing clinical services for practical demonstration / clinical trainings at the attached Hospital/ Clinic.
    10. Undertake any other activity as assigned by the Ministry of Ayush from time to time.
    11. Deliver at least 2 public lectures in a year to be arranged by the University, which would be termed as AYUSH Lectures.

     

    The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India has signed 50 Institute-to-Institute Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with foreign institutions to facilitate research and academic exchange in AYUSH. The details of the Institutes with whom the Ministry of Ayush has signed the MoUs are placed at Annexure.

    -3-

    These initiatives help to enhance global propagation, recognition, and acceptance of AYUSH systems of medicines. For assessing the impact of AYUSH Chair, a monthly report on activities undertaken is obtained from the chair. The evaluation of the chair’s impact is being conducted based on the report.

    Annexure

     

    Sl.

    No.

    Details of MoU

    Country

    1.

    MoU between Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of AYUSH (on behalf of all the research councils- CCRAS, CCRUM, CCRS, CCRH, CCRYN) and the University of Mississippi, USA, on behalf of National Centre for Natural Products Research (NCNPR) for cooperation

    in the field of traditional medicine

    USA

    2.

    MoU between CCRH and Royal London Hospital for

    Integrated Medicine, UK

    United

    Kingdom

    3.

    MoU       between      Central      Council      for     Research                in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and College of Homeopaths of

    Ontario (CHO), Canada

    Canada

    4.

    United         States       Pharmacopoeia          Convention                    and

    Pharmacopoeia Commission of Indian Medicine

    USA

    5.

    MoU on cooperation in the field of Research and Education in Homeopathy Medicine was signed between CCRH and Universidad Maimonides, Buenos

    Aires, Argentina

    Argentina

    6.

    MoU on Cooperation in Research and Development in the field of Ayurvedic Science was signed between Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) and the Medical Research Infrastructure and Health Services fund of the Tel Aviv Sourasky medical

    Institute (TASMC), Israel

    Israel

    7.

    MoU between Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science, on Behalf of All Research Councils, Ministry of AYUSH(Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), Government of India located in New Delhi, (“CCRAS”) and The Governors of the University of Alberta  as  Represented  by  the  Integrative  Health

    Institute Located in Edmonton, ALBERTA, Canada

    Canada

    8.

    MoU between National Institute of Ayurveda and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia in the field of Education, Training, Research, Publication  and  Popularization  of  Ayurveda  in

    Malaysia

    Malaysia

    9.

    MoU between Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine & Homoeopathy (PCIM&H) and Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) with Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia Convention of the

    United States (HPCUS)

    USA

    10.

    MoU between Scientific Society for Homoeopathy (WissHom), Germany and Central Council for

    Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH)

    Germany

    11.

    Agreement on cooperation in the field of Research and Education in Homoeopathy between Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and Federal

    University of Rio De Janerio (FURJ), Brazil

    Brazil

    12.

    MoU on cooperation and collaboration in the field of Ayurveda between the All India Institute of Ayurveda, (AIIA), Ministry of AYUSH and European Academy

    of Ayurveda (Birstein), (REAA) Germany

    Germany

    13.

    MoU on Cooperation in the field of Research in Homeopathic Medicine was signed between Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and Centre for Integrative Complementary Medicine,

    Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel

    Israel

    14.

    MoU on cooperation in the field of Research in Homeopathy was signed between Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH) and National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM), Australia

    Australia

    15.

    MoU on Establishment of an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and College of Medicine (UK) was signed during the visit of Hon’ble PM of India to UK

    United Kingdom

    16.

    MoU on collaboration in the field of Ayurveda was signed between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and the Medical University of Graz, Graz Austria

    Austria

    17.

    MoU on cooperation in the field of Unani medicine was signed between Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) and State Educational Establishment“ Tajik State Medical University named

    AbualiIbn Sino”

    Tajikistan

    18.

    MoU        on      the      establishment         of      an                 academic

    collaboration in Ayurveda has been signed between All India       Institute      of    Ayurveda      (AIIA),     Ministry               of

    USA

    AYUSH and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, USA

    19.

    MoU CCRAS, Ministry of AYUSH and Department of Neurology and Complementary Medicine, Lutheran, Hospital Hattingen, Germany for Cooperation in the field of Research and Education in Ayurveda

    Germany

    20.

    MoU between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and Wester Sydney University (WSU), Australia

    Australia

    21.

    MoU between MORARJI DESAI NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF YOGA (MDNIY) MINISTRY OF AYUSH, GOVT OF INDIA NEW DELHI and DIVINE VALUES SCHOOL, ECUADOR (DVSE)

    Ecuador

    22.

    MoU between Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, (CCRAS) Ministry of AYUSH Government of the Republic of India and University of Debrecen, Hungary (UD) on the Intention of Establishment of European Institute of Ayurvedic Sciences (EIAS), Hungary

    Hungary

    23.

    MoU between NIA & the University of West Indies for Collaboration in the field of Education, Training, Research, Treatment, Publication etc

    West Indies

    24.

    An Agreement signed between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Ministry of Ayush and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), UK for undertaking research on Ashwagandha for promoting recovery from Covid-19 in the UK.

    United Kingdom

    25.

    MoU between Shimane University, Japan and All India Institute of Ayurveda

    Japan

    26.

    MoU between Fizz, Frankfurt, Germany and All India Institue of Ayurveda

    Germany

    27.

    MoC with Japan

    Japan

    28.

    MoU       between      CCRUM      and     Hamdard               University Bangladesh

    Bangladesh

    29.

    MoU between CCRAS, Ministry of AYUSH and OCCAM, National Cancer Institute National Institutes of Health Department of Health and Human Services, Government of the United States of America

    USA

    30.

    Memorandum of Understanding between Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of AYUSH, and The Institute for Social medicine, Epidemiology and the Health Economics, Charite University Medical Centre, Berlin Germany

    Germany

    31.

    Institute for the History of Medicine, Robert Bosch Foundation,                            Stuttgart,                                                Germany on Cooperation in the Field of Development of Museum on AYUSH System and Archives on Homoeopathy

    Germany

    32.

    MoU between MORARJI DESAI NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF YOGA (MDNIY) MINISTRY OF AYUSH, GOVT OF INDIA NEW DELHI and Leaders

    Development Institute (LDI), Ministry of Sports Saudi Arabia

    Saudi Arabia

    33.

    MoU between Rashtriya Ayurved Vidyapeeth (RAV) and Fundacion De Salud Ayurveda Prema, Argentina

    Argentina

    34.

    MoU between AIIA and Future Vision Institute, Brazil and University of Sao Paulo Brazil

    Brazil

    35.

    MoU between AIIA and The University General Hospital in La Reunion – CHU de La Reunion in the field of Ayurveda

    Chu      de             La Reunion

    36.

    MoU between AIIA, The Fedral University of Rio De Jenerio (UFRJ) and The Brazilian Academic Consortium for Integrative Health (CABSIN), Brazil

    Brazil

    37.

    MoU between National Institute of Ayurveda Jaipur

    and Philippines institute of traditional and Alternative Healthcare, (PITHAC)Philippines

    Philippines

    38.

    MoU between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and University Health Netwrok (UHN), Canada

    Canada

     

    39.

    Agreement on Co-operation in collaborative research in the field of Ayurveda and Siddha between CCRAS,       Romanian               Society                                   of Medicine and Suraj Ayurveda Clinic and Research Centre Pune.

    Romania

    40.

