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Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI: BW Energy: granted extension to the Golfinho licence production phase to 2042 by ANP  

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BW Energy granted extension to the Golfinho licence production phase to 2042 by ANP  

    BW Energy is pleased to announce the extension of the Golfinho licence by Brazilian oil and gas regulator ANP. The production phase under the Golfinho concession contract has been extended to 2042 from previously 2031, following ANP’s approval of the Company’s field development plan in November 2024.   

    “The extension supports our long-term plans for developing the Golfinho field, initially through improved operational performance of existing infrastructure and later targeting several proven low risk in-field development opportunities. We see a significant potential for long-term value creation at Golfinho” said Carl K. Arnet, the CEO of BW Energy. 

    BW Energy is the operator with 100% working interest in the Golfinho licence following the August 2023 acquisition of the Golfinho and Camarupim Clusters. It is located in the Espírito Santo Basin with water depths between 1,300 and 2,200 metres. Hydrocarbons are produced to the FPSO Cidade de Vitória, which BW Energy acquired and has operated since November 2023. The field has been producing since 2007.  

    For further information, please contact:

    Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy, +33.7.81.11.41.16 

    ir@bwenergy.com  

    About BW Energy:  

    BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025. 

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A participant in the Basmanny District fair regularly sends food to the front lines

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Svetlana, a new participant of the interregional fair in the Basmanny district from Ryazan, collects parcels for participants of the special military operation (SVO) almost every week. The woman supports the fighters with everything she can – with her own goods and warm clothes, which are never superfluous on the front line. Together with her husband, she communicates with the servicemen, helps them with meaningful words.

    At the fair, Svetlana offers residents a variety of farm products. You can buy milk and dairy products from Ryazan: cheeses, yoghurts, butter, cream and sour cream, as well as baked goods. The woman says that high-quality farm products are in great demand among residents of the area. In the short time she has been working, she has already acquired regular customers.

    Participants of Moscow fairs actively help the soldiers on the front lines and residents of border territories. Thus, from the interregional fair in Otradnoye, northern products are regularly sent to the participants of the SVO: deer and wild boar meat, as well as Yakut fish. City residents can buy such farm products here. Before the New Year, the soldiers were sent a parcel with sweets and tangerines. And a participant of the fair from the Voronezh Region presented residents of the new regions with nuts and dried fruits.

    Moscow fairs and fish markets “Moscow – on the wave” provide a 10 percent discount to participants in the special military operation and their family members.

    At the capital’s fairs you can buy farm products from more than 40 regions of Russia. Each supplier guarantees the quality and freshness of the goods, and specialists Veterinary Committee Moscow check it immediately before sending it to the counter. All fairs are very conveniently located – near public transport stops, metro stations and other crowded places.

    More information about the activities of the capital’s Department of Trade and Services can be obtained from the official telegram channel.

    Participant of capital fairs helps fighters of SVO and residents of Belgorod region

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152003073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Slams LIHEAP Firings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (April 1, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, released the following statement after President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired the entire federal staff of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as a part of the mass firing of 10,000 HHS workers.

    “The Trump administration’s mass firings at HHS are a direct attack on the health, safety, and dignity of American families. Eliminating the entire federal staff responsible for LIHEAP—a program that millions of households depend on to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer—isn’t reform, it’s sabotage.

    “This is what Trump governance looks like: Dismantle the programs people rely on, create chaos in essential services, and leave working families to foot the bill. In my home state of Massachusetts, where energy bills are soaring—and some natural gas bills even doubling this year alone—LIHEAP is a critical lifeline. Now, as extreme weather pushes thermostats to extremes, and the threat of Trump’s tariffs looms ever closer, which will make energy prices climb ever higher, Trump has slashed the staff there dedicated to help. And with that, the Administration is cutting off the federal government’s ability to distribute the critical remaining 10 percent of this year’s LIHEAP funds that families are depending on.

    “I’ve fought for LIHEAP for decades because energy access is a basic human right. From demanding full funding to hosting roundtables with local providers and national advocates, I’ve worked to ensure the program meets the scale of the crisis. That’s why yesterday, I reintroduced my Heating and Cooling Relief Act—to modernize LIHEAP, permanently expand access, and ensure no family is left without support because of bureaucratic dysfunction or political cruelty. These cuts make that fight as urgent as ever.

    “I will keep fighting to restore these jobs, unlock the remaining funds, and guarantee that every family—no matter their income or ZIP code—has access to safe, affordable, clean energy.”

    Despite the urgent need for relief, in 2023, only about 18 percent of income-eligible households received LIHEAP assistance, with less than 3 percent of eligible households receiving cooling assistance. Meanwhile, low-income families spend nearly three times more on energy bills than non-low-income households, and nearly one in six households are behind on their utility bills.

    Senator Markey is a champion for energy access, affordability, and reliability. On Monday, Senator Markey and Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) reintroduced the Heating and Cooling Relief Act, bold legislation to significantly expand and modernize the severely underfunded LIHEAP. In March 2025, he hosted a roundtable with Massachusetts LIHEAP providers, consumer advocates, and national energy assistance organizations to discuss the urgent need to strengthen and expand LIHEAP. In July 2024, Senator Markey and several New England Senators sent a letter to the Department of Energy urging the Department to consider the disproportionate negative impacts of LNG on New England—especially on energy prices—in its underlying environmental and economic analyses for LNG export authorization decisions. In December 2023, Senator Markey led a letter urging the Federal Trade Commission to immediately intervene, investigate, and rigorously enforce consumer protection laws against certain electric supply companies. In October 2023, he celebrated the release of $130 million in LIHEAP funding for Massachusetts, helping residents afford winter heating costs. Additionally, he has pushed for greater investments in home efficiency and electrification to help low-income families reduce their energy burdens. He originally introduced the Heating and Cooling Relief Act with former Representative Jamaal Bowman (NY-16) in January 2022.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kim Il Sung University is exploring the possibility of opening a representative office in Novosibirsk’s Akademgorodok

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Kim Il Sung University, the leading university in the DPRK, is exploring the possibility of opening its representative office in Akademgorodok. Currently, the leadership of Novosibirsk State University, the Presidium of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the scientific and technological park of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok are actively engaged in resolving organizational issues and searching for a potential location for this representative office.

    The opening of the representative office will strengthen scientific and educational ties between North Korea and Russia, create a platform for joint research and exchange of experience in various fields of science and technology, and attract the attention of students and scientists to the educational opportunities provided by Novosibirsk.

    It is expected that this cooperation will result in joint research programs, student and teacher exchanges, and scientific conferences and seminars. This will create additional opportunities for the internationalization of education in both countries and will enhance the level of scientific research.

    — The visit of the delegation of Kim Il Sung University to Novosibirsk took place at the end of January 2025, within the framework of it, the rectors of Novosibirsk State University and Kim Il Sung University expressed confidence that the establishment of the representative office will be an important step towards the development of bilateral relations in the field of science and education. They also emphasized the importance of interaction with international partners to solve urgent scientific and technological problems facing society, – commented Evgeny Sagaydak, Head of the Department of Education Export at NSU.

    In addition, an agreement was reached that a partner school would be found in North Korea for WITHspecializededucationalscientific center of NSU (Physics and Mathematics School). This will allow us to jointly prepare North Korean schoolchildren for admission to Novosibirsk State University, providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills for successful study.

    The delegation of Kim Il Sung University also confirmed its intention to participate in the events of Interweek, which will be held at NSU in late April. This will open up new opportunities for the exchange of experience and knowledge between schoolchildren and teachers, and will also demonstrate interest in establishing closer academic ties between the two countries.

    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 China: Services trade reports steady growth in first two months

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A visitor walks pass the booth of Shanghai during the 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 16, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s services trade saw steady growth in the first two months of the year, including a steep increase in the trade of travel-related services, official data showed on Tuesday.

    The country’s services trade totaled nearly 1.31 trillion yuan (about 182.51 billion U.S. dollars) during the period, up 9.9 percent year on year, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

    Services exports reached 549.58 billion yuan, up 13 percent from a year earlier, and services imports rose 7.8 percent to 759.98 billion yuan, resulting in a deficit of 210.4 billion yuan.

    Trade in travel-related services continued rapid growth momentum, jumping 28.9 percent year on year to reach 409.8 billion yuan, the data showed.

    Meanwhile, trade in knowledge-intensive services rose 2.5 percent year on year to 476.65 billion yuan. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s services trade reports steady growth in first two months

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A visitor walks pass the booth of Shanghai during the 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 16, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s services trade saw steady growth in the first two months of the year, including a steep increase in the trade of travel-related services, official data showed on Tuesday.

    The country’s services trade totaled nearly 1.31 trillion yuan (about 182.51 billion U.S. dollars) during the period, up 9.9 percent year on year, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

    Services exports reached 549.58 billion yuan, up 13 percent from a year earlier, and services imports rose 7.8 percent to 759.98 billion yuan, resulting in a deficit of 210.4 billion yuan.

    Trade in travel-related services continued rapid growth momentum, jumping 28.9 percent year on year to reach 409.8 billion yuan, the data showed.

    Meanwhile, trade in knowledge-intensive services rose 2.5 percent year on year to 476.65 billion yuan. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Living in ‘garbage time’: when 500 million Chinese change their spending habits, the world feels it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christian Yao, Senior Lecturer, School of Management, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

    B.Zhou/Shutterstock

    China’s economic rocket ride appears to be ending – or slowing, at least. Growth has declined from 8.4% in 2021 to 4.5% today, youth unemployment has climbed to 16.9%, and cities are filled with unfinished buildings after the collapse of property developer Evergrande in 2024.

    For a while now, a phrase has been buzzing on Chinese social media sites Weibo and RedNote to describe what’s happening: “garbage time”.

    Borrowed from basketball slang, it refers to the final minutes of a game whose outcome is already decided. The best players sit out. The bench players take over. No one tries as hard because there’s less at stake.

    The term caught on last year and seems to capture a mixture of sadness and dark humour. Basically, people now seem to expect less. It’s not so much an economic crash as a slow decline of hope.

    For those born in the 1980s and 1990s, who grew up during China’s four decades of fast growth, this is a major shift. Wages aren’t climbing, houses are losing value and jobs in tech and finance are harder to find.

    But “garbage time” is also making room for younger and middle-class Chinese to redefine success and contentment. With good jobs, luxury goods and home ownership now harder to attain, a generation is questioning what matters most in a changing socioeconomic landscape.

    From Prada to ‘living light’

    Only ten years ago, many in China’s middle classes were chasing big dreams: they bought homes and designer brands, and sent their children overseas for schooling. “Getting rich is glorious,” former leader Deng Xiaoping once said.

    Many Chinese fully embraced this idea. According to a 2021 study of millennial consumption habits, 7.6 million young Chinese spent an average of 71,000 yuan (US$ 10,375) on luxury goods in 2016, approximately 30% of the global luxury market.

    Now they appear to be changing course, putting that kind of spending on hold because of financial anxiety.

    Take the rising phenomenon of “tang ping”, for instance, which is seeing more young people embrace “living light” and rejecting hustle culture. Or the notion of “run xue” or “run philosophy” – literally the study of how to leave China.

    Young Chinese are marrying later, too, with rising wedding costs and changing attitudes to traditional family values seen as the main reasons.

    Shopping habits appear to confirm the trends. Xianyu, China’s biggest online used-goods seller, reached 181 million users in 2024. Sales topped one trillion yuan, ten times the 2018 level. Chinese car maker BYD now outsells prestige foreign brands.

    This is about more than just saving money. Traditionally, Chinese culture has valued career success and family status, but job scarcity and falling house prices are challenging old assumptions.

    Young Chinese are now questioning the value of hard work in a system that may no longer reward it. They increasingly value personal wellbeing over chasing status. If the trend continues, it could see a new sense of middle-class identity emerge.

    Middle-class Chinese are increasingly turning away from luxury brands.
    B.Zhou/Shutterstock

    Ripples hit the world

    The global implications of all this are significant. When 500 million people change their spending habits, global markets notice.

    A once favoured brand like Apple has lost ground while local brand Huawei gained. Homegrown sportswear maker Li Ning is challenging Nike. Companies that planned for seemingly endless Chinese growth are having to recalculate. Along with other regulatory and geopolitical complexities, this makes planning harder.

    School and work life is changing too. China’s intensive education system has seen pushback from some students and its “996 work culture” (9am to 9pm, six days a week) is fading.

    Overall, China’s economic sprint is slowing to a steadier pace. And this deceleration of the economic model that drove the nation’s rise presents major challenges for its government.

    With Donald Trump’s tariff policies looming in the background, China’s imports declined at the start of this year. Exports still grew, but at a much slower rate.

    The middle-class has been both the engine and the beneficiary of China’s extraordinary growth. But with 40% having seen their wealth decline in recent years, robust consumer confidence cannot be assumed.

    Whether this is a long-term trend or merely a strategic adjustment, for now it seems a new economic identity is emerging. Either way, one thing is certain: when the world’s second-largest economy changes how it spends, everyone feels it.

    Christian Yao 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. Living in ‘garbage time’: when 500 million Chinese change their spending habits, the world feels it – https://theconversation.com/living-in-garbage-time-when-500-million-chinese-change-their-spending-habits-the-world-feels-it-253341

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Avenix Fzco Introduces Avexbot: Data-Driven Precision for Forex Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LIMASSOL, CYPRUS, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avenix Fzco announces the launch of Avexbot, an advanced algorithmic trading system leveraging high-quality tick data to enhance forex trading accuracy. ​In 2025, the trading world is buzzing about the importance of top-notch data, the quality of your data can make all the difference between success and failure. There’s a growing trend towards using top-notch data processing to supercharge trading strategies. Avexbot, developed by Avenix Fzco, is leading the charge by seamlessly integrating high-quality data into its algorithmic framework, giving traders a real edge in the competitive forex market.

    Why Quality Data Matters More Than Ever

    Good trading is all about timing and accuracy. But in fast-moving markets, relying on outdated or poor-quality data can skew analysis and lead to missed or misjudged trades. That’s why dependable, high-resolution tick data is essential. It enables trading systems to track market behavior with more clarity and accuracy, turning raw numbers into real insight.

    Foundations Built on Precision

    Avexbot has been built and refined using 100% quality tick data from Tick Data Suite (Thinkberry SRL). This long-term, high-resolution dataset gives Avexbot the foundation to interpret market conditions accurately, shape its strategies around reliable inputs, and minimize false signals or missed setups.

    Practical Features for Informed Decisions

    Avexbot’s design puts this data to work with a feature set geared toward clear, disciplined trading:

    • Candlestick-Based Momentum Mapping: Avexbot calculates average candlestick values over specific periods based on its examination of daily chart data. This methodology serves as the foundation for identifying market trends and determining opportune moments to enter trades. ​
    • Built for GBP/USD on M15: Focused on one of the most traded currency pairs, it balances opportunity and control with a 15-minute timeframe.
    • Intelligent Risk Management: Includes automatic stop-loss settings and real-time position sizing adjustments, adapting to shifting market conditions to protect capital.

    What’s Next for Algorithmic Trading

    With algorithmic trading expected to grow from $19.95 billion in 2024 to over $22 billion in 2025, quality data and adaptable infrastructure are fast becoming the new standard. Traders using systems built on strong data foundations will be better equipped to handle volatility and evolve with the market.

    Avexbot reflects this movement, where clean data meets careful execution. It’s not about chasing trends, but about building a trading system that holds up over time.

    About Avexbot

    Avexbot is dedicated to providing innovative trading solutions, combining advanced algorithms with expert market insights to enhance forex trading efficiency. Designed for both novice and experienced traders, its expert advisors (EAs) streamline decision-making and maximize profitability. Learn more at https://avexbot.com/.