    MoU between CCRAS and PHFI for Ayush- WHO- PHFI collaborative project entitled Assessment of integration of AYUSH System into the public health system for combating COVID-19.

    WHO

    41.

    India Yoga Center (IYC), Korea

    Korea

    42.

    MoU between AIIA and UCMH, Havana Cuba The Establishment of an Academic Collaboration In Ayurveda

    Cuba

    43.

    MoU        between       AIIA     and     National       Institute      of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)

    Japan

    44.

    MoU Between MDNIY and Sarv Yoga International Italy

    Italy

    45.

    MoU Between ITRA and National Institute of Health,

    Republic of Peru

    Peru

    46.

    MoU between AIIA and Kvarner Health Tourism

    Cluster, Croatia

    Croatia

    47.

    MoU between NIA and Department of Thai Traditional

    and Alternative Medicine

    Thailand

    48.

    MoU between All India Institute of Ayurveda and Sri

    Vajera Foundation and Associated Institutions

    Brazil

    49.

    MoU Between CCRUM and Allied Health professions

    Council of South Africa (AHPCSA)

    South Africa

    50.

    A Tripartite MoU between Charles University Czech Republic with NIA, Jaipur and MDNIY New Delhi was signed on 17.07.2024 on the Establishment of

    Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Yoga

    Czech Republic

     

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (I/C) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2118854)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival opens today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The opening ceremony of the third Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival (PCF) was held today (April 4) at the Grand Theatre of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC). Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the PCF this year is themed “More Than Joy”. Audiences can appreciate how pop culture can be transmitted and transformed, and how integration and breakthroughs are possible in addition to joy and laughter.
     
         The Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan; and an actor of the opening film “The Banquet” (1991), Mr Eric Tsang, officiated at the opening ceremony.
     
         The opening programme, “Silhouette Resonance x The Banquet (1991)”, began after the ceremony. Pop singer Alfred Hui, a cappella choral theatre company Yat Po Singers, and beatboxer Heartgrey (Eric So) together with a live band performed songs from classic comedy films with fresh arrangements by renowned musician Ng Cheuk-yin. The digitally restored version of “The Banquet” (1991) was screened following the performance. Blending entertainment with cultural artistry, the audience was offered a fresh and inspiring perspective on the vibrancy of Hong Kong’s pop culture.
     
         Another highlight programme that kicks off the PCF is outdoor music carnival “ImagineLand 2025” to be held tomorrow (April 5) and on Sunday (April 6) at the HKCC Piazza, and the Central Lawn & Event Trellis of Salisbury Garden, the Avenue of Stars free of charge. Supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, “ImagineLand 2025” features both daytime and evening programmes, encompassing music, films, comics, and more.
     
        During “ImagineLand 2025”, “Go Beyond Concert”, “Comics Fun Experience Gallery” and “Funarts Corner” will be available during the day, while film programme “Movie Under the Stars” will be held at night. Over 35 musicians and artists from Hong Kong and eight countries and regions including the Mainland, Japan, Korea, the United States, Australia, France, the United Kingdom and Ukraine will perform on the three stages of “Go Beyond Concert”, showcasing boundless possibilities of music across the performances. Major line-ups of local artists include Ivana Wong, Joey Tang, Yatfung, Cloud, Ashley Lin, Pandora, Wan Pin Chu and more, performing mesmerising popular songs and original works.
     
         At “Comics Fun Experience Gallery”, Hong Kong comics and animation from different eras will be displayed to highlight the creativity of local artists with immersive photo-taking opportunities. The exhibition also features the works of local humourist cartoonists and explores how comics intertwine with the city’s pop culture. Workshops on art, music, and crafts will be available for the public at “Funarts Corner”. In the evenings, two comedies, “Table For Six” (2022) and “Forbidden City Cop” (1996)”, will be screened at “Movie Under the Stars” tomorrow and on Sunday respectively, allowing audiences to enjoy outdoor films while relaxing on the lawn.
     
         Other highlights include the “Laughter Double Bill: Hong Kong Comedy Film Spectacular” film screening programme; exhibitions “Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics” and “Legends of HK Film Comedies, 1980s and 1990s”; concerts “The 2025 Fiesta of Music Office Bands, Choirs and Orchestras-Bands ‘The Animated Melodies – Our Nostalgic Memories’”, “Ko Shan Fest” and “Music & Laughs”, and more. To support the PCF’s theme of “More Than Joy”, the Hong Kong Public Libraries will also organise book displays and subject talks in a series of activities under the theme of “Happy Reading”.
     
    Several industry partners are also offering a range of events as part of the festival, which are not to be missed.
     
         Hong Kong’s pop culture has drawn inspiration particularly from humour, a constant trendsetter that has left a deep footprint on many aspects of the city’s rich and colourful pop cultural landscape. The PCF 2025, with more than 20 programmes, not only delights audiences with exciting performances and works but also offers insight into the development paths of Hong Kong’s pop culture along the line of “happiness”. By participating in these activities, audiences will be able to discover their own happiness.
     
         For more details, please visit the website: www.pcf.gov.hk, or call 2601 8703.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSIR’s Indigenously Designed and Developed HANSA-3(NG) Trainer Aircraft Signifies Giant Leap for Creating India’s Robust Aviation Ecosystem: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    CSIR’s Indigenously Designed and Developed HANSA-3(NG) Trainer Aircraft Signifies Giant Leap for Creating India’s Robust Aviation Ecosystem: Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Huge Opportunity for Startups and MSMEs; Potential for Employment Generation through Indigenization of Technologies

    Democratization and Decentralization of Pilot Training to Reduce Costs and Realize Youth Aspirations

    Collaboration Model of Space Economy to be Replicated in Aviation Sector to Meet Growing Demand

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

    NEW DELHI, April 4: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today officially launched indigenous “Trainer Aircraft” technology for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL) and also announced the decision to involve the private sector to collaborate in the manufacture of this aircraft.

    At a ceremony held at National Media Centre here, the Minister formalized the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of CSIR’s indigenously designed and developed HANSA-3(NG) trainer aircraft for Commercial Pilot Licensing (CPL) at the National Media Centre, New Delhi. The licensing of the HANSA-3(NG) two-seater trainer aircraft has been granted to M/s Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt. Ltd.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the efforts of CSIR scientists for the successful demonstration and commercialization of the indigenous HANSA-3(NG), noting that the aircraft will fulfill the requirements of flying clubs in providing PPL (Private Pilot License) and CPL (Commercial Pilot License) training to the young generation.

    The Minister emphasized the need to develop a large and world-class flying training ecosystem in India to meet the rapidly growing demand of the Indian aviation sector. The availability of CSIR’s indigenous HANSA-3(NG) aircraft will strengthen India’s aviation industry and help realize Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of India becoming a leading aviation hub by the end of the decade and achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the huge opportunity for StartUps and MSMEs, along with significant employment generation potential through the indigenization of aviation technologies. He emphasized that indigenous small aircraft manufacturing under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative would support the development of infrastructure and promote small & medium-scale private entrepreneurs in the production of airworthy components, including assembly and integration of aircraft in India.

    He also pointed out the socio-economic potential of this initiative, which will create employment opportunities through on-the-job training for ITI & Diploma holders in various disciplines of aircraft building and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) training.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the government’s focus on democratization and decentralization of pilot training, which will reduce the cost of pilot training and give wings to the aspirations of youth, many of whom give up on their dream of becoming pilots due to affordability issues.