    Media contact

    Brand: Avexbot

    Contact: PR team

    Email: support@avexbot.com

    Website: https://avexbot.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The RBA’s Monetary Policy Implementation System – Some Important Updates

    Source: Airservices Australia

    Introduction

    I would like to thank KangaNews for the opportunity to discuss some important updates to the system for monetary policy implementation in Australia. The Reserve Bank Board discussed this late last year, and we are now ready to announce operational changes to our Open Market Operations (OMOs) that will support the transition to ample reserves.

    Monetary policy implementation is at the core of the financial system’s plumbing. It is how we give effect to changes in the cash rate target, influence other money market rates and provide liquidity to the banking system. Importantly, it enables us to conduct monetary policy in a way that best contributes to both price stability and full employment.

    The RBA achieves this by providing banks access to Exchange Settlement (ES) balances – otherwise known as reserves. Banks use these funds to settle payments with other banks and the RBA. Banks also hold reserves for precautionary and regulatory purposes. In response to various price signals, and to help manage their reserves and deal with their funding needs, banks borrow and lend reserves in money markets. These transactions underpin key interest rates in the Australian economy – such as the cash rate and short-term money market rates like bank bill swap rates.

    An effective monetary policy implementation system is critical for all market participants. It aids in the smooth transmission of monetary policy, supports good functioning of money markets and hence other key financial markets, and encourages greater resilience in the financial system.

    In March last year, the Reserve Bank Board endorsed the new system for implementing monetary policy. Banks’ demand for reserves would be satisfied in full at our OMOs, at a price near the cash rate target, using full allotment repurchase agreement (repo) auctions. We call this system ‘ample reserves with full allotment’ because it supplies as many reserves as banks demand at our OMOs.

    In April last year, I discussed why the Board endorsed this framework. In brief, it is a simpler and more robust system for us to operate compared with the alternatives. It is also similar to systems used by other central banks, including the European Central Bank and the Bank of England. Banks will determine the amount of reserves they hold to suit their liquidity needs. The system is resilient to structural changes affecting banks’ underlying demand for liquidity as well as policies that might affect the size of the RBA’s balance sheet (such as unconventional policies if they were to become necessary again). At the same time, it implies a materially larger steady-state balance sheet for the central bank compared with pre-pandemic times.

    Over the past year or so, we have been working on the detailed design of this system, and today I am announcing some important changes. I stress that these changes are operational in nature. They do not represent or signal a shift in the stance of monetary policy. Nor do they have a bearing on the Monetary Policy Board’s current approach to allowing bond holdings acquired during the pandemic to mature.

    Specifically, effective from 9 April 2025, we will:

    • increase the price of all new OMO repos by 5 basis points to 10 basis points over the cash rate target; OMO will continue to be offered at a floating rate
    • introduce a seven-day term, in addition to the existing 28-day term, at each weekly OMO.

    Before outlining the Reserve Bank Board’s deliberations and explaining why we have decided to make these changes, I want to review recent market developments.

    Recent developments in markets

    Reserves have declined around $110 billion over the past year (Graph 1). Most of this reflected the final repayment of the Term Funding Facility (TFF) in June 2024. Subsequently, the level of reserves has fluctuated around $240 billion, and the cash rate has remained close to, but slightly below, the cash rate target.

    Activity at our OMOs increased from around $3 billion a week in the June quarter of 2024 and has stabilised around $7 billion. This increase occurred shortly after the final repayment of the TFF, alongside a broader tightening in liquidity conditions in money markets globally. In response, banks accessed more reserves from OMO, and some of those funds appeared to have been recycled into other money markets. This was an early indication that the full allotment system was working as intended – reserves rose automatically in response to an increase in demand for liquidity while increases in money market rates were largely contained (Graph 2).

    Current market conditions suggest that the transition to ample reserves – that is, a level of supply that is in balance with banks’ underlying demand – is ongoing. The stock of reserves remains elevated, reflecting the bonds still on the RBA’s books that we purchased during the pandemic. Our expectation is that reserves will continue to decline gradually for a time in response to the decline in the RBA’s bond holdings. Eventually though, the supply of reserves will approach banks’ underlying demand, and thereafter banks’ participation in OMO should pick up to offset the effect of further declines in the RBA’s bond holdings.

    Underlying demand for reserves is hard to estimate and it will only become evident as we approach ample reserves. We have done modelling work and banks have also provided us with estimates of their own demand for reserves. This suggests that underlying reserves could be anywhere between $100 and $200 billion. An advantage of our full-allotment system in the face of such uncertainty is that the transition to ample reserves can occur without us needing to know the level of banks’ underlying demand ahead of time. OMO use will rise automatically. Such a move, combined with an assessment of market conditions and liaison with the banks, will indicate when reserves have reached an ‘ample’ level. Private market activity may also increase as we approach this point – particularly in the short-term repo and cash markets. This is because banks wanting additional reserves on non-OMO days will seek to borrow them in private markets. Other banks can lend reserves if they have more than they need. The scale of this activity will depend in part on the extent to which banks choose to economise on their reserve holdings, given that obtaining reserves at OMO and leaving them in ES accounts comes at a cost to the banks. I will come back to this point in a moment.

    Principles for an ample reserves system

    Over the past year, the RBA has consulted banks, estimated the underlying demand for reserves, and considered the ways in which the new ample reserves system might operate. We have published a summary of consultation responses on our website today; thank you to those who contributed. This work informed discussions at the Reserve Bank Board late last year at which three key principles for the ample reserves system were considered:

    1. Sufficient monetary control. The Board agreed that the primary objective for monetary policy implementation was to achieve sufficient ‘monetary control’. This involves the cash rate trading close enough to the target with other short-term interest rates tethered to the cash rate to be consistent with the desired stance of monetary policy.
    2. Supporting private markets. The Board agreed that we could achieve the primary objective of monetary control while still allowing deviations of the cash rate from target. Allowing the cash rate to trade within a modest range will avoid the RBA having an overly large presence in markets and thereby encourage banks to use private markets. Well-functioning private markets will help banks to better manage their funding needs in normal times and times of stress. Banks can be encouraged to use private markets by setting the price for OMO in a way that avoids the RBA having an overly large presence in the repo market. Using a mix of different operations to supply reserves could also be used to avoid an overly large presence in any one market.
    3. Minimising risk to the RBA balance sheet. Providing reserves carries risks for the RBA – both financial and operational. The size and nature of the risks depend on the quantity of reserves as well as the characteristics of the operations used to supply them. Under an ample system, the RBA will provide more reserves compared with the earlier corridor system. OMOs do not carry interest rate risk because the floating rate of our OMOs is linked directly to the rate we pay on our liabilities. However, the use of other operations to supply reserves could entail financial risk.

    A key question we considered was how to balance these principles given there is some tension between them. For example, we could have a high degree of monetary control by setting a low price for OMO close to the ES rate. But that would encourage banks to obtain a lot of reserves via OMO, crowding out private market activity and implying a large balance sheet for the RBA. Decisions on the configuration of OMO as well as the mix of other operations to supply reserves will need to balance these various trade-offs.

    Changes to the configuration of our OMOs

    We have been running full-allotment OMOs since the onset of the pandemic. We switched these from daily to weekly auctions from October 2021. We then offered a term of 28 days and at a price 5 basis points above overnight indexed swaps from early 2022. We then switched this price to a floating rate that was 5 basis points above the cash rate target from February of last year. The system has worked well under an excess reserves system and has delivered an acceptable degree of monetary control. However, as reserves will decline further, and demand for OMO will pick up when reserves are no longer in excess of banks’ underlying needs, we judged that some further changes were warranted.

    A key issue is that at a price of 5 basis points above the cash rate target, meeting a large increase in the demand for funds at OMO might impair, at least at the margin, the health of other private money markets. Similarly, this low price for OMO will lead to a larger RBA balance sheet than otherwise and implies a tighter degree of monetary control that we judged to be necessary. At the same time, the current 28-day tenor is too long for those banks that may need additional reserves for only short periods, and it is much longer than the tenor of some key markets, particularly for overnight cash.

    The changes I have announced will better allow us to balance the various trade-offs between meeting the three principles I have outlined. The two changes effective from 9 April 2025 are:

    • We will increase the price of all new OMO repos from 5 basis points to 10 basis points over the cash rate target.
    • We will offer a seven-day tenor in addition to the current 28-day tenor.

    Auctions will continue to take place once a week (generally on a Wednesday morning).

    An OMO rate of 10 basis points over the cash rate target remains consistent with the Board’s desired degree of monetary control. Under this higher OMO price, we expect the cash rate will trade within a reasonable range of the cash rate target. Accordingly, the cash rate, and other money market rates, will be consistent with the desired stance of monetary policy.

    Importantly, this higher price for OMO implies a lower overall demand for reserves than otherwise. The higher price will provide more of an incentive for participants to recycle reserves in private markets. Banks can still come to OMO to acquire reserves to meet their payment needs and obtain ‘precautionary reserves’ for unexpected liquidity needs or to lend to others. But the higher price will reduce banks’ incentives to obtain more reserves at OMO than necessary. A bank can make good use of private markets as a source of reserves if they face an unexpected need for funds.

    Offering a seven-day tenor has a couple of benefits. OMO will provide a closer substitute to overnight cash and funding from other short-term money markets. By itself, this will strengthen the degree of monetary control over those key markets. This decision is also consistent with feedback from market participants that a shorter tenor would help them to better manage their liquidity needs. However, respondents to the consultation also expressed an interest in the 28-day tenor. Retaining that longer tenor allows banks and the RBA to more efficiently manage their OMO activity by reducing operational burdens associated with more frequent rolling of positions.

    During consultation some market participants wanted more frequent operations, but we believe the current weekly auction is enough to anchor the cash rate and other money market rates to the target. This setup also encourages banks to use private markets, especially on non-OMO days. In line with APRA’s standards, banks must have strong frameworks for forecasting their liquidity demands and managing their liquidity risks. These processes are becoming more important as banks need to increasingly engage in private money markets to meet their liquidity needs.

    As we transition to the ample reserves system, the RBA and market participants will gain valuable insights. We will actively monitor market conditions, engage with banks, and respond if needed, including by adjusting our OMO or other administered rates.

    Features of the ample reserves system

    Private markets

    As we transition to ample reserves, some banks may need more liquidity than their current ES balances. One option is to borrow reserves from a bank with a surplus, benefiting banks on both sides of such transactions. This private activity may be associated with short-term volatility in money markets as prices adjust to supply and demand changes. Within reasonable bounds, this is a sign of healthy markets. Weekly full allotment OMOs will help banks meet their liquidity needs. But to limit volatility, banks should be ready to transact in various markets, including the cash market. Banks might use OMOs to acquire reserves for precautionary reasons or to lend into other markets when prices are high. Over time, banks will refine their reserve management approaches in the ample reserves system.

    The RBA’s overnight standing facility

    If banks face unexpected liquidity needs on a non-OMO day or after OMO has taken place, and cannot find liquidity on suitable terms in private markets, we would expect and encourage them to use the RBA’s overnight standing facility (OSF). This facility provides reserves overnight at 25 basis points above the cash rate target, thereby limiting deviations in money market rates from the cash rate target set by the Monetary Policy Board. While the price is set to avoid displacing private market activity, it provides an incentive for banks to use the facility when other sources are more expensive.

    Historically, market participants have been reluctant to use this facility. However, both the RBA and APRA expect that banks should use the OSF as part of their liquidity management if they fall short on their daily liquidity needs. We will encourage its use as part of the new normal.

    In the rare case of broader stress across the banking system, the RBA could run an unscheduled OMO. But that would not be the standard approach in the case of a few banks requiring additional liquidity that could otherwise be provided in the market or via the OSF.

    Other operations

    In addition to our open market repo operations, the RBA plans to use other operations to provide reserves across a range of markets, including foreign exchange swaps and purchases of short-dated government bonds. We would not use these to influence rates or liquidity in those markets. Rather, they will help the RBA to limit the extent of our footprint in any one market, particularly the repo market, and manage operational risks. The use of these operations is expected to be some time away since reserves supplied via OMO should gradually rise to meet demand as the supply of reserves from our existing bond holdings declines. We will outline our plans for these operations before actively using them to manage monetary policy implementation.

    The rate paid by the RBA on reserves

    When the RBA moved to an excess reserves system in March 2020, banks had little need to borrow in the cash market, and the cash rate became closely anchored to the ES rate (Graph 3). The Reserve Bank Board narrowed the spread between the cash rate target and ES rate to 10 basis points and announced the ES rate in its monetary policy decisions. As we continue to transition to ample reserves, borrowing rates in private markets will rise as demand for liquidity from those sources increases, partly due to the higher rate at our weekly OMO. Consequently, the ES rate will be less significant as an anchor. Because of this, starting in May the Monetary Policy Board will announce the cash rate target in its decisions but not the ES rate.

    Moreover, from time to time the RBA may adjust the ES rate if that will help to better meet the objectives of the ample reserves system. For example, we may need to provide market participants with more of an incentive to recycle excess reserves by altering the ES rate, thereby changing the opportunity cost of holding reserves. Any such adjustments would be purely operational in nature and would not represent a shift in the stance of monetary policy. Indeed, such changes in the ES rate could occur as needed. While we would convey these clearly to the market, such changes would not require the approval of, or announcement by, the Monetary Policy Board.

    Next steps

    To reiterate, the changes to our operations will take effect on 9 April 2025.

    It is important that banks focus on their liquidity management practices as we continue to transition to the ample reserves system. During the excess reserves period, many did not need to top up their reserves, but now all banks must be ready to use our facilities and transact in private markets.

    The RBA and APRA will encourage banks to use the overnight standing facility as needed as part of their routine liquidity management. Today we have released a joint statement to emphasise this commitment and together we will engage with banks to ensure they understand the role of the OSF and are comfortable and ready to use it to manage liquidity as the system transitions to an ample level of reserves.

    Meanwhile, we will continue to monitor conditions in key markets, including by talking regularly with market participants.