    He stated, “Success in Space Economy by collaborating with the private sector will now be replicated in the aviation sector to meet the growing demand.”

    India will need 30,000 pilots over the next 15–20 years, up from the current 6,000–7,000 pilots, as Indian airlines collectively have over 1,700 aircraft on order. Currently, India’s commercial aircraft fleet stands at over 800 aircraft. Typically, each aircraft requires 15–20 pilots for narrow-body aircraft and 25–30 pilots for long-range wide-body jets. Hence, there is an urgent need to create a world-class flying training ecosystem in the country. Dr. Singh also credited Union Minister for Civil Aviation Shri K. Ram Mohan Naidu for enabling growth in the sector.

    Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri K. Ram Mohan Naidu, complimented CSIR and CSIR-NAL scientists for their commitment towards the commercialization of the HANSA-3(NG) aircraft, following his recent visit to CSIR-NAL in October 2024.

    The HANSA-3(NG) aircraft comes equipped with a digital display (glass cockpit) system and is powered by an advanced fuel-efficient Rotax 912 iSc3 Sports engine. The aircraft features a bubble canopy with a cabin width of 43 inches and electrically operated flaps, meeting modern user requirements. It offers excellent performance with a range of 620 nautical miles, 7 hours of endurance, and a maximum cruise speed of 98 Knots Calibrated Airspeed (KCAS).

    Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR & Director General, CSIR, while congratulating the scientists, said that the successful flying demonstration of HANSA-3(NG) at Aero India 2025 reflects CSIR’s unwavering commitment to developing indigenous technologies to meet the national need. These efforts aim to serve end customers like Flying Training Organizations (FTOs), ensuring a complete ecosystem for commercialization of CSIR technologies.

    Dr. Abhay Pashilkar, Director shared that CSIR-NAL has received Letters of Intent (LOI) for 110+ HANSA-3(NG) aircraft from FTOs across the country. To meet the domestic demand and export potential, CSIR-NAL has partnered with M/s Pioneer Clean Amps Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, who will set up a manufacturing facility aiming to build 36 aircraft per year, with plans to scale up to 72 aircraft annually, in alignment with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

    *****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2118821) Visitor Counter : 32

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: United States Attorneys General 4

    Today, amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    The Title IX SIT will streamline Title IX investigations by creating a specialized team of investigators from across ED and Department of Justice offices. The establishment of the Title IX SIT will allow personnel to apply a rapid resolution investigation process to the increasing volume of Title IX cases and also enable ED and the Justice Department to work together to conduct investigations that are fully prepared for ultimate Justice Department enforcement.

    “Protecting women and women’s sports is a key priority for this Department of Justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This collaborative effort with the Department of Education will enable our attorneys to take comprehensive action when women’s sports or spaces are threatened and use the full power of the law to remedy any violation of women’s civil rights.”

    “Today’s establishment of the Title IX SIT will benefit women and girls across this nation who have been subjected to discrimination and indignity in their educational activities,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “From day one, the Trump Administration has prioritized enforcing Title IX to protect female students and athletes. Traditionally, our Office for Civil Rights (OCR) takes months, even years, to complete Title IX investigations. OCR under this Administration has moved faster than it ever has, and the Title IX SIT will ensure even more rapid and consistent investigations. To all the entities that continue to allow men to compete in women’s sports and use women’s intimate facilities: there’s a new sheriff in town. We will not allow you to get away with denying women’s civil rights any longer.”

    The Title IX SIT includes:

    • ED Office for Civil Rights investigators and attorneys
    • DOJ Civil Rights Division attorneys
    • ED Office of General Counsel attorneys
    • ED Student Privacy and Protection Office case workers and an FSA Enforcement investigator

    Background:

    President Trump’s Executive Order Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports articulates United States policy, consistent with Title IX, to protect female student athletes from having “to compete with or against or having to appear unclothed before males.” President Trump’s Executive Order Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism states the truth that “The erasure of sex in language and policy has a corrosive impact not just on women but on the validity of the entire American system.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Today, amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    The Title IX SIT will streamline Title IX investigations by creating a specialized team of investigators from across ED and Department of Justice offices. The establishment of the Title IX SIT will allow personnel to apply a rapid resolution investigation process to the increasing volume of Title IX cases and also enable ED and the Justice Department to work together to conduct investigations that are fully prepared for ultimate Justice Department enforcement.

    “Protecting women and women’s sports is a key priority for this Department of Justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This collaborative effort with the Department of Education will enable our attorneys to take comprehensive action when women’s sports or spaces are threatened and use the full power of the law to remedy any violation of women’s civil rights.”

    “Today’s establishment of the Title IX SIT will benefit women and girls across this nation who have been subjected to discrimination and indignity in their educational activities,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “From day one, the Trump Administration has prioritized enforcing Title IX to protect female students and athletes. Traditionally, our Office for Civil Rights (OCR) takes months, even years, to complete Title IX investigations. OCR under this Administration has moved faster than it ever has, and the Title IX SIT will ensure even more rapid and consistent investigations. To all the entities that continue to allow men to compete in women’s sports and use women’s intimate facilities: there’s a new sheriff in town. We will not allow you to get away with denying women’s civil rights any longer.”

    The Title IX SIT includes:

    • ED Office for Civil Rights investigators and attorneys
    • DOJ Civil Rights Division attorneys
    • ED Office of General Counsel attorneys
    • ED Student Privacy and Protection Office case workers and an FSA Enforcement investigator

    Background:

    President Trump’s Executive Order Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports articulates United States policy, consistent with Title IX, to protect female student athletes from having “to compete with or against or having to appear unclothed before males.” President Trump’s Executive Order Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism states the truth that “The erasure of sex in language and policy has a corrosive impact not just on women but on the validity of the entire American system.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Cruz Introduce Senate Resolution Honoring Texan George Foreman

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) today introduced a Senate resolution honoring the life and legacy of Houston native and professional boxer George Foreman, who passed away on March 21, 2025. Text is below, and you can view the full resolution here.
    “Whereas George Foreman was born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas;
    Whereas George Foreman was raised in Houston, Texas;
    Whereas George Foreman earned his general education degree and gained vocational skills through the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps;
    Whereas George Foreman began his boxing career in 1966 after meeting Doc Broaddus, a boxing instructor, who worked for Job Corps;
    Whereas George Foreman won his first amateur fight on January 26, 1967, in the Parks Diamond Bell Tournament;
    Whereas George Foreman won the National Boxing Championship heavyweight title in Toledo, Ohio, in 1968;
    Whereas George Foreman won a gold medal in the boxing and heavyweight division during the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games;
    Whereas George Foreman began his professional boxing career in 1969;
    Whereas George Foreman won 37 consecutive fights, of which 35 were by knockout;
    Whereas, on January 22, 1973, George Foreman won the World Heavyweight Championship title by defeating Joe Frazier;
    Whereas George Foreman maintained the title of World Heavyweight Champion until October 30, 1974, in a fierce matchup, known as the “Rumble in the Jungle”, with Muhammad Ali;
    Whereas George Foreman stepped back from his boxing career to become an ordained minister in 1978 and served the congregation at Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, which he founded in 1980, in Houston, Texas;
    Whereas, in 1984, George Foreman opened the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, Texas, to provide opportunities to youth across Harris County;
    Whereas George Foreman announced his return to boxing in 1987 and won his first fight back against Steve Zouski;
    Whereas George Foreman earned the title of World Heavyweight Champion again on November 5, 1994, against Michael Moorer, breaking multiple records, including the oldest fighter to win a world heavyweight championship after the most time between world heavyweight championships and with the largest age gap between competitors in a heavyweight boxing championship fight;
    Whereas George Foreman fought for the final time in 1997 against Shannon Briggs;
    Whereas George Foreman had a final career record of 76 to 5;
    Whereas George Foreman became a successful businessman, most notably with the George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine, of which more than 100,000,000 units have been sold globally;
    Whereas George Foreman was recognized by the American Legion in 2013 with the James V. Day “Good Guy” Award for his patriotism and service to his community;
    Whereas George Foreman remained a beloved public figure and boxing legend until his death;
    Whereas George Foreman died in Houston, Texas, on March 21, 2025;
    Whereas George Foreman was preceded in death by his daughter, Freeda; and
    Whereas George Foreman is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Joan, and 11 of his children and their families: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That—
                 (1) the Senate—
          (A) honors the life and legacy of George Foreman for—
    (i) his accomplishments as a boxing legend;
    (ii) the example he provides to future generations of community leaders; and
    (iii) his dedication to Houston and his support of vulnerable youth in the community;
          (B) respectfully requests the Secretary of the Senate—
    (i) communicate this resolution to the House of Representatives; and
    (ii) transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to the family of George Foreman; and
    (2) when the Senate adjourns today, it stands adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of George Foreman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Salford City Council Hosts Roundtable on Shaping a National Strategy for Rugby League