    Finally, I stress that these changes have no implications for the stance of monetary policy. They do, however, represent important changes in the plumbing that supports the transmission of monetary policy and underpins critical activities across the financial system.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Export Sector – Entries open for 2025 Hawke’s Bay Export Awards

    Source: Business Central

    The ExportNZ ASB Hawke’s Bay Export Awards are returning in 2025 to recognise the successes of local businesses on the world stage. Now in its 11 th year, the Export Awards is a celebration of outstanding exporters in the Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne region and their contribution to the wider economy.
    Details of the ExportNZ ASB Export Awards were announced today by ExportNZ Hawke’s Bay Executive Officer, Amanda Liddle:
    “These awards are a recognition of the incredible mahi of exporters across the Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay region, who continue to deliver excellence in spite of several challenging years,” Liddle says.
    “The Government has a goal of doubling the value of New Zealand exports in a decade. These awards showcase the outstanding efforts of businesses who are well on the way.
    “A new category has been added this year, the NZME Service to Export Award, which is nominations based. It recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the export industry.
    “The awards are a great way to not only celebrate businesses making their way on the world stage but to also acknowledge the people who make a real difference to the export community,” Liddle says. 
    Continuing awards include the ContainerCo Best Emerging Business Award (turnover under $5 million a year) and T&G Global Best Established Business Award (turnover of more than $5 million a year).
    Also back for another year is the popular Napier Port Unsung Heroes Award, which recognises individuals who go above and beyond in their role to support the business and the export community. Anyone can nominate a person for this category.
    ExportNZ is also pleased to welcome ZIWI as sponsors of the ZIWI Excellence in Innovation Award, just months after the company was crowned ExportNZ ASB Hawke’s Bay Exporter of the Year in 2024.
    Hannah Christensen, Chief People, Sustainability and External Relations Officer at ZIWI, says the company is delighted to continue its relationship with ExportNZ as sponsors in 2025:
    “ZIWI is proud to stand alongside our industry peers within the vibrant Hawke’s Bay export community,” says Christensen.
    “The hard-working manufacturers and producers of this region thrive due to their passion and commitment for innovation. We could not be better placed to sponsor the ZIWI Excellence in Innovation Award, as pioneers of our own world-leading Air-dried technology, ensuring ZIWI stands head-and-shoulders above our international competitors.
    “We can’t wait to celebrate with this year’s winners and once again be part of this special event for the region,” Christensen said.
    Any exporter located from Gisborne to Pahiatua is eligible to enter the ExportNZ ASB Hawke’s Bay Export Awards. Judging criteria includes core operations and achievements related to export activities, and award entrants will also receive site visits by the judging panel.
    All category winners will be eligible to win the supreme award,  ASB Exporter of the Year. The winner, along with the other category winners, will go on to the New Zealand International Business Awards in November.
    Entries for the awards close on the 5 th of June, with site visits taking place late June and early July. Finalists will be announced on the 7 th of July, with the Awards Gala Dinner on the 31 st July at Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre.
    The Awards’ judging panel this year comprises of Wayne Norrie ONZM; ASB Head of International Trade; Mike Atkins; and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s Head of Focus Customers Dan Taylor. The team are excited to welcome back Dash Group’s Sarah Sherriff, from Icebreaker, Fix and Fogg and Whitakers fame.
    Principal sponsor and judge Mike Atkins, ASB Head of International Trade, said he’s looking forward to this year’s awards:
    “We are delighted to support the Export Awards again this year,” said Atkins.
    “It is an opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses taking Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne to the world. This year’s judges will have a difficult job on their hands as the region’s export sector is recovering strongly.”
    ExportNZ Hawke’s Bay’s Amanda Liddle said exporters are achieving success in spite of challenging times:
    “Geo-political tensions are the highest they’ve been in a long time, and exporters have to navigate their way through the frequently changing trade policies in offshore markets.
    “The region is however in full production mode, with reports that it is going to be a fantastic harvest for our pip fruit sector, farmers fetching better meat prices, timber mills in production, and our businesses affected by Gabrielle starting to get back on their feet.
    “If businesses are looking for a way to celebrate the hard work of their team, then this is it. It’s quick and easy to enter and always a rewarding experience.
    “With so many developments shaping the trade landscape, it is more important than ever for exporters to stay engaged and prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead,” Liddle said.
    ExportNZ would like to thank Hawke’s Bay Airport for sponsoring the gala dinner. It would also like to acknowledge fellow sponsors New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Heretaunga Hastings District Council, Napier City Council and Craggy Range Winery for their support of the awards.
    Entry forms, criteria requirements and registration forms for the Awards dinner are available on the ExportNZ website, www.exportnz.org.nz
    ExportNZ Hawke’s Bay is overseen by Business Central, which represents 3,500 employers across the lower North Island and Nelson. Business Central provides employer, health and safety, and human resources advice, and advocates for policies that reflect the interests of the business community. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ChildFund Brings Clean Water to Thousands in Remote Solomon Islands

    Source: ChildFund New Zealand

    ChildFund New Zealand CEO and team met with Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of Solomon Islands, community leaders, and the Premier of the Provincial government of Temotu the Honourable Stanley Tehi, to design the next phase of clean water and nutrition projects funded by the New Zealander public and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
    “Aid budgets are being cut globally, and the impact of aid is being questioned. Organisations like ChildFund must demonstrate how we make a measurable difference with New Zealand’s aid,” says Josie Pagani, CEO of ChildFund.
    “Everything we do is led and owned by local leaders, nationally and at the community level, which gives our programmes the best chance of making a long-term difference. Locals know their communities best.”
    Solomon Islands has one of the highest rates of child stunting in the world, with one-third of children under the age of fiveaffected by stunting (impaired physical growth and brain development) due to lack of nutritious food during pregnancy and the first year.
    Too many children get sick, or worse, die from diseases like dysentery from drinking unclean water. Infant mortality rates are high. Eighteen out of 1000 children die before the age of five, compared with about four in every 1000 in New Zealand.
    “These statistics are entirely preventable. With better access to clean water and nutritious food, we can turn them around.”
    ChildFund is working with Greenergy Pacific, its local partner in Temotu, to deliver clean water to 18 villages that have no access to running water at the moment.
    Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele expressed gratitude to ChildFund New Zealand for its continued support in addressing key development challenges that remain critical in rural Solomon Islands, including access to water, education, renewable energy, and skills training.
    ChildFund CEO and Greenergy Pacific CEO, Sharon Inone, were also invited to attend the opening Assembly (parliament) of the Provincial Government. ChildFund is the first international NGO to be invited onto the floor of the Assembly to sit with ministers and MPs.
    “This demonstrates the deep trust and commitment to partnership between ChildFund and the Provincial Government. We don’t arrive with a list of our own ideas. We get behind the plans of the national and local governments, and support local community organisations like Greenergy Pacific to implement these water and food projects.”
    ChildFund’s work in Solomon Islands includes the following:
    • Rebuilding the Nembo water pipe network in Temotu and replacing the broken diesel generator with a solar-powered pump, to bring clean running water to 18 villages
    • Working with local experts to improve soil quality and grow diverse food crops in schools and community gardens
    • Training counsellors and youth workers to support mental health
    • Supporting local groups in their campaign to make child marriage illegal
    • Supporting a physical ‘women’s refuge’, and a hotline for help, for those escaping domestic violence
    “This trip will help us to design the next few years of activities, and expand our clean water and nutrition projects to more villages, as well as do more to support young people to upskill and generate their own incomes. Knowing that we are aligned with the Solomon Islands’ plans for its own development is what will make these programmes successful.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Dr. Oz’s Confirmation, Senators Urge Crackdown on Private Medicare Insurers that Scam Patients, Price Gouge Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 01, 2025

    Senators call for ending contracts, limiting enrollment for Medicare Advantage insurers that defraud seniors and taxpayers

    “The most effective step the Administration can take in cutting waste, fraud, and abuse in federal health care programs is by reining in the wasteful practices of corporate health insurers in the MA program.” 

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a group of Senate Democrats in writing to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, and Stephanie Carlton, Acting Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), urging them to crackdown on abuses by private insurers in Medicare Advantage (MA) that overcharge taxpayers, raise costs for patients, and create barriers to access care. 

    Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) joined in signing the letter. 

    While the MA program was founded on the premise that private insurers could administer Medicare more cost-efficiently than the federal government, the program has failed to deliver savings in any year since its inception. In fact, in 2024 alone, private insurers in the program overcharged taxpayers by $83 billion relative to Traditional Medicare, while overpayments to private insurers in MA are expected to total $1.2 trillion dollars over the next decade.

    Despite these massive taxpayer overpayments, private insurers in MA routinely slow down and deny medically necessary care for patients that otherwise would be approved under Traditional Medicare. MA patients are also more likely to be given inadequate care due to profit-padding insurance tactics, including early hospital discharges and shorter lengths of stay in care settings like nursing homes. 

    “At a time when Americans are paying nearly $26,000 per family in premiums per year, while the largest US insurer made $23 billion in annual profits, reining in profiteering could not be more important,” wrote the senators. 

    Ahead of CMS finalizing the 2026 Medicare Advantage Rate Notice (2026 Rate Notice), which sets payment rates for insurers in the program, the senators asked CMS to make four key reforms to the Medicare Advantage rules:  

    1. Eliminate waste and abuse from overpayments: CMS should finalize and adopt new rules for how risk adjustment is calculated, which will limit insurers’ misuse of diagnosis codes and save taxpayers $3.4 billion. Additionally, CMS should take the necessary enforcement actions, including restricting future enrollment in plans that engage in fraud and terminating MA plan contracts, to ensure MA organizations report and return overpayments in a timely manner.
    2. Strengthen enforcement against MA insurers that illegally deny care: CMS should conduct strong oversight and enforcement when reviewing and approving MA benefits to ensure they adequately cover patients and do not subject enrollees to inappropriate and unnecessary barriers to care, like incorrect prior authorization determinations. About 50 million prior authorization requests were required by MA insurers in 2023, most commonly for higher cost, urgent services such as chemotherapy, inpatient hospital stays, and skilled nursing facility stays. 
    3. Address additional barriers to care: CMS should develop new regulations to crack down on MA insurer’s use of artificial intelligence programs, which have been used to incorrectly deny life-saving care and dangerously discharge patients early. The senators also pressed CMS to hold MA insurers accountable for using “ghost” networks to restrict care for seniors and people with disabilities. 
    4. Enact reforms to reduce disparities in care: The lawmakers urged lawmakers to take steps to improve disparities in care across race, ethnicity, and ability.

    “These actions are crucial to improve health outcomes and ensure Medicare’s sustainability for future generations,” concluded the senators.

    Senator Warren is a leading voice on reining in abuses in Medicare Advantage and protecting patients:

    • In March 2025, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren pressed Dr. Oz on taxpayer fraud committed by private, for-profit insurers in the Medicare Advantage program. Dr. Oz agreed with Senator Warren that cracking down on private health insurers in Medicare Advantage will “improve the health care of the American people.”
    • In March 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to Dr. Mehmet Oz, Trump’s nominee for Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), pressing him on his serious conflicts of interest. Dr. Oz has long been tied to Medicare Advantage insurers, which would benefit if he successfully privatizes Medicare, and which have paid him to encourage his show’s viewers to enroll in private Medicare plans. 
    • In January 2025, in a Fox News Digital op-ed, Senator Elizabeth Warren outlined her recommendations for cutting government waste to make government more efficient and save taxpayers money, including by rooting out corruption by Medicare Advantage insurers. 
    • In January 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren sent Elon Musk, Chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a letter detailing over 30 proposals that would cut at least $2 trillion of wasteful government spending over the next decade, including by curbing abuse by Medicare Advantage insurers that overcharge taxpayers.
    • In December, 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) urged the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to finalize rules to curb overpayments to private insurers in Medicare Advantage.
    • In December 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren led a group of Congressional Democrats in a letter to Dr. Mehmet Oz, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, raising stark concerns about his advocacy to eliminate Traditional Medicare and his deep financial ties to the private health insurers that would benefit from that move.
    • In June 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Federal Trade Commission, calling out high health care costs due to vertically-integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation. The letter came in response to the three agencies’ March 2024 cross-government inquiry into the impacts of corporate greed in health care, and highlights examples of abusive and anticompetitive behavior by companies in the health care industry.
    • In May 2024, at a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Warren called out private insurers in Medicare Advantage for accelerating the rural hospital crisis.
    • In March 2024, Senators Warren and Brown led their colleagues in a letter to HHS and CMS that urged the agencies to protect seniors by holding insurance companies accountable for abuses in Medicare Advantage.
    • In January 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) sent a letter to CMS, urging the agency to take administrative action to curb billions in overpayments to MA insurers.
    • In December 2023, Senators Warren, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to the CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, raising concerns about shortfalls in CMS’s data collection and reporting practices for MA plans, and urging CMS to close data gaps to strengthen oversight of MA plans and improve care for Medicare beneficiaries. 
    • In November 2023, Senators Warren, Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and Blackburn introduced bipartisan legislation to improve transparency of MA plans and ensure these plans are best serving the health care needs of America’s seniors. The Encounter Data Enhancement Act would require Medicare Advantage plans to report important information about how much they are actually paying for patient services and how much patients are responsible for paying out-of-pocket. 
    • In November 2023, at a Senate Finance Committee markup of the Better Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs, and Extenders Act, Senator Warren highlighted the need to do more to prioritize hearing health for seniors and strengthen transparency in Medicare Advantage, and secured commitments from Senate Finance Committee leadership to prioritize these proposals in future packages. 
    • In October 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren called out giant MA insurers for using deceptive marketing tactics to lure seniors into the wrong plans and drown out competition from smaller insurers that may offer better coverage. Senator Warren called on CMS to act within the fullest extent of its authority to crack down on MA insurers that game the system to overcharge the government and to ensure insurers publish accurate data on patient care and out-of-pocket costs. 
    • In May 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren highlighted the prevalence of ghost networks in Medicare Advantage plans and called for stronger oversight of the program.
    • In March 2023, Senator Warren sounded the alarm on a new analysis by policy experts showing that all Medicare beneficiaries – including those enrolled in Traditional Medicare – are paying higher premiums due to overpayments in MA. She sent a letter to CMS and called on the agency to finalize its proposed rule to ensure payments to MA plans accurately reflect the cost of care. 
    • In March 2023, U.S. Senators Warren and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) sent letters to the top seven MA insurers – Humana, Centene, UnitedHealthcare, CVS/Aetna, Molina, Elevance Health, and Cigna – regarding their questionable claims that CMS’s 2024 proposed Medicare Advantage payment rules would hurt beneficiaries.
    • In March 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Warren defended CMS’s proposed adjustments to the Calendar Year 2024 MA payment rates, pushing back against giant insurance companies and their lobbyists who are peddling misinformation to protect their billions in profits and scare beneficiaries into opposing the rule. 
    • In April 2022, Senator Warren and Representatives Katie Porter (D-Calif.), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), and Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) led their colleagues in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure highlighting concerns about overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans that line the pockets of big insurance companies.
    • In February 2022, chairing a hearing of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth, Senator Warren delivered remarks about strengthening Medicare and cracking down on pharmaceutical and insurance companies’ corporate greed to pay for expanded coverage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Democratic Senators to Bondi: Appoint Special Counsel to Investigate Signal Chat National Security Breach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Democratic Senators to Bondi: Appoint Special Counsel to Investigate Signal Chat National Security Breach

    Senators to Attorney General: “These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined 30 Senate Democrats in urging U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to appoint a Special Counsel to investigate whether government officials violated federal criminal laws in connection with a reported security breach involving the commercial messaging app Signal. On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had inadvertently included him in a group Signal chat with several high-ranking national security officials. The group reportedly shared and discussed highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information via the unsecure Signal group chat.

    “In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations,” wrote the Senators. “Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.”

    The Signal group chat, started by Mr. Waltz, included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, and at least 18 other government officials. The group reportedly discussed not only the foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, but also real-time operational details, including the timing of planned attacks, types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and strike outcomes. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude, involving some of the highest-ranking officials in the federal government, constitutes the type of extraordinary circumstance the Special Counsel regulations were designed to address.

    “These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike,” continued the Senators.

    The Senators warned that the use of Signal for such communications may violate federal law. For example, grossly negligent handling national of national defense information can violate the Espionage Act. Additionally, the Federal Records Act requires preservation of certain government communications, and the destruction of such records may constitute a separate criminal offense. Statements made by the officials involved — in testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees — raise further concerns about possible violations of laws prohibiting false statements, perjury, inducement to perjury, and conspiracy to commit these offenses.

    “During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to ‘an equal, fair system of justice’ if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that ‘no one is above the law.’ As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately,” concluded the Senators.

    The letter was led by U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). In addition to Senator Padilla, Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) also signed the letter.

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken about the Trump Administration’s dangerous mishandling of sensitive and classified information. Last week, he called on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to resign, citing his staggering incompetence and lack of judgment, carelessly exposing troops to greater danger.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group message chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app. In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations. Given the extraordinary circumstances of this shocking incident and the significant public interests at stake, it is imperative that you immediately appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved violated federal criminal law.

    Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.

    The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officials presents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.

    These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike.

    These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws pertaining to the proper safeguarding and preservation of such information. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Signal allows users to schedule messages for deletion after certain time periods and Mr. Waltz appears to have set the chat messages to delete initially after one week and then later in the chat changed the setting to delete messages after four weeks. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees by several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.