    Source: City of Salford

    Thursday 3 April 2025 – Salford City Council hosted a roundtable at the Salford Community Stadium which sought to construct a coalition of voices, empowering the call for further investment, both public and private, to protect and advance Rugby League.

    The discussion was chaired by Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett. Under his leadership, the city has developed a renewed commitment to supporting grassroots sport and empowering the North’s cultural heritage.

    The roundtable brought together key individuals from across Rugby League playing constituencies and local authorities to determine the structure and content of a national Rugby League strategy. Attendees discussed where precisely investment is needed in Rugby League, how Rugby League localities can collaborate to succeed in obtaining more investment, as well as their experiences of support for rugby both locally and nationally.

    Notable participants included Michael Wheeler MP (Worsley and Eccles), Rebecca Long-Bailey MP (Salford) and the Leaders of Warrington, Wigan and St Helens, alongside other council representatives from across the North. Delving into key themes and issues, participants noted that Rugby League is integral to the culture of the North of England and called for the inclusion of Rugby League in future Government-led reviews of the sport.

    Attendees also highlighted the cultural opportunities for both residents and tourists deriving from enabling the region’s rich rugby heritage to thrive. Crucially there are also health and educational benefits from enabling communities to access and celebrate their sporting heritage from young age.

    To conclude the roundtable, participants agreed to work together to secure investment from the sport at every level, including calling on the Department of Culture Media and Sport, the Department for Health and Social Care and the Department for Education to fully realise the benefit of the sport in their respective areas.

    Following the roundtable, Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett commented: “It was great to bring representatives from across national and regional government together to unite the North under one voice and establish a clearer path for securing further investment into Rugby League. The previous government conducted a review on the future sustainability of Rugby Union and failed to include Rugby League.

    We’re here to make sure that this great sport is given the support in needs so our communities and residents can share in the economic, cultural, social and health benefits that rugby league can offer.”

    Salford City Council is committed to creating a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive city for all. To achieve this vision, it has set out seven interconnected priorities as the focus for our work from 2024 to 2028.

    • Good growth
    • A good home for all
    • Tackling poverty and inequality
    • Creating places where people want to live
    • A child friendly city
    • Responding to climate change
    • Healthy lives and quality of care for all

    Find out more about our ambitions and how we intend to deliver them in our corporate plan, This is our Salford. It aims to build on past successes and continue to find new and innovative ways to improve residents’ lives.

    Salford continues its remarkable story of transformation with already much to celebrate as a city – more well-paid jobs, new affordable and social homes, thriving local schools, award-winning green spaces, iconic infrastructure, cleaner transport, more integrated health and care and a vibrant cultural scene.

    Share this

    Date published
    Thursday 3 April 2025

    Press and media enquiries

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth rogue trader sentenced

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Last Friday (28 March) Bradley Willis-Chambers was sentenced to 24 months suspended for two years, 220 hours of unpaid work, and ten days of rehabilitation activity.

    Willis-Chambers was found guilty at Portsmouth Crown Court in January 2025 of fraudulent trading between 8 April 2022, and 22 February 2023, against four victims to a value of £35,132.48.

    Cllr Lee Hunt, cabinet member for Community Safety, Leisure and Sport at Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “We welcome this conviction.  Justice doesn’t end at sentencing; working with the police and partners Portsmouth City Council will go after rogue traders using the full weight of the law to win justice, gain compensation for victims and fight this form of criminal activity. This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and our determination to stamp it out.”

    A financial investigation under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is ongoing, aimed at recovering funds obtained by Willis-Chambers and to compensate the victims of his fraudulent activities. Additionally, Portsmouth City Council is seeking a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) to prevent Willis-Chambers from actions that could expose consumers to further risk. The terms of the CBO are yet to be finalised.

    If you or someone you know has been a victim of a rogue trader incident, we urge you to report it to The Citizens Advice Consumer Service at 08082231133 and Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Review of Polytechnics’ sporting achievements for March

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    At the Polytechnic, sports activity knows no decline, and students regularly demonstrate high results in various competitions.

    At the St. Petersburg Student Sports Games in powerlifting, Valeria Shaga from IPMET distinguished herself, taking 3rd place with a result of 185 kg in the weight category up to 84 kg, and Margarita Zhornik from ISI, who also won bronze with a total result of 310 kg in the weight category up to 69 kg. It is especially pleasing that Margarita set a record for St. Petersburg among university students, lifting 117.5 kg in squats.

    The jiu-jitsu team also did not leave without awards. Renat Gaibatov and Aglaya Stepanova won silver at the Street Jiu-Jitsu tournament, and Diana Ledovskikh showed the same result at the Just Jiu-Jitsu Champions League.

    Ivan Sokolov took 1st place in the All-Russian competition “Stars of the Baltic” in hand-to-hand combat, dedicated to the memory of the honored coach of Russia A. V. Fakeev

    At the St. Petersburg Rock Climbing Championship, Konstantin Pak took 2nd place and was selected for the city team.

    At the Russian Student Ultimate Championship, held in St. Petersburg, the Polytechnic University men’s team confidently reached the semi-finals, where they defeated ITMO University (8:7), and then won gold, beating Moscow State University (10:9). The women’s team also performed well, winning bronze medals after three tense games and defeating Moscow State Pedagogical University (9:7).

    From March 7 to 9, our athletes also showed high results at the orienteering competitions in Kaliningrad: Olga Shmaylova won silver in two disciplines and bronze in one, Polina Morozova and Ksenia Galkova also received silver and bronze, respectively. Sergey Dribas won bronze at the “Snowy Trail” competition.

    The women’s handball team won the tournament in memory of Yu. N. Zakatova in Boksitogorsk, which confirms their high level of play.

    On March 14, a conference was held at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University III All-Russian scientific and practical conference “Student sports in the modern world”, brought together leading experts and scientists who discussed pressing issues of developing student sports.

    From March 9 to 14, the St. Petersburg Boxing Championship was held, where our team won 13 medals, including three gold. Working at full capacity, the Polytechnicians once again demonstrated high athletic training.

    At the University Dance Sport Championship in Nova Arena, our dance couples won prizes, captivating the hearts of the audience. In the St section, Arseniy Bauman and Anastasia Nazarova took first place, Arseniy Afonin and Sofya Gordeeva took second place, and Ivan Kobernyuk and Ekaterina Kucherova successfully performed in hobby classes. In the La section, the pair of Kobernyuk and Kucherova also became the winner in hobby-4, together with Gleb Gusev and Stefania Aldoshina, who took first place in hobby-6.

    No less striking was the performance of our football team, which on March 17 won the XI tournament named after Anatoly Turchak. In a tense final game, our team defeated their opponents from Leningradets after a penalty shootout. Their persistence and determination brought the long-awaited gold medals!

    The results of the completed championship and the cheerleading championship are also impressive: our girls became champions in mixed stunts and freestyle, and also won a silver medal in freestyle doubles.

    The mini water polo team also deserves congratulations, having taken third place in the university championship among 12 teams. Our team performed brilliantly in the group stage, however, in the semi-final, it lost to ITMO, but coped with a difficult situation, winning the match for 3rd place against SC Gornyak.

    The “Superfinal of the Eight” in phygital mini-golf of the National Student Sports Golf League was held in Moscow from March 20 to 21. St. Petersburg Polytechnic University was represented by two student teams that were part of the “Black Bears-Polytechnic” mini-golf team. As a result, Anastasia Kalashnikova and Anastasia Maksimova took first place, becoming two-time champions, while Alexander Prokhorov and Roman Ivasishin won second place.

    The team of the Institute of Secondary Vocational Education became the bronze prize winner of the first league of the futsal tournament among professional educational organizations. Last year, the polytechnics lost very disappointingly in the match for third place, but now that gestalt was closed. Vladimir Slepov’s charges held an excellent tournament, and in the decisive match they took revenge for the defeat in the group.

    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: Bitget Secures El Salvador Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) License After BSP Approval

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has obtained the Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) license from El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD), expanding its regulatory framework within the country. This development comes after the earlier acquisition of the Bitcoin Services Provider (BSP) license in 2024. El Salvador is one of the pioneering jurisdictions passing comprehensive legislation supporting the integration of Bitcoin and digital assets into its financial ecosystem and acting as its official currency. It has started to emerge as a hub for global crypto businesses.

    With both the DASP and BSP licenses in place, Bitget gains the ability to offer a broad range of digital asset services within El Salvador. The DASP license covers operations such as spot and derivatives trading, staking, and other yield-based financial products alongside infrastructure that facilitates access to crypto-powered savings and investment solutions. Regulatory clarity in the region enables global platforms to expand under a well-defined legal structure, offering users a higher degree of operational transparency and institutional-grade safeguards.

    “Our focus at Bitget is to enter countries with a regulated framework for crypto and provide our best services as we expand on our global regulatory strategy,” said Hon Ng, Chief Legal Officer at Bitget. “We are thrilled to be able to offer an array of products through this license, and we are honored by the trust of El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets. El Salvador has been ahead of many with its progressive and transparent approach to Bitcoin and digital asset regulation, making it an attractive jurisdiction for good quality Web3 companies aiming to operate responsibly at scale. Bitget will continue to support jurisdictions that offer clear frameworks and support the development of a secure, efficient crypto economy.”

    El Salvador’s regulatory environment has gained attention for attracting global crypto firms. Popular crypto entities have already relocated strategic operations to the country. Bitget’s licensing strategy aligns with this emerging shift and enables the platform to deliver its services without any disruption. This structure allows the platform to meet demand across both retail and institutional markets with greater legal and operational agility.

    The development reflects ongoing trends in jurisdictional competition among nations seeking to attract digital asset innovation. El Salvador’s CNAD has become increasingly active in evaluating and approving service providers, signaling broader regulatory maturity in the region. As firms navigate evolving global standards, Bitget’s licenses provide a bridge for cross-border growth and the ability to offer compliant financial products to its users worldwide.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c3d0313a-2dcc-4a9f-b25c-150a8b077d28

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minibuses donated to community groups

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Last year, the Council agreed a new minibus disposal policy that offers community groups and sports clubs the opportunity to receive one of Perth and Kinross Council’s 17 minibuses at the end of their operational service period with the Council.

    This is only being offered on these assets based upon their prospective use by community groups.

    All the vehicles come with a minimum six-month MOT certificate and inspection report on its condition.

    The three groups receiving minibuses on Thursday are the Royal Voluntary Service, Perthshire Welfare Society and Mantalk.

    The Royal Voluntary Service will use their minibus to help vulnerable people attend more activities. The minibus will allow them to offer greater support to people who live further away from activities in Perth, Bridge of Earn, Crieff and surrounding villages.

    Perthshire Welfare Society will use their minibus to provide travel to those who do not qualify for free bus travel while Blairgowrie-based Mantalk will use theirs to support activities around mental health and wellbeing for men. They will also allow other groups in the Blairgowrie area, such as the local boxing club and over 35s football team, to use the bus.

    Councillor Grant Laing, leader of Perth and Kinross Council said: “We are delighted to see these minibuses being put to such valuable use within our community.

    “By supporting groups like the Royal Voluntary Service, Perthshire Welfare Society, and Mantalk, we are helping to ensure that vital services and activities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances.

    “This fantastic initiative reflects our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community and making best use of our resources.”

    Councillor Steven Carr added: “When I first discussed the idea of donating PKC minibuses to communities I was told that it would require a complete change of Council policy.

    “It’s great to see that the enthusiasm to make this positive change has resulted in that permanent policy change and it’s great to see the first official handover of minibuses to some excellent community led organisations, and  we look forward to hearing about how big a difference having the use of a minibus is making within our communities.”

    Terry Comiskey, chair of Mantalk said: “This is massive for us. It’s going to help open up ways to help people in the community.”

    Samaira Ali from the Perthshire Welfare Society said: “It will make a massive difference because a lot of people aren’t able to go out or can’t afford transport.

    “This will help people from all communities and I would like to say a massive thank you to Perth and Kinross Council.”

    David Reilly, service manager with the Royal Voluntary Service, said the organisation’s new minibus would help combat social isolation.

    He said: “We are absolutely delighted. We support the elderly in Perth and Kinross and organise outings once a year – this will let us do it once a week instead.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Initiatives : Prime Minister’s participation in the 6th BIMSTEC SUMMIT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 2:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Business

    * Establishment of BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce.

    * Organization of BIMSTEC Business Summit every year.

    * Feasibility study on the possibilities of trade in local currency in the BIMSTEC region.

    IT

    * Pilot study to understand the needs of BIMSTEC countries to share the experience of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

    * Connectivity between UPI and payment systems in the BIMSTEC region.

    Mitigation and Disaster Management

    * Establishing the BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management in India to cooperate in disaster management, relief and rehabilitation.

    * Fourth joint exercises between BIMSTEC Disaster Management Authorities to be held in India this year.

    Security

    * Holding the first meeting of the Home Ministers’ Mechanism in India

    Space

    * Setting up ground stations for manpower training for BIMSTEC countries, manufacturing and launching of Nano Satellites, and use of remote sensing data.

    Capacity Building and Training

    * “BODHI”, i.e., “BIMSTEC for Organised Development of Human resource Infrastructure” initiative. Under this, 300 youth from BIMSTEC countries will be trained in India every year.

    * Scholarships to BIMSTEC students in the Forestry Research Institute of India and expansion of the scholarship scheme at Nalanda University.