    Even prior to his first Administration, President Trump campaigned for the need to prosecute and “lock up” individuals who allegedly “bypass government security” or “sent and received classified information on an insecure server.” Further, as an avowedly loyal and zealous advocate for the President, you echoed these same sentiments prior to your confirmation. Given the extraordinary nature of this security breach by senior Trump Administration officials, the likelihood that these actions needlessly endangered American lives and our nation’s security, the importance of putting our nation’s security before partisan political interests, and the range of federal criminal laws that may have been violated, it is imperative that the Department of Justice conduct a thorough investigation to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any criminal charges are warranted against any of the government officials involved.

    During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to “an equal, fair system of justice” if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that “no one is above the law.” As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Continues to Champion Cryptocurrency, Calls President Trump the “Crypto President”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) reintroduced two pieces of legislation related to protecting American cryptocurrency.
    Senator Tuberville’s first bill, the Financial Freedom Act, would reverse a Biden-era memo from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that limits options for where Americans can invest their retirement earnings. The Financial Freedom Act would allow Americans to choose how they want to invest their money, including in crypto.
    “The Biden administration was hellbent on controlling every aspect of Americans’ lives,” said Senator Tuberville. “Meddling in 401(k) investments through overregulation restrains financial growth and restricts personal liberty. The federal government, which is $36 trillion debt, shouldn’t be telling anyone how to invest their money. My bill ensures that hardworking Americans have the financial freedom to make decisions about how to invest their retirement savings.”
    Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville’s second bill, the Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act, would prohibit the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from registering a digital commodity platform that is owned in whole or in part by an entity organized or established in China. It also requires the CFTC to revoke the registration of any digital commodity platform in the event an entity with ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) acquires all or any part of the ownership of the entity.
    Digital commodity platforms collect and store personally identifiable information — including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and sensitive financial account data — of their users. Allowing entities based in the PRC to access this information raises serious concerns related to investor protection, data privacy, national security, sanctions compliance, and anti-money laundering efforts. Companies based in the PRC all ultimately answer to the CCP.
    “For four years, the Biden administration put America last – bowing to China at every turn and allowing our adversaries to get ahead,” said Senator Tuberville. “Thanks to President Trump, those days are over. Crypto is the future and we have to make sure our markets are protected from bad actors like China who want to destroy us. This critical bill will protect our markets and make Americans safer.”
    Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville discussed his legislation on Fox Business with Larry Kudlow.
    BACKGROUND:
    FINANCIAL FREEDOM ACT
    The Financial Freedom Act would reverse regulatory guidance released by the Employee Benefits Security Administration, an agency inside of U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The guidance attempts to bar 401(k) investors from investing in cryptocurrency and undermines the ability of 401(k) plans to offer brokerage windows, which give retirement plan participants the ability to personally control how their assets are invested.
    The DOL guidance threatens that employers and investment firms could be subject to investigation and enforcement actions should they allow individuals using brokerage windows to invest in cryptocurrency. Senator Tuberville’s bill would bar such investigations and enforcement actions, opening the door for Americans to invest their savings in investments of their choice. 
    Senator Tuberville has consistently been an outspoken advocate in Congress for personal financial freedom. 
    Senator Tuberville previously introduced the Financial Freedom Act in the 117th Congress and penned an op-ed warning against government infringement on personal investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Financial Freedom Act.
    Senator Tuberville joined 36 of his U.S. Senate colleagues in introducing the Fair Access to Banking Act, a bill to protect fair access to financial services by preventing banks and financial institutions from discriminating against law-abiding businesses.
    Senator Tuberville added his support to a resolution that would challenge the Biden administration’s rule to allow retirement fund managers to consider and prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors while making retirement investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to protect Americans’ financial privacy against government surveillance.
    Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act
    The CCP’s efforts to mine data and surveil the public are well known, and decisive action is needed to safeguard the American people. Under current law, U.S. regulators have limited tools to block the purchase of a U.S. digital commodity platform by a CCP-tied entity. The Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act will help to wall off the burgeoning U.S. digital asset industry from Chinese interference and help to ensure continued American leadership in financial innovation. 
    Senator Tuberville believes the CCP seeks to overtake the United States as the top global superpower and that America must face China’s growing military and non-military threats with clear-eyed resolve.
    Since assuming office in the U.S. Senate in 2021, Senator Tuberville has led and supported numerous efforts to protect American investments, intellectual property, and national security from China.
    Senator Tuberville led the call for an investigation into Webull Financial, LLC and Moomoo, Inc. – two Chinese-owned stock trading apps operating in the United States that are registered with the SEC and FINRA.
    Both apps are widely used by American investors and freely collect and store sensitive information about users, including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and financial account data.
    In May 2023, Senator Tuberville sent a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler and FINRA President and CEO Robert Cook calling for oversight of the trading platforms due to the potential CCP access of American user data. In the letter, Senator Tuberville asked for answers to critical questions about the ability of the SEC and FINRA to examine the Chinese companies’ compliance with U.S. law.
    In March 2023, Senator Tuberville led a congressional delegation to Panama to discuss countering China’s growing influence in the region.
    On the trip, Senator Tuberville met with American and Panamanian officials to strategize ways to combat Chinese attempts to control the Panama Canal, which would give China enormous influence over global supply chains.
    To curb Chinese influence in the economy, Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to ban members of the CCP from receiving B-1 and B-2 visas to the United States for vacation and non-official government business.
    The CCP is responsible for trillions of dollars of intellectual property theft each year. To curb growing foreign influence and crime and discourage other Chinese nationals from joining the CCP, the bill cosponsored by Senator Tuberville would bar all 93 million CCP members from entering the United States using nonimmigrant B-1 and B-2 visas.
    Senator Tuberville believes the retirement savings of our military and federal government employees, known as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), should not be invested in the economies of our adversaries, such as China.
    Senator Tuberville wrote about this issue in the Wall Street Journal in a column entitled, “I’ll Keep Veterans’ Pensions Safe From Communism” and discussed the issue on Fox Business.
    Senator Tuberville continued the push for accountability from the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) surrounding the board’s policy on foreign investments. 
    Senator Tuberville placed a hold on nominees to the FRTIB until the nominees provided clarification regarding foreign investment policies, which forced the nominees to commit to opposing TSP investment in China.
    MORE:
    Tuberville Questions CFTC Chairman on Taxation of Cryptocurrency and the Need for a Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrency
    Tuberville Leads Letter Calling for DOJ, SEC Investigation into China-Tied Crypto Firm Prometheum, Inc.
    Tuberville Leads Bipartisan Bill to Block CCP Ownership of American Crypto Companies
    Tuberville, Lummis Work to Establish Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
    Tuberville Takes Action to Protect Conservatives, Taxpayers from Political Discrimination by Banks
    ICYMI: Tuberville in Daily Caller: A Fed-Controlled Digital Dollar Could Mean The End Of Freedom In America
    Tuberville Reintroduces Bill to Keep the Government Out of Americans’ Investment Decisions 
    WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Support Grows for Tuberville’s Legislation to Protect 401(k) Investment Freedom
    Tuberville Continues Push to Protect Retirement Savers’ Financial Freedom
    New Tuberville Legislation Promotes Financial Freedom for 401(k) Investors
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev discussed bilateral cooperation projects with Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    April 1, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    April 1, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    April 1, 2025

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    April 1, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi

    In Windhoek (Namibia), Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Russian Federation in the Far Eastern Federal District, Co-Chairman of the Intergovernmental Russian-Namibian Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation Yuri Trutnev held a meeting with the Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia Selma Ashipala-Musawyi. The development of Russian-Namibian relations, including strengthening trade and economic ties, were discussed at the meeting.

    “The friendship between our countries continues to develop within the framework of the Intergovernmental Russian-Namibian Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation. We have been able to achieve impressive results. In 2024, an almost twofold increase in bilateral trade was recorded. I hope that we will continue to work in the same atmosphere of mutual understanding and cooperation that has accompanied the relations between our two countries all these years,” said Yuri Trutnev.

    The 11th meeting of the Intergovernmental Russian-Namibian Commission, which is planned to be held in Windhoek, was discussed.

    Yuri Trutnev recalled that following the 10th meeting of the commission, plans were outlined for further coordinated work aimed at achieving significant progress in bilateral business cooperation. Following the discussions, the Russian Government gave specific instructions to relevant departments and organizations so that they could carry out the necessary work to implement the decisions recorded in the final protocol. In turn, the Russian side expects prompt practical implementation of the outlined plans from its Namibian partners.

    “There is still a lot of work to be done,” noted Yuri Trutnev.

    Summing up the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the intention of the Russian side to develop bilateral ties. “We will develop relations between our countries and are waiting for proposals from the Namibian side to hold a meeting of the Intergovernmental Russian-Namibian Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation. Our countries have long maintained friendly relations, and Russia will continue to be a reliable friend of Namibia,” concluded Yuri Trutnev.

    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: CNL STRATEGIC CAPITAL ANNOUNCES OPERATING RESULTS FOR YEAR-END 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Orlando, Fla., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CNL Strategic Capital, LLC (“CNL Strategic Capital,” the “Company” or “we”) seeks to provide current income and long-term appreciation to investors by acquiring controlling equity stakes in combination with loan positions in privately owned middle-market businesses. The Company announced its operating results for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024.

    Highlights:

    • As of Dec. 31, 2024, CNL Strategic Capital’s portfolio consisted of equity and debt investments in 16 portfolio companies and approximately $1.3 billion in total assets, compared with 13 portfolio companies and approximately $1.0 billion in total assets as of Dec. 31, 2023.
    • For the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, the Company recognized a net change in unrealized appreciation on investments, including unrealized foreign currency gain of approximately $88.7 million and had total investment income of approximately $71.7 million. That compares with a net change in unrealized appreciation on investments of $41.7 million and total investment income of approximately $59.5 million in 2023.
    • The cumulative total investment return based on net asset value (NAV) since inception and through Dec. 31, 2024, was approximately 105.5% for Class FA shares, 89.5% for Class A shares, 77.2% for Class T shares, 79.8% for Class D shares, 91.1% for Class I shares and 73.5% for Class S shares.1 These returns are prior to any applicable sales load and assume shareholders reinvested their distributions.  
    • For the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, CNL Strategic Capital received approximately $237.5 million in net offering proceeds, including approximately $18.1 million received through the distribution reinvestment plan. Since beginning operations in February 2018 through March 24, 2025, CNL Strategic Capital has raised approximately $1.2 billion, including $49.8 million received through the distribution reinvestment plan.

    Cash distributions declared net of distributions reinvested during the periods presented were funded from the following sources (in thousands):

      Year Ended Dec. 31,
      2024   2023
      Amount   % of Cash Distributions Declared Net of Distributions Reinvested   Amount   % of Cash Distributions Declared Net of Distributions Reinvested
    Net investment income before reimbursement of expense support (reimbursement) $ 21,065     106.6  %   $ 23,110      133.5   %
    Expense Support (reimbursement)   20     0.1        (644)       (3.7)   
    Net investment income $   21,085      106.7 %   $ 22,466     129.8 %
    Cash distributions declared, net of distributions reinvested2 $ 19,754     100.0  %   $ 17,304      100.0  %

    Sources of declared distributions on a GAAP basis (in thousands):

      Year Ended Dec. 31,
      2024   2023
      Amount   % of Distributions Declared   Amount   % of Distributions Declared
    Net investment income3 $ 21,085     55.6  %   $ 22,466      74.7   %
    Distributions in excess of net investment income4                         16,814       44.4                        7,597     25.3   
    Total distributions declared $ 37,899        100.0  %   $ 30,063      100.0  %

    Total investment return based on net asset value (NAV) after total return incentive fees per share for the year ended Dec. 31, 20241:

    Class FA Class A Class T Class D Class I Class S
    11.20% 10.23% 9.32% 9.91% 9.93% 11.20%

    (These returns are prior to any applicable sales load and assume shareholders reinvested their distributions. These are not actual shareholder returns. Actual returns may vary materially.)

    Cumulative total investment return based on NAV after sales fees since inception through Dec. 31, 20241:

    Class FA
    (2/7/18-12/31/24)    		 Class A
    (4/10/18-12/31/24)    		 Class T
    (5/25/18-12/31/24)    		 Class D
    (6/26/18-12/31/24)    		 Class I
    (4/10/18-12/31/24)    		 Class S
    (3/31/20-12/31/24)
    105.5% 89.5% 77.2% 79.8% 91.1% 73.5%

    (These returns are prior to any applicable sales load and assume shareholders reinvested their distributions. These are not actual shareholder returns. Actual returns may vary materially.)

    1This is not shareholder returns. Total investment return is calculated for each share class as the change in the net asset value for such share class during the period and assuming all distributions are reinvested. Amounts are not annualized and are not representative of total return as calculated for purposes of the total return incentive fee. Since there is no public market for the Company’s shares, terminal market value per share is assumed to be equal to net asset value per share on the last day of the period presented. The Company’s performance changes over time and currently may be different than that shown above. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment performance is presented without regard to sales load that may be incurred by shareholders in the purchase of the Company’s shares. For the period from the date the first share was issued for each respective share class through Dec. 31, 2024. 2Excludes $18,145 and $12,759 of distributions reinvested pursuant to the Company’s distribution reinvestment plan during the year ended Dec. 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. 3Net investment income includes expense support (reimbursement) of $20 and $(644) for the years ended Dec. 31, 2024, and 2023, respectively. 4Consists of distributions made from offering proceeds for the periods presented.

    About CNL Strategic Capital
    CNL Strategic Capital is a publicly registered, non-traded limited liability Company that seeks to provide current income and long-term appreciation to individuals by acquiring controlling equity stakes in combination with loan positions in durable and growing middle-market businesses. The Company is externally managed by CNL Strategic Capital Management, LLC and Levine Leichtman Strategic Capital, LLC (LLSC). For additional information, please visit cnlstrategiccapital.com.

    About CNL Financial Group
    CNL Financial Group (CNL) is a leading private investment management firm providing alternative investment opportunities. Since inception in 1973, CNL and/or its affiliates have formed or acquired companies with more than $36 billion in assets. CNL is headquartered in Orlando, Florida. For more information, visit cnl.com.

    About Levine Leichtman Strategic Capital
    LLSC is an affiliate of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, LLC (LLCP), a middle-market private equity firm with a 40-year track record of investing across various targeted sectors, including Franchising & Multi-unit, Business Services, Education & Training and Engineered Products & Manufacturing. LLCP utilizes a differentiated Structured Private Equity investment strategy, combining debt and equity capital investments in portfolio companies. LLCP believes that by investing in a combination of debt and equity securities, it offers management teams growth capital in a highly tailored, flexible investment structure that can be a more attractive alternative than traditional private equity.

    LLCP’s global team of dedicated investment professionals is led by ten partners who have worked at LLCP for an average of 20 years. Since inception, LLCP has managed approximately $15.6 billion of institutional capital across 15 investment funds and has invested in over 100 portfolio companies. LLCP currently manages $10 billion of assets and has offices in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Miami, London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Frankfurt. For additional information, please visit llcp.com.

    The information in this press release may include “forward-looking statements.” These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of CNL Strategic Capital’s management and on the information currently available to management at the time of such statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates” or similar expressions that indicate future events. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond CNL Strategic Capital’s control. Important risks, uncertainties and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include the risks associated with the Company’s ability to pay distributions and the sources of such distribution payments, the Company’s ability to locate and make suitable investments and other risks described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities.

    ###

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Undeclared Allergen in Trader Joe’s Hot Honey Mustard Dressing with Use By Date of 05/27/2025 Issued by Fresh Creative Foods

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    March 30, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    March 31, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared allergen – peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat.

    Company Name:
    Fresh Creative Foods
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Trader Joe’s

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Hot honey mustard dressing

    Company Announcement
    Vista, CA March 30, 2025
    Fresh Creative Foods is voluntarily recalling a single item with a specific use by date, produced at a regional facility and distributed to limited Trader Joe’s locations. The product is Trader Joe’s Hot Honey Mustard Dressing, with a Use By Date of 05/27/2025 due to labeling error. The incorrect label does not include allergen callouts for peanuts, soy, sesame, or wheat.
    No customer complaints have been reported to date.
    The dressing was distributed to Trader Joe’s locations in the following states: AR, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, KS, LA, MA, MD, NC, NM, OH, OK, PA, SC, TX, VA.
    Customers who purchased this product may take it back to Trader Joe’s for a full refund or discard the item.
    Customers who have questions regarding this product or label may call Fresh Creative Foods at the following number:
    CUSTOMER INQUIRIES:888-223-2127Monday – Friday8:00AM – 5:00PM Pacific Time

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Customer Inquiries
    888-223-2127

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    03/31/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India – Chile Joint Statement (April 01, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, the President of the Republic of Chile, H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April, 2025, commemorating the completion of 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Boric is accompanied by Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Mining, Women and Gender Equality and Cultures, Arts and Heritage, Members of Parliament, Senior Officials and a large number of business leaders. Apart from New Delhi, President Boric will visit Agra, Mumbai and Bengaluru. This is the first visit of President Boric to India. Both President Boric and Prime Minister Modi had first met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.

    President Boric was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome on arrival at Air Force Station Palam. Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with President Boric at Hyderabad House on 1 April 2025. He met President Droupadi Murmu who also hosted a Banquet in his honour and his accompanying delegation. Dr S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India called on President Boric.

    President Boric and Prime Minister Modi recalled the historic diplomatic ties that were established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people linkages, cultural ties and also the warm and cordial bilateral relations between both countries. They expressed desire for further expanding and deepening of the multifaceted relationship between the two countries in all areas of mutual interests.

    During their meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations spanning a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, defence and security, infrastructure, mining and mineral resources, agriculture and food security, green energy, ICT, digitization, innovation, disaster management, cooperation in science and technology, education and people-to-people linkages. The two sides agreed to continue regular exchanges at various levels to give further momentum to the bilateral relationship.

    The two leaders noted that trade and commerce has been a strong pillar of the bilateral relations. While highlighting the positive effects generated by the expansion of the India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement in May 2017, which has resulted in substantial increase in bilateral trade, the two leaders emphasized the need for further strengthening of bilateral trade mechanisms that could open new opportunities for expansion of bilateral trade. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent increase in visits of business delegations from both sides, which is strengthening trade and economic relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for bringing in a large business delegation, which will help in intensifying business interaction between the two countries. Both agreed to continue the discussions for further enhancement of the trade relations.

    President Boric conveyed that India is a priority partner for Chile in the global economy and stressed the need to explore strategies for enhanced and diversified trade between the two countries. The President and the Prime Minister acknowledged signing of the mutually agreed Terms of Reference and welcomed the launch of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement to achieve a deeper economic integration. The CEPA will aim at unlocking the full potential of the trade and commercial relationship between India and Chile, boosting employment, bilateral trade, and economic growth.

    To further promote trade relations as well as people-to-people interactions, President Boric announced Chile’s decision to grant a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons which will streamline the visa process. Prime Minister Modi welcomed and valued this measure, as it reflects the willingness of both parties to facilitate trade and investment and the shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Chile and India. Acknowledging the people-to-people linkages as an important pillar to promote bilateral ties and to facilitate business, tourism, student and academic exchanges, Indian side has already put in place a flexible visa regime, including by extending e-visa facility for Chilean travellers to India.

    Both leaders recognised the strategic importance of critical minerals for emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy transitions, both leaders agreed to accelerate collaboration in exploration, mining and processing along with research and development to promote investment across the entire critical mineral value chain for mutual benefit. They stressed on the need for building trusted and resilient supply chains including for critical minerals and advanced materials. The two sides agreed to work together on initiatives to strengthen supply chains and local value chains by fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and understandings in mining and minerals, including the possibility of long-term supply of minerals and materials from Chile to India.

    Both leaders agreed to explore the opening up of new avenues for cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals, space, ICT, agriculture, green energy, traditional medicine, Antarctica, Science & Technology, management of natural disasters, sports, Startups, cooperatives, and audiovisual co-production, through the exchange of experiences and good practices among the agencies responsible for these matters.

    President Boric acknowledged the role of the Indian pharmaceutical industry as one of the world leaders, and an important partner for Chile in the supply of affordable and high-quality products. Both sides agreed to facilitate private sectors of the two countries to increase trade in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. Both sides agreed to work on enhancing cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals sectors and address market access issues for Indian pharmaceuticals, as well as advancing in the recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia by Chile.

    The two leaders noted the importance of traditional medicines and Yoga in preserving health and wellbeing of people and directed their officials for an early conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on Traditional Medicines to promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Towards this, both countries agreed to collaborate and intensify the promotion and use of evidence-based, integrative, Traditional Medicine, Homeopathy, and Yoga by signing an MoU.

    Both sides agreed to work on promoting investments in infrastructure projects in each other’s countries. Chilean side welcomed Indian companies to participate in infrastructure projects including in railway sector.

    The two leaders encouraged the two sides to work together to explore substantial areas for bilateral defence cooperation, including capacity building and defence industrial collaboration. Both agreed to share knowledge in developing and enhancing each other’s capabilities under the existing formal defence cooperation agreement in place. Indian side highlighted that Chile has been kept on priority while offering opportunities in training at Defence Services Staff College, NDC, NDA and HDMC, apart from slots for specialised courses in mountain warfare and peacekeeping operations previously made available. Indian side expressed its desire to receive and train Chilean military in areas of mutual interests.

    Both leaders expressed their happiness on signing of the Letter of Intent to strengthen existing Antarctic cooperation, which will further facilitate partnership in Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources agendas bilateral dialogues, joint initiatives and academic exchanges related to Antarctica and Antarctic policy. Both India and Chile are Consultative Parties to the Antarctic Treaty and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen scientific understanding of Antarctic for the benefit of both parties and the global community.

    The two sides welcomed the adoption and opening for signature of the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), as a key legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and reiterated the resolve of their respective countries to preserve, protect and promote biodiversity, from land to sea, and agreed to work together and support each other in international forums dealing with these issues. Both countries reaffirmed their intention to strengthen a vision from the Global South in multilateralism, through cooperation and joint efforts, based on the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and the right to development.

    Recalling the two countries’ decades-long partnership in space, the two leaders noted the ongoing engagements in the space sector between the two countries, including the launching of a satellite belonging to Chile (SUCHAI-1) by India in 2017 as a co-passenger under a commercial arrangement. Both leaders emphasized the importance of further cooperation to promote training and capacity building and research in space and astrophysics. In this regard, they welcomed the constitution of Space Executive Committee by Chile to work on cooperation including in the areas of exploration in space, R&D, training, satellite building, launch and operation and peaceful use of outer space with ISRO, IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) and Startups.

    Both leaders noted their respective dynamic information and digital technology sectors and stressed the need to explore synergies to enhance cooperation in this field. They expressed mutual interest in growth of investment, joint ventures, technological development and markets in the IT and digital space, including promoting collaboration in Digital Public Infrastructures (DPI), thereby democratizing access to digital services for people and businesses. Both leaders acknowledged the efforts by the two sides in exploring early implementation of cooperation in the digital payments sectors. They committed to work for developing closer cooperation between the vibrant Startup ecosystems of the two countries. Both leaders expressed their desire for advancing on signing of an understanding on cooperation in the areas of Digital Transformation to facilitate deeper engagement between tech communities of both countries.

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reformed multilateralism and for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to make it more representative, accountable, transparent, inclusive and effective, reflecting the geopolitical realities of the 21st Century. The Chilean side reiterated its support for India’s candidature for a permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council. The two sides agreed to work together for promotion of democratic principles and human rights to strengthen the world peace stressing the importance of resolving all disputes through peaceful dialogue.

    Both leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross border terrorism and shared their resolve to stand together in common fight against global terrorism. They agreed that terrorism must be combated through concerted global actions.

    The two leaders called upon all UN member countries to implement the UNSC Resolution 1267 and work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure and disrupt terrorist networks and all terror financing channels. Both reiterated their commitment to work together in Financial Action Task Force (FATF), No Money For Terror (NMFT) and other multilateral platforms to combat terrorism. The two leaders also reiterated the importance of early finalization of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

    The two leaders committed themselves to the vision of a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, ensures freedom of navigation and overflight as well as unimpeded lawful commerce, and that seeks peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, notably the UNCLOS.

    Prime Minister Modi appreciated the participation of Chile in all the three editions of the “Voice of Global South” Summits, reflecting the commitment in bringing together countries of the Global South to share their development perspectives and priorities. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for sharing his valuable perspectives and ideas at the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit held in August 2024 and noted that both countries have strong convergence on several contemporary global issues, including on the need for effective global governance reforms and equitable access for Global South countries to clean and green technologies. President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in strengthening engagements between countries of Global South.

    President Boric appreciated India’s leadership in G20 which brought the development agenda to centre stage and acknowledged the transformative and inclusive role of technology, with a focus on unlocking the potential of digital public infrastructure (DPI). Both Leaders recognized that India’s G20 Presidency has championed Voice of the Global South by bringing to fore key initiatives and outcomes, such as inclusion of African Union in G20, promotion of Lifestyles for sustainable development (LiFE), advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), reforms of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and focus on women-led development. In this regard, and with the aim of promoting greater integration and representativeness within the G20, India will support the inclusion of Chile and Latin American countries in the discussions as G20′ guest countries.

    The two sides recognized the challenges for their economies presented by climate change and the transition to low emissions climate resilient economies. Accordingly, they expressed keen desire to promote clean energy and sustainable development through development of more efficient energy technologies. The two leaders called for increased joint investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, utilization and storage technologies, energy efficiency, and other low-carbon solutions that will have the potential to accelerate sustainable economic growth and foster job creation.

    President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and reiterated strong support as a member since November 2023. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chile joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in January 2021 aiming to make systems and infrastructure resilient to achieve the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, both leaders valued Chile’s offer of hosting the 7th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Recognizing the growing significance of technology enabled learning solutions, skills development, and institutional capacity building, India and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in these areas. Both countries have agreed to facilitate partnerships between EdCIL (India) Limited and key Chilean institutions, including the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH), the Chilean Ministry of Education, and technical training centres (CFTs), thereby focusing on digital learning, research exchanges, smart education infrastructure, and vocational training programs, leveraging the strengths of both nations to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing in education.

    Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the transformational changes taking place in education sector in India under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, encouraged leading Chilean universities to strengthen academic and research partnerships with Indian institutions and build institutional linkages through joint/dual degree and twinning arrangements. Given mutual strengths of both countries in astronomy and astrophysics, both leaders agreed to strengthen institutional engagements in these domains. The two leaders welcomed the proposal for establishment of an ICCR Chair on Indian Studies in one of the universities in Chile and directed the officials to examine the feasibility for an early implementation.

    Both leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in training and capacity building in the field of diplomacy and noted the potential for further enhancement for cooperation in this area, in line with global diplomatic endeavours and new technology making diplomacy more efficient.

    The two leaders acknowledged the role of cultural ties in bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other. They lauded the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and Chile and appreciated the long-standing cultural exchanges between the two nations. The leaders applauded the growing interest in the study of the cultures and languages in both countries with Spanish being among the popular foreign languages in India. They stressed the mutual interest in further strengthening India – Chile cultural cooperation and the reinforcement of cooperation among cultural institutions of the two countries. They welcomed the signing of new Cultural Exchange Program to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums and festivals.

    The two leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress made to finalise the agreement on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters which will lead to strengthening linkages between the relevant agencies to counter illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and, in general, to investigate, prevent and suppress contraventions of Customs laws, as well as sharing of best practices and capacity building. They also welcomed the efforts by two sides to sign an agreement on cooperation in the disability sector which would contribute to a more humane and just society where no one is left behind. The two leaders directed their officials to conclude these documents at an early date.

    Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular interaction on matters of mutual interest. They reiterated their willingness to build on opportunities to promote and expand the bonds of cooperation and understanding that characterizes the bilateral relationship.

    President Gabriel Boric thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for warmth and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during the visit and invited him to pay an official visit to Chile at a mutually convenient time.

    *****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES BAZAAR

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES BAZAAR

    Explore, Connect & Trade Globally

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:44PM by PIB Delhi

    Explore, Connect & Trade Globally

     

    Introduction

    WAVES Bazaar is an innovative online marketplace connecting professionals, businesses, and creators from the global entertainment industry. It was officially launched on January 27, 2025, at the National Media Centre in New Delhi by Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology, and Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture & Tourism.

    WAVES Bazaar is a key part of the WAVES Summit, also known as the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit. It’s a dedicated platform where industry professionals come together to connect, collaborate, and discover new business opportunities. The WAVES Summit will be held from May 1–4, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens in Mumbai, making WAVES Bazaar an important hub for global entertainment exchange.

    WAVES Bazaar: A Global Marketplace

    WAVES Bazaar is a one-of-a-kind e-marketplace that brings together stakeholders from across the Media & Entertainment spectrum—including film, television, animation, gaming, advertising, XR, music, sound design, radio, and more.

    Whether one is a content creator looking for collaborators, a business seeking the right platform, a developer searching for investors, or an artist wanting to showcase their work to global audiences, WAVES Bazaar provides a dynamic space for industry professionals to network, collaborate, and grow their businesses. Since the launch, till date, 5500 buyers, more than 2000 sellers and approximately 1000 projects have been registered on the portal from different verticals of M&E sector.

    ey Features of WAVES Bazaa

    Verticals of WAVES Bazaar

    WAVES Bazaar is structured into multiple verticals, each tailored to cater to a specific segment of the media and entertainment industry. These include:

    • Film & TV/Web Series: Connect with global distributors, OTT platforms, and festival programmers to showcase your content.
    • Gaming & E-sports: Present game concepts, IPs, and assets to investors, buyers, and publishing platforms.
    • Animation & VFX: Offer top-tier animation and VFX services for diverse creative projects.
    • Comics/E-books: Market storyboards, publishing, and content creation to reach wider audiences.
    • Radio & Podcast: Empower independent audio creators to secure sponsorships and grow their reach.
    • Music & Sound: Unlock licensing opportunities and collaborate on music production, sound design, and more.
    • Live Events & Influencer Marketing: Drive sponsorships, brand partnerships, and audience engagement through live events.

    How WAVES Bazaar Works

    Visit the WAVES Bazaar Website: Navigate to wavesbazaar.com and explore the platform.
    Sign Up & Create Your Profile: Register as a buyer, seller, or investor to access the full range of opportunities.

    List Your Services or Project Needs: Showcase your work or explore available listings tailored to your business interests.
    Connect & Collaborate: Network with industry professionals, schedule meetings, and initiate successful collaborations.

    Grow Your Business: Expand your market, find new revenue streams and establish long-term partnerships.

    Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old to register and use Waves Bazaar services.

    WAVES Bazaar for Various Professionals

    WAVES Bazaar is open to both buyers and sellers within the creative industries. Businesses and individuals seeking innovative content and services can register as buyers to explore and connect with these creators. There is no registration fee to join WAVES Bazaar.

    Guidelines For Seller

    To register as a seller, visit the Wave Seller Signup page on the WAVES Bazaar website. Complete the registration form by providing the necessary information about yourself and your services. Once registered, you can create a profile to showcase your projects and connect with potential clients.

    Join WAVES Bazaar as a Buyer

    To register as a buyer, go to the Wave Buyer Signup page on the WAVES Bazaar website. Sign up by providing the required details. After registration, you’ll gain access to a diverse range of creative projects and services, enabling you to connect directly with sellers.

    Viewing Room & Market Screenings

    WAVES Bazaar offers an advanced Viewing Room & Market Screenings feature, ensuring curated content reaches the right audience.