    * Taining programme every year for young diplomats from BIMSTEC countries.

    * Tata Memorial Centre to support training and capacity building in cancer care in BIMSTEC countries.

    * Establishment of Centre of Excellence for research and dissemination in traditional medicine

    * Centre of Excellence in India for exchange of knowledge and best practices, research and capacity building for the benefit of farmers.

    Energy

    * BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru has started working.

    * Faster work on electric grid interconnection.

    Youth engagement

    * BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit to be held this year.

    * The BIMSTEC Hackathon and Young Professional Visitors programme will be launched.

    Sports

    * Holding ‘BIMSTEC Athletics Meet’ in India this year.

    * Hosting the first BIMSTEC Games in 2027

    Culture

    * BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival to be held in India this year

    Connectivity

    * Establishment of Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in India to work to enhance coordination in capacity building, research, innovation and maritime policies.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2118698) Visitor Counter : 81

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft held a tournament in high-speed motor oil filling

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft held the Rosneft Magnum Motor Oil Filling Tournament. Professionals Cup. The event was attended by over 150 professional employees of official service stations in Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as auto journalists.

    This is the second such tournament, so many participants were preparing for it and were looking forward to it. According to the rules, it was necessary to quickly and without errors change the Rosneft Magnum engine oil in the engine.

    The tournament was held in two stages. Based on their results, 12 participants reached the final of “Rosneft Magnum. Professionals Cup”, from which three winners were determined in the “Pro” category. Automotive journalists who participated in the tournament in the “Media” category were worthy competition for auto mechanics. Then the most spectacular part of the competition awaited the fans – the super final for the possession of the tournament cup.

    The competition was intense for the participants and emotional for the fans. The panel of judges included representatives of the LADA Sport Rosneft racing team, chief editors and authoritative journalists from industry media.

    The final match was between two finalists in the Media category – Vasily Zelenyi, who completed the task in 02 minutes 31 seconds, and last year’s winner in the Pro category – Dmitry Birichev, who showed a result of 02 minutes 03 seconds. Thus, he became the winner of the Professionals’ Cup for the second year in a row. According to Dmitry, he won not only due to his professionalism and experience, but also due to his family, who always supports him on the court.

    All participants and fans received memorable gifts for participating in the thematic quiz.

    Since 2015, Rosneft has been the general sponsor of LADA Sport ROSNEFT, actively participating in the development of Russian motorsports. Since 2021, the LADA Sport ROSNEFT team has been using Rosneft Magnum Racing sports motor oil, which provides increased engine protection in extreme operating conditions and achieves success on the track.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft April 4, 2025

    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 United Kingdom: Cycling Conference to Wheel into Dundee

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Scotland’s national cycling charity is bringing its conference to Dundee later this year. 

    A senior councillor is welcoming the news, stressing Dundee is delivering improvements for more people to travel by bike across the city. 

    Cycling Scotland will be hosting its annual conference in the city on September 10, which will be attended by organisations which are supporting more people to cycle for everyday journeys. 

    Speakers include transport secretary Fiona Hyslop, Dundee City Council leader Mark Flynn and Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure convener Cllr Steven Rome. 

    Cllr Rome said: “The latest Walking and Cycling Index for Dundee from Sustrans shows us that the majority of people in the city support more segregated cycle paths, more 20-minute and low-traffic neighbourhoods, increasing space for socialising on the streets, and shifting investment away from roadbuilding and towards more sustainable transport. 

    “I realise that there is much to do. However, we have delivered major projects across the city including the provision of secure cycle storage and infrastructure like the Broughty ferry to Monifieth Active Travel corridor and the Bell Street Green Transport Hub to encourage more cycling. 

    “I am looking forward to showcasing Dundee’s cycling strength to an influential audience at the conference.”  

    Denise Hamilton, Head of Communications at Cycling Scotland said: “We’re looking forward to being in Dundee this September for the Cycling Scotland Conference. Each year, we bring experts and decision-makers from across Scotland together, to share learning and acknowledge the progress being made to enable more people to cycle for everyday journeys.  

    “With Dundee hosting this national conference for the first time since 2018, it’s an opportunity to highlight the city’s support for active travel, including the roll-out of on-street cycle storage in residential neighbourhoods and how more young people are being given the chance to gain essential life skills with on-road Bikeability cycle training being delivered at every primary school in Dundee.  

    “Attendees will also look forward to learning more about Dundee’s ambitious plans to develop a network of dedicated cycle routes to connect communities across the city and support more journeys by bike.” 

    Catherine Wykes, Chair of Dundee Cycling Forum, said: “This is a real vote of confidence from Scotland’s national cycling charity and recognizes the progress Dundee City Council are making towards transforming our city into a place where people can choose to cycle for everyday journeys. Cycling is a cheap, healthy way to get about, and giving people that option will contribute towards making Dundee a great place to live, work and visit. 

    “We may still have some way to go, but with the conference bringing experts from across the country to Dundee for the day, this will be an ideal opportunity to showcase what’s been achieved so far and inspire Dundee City Council to keep going until we can claim to be a genuinely cycle friendly city.” 

    You can find out more about the conference on the Cycling Scotland website here  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: National Aquatics Center marks 15th annual ‘Light It Blue’ autism awareness event

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The National Aquatics Center in Beijing illuminates its iconic blue lights on April 2, 2025, to mark World Autism Awareness Day. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
    The National Aquatics Center in Beijing, a venue that has hosted two Olympics, illuminated its facade in blue on Wednesday to mark World Autism Awareness Day for the 15th consecutive year. The event seeks to raise public awareness and promote inclusivity for people with autism.
    This year’s event underscored the values of fairness, unity and perseverance — core principles of sportsmanship — while spreading the message “Respect differences, light up hope.”
    Since its inception in 2011, the venue has been a hub for autism awareness initiatives. Over the past decade, it has hosted public art exhibitions featuring over 5,000 paintings created by children with autism and youth volunteers. Additionally, it has organized more than 10 sports events for disabled individuals, drawing over 6,000 in-person attendees and generating over 450,000 online interactions.
    In 2025, the “Light It Blue” campaign expanded nationwide, with many landmark buildings across China joining in to illuminate their facades in blue. Notable participants included the National Speed Skating Oval, Shanghai Jinmao Tower and Shanghai Pudong Library, all of which displayed their exteriors in blue and broadcast autism awareness messages.

    Children with autism and their families try out curling at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, April 2, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
    Activities at the National Aquatics Center included a range of diverse events. The “family day” featured an interactive curling experience at the Center’s underground ice sports arena, encouraging family bonding through friendly competition. An art exhibition showcased 200 artworks created by young artists with autism, volunteers and musicians, promoting creative expression and communication.

    Artworks by individuals with autism on display at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, April 2, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
    Additionally, a social welfare workshop incorporated art therapy activities such as tactile clay painting and traditional Chinese velvet flower crafts. These activities aimed to enhance sensory development and improve fine motor skills for children with autism.

    Children with autism and their parents engage in a handcraft workshop at the National Aquatics Center in Beijing, April 2, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
    A notable highlight was a forum examining the role of technology in creating a more inclusive society for individuals with autism. Speakers from special education, rehabilitation and psychology discussed innovative ways to utilize artificial intelligence to improve inclusive education and support services for individuals with autism. Participants underscored their commitment to ensuring equal opportunities in education, health care, employment and community involvement.
    The “Light It Blue” campaign’s impact extended beyond Beijing, with parallel events held nationwide. In Nanjing, Jiangsu province, families and volunteers participated in a charity market, selling handmade crafts and artwork to fund autism support programs. Additionally, experts and parents gave public lectures to share insights on autism care.
    In Shanghai, hundreds of paintings by autistic youth were exhibited at the Shanghai Jinmao Tower observatory and a cultural and art development center in the Pudong New Area.
    In Zhuhai, Guangdong province, autism families, social workers and non-profits from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area gathered for a screening of China’s first autism-themed documentary, “Uniquely You.” An accompanying art exhibition highlighted the experiences and aspirations of autistic children, advocating for greater societal acceptance and support.
    As the “Light It Blue” campaign expands, the National Aquatics Center remains dedicated to its social responsibility of promoting inclusivity for individuals with autism.
    Looking ahead, the venue will continue to champion autism awareness and explore innovative ways to promote a more inclusive environment for all.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: FIT football players are winners of the inter-faculty Spartakiad

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University – For almost a month, the sports complex’s game room hosted vivid battles at a football tournament dedicated to Nikolai Petrovich Dyakov, who created the NSU football club and trained a large number of athletes. The competition was included in the Spartakiad among the university’s faculties and institutes, and 10 teams divided into 2 subgroups took part in it.

    In the final, FIT defeated the IFP team with a score of 6:0, and in the match for third place, the NSU SUNC won against the EF students by only 1 goal with a score of 4:3.

    As usual, the following were singled out and awarded:

    Best Goalkeeper – Fedor Brykin, FIT

    Best defender – Alexander Chulzhanov, NSU SUNC

    Best forward – Maxim Ermolaev, FIT

    Best player – Mikhail Korotkov, FIT

    As a result, the places in the Spartakiad were distributed as follows:

    1st place – Faculty of Information Technology: Nikolay Balyasnikov, Ivan Sheldyakov, Sergey Netesov, Saveliy Trushkov, Mikhail Korotkov, Maksim Ermolaev, Dmitry Kravchuk and Fedor Brykin 2nd place – Institute of Philosophy and Law: Saveliy Nekhoroshev, Arseniy Tikhanchik, Ivan Polyakov, Sergey Budyakov, Vladislav Gerasimov, Nikita Pyatakov, Maksim Uporov and Ivan Ugrovatov 3rd place – SUNC NSU: Aleksandr Chulzhanov, Pavel Zinoviev, Aleksandr Plasteyev, Viktor Rudenko, Anton Kan, Artem Bakhetkin, Aleksandr Kornilov and Aleksandr Ruban 4th place – Faculty of Economics

    5th place – Faculty of Geology and Geophysics

    6th place – Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics

    7th place – VKI

    8th place – Faculty of Natural Sciences

    9th place – Institute of Intelligent Robotics

    10th place – Zelman Institute of Medicine and Psychology competitions

    Congratulations to the winners and prize winners, thanks to all the teams for their participation, coach Sergei Mezentsev for organizing, and football veterans, NSU graduates, for helping to hold the tournament!

    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 USA: Senator Cory Booker to hold constituent Town Hall this weekend

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    NEWARK, N.J. – This Saturday afternoon U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) will hold a constituent town hall that is open to the public. Attendees must register to attend the event. Portions of the town hall will be made available online afterwards for those unable to attend. Please click here if you are interested in attending.

    WHO
    U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ)
     
    WHEN
    Saturday, April 5th, 3 p.m. at 3:00 PM
    Doors Open at 2:30 PM
     
    WHERE
    Bergen Community College
    Gymnasium – Pitkin Education Center
    400 Paramus Road, Paramus NJ 07652
     
    Parking Available in Lot B – there will be signs directing you where to park. Download the Campus Map here.  
     
    [NOTE: This event is now happening in Paramus, NJ. Due to demand, this event is no longer in Hackensack, NJ).
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lawler Champions Access to Youth Sports Ahead of Little League Season

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Pearl River, N.Y. – 4/3/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) introduced the Home Run for Kids Act, legislation aimed at supporting families with the cost of organized youth sports. With Little League Opening Day this weekend, it is paramount to ensure every child, no matter their parents’ income, has the option to participate. 

    The Home Run for Kids Act offers a tax credit of up to $200 to help families pay for sports equipment for kids who are involved in organized sports activities. The credit is available to families who earn up to $150,000.

    “Sports like baseball give kids more than just a chance to stay active – they teach them important life lessons about teamwork, discipline, and community. As someone who grew up playing Little League here in the Hudson Valley, I know firsthand the positive impact sports can have. This bill is all about making it easier for families in New York and across the country to give their kids that same opportunity,” said Congressman Lawler. 

    “Let’s enjoy the season and get out there to support our kids – and, of course, ‘Go Yankees!’ You never know – the next MLB stars could be stepping up to the plate at their local ballpark right now.” Congressman Lawler concluded.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    The full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Cantwell Reintroduce Bill to Help U.S. Host Cities Bolster Local Infrastructure Ahead of 2026 World Cup, 2028 & 2034 Olympics

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) – members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation – reintroduced the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act to provide federal funding for local communities to prepare for transportation demands and ensure the successful movement of fans, workers and goods during the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2034 Winter Olympics that will all be held in the United States.
    “It was a tremendous feat to secure a spot as a host city during the 2026 World Cup, and I have no doubt that Kansas City will be a welcoming community for hundreds of thousands of soccer fans from around the world,” said Sen. Moran. “Preparations are already underway for the games, and this legislation will support local community and agency efforts to improve infrastructure to connect fans with businesses, hotels, the airport and other host cities during the World Cup.”
    “With less than 500 days until Seattle hosts its first 2026 World Cup game, we need the Department of Transportation to get in the game and support host cities as they work to showcase the best of American innovation and hospitality,” said Sen. Cantwell. “This bill will help ensure the hundreds of thousands of fans visiting Seattle can get to and from games safely and efficiently by improving coordinated transportation planning across the Pacific Northwest.”
    The United States, Canada and Mexico were selected to host the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and 11 U.S. cities are preparing to host World Cup matches, including Kansas City, Seattle, Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Transportation demands will increase greatly as host cities and surrounding communities are expecting hundreds of thousands of additional visitors from across the globe during the games. Los Angeles will host the 2028 Olympics and Salt Lake City was selected to host the 2034 Winter Olympics.
    This legislation would create a grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide host cities with funding for projects that improve transportation in the region during World Cup or Olympic games. Grants would support permanent transportation projects – building new roads, expanding light rail, purchasing new buses, creating bike lanes, improving existing roads or highways, or making airport terminal improvements. 
    The Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act would:
    Provide resources to host cities through grant funding for projects that improve transportation in the region during World Cup or Olympic games, which could include acquiring buses, improving airports, or building roads.
    Allow DOT to provide technical and planning assistance to host cities, states, and tribes within 100 miles of a World Cup or Olympic event to help improve coordination and prepare regional transportation systems for the influx of fans.
    Allow DOT to facilitate sharing public transportation equipment, such as buses, between host cities and other cities, helping reduce costs while meeting transportation demand.
    Direct the Department of Commerce to study the economic impact hosting the World Cup and the Olympics has on travel and tourism in the United States.
    “We are pleased to see this important transportation assistance legislation introduced in support of Kansas City’s World Cup efforts,” said Pam Kramer, Chief Executive Officer of KC2026. “Senator Moran continues to be a leader in transportation, mobility, safety and security in the Kansas City region. This legislation will give much needed support to our efforts to ensure safe and efficient transportation of people and goods throughout the region during the World Cup. More importantly, these investments and support will help us create sustained and lasting impact beyond the World Cup, improving mobility in the region well beyond 2026.”
    “On behalf of the KCATA, we are grateful that Senator Jerry Moran is demonstrating his foresight and leadership by introducing bipartisan legislation that will help us, and other host cities effectively host these games and move people to where they need to be,” said Frank White III, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). “The Senator’s outreach and understanding of our needs to serve both visitors and residents will help us with effective planning and preparation to host sizable crowds on our transit systems next summer.”
    “We are excited for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to take place in the United States,” said Cindy Parlow Cone, U.S. Soccer Federation President. “We appreciate Senators Moran and Cantwell for introducing legislation to provide the 11 U.S. cities hosting World Cup matches, and the dozens more cities hosting team base camps, fan fests and other events and activities, with the resources they will need to welcome the hundreds of thousands of people that will travel here from around the world.”
    “The USOPC strongly supports the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Host Cities Act, and we thank Senators Moran and Cantwell for their leadership on this issue. This legislation is crucial to ensuring the United States is prepared to host the decade of sport ahead, from the 2026 FIFA World Cup to the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Salt Lake City. This bill will make it possible for cities to enhance their infrastructure and provide a seamless experience for athletes and fans alike. The essential transportation assistance set forward in this bill will help make these global events a success and demonstrate American excellence on the world stage.” – The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee.
    “From ferries to trains, buses to highways, the World Cup will undoubtedly put Washington state’s transportation system to the test,” said Peter Tomozawa, CEO, Seattle FIFA World Cup 26 Organizing Committee. “We appreciate Senator Cantwell’s leadership to provide transportation agencies the support they need so we’re ready to showcase Washington to the world in 2026.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mountain America Credit Union Donates Over 300 Shoes to Idaho Falls Elementary School