    · The Viewing Room provides a secure digital space for buyers to preview films, animations, and gaming IPs before making acquisition or partnership decisions.

    · Market Screenings include exclusive in-person and virtual screenings designed to highlight high-potential projects, attracting investors and distributors.

    Conclusion

    WAVES Bazaar is revolutionizing the global media and entertainment industry. It offers a dynamic digital marketplace for professionals, businesses, and creators to connect, collaborate, and grow. With opportunities across diverse sectors—from film and gaming to music and advertising—it enables seamless networking and business transactions. Serving both buyers and sellers, WAVES Bazaar is setting the stage for a new era of global entertainment exchange and creative collaboration.

    References

    WAVES BAZAAR

    ******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CBIC to introduce electronic processing of import/ export through personal carriage by air passengers from 1st May 2025 at specified airports

    Source: Government of India

    CBIC to introduce electronic processing of import/ export through personal carriage by air passengers from 1st May 2025 at specified airports

    Nine airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage export of gems and jewellery

    Seven airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur to allow personal carriage import of gems and jewellery

    Four airports at Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai to allow personal carriage samples/prototypes of machinery

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, has introduced electronic processing of Bill of Entry/ Shipping Bill pertaining to gems and jewellery/samples/prototypes through personal carriage by air passengers from 01.05.2025 onwards at specified airports.

    The export/import through personal carriage shall be subject to the provisions of Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 and Handbook of Procedures (HBP), 2023.

    The facility of personal carriage will be available, for export of gems and jewellery in the nine airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.87 of HBP and for import of gems and jewellery in the seven airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Jaipur) specified in para 4.88 of HBP. In case of samples/prototypes of machinery, the facility is initially being made available in Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai airports.

    The harmonised procedure and electronic processing will promote ease of doing business for such mode of transaction especially for gems and jewellery and high-end manufacturing.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PROMOTION OF THE DAIRYING INDUSTRY

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:11PM by PIB Delhi

    To complement and supplement efforts made by the States and Union territories to improve milk production, the livelihoods of dairy farmers and ensuring self-sufficiency in the dairy sector, Government of India is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other schemes across the country including Odisha.

    The implementation of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other initiatives by the Government of India has resulted in a significant 63.5% increase in milk production in the country over the past decade, rising from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 2s39.3 million tonnes in 2023-24. Similarly, the milk production in Odisha has increased by 39% from 18.98 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 26.30 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.

    1.  Rashtriya Gokul Misson: This scheme aims at the development and conservation of indigenous breeds, genetic upgradation of bovine population, enhancement of milk production and productivity of bovines thereby making dairying more remunerative to farmers.  The following steps have been undertaken under the scheme:

    1. Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: The programme aims to enhance AI coverage and deliver quality Artificial Insemination (AI) services free of cost at farmers doorsteps using semen from high-genetic-merit bulls. In Odisha, till date 46.53 lakh animals have been covered, 61.10 lakh Artificial insemination performed, and 29.48 lakh farmers have benefitted under this programme.

    Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using Sex-Sorted Semen:   This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and increasing farmers’ income. Incentive upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen is available to farmers including small and marginal farmers engaged in dairying. Recently indigenously developed sex sorted semen production technology has been launched and with this technology cost of sex sorted semen will be reduced from Rs 800 to Rs 250/ dose. In Odisha, under this project so far 1,24,690 doses have been procured, and 38,398 farmers have been benefitted as per Bharat Pashudhan.

    Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps and so far, 1500 MAITRIs trained and equipped in Odisha State.

    1. Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme using IVF Technology: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. An incentive of ₹5,000 per assured pregnancy out of the total cost of ₹ 21,000 per assured pregnancy is provided to farmers under this program to encourage the development of indigenous breeds.

    Launch of Indigenous Culture Media: An indigenous media for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) has been launched to further promote IVF technology in the country. This indigenous culture media is available at cheaper rates than the expensive imported media, making IVF technology available at reasonable rates.

    1. Strengthening of semen stations: In order to attain quantitative and qualitative improvement in semen production funds have been released to Odisha state for strengthening and modernization of one semen station located at Cuttack.
    • iv. Awareness Programme and farmer training programme: Funds have been released to Odisha for organization of fertility camps, milk yield competition, calf rallies and farmers training programme. So far, State has organised 1500 camps and trained 75,000 farmers for improving animal management, milk quality and productivity.

    2. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD): The scheme focuses on creating/strengthening of infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union/ Self Help Groups (SHGs)/ Milk Producer Companies/ Farmer Producer Organizations. During last three years an amount of Rs. 1591.08 Lakh has been released to Odisha.

    3.  Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme: The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are also established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at the farmers’ doorsteps. The scheme is an initiative of the Department towards creating disease-free zones in the country including Odisha thereby creating market opportunities of livestock products.

    4.   National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM): The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) along with NDDB has developed database named as “Bharat Pashudhan” under NDLM of Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This database has been developed utilizing a unique 12-digit Tag ID allocated to each livestock animal. In Odisha a total of 1.65 crore animals have been registered on the database.  All the stakeholders are connected to the same database through an open-source API based architecture. NDLM is an initiative towards maintaining traceability of livestock thereby making value-added dairy products more competitive in both national and international markets.

    5.   Export promotion and certification of livestock products including value added dairy products is mandated to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Export Inspection Council (EIC) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Department has also taken up the issues related to export and market access of Indian Dairy products with various countries bilaterally through various platform such as Joint Working Group (JWG), Technical Working Group etc.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1st April, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: RASHTRIYA GOKUL MISSION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:10PM by PIB Delhi

    (a) To complement and supplement efforts made by the States and Union Territories to enhance infrastructure for indigenous cattle breeding, Government of India has taken following steps under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission to enhance infrastructure for Indigenous cattle breeding:

    (i) Strengthening of semen stations: In order to attain quantitative and qualitative improvement in semen production funds has been released to the States for strengthening and modernization of semen stations. So far, funds have been sanctioned for strengthening 47 semen station in the country.

    (ii) Sex-Sorted Semen production facility: Sex sorted semen production has been created in the country for production of only female calves upto 90% accuracy. Five semen stations in Government sector (Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh) are operational. So far 58.67 lakh doses of sex sorted semen has been produced at Government semen stations assisted under Rashtriya Gokul Mission

    (iii) Establishment of IVF labs: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has established 22 IVF laboratories to support the promotion of indigenous breeds across the country. So far, 25895 embryos produced, 14145 embryos transferred and 2105 calves produced.

    (iv) Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps and so far 38,736 MAITRIs trained and equipped in the country.

    (v) Gokul Grams: The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, under Rashtriya Gokul Mission has released funds for setting up of 16 “Gokul Grams” with the aim of conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds in a scientific and holistic manner. The activity has been discontinued under revised realigned Rashtriya Gokul Mission from 2021-22 to 2025-26

    (vi) National Kamdhenu Breeding Centers : The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has established two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centers as repository of germplasm of Indigenous Bovine Breeds and to take up development and conservation of indigenous breeds in scientific and holistic manner  under Rashtriya Gokul Mission. The Northern Region National Kamdhenu Breeding Center has been established at Kiratpur, Itarsi, in Madhya Pradesh and the Southern Region National Kamdhenu Breeding Center has been established at Chintaladevi, Nellore, in Andhra Pradesh.

    The State-wise details of the infrastructure projects funded under Rashtriya Gokul Mission is at Annexure-I

    (b) The specific measures introduced to support small and marginal farmers including members of dairy cooperatives under the scheme are as follows:

    (i) Nationwide Artificial Insemination Programme: The programme aims to enhance AI coverage and deliver quality Artificial Insemination (AI) services free of cost at farmers doorsteps using semen from high-genetic-merit bulls, including indigenous bovine breeds.

    (ii) Accelerated Breed Improvement Programme (ABIP)

    (a)  Sex-Sorted Semen:   This program aims to produce female calves with up to 90% accuracy, thereby enhancing breed improvement and increasing farmers’ income. Incentive upto 50% of the cost of sex sorted semen is available to farmers including small and marginal farmers engaged in dairying. Recently indigenously developed sex sorted semen production technology has been launched  and with this technology cost of sex sorted semen will be reduced from Rs 800 to Rs 250/ dose.

    (b) IVF Technology: For the first time in India, bovine IVF technology has been promoted for the development and conservation of indigenous breeds. An incentive of ₹5,000 per assured pregnancy out of the total cost of ₹ 21,000 per assured pregnancy is provided to farmers under this program to encourage the development of indigenous breeds.

    (iii) Multi-purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India (MAITRI): MAITRIs are trained and equipped to deliver quality artificial insemination services at farmers’ doorsteps

    (iv) Launch of Indigenously Developed Genomic Chip: For the first time, a genomic chip has been developed and launched under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission for indigenous breeds. This common genomic chip is significantly contributing to the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds through identification of High genetic Merit bulls.

    The implementation of the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and other initiatives by the Government of India have resulted in a significant 63.5% increase in milk production over the past decade, rising from 146.31 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 239.3 million tonnes in 2023-24. During this period, productivity across all animal categories, including descript, non-descript cattle, buffaloes, and crossbred cattle, improved by 26.35%, while indigenous and non-descript cattle saw a 39.37% increase, with productivity rising from 927 kg per animal per year in 2014-15 to 1292 kg in 2023-24. During the same period, Milk production from indigenous cattle surged by 69.27%, growing from 29.48 million tonnes to 49.90 million tonnes, and buffalo milk production increased by 39.73%, from 74.70 million tonnes to 104.38 million tonnes. Additionally, the number of milking animals rose by 30.46%, from 85.66 million in 2014-15 to 111.76 million in 2023-24.

    (c) The initiatives being taken by the Department to promote the export of value-added dairy products derived from indigenous breeds are as follows:

    (i) National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM): The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) along with NDDB has developed database named as “Bharat Pashudhan” under NDLM of Rashtriya Gokul Mission. This database has been developed utilizing a unique 12-digit Tag ID allocated to each livestock animal, 34.20 crore animals have been registered on the database.  All the stakeholders are connected to the same database through an open source API based architecture. NDLM is an initiative towards maintaining traceability of livestock thereby promoting export possibilities of value-added dairy products derived from indigenous breeds.

    (ii) Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme: The scheme is implemented for providing assistance for control of animal diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis and also to provide assistance to State Governments for Control of other infectious diseases of livestock including dairy animals. Mobile Veterinary Units are established under the scheme to deliver quality livestock health services at farmers doorstep. The scheme is an initiative of the Department towards creating disease-free zones in the country thereby creating market opportunity for export of livestock products.

    (iii) Export promotion and certification of livestock products including value added dairy products is mandated to the APEDA and EIC under Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Department has also taken up the issues related to export and market access of Indian Dairy products with various countries bilaterally through various platform such as Joint Working Group (JWG), Technical Working Group etc

    Annexure-I

    State-wise details of the infrastructure projects funded under Rashtriya Gokul Mission

    Sl. No.

    Name of the State/UT

    Number of Semen Stations

    Number of Sex Sorted Semen facilities

    Number of in-vitro Fertilization (IVF)  labs

    Number of Gokul Grams*

    Number of animals covered under NAIP including indigenous breeds (in lakh)
    1.  

    Andhra Pradesh

    3

    –

    2

    1

    67.39
    1.  

    Arunachal Pradesh

    –

    –

    –

    1

    0.03
    1.  

    Assam

    1

    –

    –

    –

    15.59
    1.  

    Bihar

    1

    –

    2

    1

    34.08
    1.  

    Chhattisgarh

    –

    –

    1

    1

    17.61
    1.  

    Goa

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.22
    1.  

    Gujarat

    6

    1

    2

    1

    53.05
    1.  

    Haryana

    3

    –

    1

    1

    5.98
    1.  

    Himachal Pradesh

    2

    –

    1

    1

    17.26
    1.  

    Jammu & Kashmir

    1

    –

    –

    –

    22.10
    1.  

    Jharkhand

    –

    –

    –

    –

    24.46
    1.  

    Karnataka

    6

    –

    –

    1

    77.20
    1.  

    Kerala

    3

    –

    1

    –

    1.6**
    1.  

    Madhya Pradesh

    1

    1

    1

    1

    71.64
    1.  

    Maharashtra

    4

    –

    3

    2

    51.71
    1.  

    Manipur

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.23
    1.  

    Meghalaya

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.49
    1.  

    Mizoram

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.08
    1.  

    Nagaland

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.34
    1.  

    Orissa

    –

    –

    –

    –

    46.53
    1.  

    Punjab

    1

    –

    2

    1

    11.95
    1.  

    Rajasthan

    2

    –

    –

    –

    54.79
    1.  

    Sikkim

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.38
    1.  

    Tamil Nadu

    5

    1

    2

    –

    46.57
    1.  

    Telangana

    2

    –

    1

    1

    30.08
    1.  

    Tripura

    –

    –

    –

    –

    2.13
    1.  

    Uttar Pradesh

    2

    1

    1

    3

    125.42
    1.  

    Uttarakhand

    1

    1

    1

    –

    13.79
    1.  

    West Bengal

    3

    –

    1

    –

    48.37
    1.  

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    –

    –

    –

    –

     
    1.  

    Chandigarh

    –

    –

    –

    –

     
    1.  

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    –

    –

    –

    –

     
    1.  

    Delhi (NCT)

    –

    –

    –

    –

     
    1.  

    Lakshadweep

    –

    –

    –

    –

     
    1.  

    Ladakh

    –

    –

    –

    –

    0.06
    1.  

    Puducherry

    –

    –

    –

    –

     

    Note: * Activity has been discontinued under revised realigned Rashtriya Gokul Mission from 2021-22 to 2025-26

    **Artificial insemination performed under Progeny testing

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 1st April, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: QUALITY OF STEEL IMPORT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

    Whenever BIS Standard for a steel product is formulated and incorporated in the Steel Quality Control Order (QCO), it is mandatory that such steel product will be manufactured with a BIS license, both by domestic producers or foreign producers intending to export to India. So far 151 Indian Standards have been notified under the Quality Control Order covering carbon steel, alloy steel and stainless steel.

    Regarding the measures taken to upgrade the existing online portal for NOC applications, the functionality was integrated with the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) portal, for the applicants seeking NOC, for such products which are not covered under the QCO. This initiative promoted ease of doing business as importers need only to register and provide the desired inputs on a single portal only.

    Steel is a deregulated sector and the domestic steel prices & steel production are determined by factors such as steelmaking capacity, demand supply dynamics of market forces, consumption etc.

    The National Steel Policy (NSP) 2017, envisages creation of a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel industry, including the small & medium steel producers, that promotes economic growth.

    The following are the initiatives of Ministry of Steel, to encourage investments in sustainable and high-quality steel production aligned with the National Steel Policy:-

    • Government has launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for ‘Specialty Steel’ to promote the manufacturing of certain high grade varieties of steel within the country by attracting capital investment and promote technology up-gradation in the steel sector.
    • Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Ministry of Steel has awarded two pilot projects to produce DRI using 100% Hydrogen in vertical shaft and one pilot project to use hydrogen in existing Blast Furnace to reduce coal/coke consumption under this Mission.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Defence exports surge to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore in Financial Year 2024-25, a growth of 12.04% over 2023-24

    Source: Government of India

    Defence exports surge to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore in Financial Year 2024-25, a growth of 12.04% over 2023-24

    With 42.85% increase, DPSUs contribute with Rs 8,389 crore of exports; Private sector records the figure of Rs 15,233 crore

    Under PM Modi’s leadership, India is marching towards achieving Rs 50,000 crore target by 2029: Raksha Mantri

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence exports have surged to a record high of Rs 23,622 crore (approx. US$ 2.76 Billion) in the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25. A growth of Rs 2,539 crore or 12.04% has been registered in the just-concluded FY over the defence exports figures of FY 2023-24, which were Rs 21,083 crore.