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IDAHO FALLS, Idaho, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In partnership with Operation Warm, Mountain America Credit Union donated over 300 brand-new pairs of shoes to students from Hawthorne Elementary on March 20, 2025. Held at the Mountain America Center, the event was a celebration of community spirit and compassion. Volunteers from Mountain America, Mountain America Center, and Idaho State University (ISU) athletics came together to personally fit each child with shoes in their favorite color—ensuring they step into the warmer months with confidence, comfort, and joy.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    “We are so thankful for the support of Mountain America Credit Union and Mountain America Center, and what they have done for our students,” said Mark Morgan, principal of Hawthorne Elementary. “Being able to see the smiles and all the happiness as they put on their new shoes and take them home has been super exciting for them and for us. It’s great to know the love and support that our eastern Idaho community shows to all our students and educators.”

    This initiative is part of Mountain America’s continued effort to support local communities through its donation programs in partnership with ISU athletics. Since 2016, Mountain America has contributed to selected nonprofits for every first down completed by the ISU football team and every three-pointer made by the men’s basketball team. For the 2024–2025 season, Operation Warm was selected to help provide new shoes to children in Eastern Idaho.

    ​In Idaho, approximately 13% of children live below the poverty line, underscoring the critical importance of initiatives like these. Operation Warm’s mission is to provide warmth, confidence, and hope to children through basic need programs that connect under-resourced children to community resources they require to thrive. The provision of new shoes not only offers physical comfort but also enhances a child’s self-esteem and readiness to engage in learning.

    “At Mountain America, our commitment to community shines brightest when we see the joy on children’s faces as they receive new shoes,” said Sterling Nielsen, president and CEO at Mountain America. “Partnering with Operation Warm allows us to provide not just footwear, but also warmth and hope to children in need.”

    To learn more about Mountain America’s community involvement, visit macu.com/newsroom.

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Moomoo and the NY Mets Announce Strategic Partnership to Elevate Fans Experience to the Next Level

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Moomoo, a global investment and trading platform, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the New York Mets in a multiyear multimillion-dollar sponsorship. This collaboration is set to enhance the sports experience for fans, athletes, moomoo customers and New York tri-state area communities through creative initiatives and joint efforts.

    As part of the partnership, moomoo will have both permanent and rotational signage during Mets games at CitiField including the moomoo bullpen! The New York Mets and Moomoo are teaming up to make this baseball season unforgettable! For every Mets win, $10,000 will be added to a special fund, culminating in a jaw-dropping $1 million grand prize for one lucky moomoo investor if the team reaches 100 victories. *

    Taglined as “from bullpen to bull-market, moomoo, your powerful trading platform,” moomoo’s US CEO Neil McDonald said, “We are very excited to partner with New York Mets, not only because I am a baseball fan, but also because we are committed to elevating the fan experience through various interactive games and promotions.”

    “The Mets are excited to partner with moomoo and bring a new, online trading platform to our fanbase,” said M. Scott Havens, President of Business Operations for the Mets. “As more fans become financially savvy and explore online trading, this is a great opportunity to utilize a new, user-friendly platform while also receiving select benefits for upcoming Mets games. The grand prize throughout the season, as well as moomoo Mondays, will bring another exciting element for fans to experience at the ballpark this year.”

    Anything can happen in sports. However analyzing game strategies and predicting winning outcomes add an exciting layer for fans, the same as investors evaluate market trends and make more informed decisions. “Both baseball and trading share the same thrill of combining logic with intuition to navigate uncertainty and potentially help achieve success,” said McDonald who has over 30 years of experience managing derivatives trading at several top Wall Street banks and hedge funds.

    In addition, the partnership will focus on adding to the world-class experience that Mets fans are accustomed to, we are planning special events, give-aways and meet-and-greets, many of which will be wrapped into “Moomoo Mondays”. By leveraging the strengths of both organizations, the alliance aims to deliver an unparalleled experience for Mets fans and the moomoo community.

    Given moomoo’s global presence of 25million users, this partnership will help connect global baseball fans to the New York Mets. Moomoo entered the Japan market less than two years ago, yet it has grown to 1.5 million users.

    “Together, we will drive innovation, inspire communities, and provide unforgettable experiences for sports fans,” McDonald concludes.

    *Terms and conditions apply. Limited to Moomoo Financial Inc customers residing in tri-state area (NY, NJ, CT).

    About moomoo

    Moomoo is a leading global investment and trading platform dedicated to empowering investors with user-friendly tools, data, and insights. Our platform is designed to provide essential information and technology, enabling users to make more-informed investment decisions. With advanced charting tools, pro-level analytical features, moomoo evolves alongside our users, fostering a dynamic community where investors can share, learn, and grow together.

    Founded in the US, moomoo operates globally, serving investors in countries such as the US, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Canada and Malaysia. As a subsidiary of a Nasdaq-listed Futu Holdings (FUTU), we take pride in our role as a global strategic partner of the Nasdaq, earning numerous international accolades from renowned industry leaders such as Benzinga and Fintech Breakthrough. Moomoo has also received multiple awards in the US, Singapore, and Australia for its innovative, inclusive approach to investing.

    Contact:

    For more information, please visit moomoo’s official website at www.moomoo.com or contact us at pr@moomoo.com

    For the New York Mets questions, please contact:

    Katie Agostin

    Manager, Communications

    New York Mets

    kagostin@nymets.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d08f8e3-d2a0-4ddd-bbaf-07a124890af3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/936a6251-e23f-4e69-a59f-ebbd917edf9d

    The MIL Network –