    The Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) have shown a significant increase of 42.85% in their exports in the FY 2024-25 reflecting the growing acceptability of Indian products in the global market and the ability of the Indian defence industry to be a part of the global supply chain. The private sector and DPSUs have contributed Rs 15,233 crore and Rs 8,389 crore respectively in defence exports of 2024-25, whereas the corresponding figures for FY 2023-24 were Rs 15,209 crore and Rs 5,874 crore respectively.

    Through a post on X, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated all the stakeholders on achieving the feat. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is marching towards achieving the target of increasing defence exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.

    India has evolved from a largely import-dependent military force to the one increasingly focused on self-reliance and indigenous production. In a major boost to defence exports, wide range of items from ammunition, arms, sub-systems/systems and parts & components have been exported to around 80 countries in the just-concluded FY.

    The Department of Defence Production has a dedicated portal for application and processing of export authorisation requests, and 1,762 Export Authorisation were issued in FY 2024-25 compared to 1,507 in the preceding year, registering a growth of 16.92%. The total number of exporters also grew by 17.4% in the same period.

    Many policy reforms have been brought-in by the Government in the past few years to boost the Indian defence industry such as simplification of industrial licensing procedure, removal of parts and components from license regime, extending the validity period of license etc. In addition, SOP for grant of Export Authorisation was further simplified, and more provisions were added in the last financial year to boost exports from the country.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DECARBONIZATION IN THE STEEL SECTOR

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The steps including adoption of green technologies, carbon capture and recycling initiatives taken by Government to decarbonize the steel sector in India areas under:-

    1. Ministry has released the Taxonomy for Green Steel to provide standards for defining and categorizing the low emission steel.
    2. Ministry of Steel has released a report titled “Greening the Steel Sector in India: Roadmap and Action Plan” in alignment with the recommendations of the 14 Task Forces constituted by this Ministry for this purpose which provides the future roadmap for green steel and sustainability, towards net-zero target by 2070. The report is available on Ministry of Steel’s website.
    • III. Ministry of Steel has awarded 07 pilot projects for implementation of pilot projects for use of hydrogen in steel sector under National Green Hydrogen Mission launched by Ministry of New & Renewable Energy.
    • IV. National Solar Mission launched by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in January, 2010 promotes the use of solar energy and also helps to reduce the emission of steel industry.
    1. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has formulated the Vehicle Scrapping Policy that includes a system of incentives/disincentives for creation of an ecosystem to phase out older, unfit polluting vehicles. Under the policy, MoRTH has issued rules for Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF), which provides the procedures and infrastructure facilities required for de-pollution and dismantling of End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) for further recovery of metal and other materials under environmental regulations.
    • VI. Ministry of Mines has brought out ‘National Non-ferrous Metal Scrap Recycling Framework, 2020’ to promote a formal and well-organized recycling ecosystem. The Framework lays down standard procedures for recycling and processing of scrap and developing a mechanism for facilitating the Metal scrap recycling activities.
    1. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has introduced the Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025, which establishes a framework for managing End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) in an environmentally sound manner and mandates Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), requiring vehicle producers to meet annual scrapping targets based on the type of vehicle and materials recovered.
    2. The Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) has been notified by the Government (Ministry of Power) on 28thJune,2023, which provides an overall framework for the functioning of the Indian Carbon Market.

    CPSEs of Ministry of Steel are collaborating with eminent technology providers such as M/s BHP from Australia, M/s SMS from Germany, M/s Primetal Technologies from United Kingdom, M/s John Cockerill India Limited from Belgium, M/s Ram Charan Company Pvt. Ltd., Madras, National Centre of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization (NCoE-CCU) of IIT, Bombay and Great Eastern Energy Corporation Ltd. to promote low carbon steel production.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: STEEL EXPORTS AND TARIFF

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    The total quantity and value of finished steel exported from India to the USA in the last five years, year-wise is given below:-

    Finished Steel Export to USA

    Year

    Quantity

    (in ‘000 tonnes)

    Value

    (in Rs. Crores)

    2019-20

    51

    571

    2020-21

    27

    435

    2021-22

    214

    2,621

    2022-23

    165

    3,177

    2023-24

    95

    1,924

    Source: Joint Plant Committee (JPC)

    Steel is deregulated sector and its import & export are determined by demand and supply, dynamics of market forces. The Government acts as a facilitator by creating a conducive environment for the development of steel sector in the country.

    United States imposed additional tariff of 25% on Steel under Section 232 of Trade Expansion Act, 1962 in March, 2018 on a global basis. The GovernmentofIndia continues to engage with the Government of United States to achieve enhancement and broadening of bilateral trade ties in a mutually beneficial and fair manner. Both nations released a joint statement on February 13, 2025, reaffirming their commitment to deepening economic ties. Under the ambitious “Mission 500”, both countries aim to more than double US-India trade to USD 500 billion by 2030 to be achieved by deepening the trade relationship across multiple sectors including steel.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO members appoint new chair for agriculture negotiations

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO members appoint new chair for agriculture negotiations

    At a meeting of the Committee on Agriculture in special session, members gave the formal green light to the appointment of Ambassador Hussain following a swift consultation process. They expressed their willingness to work with the new chair to find common ground and possible outcomes that take into account all members’ topics of interest and sensitivities.
    Ambassador Hussain takes over from Ambassador Alparslan Alcarsoy, former Permanent Representative of Türkiye to the WTO. The new chair paid tribute to his predecessor for his efforts to bring different positions together and for his success, in a difficult context, in presenting a draft text to ministers at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13) held in Abu Dhabi in February/March 2024.
    Ambassador Hussain will also chair the CoASS Subcommittee on Cotton.
    Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the importance of the appointment as agriculture is expected to be “the central focus” of MC14. “We just need to bear in mind that what we are doing here is beyond the halls of this organization. It is actually something that will have tremendous impact on the outside world,” she said. She also underscored that the current global food security situation remains alarmingly fragile.
    DG Okonjo-Iweala stressed that, even in the current difficult trade environment, “this is a unique opportunity for us to show that we can actually pull off a good effort and result out of these agricultural negotiations.” She encouraged members to move beyond their well-known positions in the lead-up to MC14 and to think creatively to develop innovative solutions that support Ambassador Hussain and the WTO Secretariat in achieving a breakthrough in the coming year.
    In his first statement as new chair, Ambassador Hussain said that members will have a good opportunity at MC14 to achieve an outcome that reinforces the role of trade rules and agricultural trade. “An outcome at MC14 should be a pragmatic step forward. With limited time remaining, we must concentrate on what is both achievable and truly meaningful,” he said.
    The new Chair announced he will begin his tenure by meeting with delegations and group coordinators over the coming days. After these initial consultations, his intention is to invite all members to an informal meeting of the special session and dedicated sessions on public food stockholding and the “special safeguard mechanism” in the third week of April. At these meetings, he will report on his first round of bilateral and group consultations and discuss the best way forward.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha

    After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, where rural economy will have an important contribution in making India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027

    Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, with vast experience in PACS and market committee, President of the District Cooperative Bank and Director of the State Cooperative Bank

    Cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years and in view of this, the initiative to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been taken

    An institutionalised system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion and Tribhuvan Sahkari University has been established for the same purpose

    Under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector

    In 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today

    Bye-laws of PACS were amended to make them and multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and UTs

    Today, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs running PM Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra

    Only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous

    National Cooperative Policy is being formulated under leadership of PM Modi and guidance of Union Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah and it is our resolve to announce this policy

    This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol today replied to the discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 in the Rajya Sabha. After the discussion, the House passed the Bill. The Lok Sabha had passed this Bill on 26 March, 2025.

    Replying to the discussion, Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has resolved to make India the third largest economy in the world by the year 2027, where rural economy will have an important contribution. He said that today more than 50 percent of the country’s population is associated with the agriculture sector. There are about 8 lakh cooperatives in the country with over 30 crore members. Shri Mohol said that one person from every farmer family is associated with the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that in 2013-14, a budget of Rs 122 crore was allocated for the Department of Cooperation, which has increased 10 times to Rs 1190 crore today. Earlier, the work related to cooperatives of the whole country was being handled by a joint secretary-level officer, but Prime Minister Modi ji established an independent Ministry of Cooperation for the welfare of farmers. He said that taking a visionary decision, PM Modi ji formed the Ministry of Cooperation for the development and expansion of cooperative societies like Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Dairy, Sugar Mills, Cooperative Bank, Textile Mills across the country and strengthen the cooperative movement.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that it is a matter of pride for all of us that Shri Amit Shah ji became the first Minister of Cooperation of this country, who worked in the PACS and market committee of the village, as the President of the District Cooperative Bank, also as the Director of the State Cooperative Bank and who has made a great contribution and has vast experience in the cooperative sector.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Cooperation took 60 new initiatives to give a new direction to the cooperative sector. These include the first step of strengthening the PACS. He said that PACS is the most important link in the cooperative sector, so the bye-laws of PACS were amended and PACS were made multipurpose and these bye-laws have been adopted by 32 states and union territories.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today in the country, 43 thousand PACSs are running Common Service Centers, 36 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendra and 4 thousand PACSs are running Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Many PACSs are also running petrol pumps. He said that only when PACSs will be economically strong, the farmer will be empowered and the villages will also become prosperous.

    Minister of State for Cooperation said that to strengthen cooperative sector in the states, computerization of about 66 thousand PACS is being done by the Union Ministry of Cooperation, on which the Government of India is spending Rs 2516 crore. He said that the government is trying to make every village of the country prosperous through cooperation. For this, the Ministry has set a target of creating 2 lakh PACSs, out of which 14 thousand PACSs have already been created. Shri Mohol said that in the next five years, the number of PACSs in the country will increase to 3 lakh.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that while forming PACSs, we have kept in mind the social structure of the country and decided to give representation to all sections of the society including women in cooperatives. He said that under the new bye-laws, the government has made it mandatory to have members of SC, ST category and a woman member in the Board of Directors of PACS. Through this, we are working to provide social justice in the cooperative sector. Shri Mohol said that a National Cooperative Database has been created by taking all the states together. Now, information about all cooperatives can be obtained with one click.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that the National Cooperative Policy of the country is also being formulated under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah. It is our resolve to announce this policy in the next few days. He said that for the first time in 2023, under the leadership of Shri Amit Shah ji, three new cooperative societies – Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL), National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL) and National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) – were established at the national level to provide facilities to the farmers of the country from seed to market. 34 thousand cooperative institutions have been made members by these three societies. This will increase the income of farmers.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that the Ministry of Cooperation has created the world’s largest food storage scheme for farmers. The work of food storage scheme has started through PACSs. This will reduce transportation costs, protect the crop and farmers will get storage facilities at a place near them and they will also get financial benefits. He said that in 2013-14, only Rs 5300 crore was given to the cooperative institutions of the country through National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), which the Modi government increased to Rs 1 lakh 28 thousand crores. This year NCDC has given financial assistance of about Rs 10 thousand crore to the sugar mills of the country.

    Union Minister of State for Cooperation said that an institutional system is necessary to bring dynamism in the cooperative sector and its expansion. The university has been established for this purpose. He said that many cooperatives have challenges like lack of efficiency, irregularities in management and limited use of technical resources, which affect their performance. Through this university, the scope and effectiveness of the cooperative sector will definitely increase, which will also create new opportunities for self-employment and innovation.

    Shri Muralidhar Mohol said that today there is a need for proper training for efficiency and discipline at all levels, from the secretary of PACS to the MD of Apex Bank. According to an estimate, the cooperative sector will need about 17 lakh trained youth in the next five years. In view of this need, the initiative to establish a university has been taken. He said that at present the system of teaching and training in the cooperative sector is not adequate and it is also scattered. Keeping this in mind, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home and Cooperative Minister Shri Amit Shah, it was decided to establish Tribhuvan Sahkari University. This university will fulfill the need of trained human resources in the cooperative sector and develop cooperative spirit in the youth of the country and inspire them to make a career in this field.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Threads of Progress

    Source: Government of India

    Threads of Progress

    How Make in India is Shaping the Future of Textiles and Apparel Industry

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 7:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Make in India initiative, launched in 2014, has played a crucial role in positioning India as a global textile manufacturing and export hub. The textile and apparel industry is one of the largest contributors to India’s economy, providing employment to millions and generating substantial foreign exchange earnings. With strong policy support, infrastructure development, and a skilled workforce, India has emerged as a preferred investment destination in the global textile sector.

     

    Overview of India’s Textile Industry

    The textile and apparel industry contributes 2.3% to our GDP, 13% to industrial production, and 12% to exports. India exported textile items worth US$ 34.4 billion in 2023-24, with apparel constituting 42% of the export basket, followed by raw materials/semi-finished materials at 34% and finished non-apparel goods at 30%. It is also the second largest employment generators, after agriculture, with over 45 million people employed directly, including many women and the rural population. As further evidence of the inclusive nature of this industry, nearly 80% of its capacity is spread across Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) clusters in the country.

    The sector also has perfect alignment with the Government’s overall objectives of Make in India, Skill India, Women’s Empowerment, Rural Youth Employment and inclusive growth. The industry produces about 22,000 million pieces of garments per year, with the market size projected to reach US$ 350 billion by 2030, from the current $174 billion.

    Recently, the Ministry of Textiles reported a 7% increase in textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, from April to December 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. In line with the growth roadmap, the Indian textile market currently ranks fifth globally, and the government is actively working to accelerate this growth to a rate of 15-20% over the next five years.

     

    Impact of ‘Make in India’ on the Textile Industry

    The Make in India initiative has catalyzed textile manufacturing and exports through key policy interventions, enhanced infrastructure, and incentives. In the Union Budget 2024-25, to promote domestic textile production, two more types of shuttle-less looms are added to fully exempted textile machinery by the government. The government has introduced multiple schemes to enhance textile production, boost investments, and promote exports, including:

    1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles
    • Objective: To increase manufacturing in man-made fibre (MMF) and technical textiles.
    • Budget: ₹10,683 crore.
    • Incentives: Financial incentives for large-scale textile manufacturers.

     

    1. PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) Parks
    • Objective: To develop world-class industrial infrastructure for textile manufacturing.
    • Focus: On developing integrated large scale and modern industrial infrastructure facility for total value-chain of the textile industry like spinning, weaving, processing, garmenting, textile manufacturing, processing & textile machinery industry.
    • Budget: ₹4,445 crore for a period 2021-22 to 2027-28.
    • Key Benefits: Reduced logistics costs, increased FDI, and better competitiveness in global markets.
    • Current Status: A total of 7 Parks established in states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana.

     

    1. Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)
    • Objective: To incentivise credit flow for benchmark credit linked technology upgradation in this MSME driven Textile Industry for supporting capital investment.
    • Budget: ₹17,822 crore.
    • Incentives: Capital subsidies for technology upgradation.

     

    1. Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector)
    • Objective: To provide skill training to workers in the textile industry, in partnership with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
    • Budget Allocation: An amount of ₹115 crores was sanctioned during the FY 2023-24, out of which ₹114.99 crores (99.9%) were disbursed.
    • Current Status: As of March 27, 2025, more than 4.78 lakh users have been registered on the Samarth portal. As on March 19, 2025, a total of 3.82 lakh beneficiaries have been trained (passed) and 2.97 lakh beneficiaries (77.74%) have been placed.

     

    1. Textile Cluster Development Scheme (TCDS)
    • Objective: To create an integrated workspace and linkages-based ecosystem for existing as well as potential textile units/clusters to make them operationally and financially viable.
    • Benefits: Cluster development model of TCDS will bring benefits of critical mass for customization of interventions, economies of scale in operation, competitiveness in manufacturing, cost efficient, better access to technology and information, etc.
    • Budget: ₹853 crore.
    • Current Status: As of March 18, 2025, about 1.22 lakh employment opportunities have been generated under the scheme. During 2024-25, ₹34.48 crore have been released.

     

    1. National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)
    • Objective: To boost Technical Textiles in the country.
    • Target Years: 2020-21 to 2025-26
    • Budget: ₹1480 crore
    • Focus: The Mission focuses on (i) research, innovation and development, (ii) promotion and market development (iii) education and skilling and (iv) export promotion in technical textiles to position country as global leader in technical textiles.
    • Current Status: As on January 1, 2025, 168 projects of value ₹509 crores (approx.) have been approved in the category of Specialty fibres and Technical Textiles.

     

    Union Budget Allocations for Ministry of Textiles

    The Union Budget announced an outlay of ₹5272 crores for the Ministry of Textiles for 2025-26. This is an increase of 19% over budget estimates of 2024-25 (Rs. 4417.03 crore).

     

    Key Highlights

    • Cotton Mission: A five-year plan to improve cotton productivity, especially extra-long staple varieties, with science and technology support.
    • Tax Exemptions on Looms: Duty removed on select shuttle-less looms to reduce costs and modernize weaving.
    • Customs Duty on Knitted Fabrics: Increased from “10% or 20%” to “20% or ₹115 per kg, whichever is higher” to curb cheap imports.
    • Handicraft Exports: Time for export extended from six months to one year, with more items eligible for duty-free input imports.
    • MSME Boost: Focus on exports, credit enhancement, and policies like the National Manufacturing Mission, Export Promotion Mission, Bharat Trade Net, and Fund of Funds to promote employment and entrepreneurship.

     

    These measures aim to boost domestic manufacturing, support MSMEs, modernize the textile sector, and enhance India’s global competitiveness.

     

    Export Growth and Market Expansion

    India is the 6th largest exporter of Textiles & Apparel in the world. The share of textile and apparel (T&A) including handicrafts in India’s total exports stands at a significant 8.21% in 2023-24. India has a share of 3.91% of the global trade in textiles and apparel. Major textile and apparel export destinations for India are USA and EU and with around 47% share in total textile and apparel exports.  The textile and apparel sector has witnessed significant export growth due to government incentives and trade agreements.

    The government has taken several steps to enhance exports in textiles and apparels, including:

    • Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL): On 7th March 2019, Government approved Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) Scheme to rebate all embedded State and Central taxes/levies on export of Apparel/Garments and Made-ups to provide support and enhance competitiveness of these sectors.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles: Under this scheme, as per the Quarterly Review Reports (QRRs) released on 31.03.2024, the turnover achieved was Rs. 1,355 crore including export of Rs.166 crore.
    • Free Trade Agreements: India has so far signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) including recently concluded agreement with United Arab Emirates (UAE), Australia and TEPA (Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement) with EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries comprising Switzerland, Iceland, Norway & Liechtenstein. India has 6 Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various trading partners. India is presently engaged in FTA negotiations with some of its trading partners notable among these FTAs are India-UK Free Trade Agreement, India- EU Free Trade Agreement, and India-Oman FTA.
    • Quality Control Orders: The Ministry has actively taken up notification of standards for textile products in co-ordination with Bureau of Indian Standards and Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are issued to regulate quality and curb sub-standard imports.
    • Textile Advisory Group on Man-Made Fibre (MMF): The Ministry has constituted a “Textile Advisory Group on Man-made Fibre (MMF)” comprising stakeholders of the country’s entire Man-Made Fibre (MMF) including viscose to deliberate and make recommendations on the issues and concerns of the sector.
    • Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs): There are eleven Exports Promotion Councils (EPCs) representing various segments of the textiles & apparel value chain from Fibre to finished goods as well as traditional sectors like handloom, handicrafts and carpets.  These Councils work in close cooperation with the Ministry of Textiles and other Ministries to promote the growth and export of their respective sectors in global markets. 

     

    FDI in Textile and Apparel Industry

     

     

    Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plays a role in the Indian textile and apparel sector. From January 2000 to March 2024, the textile sector received US$ 4,472.79 million (₹28,304.10 crore) in FDI equity. FDI in textile sector over the years can be traced in the graph below:

    BHARAT TEX 2024

    Bharat Tex 2024, a global textile expo was successfully organized during February 26 to February 29, 2024 by the consortium of 11 Textiles Export Promotion Councils with the support of Ministry of Textiles. Built on the twin pillars of trade and investment and with an overarching focus on sustainability, the 4-day event attracted besides policymakers and global CEOs, 3,500 Exhibitors, 3,000 Buyers from 111 Countries and over one lakh trade visitors. An exhibition spread across nearly 2 million sq ft of area and encompassing the entire textile value chain, including an artistically curated story of textiles- Vastra Katha were the highlights of the event. The event was hosted simultaneously at two state of the art venues in Delhi – Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi with both venues fully subscribed.

    This global scale conference with 70 sessions and 112 international speakers saw engaging discussions on key textile issues of the day including Textile Mega Trends, Sustainability, resilient global supply chains and Manufacturing 4.0.

     

    BHARAT TEX 2025

    Bharat Tex 2025, India’s largest global textile event, was successfully organized from February 14 to 17, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event spanned 2.2 million square feet and featured over 5,000 exhibitors, providing a comprehensive showcase of India’s textile ecosystem. More than 1,20,000 trade visitors, from 120+ countries including global CEOs, policymakers, and industry leaders, attended the event.

    Bharat Tex 2025 served as a platform to accelerate the government’s “Farm to Fibre, Fabric, Fashion, and Foreign Markets” vision. India’s textile exports have already reached ₹3 lakh crore, and the goal is to triple this to ₹9 lakh crore by 2030 by strengthening domestic manufacturing and expanding global reach. The event demonstrated India’s leadership in the textile sector and its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration.

     

    Innovation in Textile Sector

    As far as innovation in textiles sector is concerned, Ministry of Textiles has conducted an Innovation Challenges in collaboration with Startup India & DPIIT. In this challenge, 9 winners were recognised and awarded, while incubation opportunities were presented to 6 awardees under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). Apart from this, 3 separate innovations challenges were conducted by nature fibre boards on their respective problem statements i.e. 

    • NJB Technological Innovation Grand Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of 125 applicants.
    • CSB Start-up Grand Challenge in which 4 winners were recognised and awarded out of             58 applicants.
    • CWDB Wool Innovation Challenge in which 3 winners were recognised and awarded out of     24 applicants.
    • 17 of the total above-mentioned winners are directly engaging in activities such as textile waste recycling, biobased fibres or sustainable garment production. 

     

    Cotton Industry in India

    Cotton is a vital commercial crop in India, contributing about 24% to global cotton production and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of farmers and workers. It plays a crucial role in India’s foreign exchange earnings through exports of raw cotton, intermediate products, and finished goods. India holds the largest cotton acreage in the world.

    • Acreage and Yield: India has the largest cotton acreage globally; ranks 36th in productivity.
    • Production and Consumption: India is the 2nd largest producer and consumer of cotton in the world.
    • Cotton Species: India grows all four species of cotton: G. Arboreum, G. Herbaceum (Asian cotton), G. Barbadense (Egyptian cotton) and G. Hirsutum (American Upland cotton).
    • Major Growing Zones: Cotton is primarily grown in the Northern, Central, and Southern zones of India.

     

    Production and Consumption of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Year

    Production

    Consumption

    2021-22

    311.17

    322.41

    2022-23

    336.60

    313.63

    2023-24 (P)

    325.22

    323.00

     

    Import and Export of Cotton (in lakh bales)

    Cotton Season

    Import (in lakh bales)

    Export (in lakh bales)

    2021-22

    21.13

    42.25

    2022-23

    14.60

    15.89

    2023-24*

    6.73

    26.24

    * Position up to 30.06.2024

     

    Government Schemes and Initiatives:

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) Operations to ensure remunerative prices to cotton farmers.
    • “Cott-Ally” mobile app for cotton farmers.
    • Aadhar-based farmer registration for MSP benefits.
    • E-auction for transparent sale of cotton stock.
    • QR code using Block Chain Technology for traceability of cotton.
    • Kasturi Cotton Bharat programme for branding Indian Cotton.

     

    Silk Industry in India

    Silk is an insect fibre known for its lustre, drape, and strength. It is called the “Queen of Textiles” worldwide. India has a long history with silk and is the second largest producer and the largest consumer of silk in the world. India is unique in producing all four commercial varieties of silk: Mulberry, Tropical & Oak Tasar, Muga, and Eri. The Indian sericulture industry is important because it provides a lot of employment, requires low capital, and gives good income to silk growers. India produced 38,913 MT of silk, making it the second largest producer globally, after China.

     

    Years

    Mulberry

    Tasar

    Eri

    Muga

    Total

    2004-05

    14,620

    322

    1,448

    110

    16,500

    2014-15

    21,390

    2,434

    4,726

    158

    28,708

    2020-21

    23,896

    2,689

    6,946

    239

    33,770

    2021-22

    25,818

    1,466

    7,364

    255

    34,903

    2022-23

    27,654

    1,318

    7,349

    261

    36,582

    2023-24

    29,892

    1,586

    7,183

    252

    38,913

    2024-25 (April-September)

    14,233

    106

    3,924

    92

    18,355

    Source: Central Silk Board, Bengaluru

     

    The Indian government supports the silk industry through various initiatives and schemes:

    • The Central Silk Board (CSB) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Textiles that was established in 1948 to develop the silk industry.
    • The Ministry of Textiles is implementing the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) under the Silk Samagra Scheme.
    • In 2023-24, the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, allocated ₹25 crore for the implementation of the SCSP for sericulture. The entire funds allocated under SCSP were fully utilized/released for implementation of beneficiary-oriented components.
    • The government is also working on research and development in the silk sector to improve productivity and quality. This includes promoting soil testing, organic farming, and the use of silkworm by-products. They are also upgrading reeling technology and promoting indigenous automatic reeling machines to boost the Make in India program.
    • The industry also focuses on product design development and diversification to promote Indian silks and help manufacturers and exporters create innovative designs and fabrics.

     

    Jute Industry in India

    The jute industry is a major player in India’s economy, particularly in the eastern regions like West Bengal. It’s a vital source of employment, providing livelihoods for workers in organized mills and diversified units, and supporting numerous farm families. The Indian government actively supports the jute sector through various initiatives aimed at improving productivity, ensuring fair prices for farmers, and promoting the use of jute products.

    • The jute industry provides direct employment to 4 lakh workers in organized mills and diversified units, including the tertiary sector and allied activities.
    • It supports the livelihood of 40 lakh farm families.
    • As per the Office of Jute Commissioner, there are 116 composite jute mills.
    • West Bengal has the highest number of jute mills (86).
    • Government of India provides support to the jute growers through MSP operations by the Jute Corporation of India and also through direct purchase of jute sacking.
    • Average land area under raw jute & mesta cultivation is 799 thousand hectares (average of last four years).
    • Average production of raw jute & mesta is 10,990 thousand bales (average of last four years).
    • Average export of jute goods is 133 thousand MT per annum with a value of Rs. 21,150 million per annum (average of last four years).
    • Jute – ICARE has been launched for improving fibre quality and productivity, reducing the cost of jute production, and increasing the income of jute farmers.
    • The schemes for the promotion of the jute sector are primarily implemented by the National Jute Board.

     

    Conclusion

    The Make in India initiative has significantly enhanced India’s position in global textile manufacturing and exports through targeted policies, infrastructure development, and investment promotion. With sustained efforts, India is poised to become a global textile leader, driving economic growth and employment generation.

     

    References

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/textile-data

    https://jutecomm.gov.in/FAQ.html

    https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/textiles-apparel

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2089306

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2098352

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2099411

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2114277

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2104423

    https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Indian%20Jute%20At%20a%20Glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Note%20on%20Cotton%20Sector_0.pdf

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU4118_0othg1.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS245_n0CCI6.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2877_YZdL4e.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU2873_sOQ5IE.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AS110_T8V4VD.pdf?source=pqals

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20at%20a%20glance.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Table-2%20Raw%20Silk%20Production%20Statistics.pdf

    https://texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/MOT%20Annual%20Report%20English%20%2807.11.2024%29.pdf

    https://www.texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/FDI%20inflow%20%28Finacial%20year%20wise%29.pdf

    https://ddnews.gov.in/en/india-sets-new-record-with-7-rise-in-textile-exports-government-implements-multiple-schemes-to-boost-sector/

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION the immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus: threats from the investigative Committee – B10-0227/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    with request for inclusion in the agenda for a debate on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

    Michał Kobosko, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Helmut Brandstätter, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Jan‑Christoph Oetjen, Urmas Paet, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar, Dainius Žalimas
    on behalf of the Renew Group

    NB: This motion for a resolution is available in the original language only.

    B10‑0227/2025

    Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the immediate risk of further repression by Lukashenka’s regime in Belarus – threats from the Investigative Committee

    (2025/2629(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Belarus,

    –  having regard to Rule 150 of its Rules of Procedure,

     

    A. whereas Belarusians celebrate the Freedom Day on 25 March to commemorate the independence declaration by the democratic Belarusian People’s Republic of 1918;

    B. whereas the Lukashenka regime has been escalating its repression beyond Belarusian borders to dismantle alternative democratic political structures;

    C. whereas Belarus’ Investigative Committee announced to monitor citizens’ participation in actions abroad, to prosecute all participants, including residents abroad and their conviction in absentia;

    D. whereas Belarusian diaspora’s families were threatened with imprisonment and asset confiscation if participating in Freedom Day protests;

    E. whereas hundreds participants in Freedom Day rallies have been identified as suspects by the Investigative Committee of Belarus;

    F.  whereas Lukashenka’s regime is taking advantage of many Belarusian passports expiring, forcing the diaspora to return to Belarus, facing possible imprisonment; whereas 2023, EU Member States issued around 300 000 first residence permits to Belarusians;

    G. whereas Belarusian civil society and free media are severely affected by cuts in the U.S. budget;

     

    1. Calls for the EU, its Member States and the international community to apply immediate protective measures for Belarusian citizens in EU Member States and abroad facing criminal persecution by Lukashenka’s regime, including enhanced asylum procedures, security cooperation, and legal protection against extraterritorial persecution.

    2. Encourages EU Member States to extend for those Belarusian citizens whose passports are expiring the right for a legal stay by providing alternative travel documents.

    3. Regrets that Belarus Freedom Day was used by the regime to “inaugurate” Lukashenka, and reiterates its non-recognition of Lukashenka.

    4. Urges EU Member States not to comply with Interpol arrest warrants requesting extradition of Lukashenka’s political opponents to Belarus.

    5. Welcomes the Council’s sanctions on stakeholders undermining democracy and rule of law, contributing to repression and to military cooperation with Russia, such as the Central Election Commission, which issued politically motivated judgments and the President Property Management Directorate of the Belarusian Federation of Trade Unions; warns that Belarus functions as transit hub for Russia to circumvent existing sanctions; calls for stronger investigations of sanction evasion.

    6. Urges the Member States to impose further sanctions equally to those imposed on Russia, particularly on the Belarusian banking system.

    7. Regrets the recent U.S. negotiations with Lukashenka, which risk legitimizing his regime.

    8. Urges the EU and its member states to increase financial support for independent media, human rights organizations, civil society initiatives, and institutions of Belarusian democratic forces.

    9. Calls on the HRVP to use INTCEN and EDMO to counteract Belarusian intelligence operations and disinformation.

     

    10. Emphasizes the Belarusian democratic actors’ role and unwavering support for a free, democratic, sovereign and independent Belarus as part of a peaceful Europe.

    11. Calls on Lukashenka’s regime for the immediate release of all political prisoners and their rehabilitation.

    12. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the HR/VP, the Council, the representatives of the Belarusian democratic forces and the Belarusian de facto authorities.

     

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –