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  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington one of 21 states suing Trump to protect libraries, museums and other small agency programs

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown today joined 20 other attorneys general in suing the Trump administration to stop the dismantling of three federal agencies that provide services and funding supporting public libraries and museums, workers, and minority-owned businesses nationwide.

    In March, the Trump administration issued an executive order that would dismantle federal agencies created by Congress that collectively provide hundreds of millions of dollars for programs in every state. As a result of this executive order, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) – one of the targeted agencies – has placed almost its entire staff on administrative leave and will cut hundreds of grants for state libraries and museums.

    The lawsuit filed by Brown and the coalition seeks to stop the targeted destruction of the IMLS and two other agencies targeted in the administration’s EO that millions of Americans rely on, especially those in underserved communities. 

    The three agencies targeted in the executive order are: 

    1. The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which supports museums and libraries nationwide through grantmaking, research, and policy development;
    2. The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), which promotes the growth and inclusion of minority-owned businesses through federal financial assistance programs; and
    3. The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), which promotes peaceful resolution of labor disputes.

    “Communities throughout Washington benefit from the work of these agencies to support libraries, promote minority-owned businesses, and protect workers’ rights,” Brown said. “Trump claims he’s carving up wasteful spending, but in reality he’s illegally gutting popular programs that support people with limited resources in our towns and cities.”

    In 2024, IMLS invested $180 million in libraries nationwide under its Grants to States Program. The administration’s action will threaten hundreds of library staff across the country that provide essential services to their communities. 

    In addition, the Trump administration has cut the staff of MBDA from 40 to just five individuals and has effectively stopped issuing new grants, hurting vulnerable small businesses across the country. The FMCS has slashed its staff from roughly 200 to fewer than 15 individuals and announced the termination of several of its core programs, making it harder for unionized workers to secure their rights. 

    The executive order violates the Constitution and the Administrative Procedure Act by eliminating the programs of agencies without any regard for the laws and regulations that govern each source of federal funding. The coalition argues that the president cannot decide to unilaterally override laws governing federal spending, and that this executive order unconstitutionally overrides Congress’s power to decide how federal funds are spent. 

    This lawsuit is led by the attorneys general of New York, Hawaii, and Rhode Island. Joining the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, and Wisconsin.  

    The lawsuit can be found here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties.Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Prosecutors This Week File Criminal Charges Against 24 Illegal Aliens Found in the United States Following Removal

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Working alongside law enforcement partners at United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, federal prosecutors this week filed criminal charges against 24 defendants who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal, the Justice Department announced today.

    Among these defendants included criminals who previously were convicted of felonies prior to their removal from the United States, including one previously convicted of narcotics crimes involving methamphetamine and cocaine.

    The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base sentence of up to two years in federal prison. Defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year sentence and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

    Some of the recently filed cases are summarized below:

    • Andrés Palacios Duque, 51, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal.  Duque was removed from the U.S. in 2009 and 2015. His criminal history includes a 2014 conviction in Orange County Superior Court for transporting and possessing for sale methamphetamine, cocaine, and cocaine base, for which he was sentenced to five years in California state prison. Assistant United States Attorney Rosalind Wang of the Orange County Office is prosecuting this case.
    • Tereso Guadalupe Martínez Reyes, 23, of Mexico, was arraigned this week on a two-count federal grand jury indictment charging him with possession of goods stolen from interstate shipment and being an alien found in the United States following removal. According to a criminal complaint previously filed in this case, U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested Martínez on March 13 on Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County. He had been erratically driving a black 2001 Chevrolet Suburban which contained 478 black Nike Jordan 6 Rings shoe boxes packed from floor to the roof of the vehicle. The shoes were valued at approximately $64,530 and had been stolen from a freight train. Martínez previously was removed from the United States to Mexico in February 2025. On March 18, a federal magistrate judge ordered him jailed without bond. Martínez pleaded not guilty to the charges against him at his April 1 arraignment. He is scheduled to go on trial on May 20 in United States District Court in Los Angeles. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander H. Tran of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section is prosecuting this case.

    Criminal complaints and indictments contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating these matters.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Oklahoma City Men Plead Guilty to Maiming in Aid of Racketeering

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – ADAM ROUSE, 32, BRENDAN SHANE HOLDER, 32, DAMION BLAIR BRADLEY GEORGE, 30, and KRISTOPHER HAUSER, 32, all of Oklahoma City, have pleaded guilty to maiming in aid of racketeering, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    On November 19, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a two-count Indictment against the defendants, charging them with maiming in aid of the racketeering activities of the Irish Mob Gang. According to the Indictment, the Irish Mob Gang is an enterprise engaged in, among other things, the distribution of controlled substances, firearms trafficking, and acts of violence. To further these day-to-day operations, the Irish Mob Gang depended on a robust enforcement group to ensure compliance with the organization’s orders, which included directing and permitting other members and associates to carry out acts in furtherance of the enterprise.

    Specially, the Indictment alleges that, for purposes of gaining entrance to and maintaining and increasing their position within the Irish Mob Gang, Rouse and Holder severed a victim’s right pinkie finger with a hatchet, while Holder, George, and Hauser all participated in the burning of a gang tattoo off the back of a victim’s head with a heated machete.

    As of April 1, 2025, each defendant has pleaded guilty to maiming in aid of racketeering. At sentencing, the defendants each face up to 30 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000.

    This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Norman Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Hoch and David McCrary are prosecuting the case.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laredo man convicted after purchasing firearms with stolen bank heist funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A federal judge has found a 42-year-old resident of Laredo guilty of bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana determined Arturo Limon II was guilty on all four counts as charged following a one-day bench trial. She convicted him of two counts of bank robbery, one count of bank theft and one count of false statements during purchase of a firearm.

    On April 27, 2024, Limon entered Falcon International Bank located at 10511 McPherson Road. He approached the bank tellers, handed them an empty camouflage backpack and demanded they put money in it. During the robbery he said, “yes this is happening.”  

    Limon stole a large amount of cash from the teller’s drawer, exited through the main lobby entrance and drove away in blue Ford Mustang.

    Authorities responded, reviewed bank surveillance footage and issued a “be on the lookout” for an individual matching Limon’s description.

    Later that day, he entered Arena Gun Club shortly after the robbery with the same green camouflage backpack and attempted to purchase a firearm with a large amount of cash. He left the club while employees conducted the mandatory background checks. They alerted law enforcement due to his suspicious behavior.

    The court heard that he had lied about his residential address on the required form when he attempted to purchase five pistols and one rifle from the Arena Gun Club.

    Authorities arrested Limon at his residence as he arrived driving a blue Mustang. At that time, they found marked currency in his vehicle and a green camouflage backpack.

    Judge Saldana will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Limon faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leslie Cortez and Mike Makens are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Beacon Offshore Energy’s Joe Leimkuhler elected as NOIA Chair; LLOG’s Eric Zimmermann approved as Vice Chair

    Source: National Ocean Industries Association – NOIA

    Headline: Beacon Offshore Energy’s Joe Leimkuhler elected as NOIA Chair; LLOG’s Eric Zimmermann approved as Vice Chair

    Beacon Offshore Energy’s Joe Leimkuhler elected as NOIA Chair; LLOG’s Eric Zimmermann approved as Vice Chair

    Washington, D.C. – Washington, D.C. – The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) Board of Directors has elected Joe Leimkuhler, Chief Operating Officer of Beacon Offshore Energy, as the NOIA Chair for the 2025-2026 term. Eric Zimmermann, Chief Operating Officer of LLOG, was elected as the 2025-2026 Vice Chair. Joe and Eric were confirmed in their positions during the NOIA Board of Directors meeting this morning.
    In a separate press release, NOIA announced the Executive Committee and Board of Directors positions for the 2025-2026 term.
    NOIA President Erik Milito said, “In 2025, the Gulf of America stands as a cornerstone of our nation’s energy future, bolstered by the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Doug Burgum. Their commitment to unleashing America’s offshore energy potential can set the stage for unprecedented opportunity. All forms of offshore energy are additive and complementary, working together to strengthen energy security, drive economic growth, and advance lower-carbon solutions. Whether it’s expanding oil and gas lease sales, shipping LNG to our allies, pioneering carbon sequestration in the Gulf, accelerating offshore wind development, or building the nation’s capacity for deep-sea mining, NOIA’s advocacy efforts continue to recognize the synergy of these resources. NOIA is eager to collaborate with the Administration and Congress, through the leadership of Joe and Eric to ensure the U.S. offshore energy industry thrives, delivering jobs, innovation, and a robust energy portfolio that powers America and the world.”
    “We also extend our gratitude to outgoing NOIA chair Jon Landes of TechnipFMC for his leadership and unwavering dedication in championing the offshore energy sector during his tenure as the NOIA Chair.”
    Incoming NOIA Chair Joe Leimkuhler said, “NOIA is a vital conduit—bridging the expertise of our diverse member companies, the dedication of workers, and the vision of energy leaders to educate and inspire Washington, D.C. policymakers. The diversity of NOIA’s members covers energy producers and the full range of suppliers and service providers, which strengthens our ability to champion cross-industry stability through smart, innovative policies. Our collective experience in the Gulf of America and beyond positions us to shape a generational shift in energy policy for the better. I’m proud to lead this effort and work alongside our member companies to deliver a clear, unified message to D.C.: America’s offshore energy future is innovative and bright, and we’re ready to lead the way.”
    NOIA Vice Chair Eric Zimmermann added, “I am thrilled to collaborate with Joe, NOIA’s dedicated membership, and the NOIA staff in my role as Vice Chair. NOIA’s mission is more vital than ever as the global demand for responsible and reliable energy sources intensifies. The U.S. offshore energy industry sets the gold standard, and we are committed to partnering with our nation’s elected officials and policymakers to establish policies that proclaim that U.S. offshore is unequivocally ‘open for business.’ My father was in the marine side of the business, my grandfather was on the marketing side of the business, and being in the upstream has helped me gain a vision deep vision and appreciation for the breadth and importance of the offshore space.”

    About Joe LeimkuhlerJoe graduated with a MS in Petroleum Engineering from Wyoming 1987. Over the next 25 years, he worked the deepwater Gulf of Mexico at Shell culminating with managing all offshore well operations in the U.S. After Shell, Joe spent 7 years at LLOG where he was the VP of Well Operations, HSE and Engineering. Over the past 6 years, Joe has been at Beacon Offshore Energy, and as COO has helped to build the company into a deepwater operator.
    About Eric ZimmermannEric received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Geology at Louisiana State University. Eric currently is Chief Operating Officer of LLOG Exploration a position he has held since 2020.  He has worked been with the company since 2007, holding the positions of Exploration Geologist and Vice President of Geology. Prior to LLOG, Mr. Zimmermann worked for BP in Houston and Dominion Exploration in New Orleans.  His experience has been focused on exploration and development projects in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico for his entire career.  He is a Professional Geologist in the states of Texas and Louisiana and is a Fellow of the Geological Society of London.

    About NOIA The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim

    Source: NASA

    NASA astronaut Jonny Kim poses for a portrait while wearing a spacesuit on July 17, 2024. In his first mission, Kim will serve as a flight engineer during Expedition 72/73 on the International Space Station. He will launch aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft on Tuesday, April 8.
    Chosen by NASA in 2017, Kim is a decorated naval officer and medical doctor. He completed two years of training as an Astronaut Candidate; training included technical and operational instruction in International Space Station systems, Extravehicular Activities Operations, T-38 flight training, robotics, physiological training, expeditionary training, field geology, water and wilderness survival training, and Russian language proficiency training. In 2020, Kim began his support of International Space Station operations as a Capsule Communicator (CapCom) in Mission Control Center Houston and the Artemis program under the astronaut Exploration branch. He served as the International Space Station’s Increment Lead for Expedition 65 in 2021. He has continued to support mission and crew operations in various roles within the astronaut office including serving as the Operations Officer, T-38 Liaison to the Aircraft Operations Division and the interim ISS CapCom Chief Engineer.
    Image credit: NASA/Josh Valcarcel

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Selects Finalist Teams for Student Human Lander Challenge

    Source: NASA

    NASA has selected 12 student teams to develop solutions for storing and transferring the super-cold liquid propellants needed for future long-term exploration beyond Earth orbit.
    The agency’s 2025 Human Lander Challenge is designed to inspire and engage the next generation of engineers and scientists as NASA and its partners prepare to send astronauts to the Moon through the Artemis campaign in preparation for future missions to Mars. The commercial human landing systems will serve as the primary mode of transportation that will safely take astronauts and, later, large cargo from lunar orbit to the surface of the Moon and back.
    For its second year, the competition invites university students and their faculty advisors to develop innovative, “cooler” solutions for in-space cryogenic, or super cold, liquid propellant storage and transfer systems. These cryogenic fluids, like liquid hydrogen or liquid oxygen, must stay extremely cold to remain in a liquid state, and the ability to effectively store and transfer them in space will be increasingly vital for future long-duration missions. Current technology allows cryogenic liquids to be stored for a relatively short amount of time, but future missions will require these systems to function effectively over several hours, weeks, and even months.
    The 12 selected finalists have been awarded a $9,250 development stipend to further develop their concepts in preparation for the next stage of the competition.
    The 2025 Human Lander Challenge finalist teams are:

    California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, “THERMOSPRING: Thermal Exchange Reduction Mechanism using Optimized SPRING”
    Colorado School of Mines, “MAST: Modular Adaptive Support Technology”
    Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, “Electrical Capacitance to High-resolution Observation (ECHO)”
    Jacksonville University, “Cryogenic Complex: Cryogenic Tanks and Storage Systems – on the Moon and Cislunar Orbit”
    Jacksonville University, “Cryogenic Fuel Storage and Transfer: The Human Interface – Monitoring and Mitigating Risks”
    Massachusetts Institute of Technology, “THERMOS: Translunar Heat Rejection and Mixing for Orbital Sustainability”
    Old Dominion University, “Structural Tensegrity for Optimized Retention in Microgravity (STORM)”
    Texas A&M University, “Next-generation Cryogenic Transfer and Autonomous Refueling (NeCTAR)”
    The College of New Jersey, “Cryogenic Orbital Siphoning System (CROSS)”
    The Ohio State University, “Autonomous Magnetized Cryo-Couplers with Active Alignment Control for Propellant Transfer (AMCC-AAC)
    University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, “Efficient Cryogenic Low Invasive Propellant Supply Exchange (ECLIPSE)”
    Washington State University, “CRYPRESS Coupler for Liquid Hydrogen Transfer”

    Finalist teams will now work to submit a technical paper further detailing their concepts. They will present their work to a panel of NASA and industry judges at the 2025 Human Lander Competition Forum in Huntsville, Alabama, near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, in June 2025. The top three placing teams will share a total prize purse of $18,000.
    “By engaging college students in solving critical challenges in cryogenic fluid technologies and systems-level solutions, NASA fosters a collaborative environment where academic research meets practical application,” said Tiffany Russell Lockett, office manager for the Human Landing System Mission Systems Management Office at NASA Marshall. “This partnership not only accelerates cryogenics technology development but also prepares the Artemis Generation – the next generation of engineers and scientists – to drive future breakthroughs in spaceflight.”
    NASA’s Human Lander Challenge is sponsored by the agency’s Human Landing System Program within the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate and managed by the National Institute of Aerospace.
    For more information on NASA’s 2025 Human Lander Challenge, including team progress, visit the challenge website.

    Corinne Beckinger Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. 256.544.0034  corinne.m.beckinger@nasa.gov 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Welcomes Gateway Lunar Space Station’s HALO Module to US

    Source: NASA

    From Italy to Arizona: Gateway’s first habitation module takes a major step on its path to launch.

    A core component of Gateway, humanity’s first space station around the Moon, is now on American soil and one step closer to launch. In lunar orbit, Gateway will support NASA’s Artemis campaign to return humans to the Moon and chart a path of scientific discovery toward the first crewed missions to Mars.
    Gateway’s first pressurized module and one of its two foundational elements, HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost), arrived in Arizona on April 1. Fresh off a transatlantic journey from Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy, the structure will undergo final outfitting at Northrop Grumman’s integration and test facility in Gilbert before being integrated with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The pair of modules will launch together on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.

    Gateway’s HALO will provide Artemis astronauts with space to live, work, conduct scientific research, and prepare for missions to the lunar surface. It will offer command and control, data handling, energy storage, electrical power distribution, thermal regulation, and communications and tracking via Lunar Link, a high-rate lunar communication system provided by ESA (European Space Agency). The module will include docking ports for visiting vehicles such as NASA’s Orion spacecraft, lunar landers, and logistics modules. It will also support both internal and external science payloads, enabling research and technology demonstrations in the harsh deep space environment.
    Built with industry and international partners, Gateway will support sustained exploration of the Moon, serve as a platform for science and international collaboration, and act as a proving ground for the technologies and systems needed for future human missions to Mars.

    Download additional high-resolution images of HALO here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Files False Claims Act Complaint Against Vohra Wound Physicians Management and Its Owner Alleging False Claims for Wound Care Services

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: United States Files False Claims Act Complaint Against Vohra Wound Physicians Management and Its Owner Alleging False Claims for Wound Care Services

    The United States filed a complaint under the False Claims Act against Vohra Wound Physicians Management LLC (Vohra) and its founder and majority owner, Dr. Ameet Vohra, for allegedly causing the submission of false claims to Medicare for overbilled and medically unnecessary wound care services. Vohra is one of the nation’s largest specialty wound care providers and contracts with hundreds of nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities throughout the country to provide wound care services to those facilities’ patients at their bedside.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom directs state to pursue strategic relationships with international trading partners; urges exemptions of California-made products from tariffs

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 4, 2025

    “California is not Washington, D.C.”

    What you need to know:As President Trump’s tariffs take effect, Governor Gavin Newsom is pursuing new strategic partnerships with international trading partners while calling for California-made products to be excluded from any retaliatory measures and affirming California’s long-standing commitment to fair, open, and mutually beneficial global trade.

    Los Angeles, California – California took a major step forward in correcting the damage from 50 years of neglect to the state’s mental health system with the passage of Proposition 1. This historic measure — a signature priority of Governor Gavin Newsom — adds rocket fuel to California’s overhaul of the state’s behavioral health systems. It provides a full range of mental health and substance abuse care, with new accountability metrics to ensure local governments deliver for their communities.

    “California leads the nation as the #1 state for agriculture and manufacturing — and it’s our workers, families, and farmers who stand to lose the most from this Trump tax hike and trade war. To our international partners: As the fifth largest economy in the world, the Golden State will remain a steady, reliable partner for generations to come, no matter the turbulence coming out of Washington. California is not Washington, D.C.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Protecting California’s economic dominance 

    California is the fifth-largest economy in the world, the strongest economy in the nation, and the largest importer among all U.S. states, with more than $675 billion in two-way trade supporting millions of jobs throughout the state. California’s gross domestic product of $3.9 trillion is 50% bigger than the GDP of the nation’s next largest state, Texas, and is the key to the United States’ economic growth. California sends more than $83 billion to the federal government annually.

    California is home to the most Fortune 500 companies, beating out Texas, Florida, and all other states. California remains #1 in the nation for new business starts, #1 for access to venture capital funding, #1 for manufacturing, #1 for high-tech, and #1 for agriculture.

    California stands as the center for manufacturing output in the United States with over 36,000 manufacturing firms and employing over 1.1 million Californians. Since California supplanted New York in 1965, our manufacturing firms have created new industries and supplied the world with manufactured goods spanning aerospace, computers and electronics, and, most recently, zero-emission vehicles.

    California is home to 32 of the world’s 50 leading AI companies, high-impact research and education institutions, and a quarter of the technology’s patents and conference papers. California’s population has increased multiple years in a row and has one of the most equitable tax systems in the entire country. Travel spending reached an all-time high of $150.4 billion.

    California’s long-standing commitment to global cooperation, innovation, and openness has helped power its rise to the world’s fifth-largest economy — leading in good-paying jobs to support California’s working families. With the Governor’s announcement today, the state will extend that leadership through strategic, mutually beneficial partnerships rooted in respect, trust, and shared growth.

    Identifying partnerships 

    With this announcement, Governor Newsom is directing his Administration to identify collaborative opportunities with trading partners that protect California’s economic interests — workers, manufacturers, and businesses — and the broader supply chains linked to the state’s economy. The administration will explore ways to:

    • Support job creation and innovation in industries reliant on cross-border trade.
    • Promote economic stability for businesses and workers impacted by federal trade disruptions.
    • Safeguard access to critical supplies, such as construction materials needed for recovery efforts following the devastating Los Angeles firestorms.

    Impact of tariffs on state trade

    California’s economy and workers rely heavily on trade with Mexico, Canada, and China. Over 40% of California imports come from these countries, totaling $203 billion of the more than $491 billion in goods imported by California in 2024. The tariffs will also affect access to important construction materials critical to rebuilding after the Los Angeles fires, including timber and wood, steel and aluminum, and the most important components of drywall.

    Retaliatory tariffs will also have an outsized impact on California businesses, particularly its more than 60,000 small business exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are California’s top three export destinations, buying nearly $67 billion in California exports, which was over one-third of the state’s $183 billion in exported goods in 2024. Retaliatory tariffs also impact farmers and ranchers during a difficult time in the U.S. farm economy – fostering a greater need for mitigation and expanding foreign market share.

    The magnitude of these tariffs on our North American allies, and the retaliation, will also result in major disruptions to cross-border supply chains, including the mutually beneficial co-production that takes place in the California-Baja mega-region. If these goods are taxed each time they cross the border, the price of the final product will rise and ultimately be passed on to California consumers. This will have far-reaching impacts, affecting everything from semiconductors to aerospace and automotive products.

    Analysis by the Yale Budget Lab found that the tariffs announced by the Trump Administration thus far will likely result in a 2.3% increase in overall inflation this year alone — including a 2.8% increase in food prices and an 8.4% increase in automotive prices — translating to an impact of $3,800 on the average American household.

    Long-standing international relationships

    California has long been a key player on the international stage — from taking joint action on climate change to identifying new pathways and partnerships for sustained economic growth. During the Newsom Administration alone, California has signed 38 international agreements with 28 different foreign partners that lay critical groundwork for prolonged economic success as well as prioritizing workers and businesses that benefit from these new opportunities.

    Recent news

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    Apr 3, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Ahead of a series of severe storms set to impact Kentucky, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of California firefighters to assist in staffing a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Incident Support Team, following FEMA’s…

    Apr 3, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Task Force released a list of 25 key deliverables to build on the state’s ongoing efforts to protect Californians from increasing threats posed by catastrophic wildfire and a changing climate….

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Myanmar, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other matters – Daily Press Briefing (4 April 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Myanmar
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Sudan
    South Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Haiti
    Ukraine
    Food Prices
    Mine Awareness Day
    Colombia
    International Days
    Deputy Secretary-General
    Antisemitism

    MYANMAR
    As announced by the Secretary-General yesterday, Tom Fletcher, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, arrived this morning. Upon arrival, he met with humanitarian teams in Yangon. In the afternoon, he travelled to Mandalay, which as you know, is the epicentre of the earthquake, where tomorrow he is expected to meet with people impacted by the earthquake, as well as with local responders and other humanitarian workers.
    More than 25 search-and-rescue teams are working, medical teams and supplies have been deployed, and water and shelter kits have been distributed in Mandalay and beyond. Just yesterday, more than 30 tons of medical supplies arrived in Myanmar, bringing the total to 100 tons since the earthquakes struck.
    The UN Refugee Agency, for its part, has deployed plastic sheets and kitchen sets for about 25,000 people impacted.
    The agency is also mobilizing supplies from its warehouses in Myanmar for an additional 25,000 people, but it will need to replenish stocks urgently to meet the massive needs due to the quake.
    Our humanitarian colleagues are preparing a new appeal aligned with the Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, which, as you know, calls for $1.1 billion as needs continue to outpace available supplies and response capacity. So far, less than 5 per cent of this appeal has been received.
    For its part, UNHCR is appealing for $16 million to assist 1.2 million people. The funds will be used to manage displacement sites and support vulnerable people in six impacted regions until the end of the year.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that thousands more families have now fled westward in the Gaza Strip, in response to another displacement order issued by Israeli forces and covering parts of Gaza City. OCHA warns that these displacement orders have left civilians exposed to hostilities and deprive them of access to essential services for their basic survival.
    All crossings, as you know, continue to be closed. We are now in the second month. So, no supplies can come into Gaza.
    The World Food Programme has warned that food stocks in Gaza are running out, and assistance programmes are gradually shutting down. As we told you earlier this week, all WFP-supported bakeries had to close. Now, food parcel distributions are soon to end. Hot meals currently continue, but with dwindling supplies. The World Food Programme reminds us that a single hot meal provides 25 per cent or less of a person’s daily dietary needs.
    Meanwhile, sanitation conditions across Gaza are likely worsening public health risks. Our humanitarian colleagues say that three makeshift displacement sites in Al Mawasi are now reporting infestations of fleas and mites, causing rashes and other health issues. Treating these infestations require chemicals and other items that will only be available once the crossings are again open for the entry of supplies.
    UN humanitarian partners warn that criminal looting and general insecurity are again on the rise, linked to the closure and to lack of basic supplies. On Wednesday, one of the distribution points used by UNRWA was looted, along with nearby buildings. In a social media post, our colleagues at UNRWA said this wasn’t an isolated incident, but rather a symptom of a broader breakdown in civil order.
    Turning to the West Bank, OCHA reports that tens of thousands of people remain displaced, unable to return home due to ongoing operations by Israeli forces in the north, mainly in Jenin and Tulkarm. Our humanitarian partners are providing urgent aid and psychosocial support to those impacted.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=04%20April%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmG9TgZHpoA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter, Fields Oppose Dismantling FEMA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Cleo Fields (D-LA) sent a letter to President Donald Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and Acting Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Cameron Hamilton opposing the Musk-Trump Administration’s dismantling of FEMA. Louisianians know better than anyone that a robust federal disaster response agency is essential to ensure rapid response, coordinated resource distribution, financial and logistical support, equitable assistance, and long-term mitigation as natural disasters increase in frequency and severity.

     

    “FEMA is far from perfect, but the Musk-Trump Administration’s proposed gutting of FEMA is not just reckless—it’s dangerous,” said Rep. Carter. “Louisiana has seen firsthand the devastation that disasters leave behind, and we know that recovery doesn’t stop when the flood waters recede. FEMA has been a lifeline for our communities, providing critical relief and long-term support to help families rebuild their homes and support communities to protect themselves from future events. Stripping away these essential programs would leave millions of Americans vulnerable and unprotected as natural disasters become more dangerous and frequent. I will fight tooth and nail to ensure that FEMA remains strong, well-funded, and fully equipped to respond to the increasing threats of the climate crisis. Our communities cannot afford to be abandoned in their time of greatest need.”

     

    “FEMA is on the ground for every hurricane in Louisiana. Cuts to the organization would devastate the most vulnerable people in our state during some of the worse moments in their life. Congress, across party lines, needs to do everything in our power to protect FEMA funding,” said Rep. Fields.

     

    Read the full letter here.

     

    Background

     

    Louisiana has been a major recipient of FEMA assistance, with nearly 500,000 combined households applying for FEMA funds since 2021. Since FEMA was overhauled in 2003, no state has received more funding than Louisiana, which has received nearly $47 billion over 28 disaster incidents, serving approximately 3.5 million households and nearly 43,000 public assistance projects. However, Louisiana is far from the only recipient of this critical aid and assistance. In 2024, FEMA responded to over 100 disasters, including two catastrophic hurricanes—Helene and Milton—that struck within two weeks, causing widespread destruction. Additionally, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 27 weather and climate disaster events in the U.S. last year with losses exceeding $1 billion.

     

    President Trump’s proposal to overhaul FEMA involves significantly reducing its role by shifting disaster response responsibilities to individual states, limiting FEMA’s involvement to immediate disaster relief and eliminating its long-term rebuilding grants and disaster preparedness programs. This plan aligns with recommendations from Project 2025, which advocates for privatizing FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and decreasing federal cost-sharing in disaster recovery efforts. These efforts could disproportionately affect states with limited resources, particularly those frequently impacted by natural disasters, by increasing their financial and logistical burdens. Additionally, reducing federal coordination and support may hinder efficient disaster response and recovery, potentially leading to increased casualties and prolonged economic hardship in disaster-stricken areas. ​

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: BC Builds speeds up timelines, delivering more homes in North Vancouver

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    One year after the launch of BC Builds, more affordable housing options are on the way for North Vancouver and throughout B.C., with faster timelines benefiting families, seniors and individuals.

    “Just over one year ago, we launched BC Builds to help more people access affordable homes in the communities they love,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “Now, we’re breaking ground on several projects, including the first-announced project in North Vancouver. Through BC Builds, we’ve streamlined development approvals, built solid partnerships and are delivering homes people can afford.”

    In 2024, the BC Builds program, delivered by the Province through BC Housing, was launched alongside the announcement of 179 new homes and a community-services facility in North Vancouver. In the year since, the program, which fast-tracks developments, has reached significant milestones, including the official start of construction on these new homes and the community-services facility.

    The development at 120 St. Georges Ave. went from concept to construction in 14 months and shows how BC Builds works with partners to speed up projects. Instead of following the usual step-by-step approval process that can take three to five years, BC Builds runs multiple stages of a project at the same time, allowing it to move from idea to construction in 12 to 18 months.

    Since the program started, approximately 1,400 homes are underway throughout the province, with nearly 2,500 more in various stages of early development. It is anticipated more than 9,000 homes for middle-income households will be built through this program.

    The 18-storey mass timber building will include the new North Shore Neighbourhood House, a community services provider, on the lower levels and rental housing on the floors above. The rental homes will range in size from studios to three-bedroom units.

    “Breaking ground on the new North Shore Neighbourhood House affirms our commitment to creating affordable, inclusive communities,” said Linda Buchanan, mayor, City of North Vancouver. “Rising housing costs have made it harder for people to live where they work. This redevelopment is a transformative solution – delivering affordable homes, while enhancing vital services, ensuring a thriving community for years to come.”

    The North Shore Neighbourhood House will provide an extensive range of community services, including 37 child care spaces, food programs such as the North Shore Food Bank, wellness and recreation activities, and youth and seniors’ programs. This facility will ensure these crucial services will continue to support people and families.

    The new building, part of the second phase of the North Shore Neighbourhood House Hub development, is a partnership between the Province (through BC Housing), the City of North Vancouver, and Catalyst Community Developments Society. The Province, through BC Builds at BC Housing, is investing $24.5 million in construction through a BC Builds grant, while the City of North Vancouver is contributing the land and $49.5 million in funding for the North Shore Neighbourhood House.

    This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including nearly 1,200 homes in North Vancouver.

    Quotes:

    Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale –

    “Even as personal circumstances change and families grow, people in North Vancouver have told me they want to stay in their communities in homes they can afford. That’s why our government is playing an active role in enabling affordable homes in North Vancouver. This development is an example of how BC Builds is meeting this moment by fast-tracking developments so people in North Vancouver and across the province can be delivered the homes they need.”

    Scott Dutchak, president, Catalyst Community Developments –

    “Catalyst is thrilled with our continued role on this project and in partnerships that leverage city-owned land and provincial investment vital to developing housing affordable to the incomes of diverse communities like the city of North Vancouver.”

    Lisa Hubbard, executive director, North Shore Neighbourhood House –

    “Our new homes will result in better supports for all individuals and families; combining child care, housing, food services, health programs and a welcoming, safe space for all will benefit everyone in this community.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The funding information shows only part of the budget for each project and does not include other funding sources.
    • Catalyst Community Developments Society has a long-term lease with the City of North Vancouver for the rental housing and will operate the homes.
    • Construction is expected to complete in 2028.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the BC Builds program, visit: https://www.bcbuildshomes.ca/

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

    To learn more about the City of North Vancouver and the North Shore Neighbourhood House Hub Redevelopment, visit:
    https://www.cnv.org/City-Hall/About/Capital-Projects/North-Shore-Neighbourhood-House-Site-Redevelopment

    To learn more about Catalyst Community Developments Society, a BC-based not-for-profit real estate developer, dedicated to building vibrant, affordable, and inspiring rental properties for living and working, visit: https://catalystcommdev.org/

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Leads Bipartisan Coalition Demanding the Trump Administration Reverse Pay Cuts for Federal Correctional Officers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), a member of House Democratic leadership, led a bipartisan group of 36 lawmakers in writing a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Associate Deputy Director Kathleen Toomey urging them to rescind the Trump administration’s cuts to the retention pay of BOP correctional officers (COs) and healthcare professionals while simultaneously eliminating all future BOP recruitment incentives.
    “We write to express our serious concern regarding the Bureau of Prison’s decision to cut the retention pay of hardworking Bureau of Prisons correctional officers and healthcare professionals and cancel all future BOP recruitment incentives. The decision to reduce or eliminate entirely the retention pay of over 23,000 BOP employees is dangerous and will cause our federal prison system to buckle under the weight of increasing numbers of incarcerated individuals and major staffing shortages. The brave correctional officers and healthcare professionals who show up to work each day play an integral part in ensuring the safety of employees, inmates, and our communities,” wrote the lawmakers.
    In late February, more than half of the BOP workforce was told that their retention pay would be significantly reduced or eliminated entirely, with some employees seeing a pay decrease of up to 25%. Retention incentives serve as a crucial mechanism for upholding staffing levels at understaffed facilities. The U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) annual report, issued last November, revealed that every BOP facility in the nation lacked sufficient staffing. The report also revealed that staffing shortages are directly tied to the safety of correctional officers, impairing their capacity to prevent inmate fatalities and leading to higher recidivism rates, which in turn threatens public safety.
    “To make matters worse, BOP does not have an acting director or an acting deputy director. In fact, since President Donald Trump took office, the Director of BOP was fired, the Acting Director who took her place subsequently resigned, and five other senior leaders resigned. The lack of leadership and oversight from senior leaders at the agency further proves these cuts are counter to the agency’s stated mission. With some impacted correctional officers and healthcare professionals expecting to see a pay decrease of up to 25% of their current income, we are extremely alarmed by the lack of plan to address the increased staffing shortages these decisions will cause,” the lawmakers continue. 
    Massachusetts’ sole federal corrections facility, Federal Medical Center (FMC) Devens in Ayer, houses 1,130 inmates and is just one of seven prisons across the country capable of caring for extremely ill inmates. However, a December 2024 report from the DOJ’s Inspector General found that just 81 percent of FMC Devens’ positions were filled, including 161 of 201 (80 percent) positions in the Correctional Services Department and 113 of 149 positions (76 percent) in the Health Services Department. The same report stressed the importance of recruitment and retention initiatives needed to fill these positions amid looming retirements likely to exacerbate the facility’s staffing shortage.
    A copy of the letter sent yesterday can be accessed HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SUBSIDY FOR PROMOTING E-VEHICLES

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Yes, the Government is providing subsidies to promote e-vehicles to enhances sales and reduce pollution. These subsidies are primarily offered to buyers of e-vehicles to make EVs more affordable. The following schemes are being implemented by Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) to provide subsidies to promote e-vehicles :-

    1. PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme: This scheme with an outlay of Rs.10,900 crore has been notified on 29.09.2024. It is a two-year scheme ending on 31/03/2026.  The subsidy is being provided to EVs including e-2Ws under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme. The details of subsidy are provided at Annexure.
    2. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry in India (PLI-Auto): The Government approved this scheme on 15.09.2021 for Automobile and Auto Component Industry for enhancing India’s manufacturingcapabilities for Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products.  The budgetary outlay of the scheme is Rs.25,938 crore. The scheme provides financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing of EVs, including cars.
    3. PLI Scheme for National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage: The Government on 12.05.2021 approved PLI Scheme for National Programme on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage for manufacturing of ACCin the country with a budgetary outlay of Rs.18,100 crore. The scheme is important, as battery is an integral component for EVs including cars and scooters.

    Besides this, many of the State Governments are providing subsidy for purchase of EVs.

    As per information received from Ministry of Power (MoP), record of EV charging stations installed in the offices is not maintained by the MoP.

    Additionally, the Ministry of Power issued the Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024 in September 2024. These guidelines include the following suggestions to facilitate the setup of charging stations in office complexes:

    1. Building/office owners can request a separate metered connection from the distribution licensee or use their existing electricity connections to charge employees’ EVs at the workplace.
    2. Building/office owners can apply to their electricity distribution licensee for a higher power load to accommodate EV charging stations.

    Details of subsidy being offered to e-2W buyers under the PM E-DRIVE scheme

     

    S. No

    Segment of  Vehicle

    Incentive per kWh

    Cap

    Period

    1

    e-2W

    Rs.5,000/-

    15% of ex-factory price

    FY 2024-25

    2

    e-2W

    Rs.2,500/-

    FY 2025-26

     

    The upper cap in the subsidy is restricted to EVs with an ex-factory price below a certain  threshold defined in the PM E-DRIVE scheme. 

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

    *****

    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2118896) Visitor Counter : 10

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Taking Measures To Tackle Deepfakes

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Electronics & IT

    Government of India Taking Measures To Tackle Deepfakes

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The policies of Government of India are aimed at ensuring a safe, trusted and accountable cyberspace for users in the country. Key regulatory initiatives taken by the Central Government to address issues of misinformation and deepfakes, are as under:

    • The Information Technology Act, 2000 (“IT Act”) and the rules made there under have created a legal framework designed to protect the internet from unlawful activities to ensure safety and trust among the users.
    • The IT Act provides for punishment for various offences considered as cybercrimes such as identity theft, cheating by personation, violation of privacy, publishing/transmitting material that is obscene/ containing sexually explicit act, etc., depicting children in sexually explicit act/transmitting/ browsing child sexual abuse material, etc.
    • The IT Act and the rules made apply to any information that is generated using Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) tools or any other technology and those which are generated by users themselves for the purpose of defining offences.
    • To protect users in India and the Indian internet at large from the emerging harms emanating from the misuse of technologies including AI and to ensure accountability towards law of the land, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (“MeitY”) regularly engages with and receives inputs from the industry for promoting ethical use of technologies.
    • Accordingly, the Central Government after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules, 2021”) and its subsequent amendments under the IT Act to address various emerging issues on the cyberspace.
    • The IT Rules, 2021 casts specific obligations on intermediaries, including social media intermediaries to not host, store or publish any information violative of any law.
    • They are also obligated to ensure their accountability that includes their expeditious action towards removal of the unlawful information categorised under the IT Rules, 2021 as notified by the appropriate government’s or on the basis of grievances received against any unlawful information.
    • Such unlawful information comprises any information that, among other things, is harmful to child or that is promoting enmity between different groups on the grounds of religion or caste with the intent to incite violence, or that deceives or misleads the addressee about the origin of the message or knowingly and intentionally communicates any misinformation or information which is patently false and untrue or misleading in nature, or that threatens the unity, integrity, defence, security or sovereignty of India, public order, or that violates any law for the time being in force.
    • Where any information is categorised as unlawful under the IT Rules, 2021, any user may make a request to the Grievance Officer of the concerned intermediary on whose platform such unlawful information is made available to the public. Upon receipt of such request, the intermediary is required to act expeditiously within the timelines prescribed under IT Rules, 2021.
    • Also, under the IT Rules, 2021, the Government has established Grievance Appellate Committees to allow users and victims to appeal online on www.gac.gov.in against decisions taken by the Grievance Officers of intermediaries in case they are dissatisfied with the decision of the Grievance Officer.
    • Taking into cognizance that there is an urgent need to address the harms and criminalities being committed through widespread circulation of misinformation and deepfakes powered by AI, MeitY conducted multiple consultations with industry stakeholders/ social media platforms to discuss the challenges identified in combating deepfakes and has issued advisories time to time, through which the intermediaries were reminded about compliance with their due-diligence obligations outlined under the IT Rules, 2021 and advised on countering unlawful content including malicious “synthetic media” and “deepfakes” to curb deepfakes and promptly remove harmful content online.
    • The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities including malicious attacks using Artificial Intelligence and countermeasures to protect computers, networks and data on an ongoing basis. In this context, an advisory on safety measures to be taken to minimize the adversarial threats arising from Artificial Intelligence (AI) based applications was published in May 2023. CERT-In has published an advisory in November 2024 on deepfake threats and measures that need to be followed to stay protected against deepfakes.
    • CERT-In has taken following measures to enhance awareness among users and organisations for safe usage of digital technologies and tackling digital risks:
    • CERT-In issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities including social engineering, phishing and vishing campaigns and countermeasures to protect computers, mobile phones, networks and data on an ongoing basis.
    • CERT-In has issued an advisory to various Ministries in November 2023 outlining the measures to be taken for strengthening the cyber security by all entities that are processing the digital personal data or information including sensitive personal data or information.
    • CERT-In operates the Cyber Swachhta Kendra (Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre) to detect malicious programs and provides free tools to remove the same, and also provides cyber security tips and best practices for citizens and organisations.
    • CERT-In provides leadership for the Computer Security Incident Response Team-Finance Sector (CSIRT-Fin) operations under its umbrella for responding to and containing and mitigating cyber security incidents reported from the financial sector.
    • Security tips have been published for users to secure their desktops and mobile phones and to prevent phishing attacks.
    • CERT-In is regularly carrying out various activities for awareness and citizen sensitization with respect to cyber-attacks and cyber frauds. CERT-In is observing the Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) during October of every year, Safer Internet Day on 1st Week Tuesday of February Month every year, Swachhta Pakhwada from 1 to 15 February of every year and Cyber Jagrookta Diwas (CJD) on 1st Wednesday of every month by organising various events and activities for citizens as well as the technical cyber community in India. CERT-In conducted several awareness activities such as Quiz, webinars, Capture the Flag event in collaboration with Government and industry partners during NCSAM 2024 with the theme “Satark Nagrik, Secure our World”.
    • In addition, the Ministry of Home Affairs (“MHA”) has established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (“I4C”) to provide a framework and eco-system for LEAs to deal with cyber-crimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. MHA has also launched the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in) to enable the public to report all types of cyber-crimes including cyber financial frauds.
    • Cybercrime incidents reported on this portal are routed to the respective State/UT law enforcement agency for further handling as per the provisions of law. The portal has distinct mechanisms for registering complaints related to financial frauds. A toll-free Helpline number ‘1930’ has been operationalised to get assistance in lodging online complaints.

    This information was given by Minister of State for Electronics & IT Shri Jitin Prasada as a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2119050)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s Address at the Releaseof Book ‘AI on Trial’ Authored by Shri Sujeet Kumar, Hon’ble Member of Rajya Sabha (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:31PM by PIB Delhi

    Good evening, all of you.

    Shri Sunil Kumar Gupta, his description goes beyond an IAS officer of 1987 batch. He’s an alumnus of IIT Kanpur. Shri Sujeet Kumar, a member of the Upper House, the Council of States, House of Elders, popularly known as Rajya Sabha. I have had the good occasion and benefit to know the Hon’ble Member of Parliament inside out. He’s a lawyer, he’s an academician, he’s a positive thinker, he acts subterranean, but makes very effective contribution in the Council of States, and equally impactful contribution as part of international delegation of Bharat to global institutions.

    I had the good fortune to interact with him briefly while he was invited to the banquet when we had the presence of Chilean president a decade younger to you. He’s 49, the president of Chile happens to be about 39. I must recognise a very distinguished presence of Smt. Sudha Murthy, has been accoladed for her simplicity, contribution to society, and captivating smile, ever positive. I remember in Rajya Sabha when the time came for her to ask a supplementary, it was 12 noon, which means Question Hour starts that was Zero Hour. I said, I’ll give you precedence.

    A veteran member reacted, she is always in public domain. I said, well earned, well deserved, public spirited, for a public cause. We had the occasion also, me and Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar, when we were at the coronation of King Charles in London in that ceremony, we found a slim, simple looking girl coming to us and discovered she was then a spouse of the Prime Minister of UK, her son-in-law, and it was her daughter.

    So the traditions of what we say, sanskar, rightly filtered to the next generation. Shri Haris Beeran, he shares one thing in common with Sudha Ji, a charming smile. Rekha Sharma recently became a member of Rajya Sabha from the state of Haryana, but has all India perspective, having occupied a very significant position of Chairperson of National Women’s Commission.

    Mithlesh Kumar, well grounded to real politics, and also his presence at this function reveals he is very forward looking. Well, these constitute the, if I may say, contingent from the Upper House. We are enormously benefited by Tapir Gao, a member in the House of People, popularly known as Lok Sabha, from the state of Arunachal. Me and Dr. Sudesh Dhankar had the occasion to attend a very important programme just a month or two back in his state, a great state, a state with many tribes, culture and his colleague, Kiren Rijiju Ji is our minister for Minority Affairs.

    Ladies and gentlemen, it is for the first time in this country that a person professing Buddhism is a Cabinet Minister that indicates our inclusive approach. The world must learn from India, Bharat, the concept of inclusivity. Yet, some try to impart lessons to us. It does happen on occasions that those who are to learn quickly become your teachers. But then, they learn fast if they are in positive frame.

    Shri Pradeep Gandhi, I share something very different with him. He’s an ex-MP, I’m also one. But I am an ex-MP with a difference. My category of MPs in 89 to 91, 96 to 97, 98. axed-MP, we did not have the occasion to complete our term. We have amongst us Shri Rajit Punhani, an IAS officer of 1991 batch, Secretary to the Council of States, alumnus of Doon School, alumnus of St. Stephen’s College, President of the Union of St. Stephen’s, Harvard. IIM Bangalore, and he’s from the State of Bihar.

    I must commend his role in human resource transformation in Rajya Sabha, and for crafting a very innovative skill for Rajya Sabha interns. Alongside, Sumant Narain, another Harvard product, Indian Audits and Accounts Service. We have Mahaveer Singhvi, Indian Foreign Service.

    We have a journalist here who is more seen on television, like some of our parliamentarians. Because our parliamentarians are drawn from my one-time fraternity. I say one-time fraternity because, when I took oath of office of Governor of the State of West Bengal, my son as a senior advocate had to be suspended. So, I parted company with the jealous mistress. I see him. He’s extremely fond of young lawyers and promoting them on television.

    There’s another journalist also, nearly having the same size as he has, with a little more height. I was having you in mind. Then, of course, Tosif Alam, the co-author.  Well, I greet each and everyone present in this hall. But my real greetings to team Sujeet Kumar.

    Ladies and gentlemen, I was extremely, all my life, benefited from intelligence. That intelligence, I call it SDI, Sudesh Dhankar Intelligence. That intelligence has always held me in good state, generating in me transparency, accountability, and has a very strong sense of disciplining. I dare not reveal the rest of it.

    AI on Trial is a fascinating, illuminating book on a subject of huge contemporaneous relevance. Artificial intelligence invasion, incursion in our daily life is being felt by all of us. Its seismic impact is on every part of our activity. Disruptive technologies, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, blockchain, machine learning, used to be just words but now, artificial intelligence is the buzzword. On a lighter note, let me tell you, a member of the Parliament from journalistic category, did not reflect due diligence while sending a notice to get suspension of the working of the house, so that her subject, I have revealed the gender inadvertently, gets precedence. She sent it on a particular date and wanted suspension of the house that had already taken place five days ago.

    I lamented that even artificial intelligence cannot help me to suspend which has already fructified but we never know, there may be a time when artificial intelligence couldn’t go that far also. While I congratulate the authors for their dedication to this critical field and for contributing in an area that will define not only our economic trajectory, in a sense guide our ethical compass for decades to come, but also impacts every societal activity. Artificial intelligence has got such fast traction. It is known to one and all, be it a village, be it semi-urban, urban, or highly urbanised areas, the meadows. It has agitated our minds, also generated concerns but ladies and gentlemen, let me remind you, last 10 years, India is defined as the nation that has had the highest growth amongst large nations.

    Its exponential economic upsurge, phenomenal infrastructure growth have been accoladed by global institutions like the IMF and the World Bank. But the greatest certification has emanated from global institutions in respect of technological penetration. India’s landscape is now dotted with technological footprint everywhere and that is why the World Bank President reflected what India has achieved in technologically spread out in about six years that is not possible even in four decades.

    We as a Nation have tested accessibility of technology and revealed to the world high degree of adaptability resulting in transparency, accountability of services. Youngsters would not even know that to pay an electricity bill or a water bill or a telephone bill. One was compelled to take a day’s leave. The queue was long. Getting a railway ticket or a platform ticket. All this is now in your hand, your mobile. Our mobile coverage, I can say, is reaching nearly saturation point.

    The visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi was reflected. When he thought of banking inclusion and brought about 550 million people, mostly in the villages, into banking service industry. In the shortest time that has stood us in good state during COVID. And also, imagine a Nation where farmers, hundred million in number, get three times a year, direct transfer into their bank accounts but we have to be extremely worry also. AI, the gene, is out of the bottle and it can be extremely destructive. It can create havoc if not regulated, in the age of defects, working of deep state, wokeism. These menacing trends can get wings if this gene of artificial intelligence is not regulated.

    To put it for young minds, a nuclear power can give you energy. Nuclear power can lighten houses, run industry but it can also be destructive. Therefore, we have both the possibilities before us. This calls for something on which the book has deeply focused. The author, Shri Sujeet Kumar, has given illustrations. If you see one of the most widely propagated on social media, one was taking a route using artificial intelligence but the road was broken in between. AI did not show it and it was a disaster.

    It can be a challenge to nations, organised societies, because it is a power that is now available to all. India, being the fastest growing country in the last 10 years, is no longer a nation with a potential. Our objective is well set out to be a developed nation by 2047, if not before. And that requires for us to harness every available area and vista of opportunity because our income has to go eightfold per capita and that being the situation, we must look to harness artificial intelligence for our benefit and that surely can be done.

    I would say India is amongst the few nations in the world that have focused on this aspect, much before others. But we are the most populous country, largest, oldest, most vibrant democracy. Regulating artificial intelligence is daunting, frightening, but imperative. Right balance will have to be struck between regulating artificial intelligence and fostering innovation, this is fundamental. Overregulation can choke like over disciplining a child. We don’t have to impede the spirit of entrepreneurship but at the same time, we have to be extremely cognisant of the evil effects. Underregulation can endanger public safety, perpetuate bias, and erode trust.

    The author in his address had reflected on these problems. One of the greatest challenges that we face these days is, and let me come to the institution which I preside, every word is spoken in the Council of States by a member of Parliament. The Member of Parliament has the immunity from civil prosecution, criminal prosecution. The constitutional protection given to the member, even if the observations are slanderous, malicious, defamatory, damaging reputations of people, setting narratives that are anti-national, not factually well-premised, no citizen of the country can take action. Therefore, action has to be taken by the Council of States, self-regulation. But then, the quickest we can do is, if an Hon’ble Member makes an objectionable observation, it can be expunged. That is expunged only from the record. That is expunged only for posterity. But it gets the widest traction, how to deal with it.

    I have tasked a committee headed by a senior parliamentarian, Ghanshyam Tiwari Ji. He heads a committee on ethics, to devise ways and means. One is counselling members. Secondly, calling upon the political parties that put their people in these institutions to discipline them, sensitise them but the critical question is, how do we save the damage? Artificial intelligence has an answer. Machine learning for me, to begin with, was only machine plus learning but it’s a mechanism that can deal with this menace in split seconds. So technology will have to be availed to make things a little more soothing to society.

    We must therefore design regulation as a scaffold, not a cage. Our goal should be to enable a framework where responsible innovation thrives and sinister designs, pernicious designs, are neutralised. A risk-based, sector-specific, and principle-driven approach may serve us well in this regard. For instance, the level of scrutiny required for AI used in medical diagnostics should differ from the artificial intelligence creating social media feeds. We must assert India’s cyber sovereignty as much as we do the sovereignty understood in common parlance. But we have to be aligned to global standards. There can be no stand-alone activity in such kind of situations. There will have to be global convergence. All stakeholders will have to come on one platform so that we have a global, rule-based order in the field of artificial intelligence.

    India is a unique country, our civilisational depth is more than 5,000 years. Our ethos, our culture, our values, our knowledge is reflected in our Vedas, our epics. India has been a thought leader for centuries. A global centre of culture. Our institutes of excellence were thrown by scholars from all over the world Takshashila, Nalanda, to name only two. They came, gave us much, took away much, shared it, our treasure.

    In G20, India has taken a great initiative to generate a global community and that was reflected in India’s G20 motto, “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. It was the vision of the Prime Minister that brought in the fold of G20 nations of the African Union. European Union was already represented. Global South in neglect for quite long. A word not even known to many. But an important segment of countries in global polity and economy was put on the centre stage. We need to work out something where artificial intelligence can be on that level. The first step has been taken through our India Stack Programme. We are making many of our digital governance solutions open source so the journey of other developing nations gets this facility. Most importantly, the impact of artificial intelligence on ordinary citizens must be at the heart of regulatory regime.

    An ordinary person will not be able to find solutions on his own. The system must provide automatic, inbuilt relief to ordinary citizens. To protect our citizens from the hazards of artificial intelligence, we need enforceable rights, such as right to explanation, the right to contest automated decisions. Decisions are automated. How to contest them, we are not aware and the right to opt out of algorithmic processing, especially when decisions impact livelihoods, liberty, and dignity.

    Artificial Intelligence has generated a compulsive scenario for us. It has forced us to re-examine existing jurisprudence. Traditional legal concepts like liability, or even personhood come under pressure when actions are carried out by autonomous systems. Artificial intelligence opacity challenges legal transparency and accountability principles. Delegating legal interpretation to unexplainable systems undermines judicial trust.

    Current legal artificial intelligence use lacks, this use is not complete. If we use current legal artificial intelligence, we find one deficiency. It lacks comprehensive regulation and oversight. There is urgent need for standards and safeguards to prevent consequences of unregulated artificial intelligence. Debate continues to raise all over whether artificial intelligence promotes legal consistency or perpetuates historical biases.

    Justice at the risk, and the risk is great, justice at risk when algorithms lacking human qualities influence law, judgments can’t be robotised. There can be no artificial intelligence replication. Sometimes the distinction is too fine to be detected even by artificial intelligence. It is the brain of the judge, the discerning brain, that finds a resolution.

    This book, friends, provides a road map for responsible artificial intelligence integration through case studies and regulation proposals. To put it in layman’s language, if you wish to know a gentleman, Google has enough to give you. You can assimilate it, but trust me, you will be ignorant of the person.  You have to go much beyond Google, you have to go much beyond artificial intelligence to know the man.

    Future of legal artificial intelligence requires deliberate shaping by professionals and policy makers. Friends, if artificial intelligence is not regulated, we will face trial by artificial intelligence. That will be a tough trial. The fundamentals of legal jurisprudence, like opportunity of hearing, a fair process, are its first casualty. Therefore, to prevent that, time is now to focus on ‘Artificial Intelligence on Trial’.

    Every person now has power in his hand because of smartphones. Media has come to be defined very differently.

    People are increasingly focused. The focus is intense on social media. The news sharing is the fastest on social media but what happens if it is moderated? It is manipulated? It is inspired by interests inimical to Bharat? It is aimed at destroying our constitutional institutions? Let me give you a highly alarmingly concerning aspect.

    Access to judiciary is a fundamental right and when it comes to challenge to individual’s fundamental rights, the doors of the highest court are open under Article 32 petitions but what we have seen of late?

    Access to judiciary has been weaponised by forces in a systemic manner, fuelled by extra-legal mechanisms, dubiously financed, and the object being to destroy core values of Bharat. We have to be extremely worried.

    I must share a deep concern with you, while institutions have to self-regulate themselves but parliamentary institutions and judiciary blossom only when they self-regulate. We must have respect for these institutions’ inter se, and I hold every institution in high regard. But I firmly believe if there is an incursion in the domain of an institution, be it executive, judiciary, or legislature, by another institution, the doctrine of separation of powers will be stressed.  The stress will be severe. The consequences may be huge.

    Therefore, time has come. These institutions also, one, to apply technology like artificial intelligence to enhance, to secure cutting-edge in their administrative working, and in delivering in their core areas, like judiciary has to deliver through judgments, legislature has to do it through legislation, and holding the executive accountable.

    But similarly, and it is undoubtedly a considered proposition, in all democratic nations, executive governance is the only way of life, because people elect their representatives for governance and for legislation but those who have the numbers get into executive seat from governments. If executive function is performed not by the government but by legislature or by judiciary, where is the accountability? Executive governance by another institution other than government is antithetical to our constitutional values.

    It is negation of power of the people, ‘We the People’, who gave us this constitution. Therefore, such kind of technologies can really get into even-handedness working, equitable working. The equilibrium can be maintained. I strongly advocate that we must be extremely sensitive to institutional domains. But at the same time, we must have highest regard for our institutions. 

    We as a nation are proud for our Parliament, that we are proud of our judiciary. We are equally proud of our executive and you have to look back for last 10 years, our performance, and you will know the statement is well thought out, well premised.

    I must also advert to another aspect. India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, much is being talked about it. People are having varying opinions, and that is the essence of democracy. Because a dialogue requires varying opinions. No one can be judgmental that I alone am right in democracy. Our Digital Personal Data Protection Act is a landmark step, but it now has to evolve in tandem with artificial intelligence regulation. Consent must be meaningful, those who are lawyers know it. A consent that is not free is no consent in law. And free means real freedom to give your consent. Consent cannot be buried in opaque and abstruse terms of service. I am sometimes surprised when I use my mobile phone, go to some application, there is pressure, I agree.

    Now in utter helplessness, you concede a very personal ground. Unknowingly, you are lured or forced. Otherwise, the utilisation doesn’t fructify with ease. Consent cannot be in opaque and abstruse terms of service. Anonymisation, data minimisation, and purpose limitation must be rigorously enforced.

    The regulation of artificial intelligence must be very transparent. It must go hand in hand with re-skilling and workforce planning. As artificial intelligence displaces certain tasks, it will. Because it has come to your house, come to your office. It does jobs sometimes better than normal resource and then an impression is gathered. Are we risking the jobs of people who work? Maybe in some situations, but then it does offer the stars of involvement. We must look in that direction. This requires that we must invest very heavily in education, vocational training, digital literacy, particularly for those who are marginalised, who are vulnerable, who need hand-holding situations.

    Artificial intelligence, the governance part of it, I see it after deep thought, cannot be left only to technocrats or corporations. Democratic oversight is quintessence of democracy. Citizen engagement and transparency are essential. India’s parliamentary committees, judicial forums, and civil society, all are stakeholders. They must converge to secure the citizen against ill effects, evil effects of artificial intelligence.

    Now, artificial intelligence, disruptive technologies are like another industrial revolution. There is paradigm shift every moment.  We seem to be on quicksand when it comes to technological changes. Changes are taking place by the hour, I can say by the seconds. Therefore, to regulate something that is as dynamic as artificial intelligence, we need an agile and empowered institutional framework.

    A national artificial intelligence authority or commission, independent but accountable with representation from government, industry, academia, and civil society could serve as a think tank. Let me give a simple illustration. This is turning out into a huge problem.  People are losing the money from their banks. Now, artificial intelligence must find a solution that once something is stolen by electronic means on account of an inadvertent error or whereas citizen becomes prey to mischief in technology to neutralise and ensure traction of money is controlled. We are still very conventional.

    The person has to go to a police station, and we find the area is in another state, so a physical visit has to be made. By that time, the crooks, the rogues who get themselves this kind of unjust enrichment move their working pattern. We need to do something about it.

    I greatly appreciate the effort of Sujeet Kumar and his young colleague, Tosif Alam, and I have carefully gone through, having had the benefit of book in advance, of the comments that emanated from Justice Ranjan Gogoi and our N. R. Narayana Murthy, Justice T. S. Sivagnanam. He was a judge when I was governor of the state of Bengal.

    Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a technocrat with deep belief, I share one thing in common with our young friend, Tauseef Alam. Salman Khurshid is a dear friend of mine, a distinguished senior advocate, and you have to learn a lot from his style. He absorbs everything which is a challenge by way of thought process, but makes his point in a subtle manner.

    Friends, in conclusion, the topic of regulation of AI will determine the kind of society we aspire to be. It has become a most important factor where we will be. Do we wish to become a digital dystopia where humans serve algorithm or a humane artificial Indian society where technology serves the people? The choice is ours. The choice is well known. There is nothing in artificial intelligence, it is far away from the human mind, so we must use capacity of human mind to regulate this artificial intelligence.  It is on trial as per the book.

    Let artificial intelligence not put us on trial. I’m extremely happy to release this book. It will be an eye-opener to everyone in all spheres of life. I wish the authors success for their next venture.

    Thank you so much.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2119066) Visitor Counter : 24

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announces Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine during the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announces Centre of Excellence for Traditional Medicine during the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand

    I am pleased to announce that India will extend support for training and capacity building in cancer care across BIMSTEC countries: Prime Minister

    Initiative to boost Research & Development and academic collaboration

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:28PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence to promote research and dissemination of Traditional Medicine during the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit held in Bangkok.

     

    While announcing the initiative, Shri Narendra Modi said, “Public health is a vital pillar of our collective social development. I am pleased to announce that India will extend support for training and capacity building in cancer care across BIMSTEC countries. In line with our holistic approach to health, a Centre of Excellence will also be established to promote research and dissemination of traditional medicine”.

    It is worth noting that Thailand and India have robust Traditional Medicine Systems with close mutual ties. With this announcement by the Prime Minister, the research and development activity in the area is set to get a significant boost. The two countries have been working together to strengthen, promote, facilitate and develop academic & research collaboration in Traditional Medicine.

    This may also be noted that last year the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, under the Ministry of Ayush of the Government of India and the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine of the Ministry of Public Health of the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 10th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting held at Hyderabad House, New Delhi on the establishment of an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Thai Traditional Medicine.

    In academic collaboration, the Ayush Scholarship Scheme of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India is offered through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The scholarship is provided for Undergraduate and Post-Graduate studies in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha & Homoeopathy, B.Sc. in Yoga, B.A. in Yoga Shastra, Ph.D in Yoga and Ph.D in Ayurveda. During the past five years, 175 students from BIMSTEC regions have availed the scholarships.

    India and Thailand have a long history of cooperation in various sectors including Traditional Medicine. The announcement of establishing a Centre of Excellence to promote research and dissemination of Traditional Medicine will further strengthen these ties.

    ***

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2119063) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: VEHICLES COVERED UNDER PME-DRIVE SCHEME

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Heavy Industries

    VEHICLES COVERED UNDER PME-DRIVE SCHEME

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:22PM by PIB Delhi

    10.27 lakh Electric Vehicles (EVs) have been sold under the PM E-DRIVE scheme as on 31/03/2025 as per details at Annexure.

    A total of 5,05,645 e-Vouchers have been generated and availed by EV customers under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, as on 31/03/2025.

    It is estimated that sale of 10.27 lakh EVs under the PM E-DRIVE scheme has led to reduction of 230K tonnes of CO2emission.  Currently no study on carbon emission from fuel-based vehicles has been carried out by MHI.

    To encourage the integration of renewable energy in EV charging stations, the Ministry of Power, in its Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024, has suggested a discount in electricity tariffs for EV charging during solar hours.”  These guidelines also allow charging stations to integrate solar energy to their stations. 

    No. of EVs sold under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme as on 31.03.2025

     

     

    State

    Total

    		              

    S.N.

    e-2W

    e-3W

    Total

    		              

    1

    Andaman & Nicobar

    17

    –

    17

    		              

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    39,331

    2,640

    41,971

    		              

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    18

    –

    18

    		              

    4

    Assam

    2,464

    12,111

    14,575

    		              

    5

    Bihar

    13,672

    10,136

    23,808

    		              

    6

    Chhattisgarh

    24,193

    2,393

    26,586

    		              

    7

    Chandigarh

    1,220

    140

    1,360

    		              

    8

    Daman & Diu

    130

    8

    138

    		              

    9

    Delhi

    19,704

    3,433

    23,137

    		              

    10

    Goa

    6,421

    17

    6,438

    		              

    11

    Gujarat

    49,118

    1,187

    50,305

    		              

    12

    Himachal Pradesh

    765

    68

    833

    		              

    13

    Haryana

    14,019

    864

    14,883

    		              

    14

    Jharkhand

    6,015

    1,872

    7,887

    		              

    15

    Jammu & Kashmir

    1,996

    5,874

    7,870

    		              

    16

    Karnataka

    1,00,901

    6,343

    1,07,244

    		              

    17

    Kerala

    49,248

    3,156

    52,404

    		              

    18

    Ladakh

    4

    –

    4

    		              

    19

    Lakshadweep

    5

    1

    6

    		              

    20

    Maharashtra

    1,70,413

    6,842

    1,77,255

    		              

    21

    Meghalaya

    121

    163

    284

    		              

    22

    Manipur

    7

    193

    200

    		              

    23

    Madhya Pradesh

    49,204

    3,354

    52,558

    		              

    24

    Mizoram

    430

    –

    430

    		              

    25

    Nagaland

    5

    –

    5

    		              

    26

    Odisha

    45,926

    1,678

    47,604

    		              

    27

    Punjab

    16,553

    737

    17,290

    		              

    28

    Puducherry

    3,361

    187

    3,548

    		              

    29

    Rajasthan

    58,638

    2,450

    61,088

    		              

    30

    Shillong

    1

    1

    2

    		              

    31

    Telangana

    45,572

    2,909

    48,481

    		              

    32

    Tamil Nadu

    93,159

    1,683

    94,842

    		              

    33

    Tripura

    356

    6,811

    7,167

    		              

    34

    Uttarakhand

    5,881

    1,765

    7,646

    		              

    35

    Uttar Pradesh

    67,384

    39,062

    1,06,446

    		              

    36

    West Bengal

    19,387

    3,323

    22,710

    		              

     

    Total

    9,05,639

    1,21,401

    10,27,040

    		              

     

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

    *****

    TPJ/NJ

    (Release ID: 2118897)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Digital dystopia where humans serve algorithms or a humane society where technology serves the people, questions VP

    Source: Government of India

    Digital dystopia where humans serve algorithms or a humane society where technology serves the people, questions VP

    VP calls for right to explanation, right to contest automated decisions for citizen protection

    Need the right balance between regulating artificial intelligence and fostering innovation, underlines VP

    VP calls for independent and accountable National Artificial Intelligence Authority

    Consent that is not free is no consent in law; Consent cannot be buried in opaque and abstruse terms of service-VP

    AI opacity challenges legal transparency and accountability principles-VP

    We must assert India’s cyber sovereignty-VP

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 8:52PM by PIB Delhi

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today emphasised on the need for regulation for AI while maintaining the right balance between regulation and fostering innovation. The Vice-President today underscored that, “ Regulation of AI will determine the kind of society we aspire to be. It has become a most important factor where we will be ! Do we wish to become a digital dystopia where humans serve algorithms or a humane Indian society where technology serves the people? The choice is ours. The choice is well known.”

    Addressing the gathering at the release of the book ‘AI on Trial’ authored by Hon’ble member of Rajya Sabha, Shri Sujeet Kumar at Vice-President’s Enclave today, Shri Dhankhar stated,  “Regulating Artificial Intelligence is daunting, frightening, but imperative. Right balance will have to be struck between regulating artificial intelligence and fostering innovation. This is fundamental. Overregulation can choke like over-disciplining a child. We don’t have to impede the spirit of entrepreneurship. But at the same time, we have to be extremely cognizant of the evil effects. Under regulation can endanger public safety, perpetuate bias and erode trust.”

    “……to regulate something that is as dynamic as artificial intelligence, we need an agile and empowered institutional framework. A national artificial intelligence authority or commission, independent but accountable with representation from government, industry, academia, and civil society could serve as a think tank. We must therefore design regulation as a scaffold, not a cage. Our goal should be to enable a framework where responsible innovation thrives, and sinister designs, pernicious designs, are neutralised. A risk-based, sector-specific, and principle-driven approach may serve us well in this regard. For instance, the level of scrutiny required for AI used in medical diagnostics should differ from the Artificial Intelligence creating social media feeds……impact of artificial intelligence on ordinary citizens must be at the heart of regulatory regime. An ordinary person will not be able to find solutions on his own. The system must provide automatic, inbuilt relief to ordinary citizens. To protect our citizens from the hazards of artificial intelligence, we need enforceable rights, such as right to explanation, the right to contest automated decisions. Decisions are automated. How to contest them, we are not aware and the right to opt out of algorithmic processing, especially when decisions impact livelihoods, liberty, and dignity.

    ”, he added.

    “..we have to be extremely wary also. AI, the genie is out of the bottle, and it can be extremely destructive. It can create havoc  if not regulated. In the age of deep fakes, working of Deep State, wokeism, these menacing trends can get wings if this genie of Artificial Intelligence is not regulated. To put it for young minds,  a nuclear power can give you energy. Nuclear power can lighten houses, run industry, but it can also be destructive, and therefore, we have both the possibilities before us”, he cautioned.

    In his address he further stated, “The regulation of artificial intelligence must be very transparent. It must go hand in hand with re-skilling and workforce planning. As artificial intelligence displaces certain tasks, it will. Because it has come to your house, come to your office. It does jobs sometimes better than normal resource and then an impression is gathered. Are we risking the jobs of people who work? Maybe in some situations…..this requires that we must invest very heavily in education, vocational training, digital literacy, particularly for those who are marginalised, who are vulnerable, who need hand-holding situations”.

    Underlining the importance of cyber sovereignty, he stated, “We must assert India’s cyber sovereignty as much as we do the sovereignty understood in common parlance but we have to be aligned to global standards.  There can be no standalone activity in such kind of situations. There will have to be global convergence. All stakeholders will have to come on one platform so that we have a global rule-based order in the field of Artificial Intelligence.”

    Talking about the ramifications of AI in the legal domain, Shri Dhankhar stated, “Artificial intelligence has generated a compulsive scenario for us. It has forced us to re-examine existing jurisprudence. Traditional legal concepts like liability, or even personhood come under pressure when actions are carried out by autonomous systems. Artificial intelligence opacity challenges legal transparency and accountability principles. Delegating legal interpretation to unexplainable systems undermines judicial trust…..If we use current legal artificial intelligence, we find one deficiency. It lacks comprehensive regulation and oversight. There is urgent need for standards and safeguards to prevent consequences of unregulated artificial intelligence. Debate continues all over, whether artificial intelligence promotes legal consistency or perpetuates historical biases.…Justice is at the risk, and the risk is great, justice at risk when algorithms lacking human qualities influence law, judgments can’t be robotised. There can be no artificial intelligence replication. Sometimes the distinction is too fine to be detected even by artificial intelligence. It is the brain of the judge, the discerning brain, that finds a resolution.”

    Emphasising on the significance of meaningful consent, Shri Dhankhar stated,“ Our Digital Personal Data Protection Act is a landmark step, but it now has to evolve in tandem with artificial intelligence regulation. Consent must be meaningful, those who are lawyers know it. A consent that is not free is no consent in law and free means real freedom to give your consent. Consent cannot be buried in opaque and abstruse terms of service. I am sometimes surprised when I use my mobile phone, go to some application, there is pressure, I agree. Now in utter helplessness, you concede a very personal ground. Unknowingly, you are lured or forced otherwise, the utilisation doesn’t fructify with ease. Consent cannot be in opaque and abstruse terms of service. Anonymisation, data minimisation, and purpose limitation must be rigorously enforced.”

    Shri Sujeet Kumar, MP, Rajya Sabha; Smt. Sudha Murthy, MP, Rajya Sabha; Smt. Rekha Sharma, MP, Rajya Sabha; Shri Sunil Kumar Gupta, Secretary to the Vice-President of India; and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2119081) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre Allocates Rs 5,000 Crore for New Women Hostels Across 28 States; Centre Releases 1stInstalment to 28 States for Construction of Women Hostels during the financial year 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 7:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government is committed to providing safe, secure and affordable hostel facility for working women and women aspiring to join the work force. Working women hostels are critical components for improving participation of women in the labour force, which is a major step towards realising the idea of ‘Women led development’.

    Sakhi Niwas Scheme [Working Women Hostel (WWH)] under the umbrella Mission Shakti, is a demand driven Centrally Sponsored Scheme where States/UTs assess their requirement as per local needs and proposals are approved by the Programme Approval Board (PAB) after discussion with States/UTs. The scheme aims to promote availability of safe and conveniently located accommodation for working women and for those women who are pursuing higher education/training, with Day care facility for children in urban, semi-urban and even rural areas where employment opportunity for women exist. In this scheme, fund is provided on rental basis. The component of new greenfield construction has been discontinued.

    However, the Department of Expenditure(DoE), Ministry of Finance, under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) has allocated Rs.5000.00 crore for greenfield construction of new WWH to 28 States during the financial year 2024-25. After assessing their needs and requirements, 28 States have submitted proposals of construction of WWH to the DoE. Based on theproposals received from States, DoE has released 1stinstalment to 28 States for construction of WWH during the financial year 2024-25.

    There is no provision in the Sakhi Niwas Scheme (WWH) for providing skill and marketing facilities to the beneficiary of WWH.

    The Empowered Committee under the framework of Nirbhaya Fund has also appraised greenfield construction of more WWH i.e. 7 in Uttarakhand, 3 in Uttar Pradesh, 7 in Nagaland, 1 in Punjab, 3 in Tamil Nadu and 1 for the University of Delhi.

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

    *****

    SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2119028) Visitor Counter : 18

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Declaration on the Establishment of India-Thailand Strategic Partnership

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    During 03-04 April 2025, H.E. Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India paid an Official Visit to Thailand and participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, on the invitation of H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand. Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Prime Minister Shinawatra at the Government House in Bangkok.

    Acknowledging the deep civilisational, cultural, religious and linguistic bonds and 78 years of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Thailand, both leaders held wide ranging discussions on various areas of bilateral cooperation including defence and security, trade and investment, connectivity, science and technology, innovation, space, education, health, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. They also exchanged views on sub-regional, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual interest. Both leaders witnessed exchange of several MoUs covering various areas of cooperation. They also welcomed the establishment of an India-Thailand Consular Dialogue.

    Prime Minister Shinawatra and Prime Minister Modi also visited Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan to pay homage to the historic Reclining Buddha.

    Taking into consideration the existing cooperation and the potential for closer cooperation not only at the bilateral and regional levels but also in the global context in view of the rapidly evolving global geopolitical situation, the two leaders agreed to elevate the existing bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. This marks a new chapter of enhanced partnership for realising the full potential of cooperation between the two countries.

    The Strategic Partnership is based on mutual commitment to strengthen bilateral relations for the continuing peace, stability and prosperity of the two countries and their respective regions. The Strategic Partnership will serve as an important foundation for the two countries to chart a future-oriented and mutually-beneficial path towards increasing opportunities, closer cooperation and to jointly respond to common challenges.

    The Strategic Partnership will build upon existing agreements and mechanisms of cooperation which encompass partnering in political, defence and security, trade and investment, connectivity, education, socio-cultural development and people-to-people exchanges, as well as other areas of mutual interest.

    In declaring this Strategic Partnership, the two leaders reaffirmed their shared interests in a free, open, transparent, rules-based, inclusive, prosperous and resilient Indo-Pacific region and reiterated their strong support for ASEAN Centrality. They also reaffirmed their commitment to exploring concrete activities to implement the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) for Peace, Stability and Prosperity in the Region through enhanced cooperation between the AOIP and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) including Thailand’s constructive role to co-lead the Maritime Ecology Pillar of the IPOI with Australia.

    In an effort to further broaden and deepen the relationship between the two countries, the two leaders agreed to the following:

    ­Political Cooperation

    Strengthen political engagement through regular high-level exchanges at the Leadership level, including on the sidelines of multilateral meetings with a view to discuss shared regional interests, as well as to address regional and global security challenges.

    Convene regular meetings between the Foreign Ministers and Senior Officials from respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs/External Affairs under existing mechanisms of Joint Committee for Bilateral Cooperation at the Foreign Ministers’ level and Foreign Office Consultations at the Senior Officials’ level.

    Promote regular Parliamentary exchanges between both countries.

    Defence and Security Cooperation

    Strengthen the existing mechanisms of defence cooperation, as well as to promote further collaboration between the defence sectors of the two countries, with particular emphasis on defence technology, defence industry, research, training, exchanges, exercises and capacity building including by establishing appropriate mechanisms.

    Enhance security cooperation through regular dialogues and exchanges between the respective security and law enforcement agencies/ organisations, also by including a Deputy National Security Adviser/ Secretary General level strategic dialogue between the Thai National Security Council and the National Security Council Secretariat of India, to address the increasingly challenging global and regional security environment and cooperate on both traditional and non-traditional security issues such as defence, maritime security, cybersecurity, counter terrorism, law enforcement issues and combating transnational organised crime like cyber-crimes, international economic crimes, anti-money laundering and human, drug, arms and wildlife trafficking, through exchange of information and intelligence, and sharing of best practices.

    Economic, Trade and Investment Cooperation

    To organise regular meetings and exchanges between the respective Ministry of Commerce/Commerce & Industry under existing mechanism of the Joint Trade Committee between India and Thailand. It was also agreed to ensure annual meetings of existing mechanisms to promote trade and investment between the two countries; to facilitate trade and resolve market access issues with a view to strengthening both countries’ linkages to the global supply chain and to enhance the confidence of the private sectors of both countries; including through cooperation in harmonization, equivalence and Mutual Recognition of Standards of mutually agreed areas; and to prepare for new areas of trade and investment, especially in future-oriented industries, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, digital technology, robotics, ICT, space technology, biotechnology, creative industry and startups.

    Welcome the increasing bilateral trade, which reached approximate US$ 15 billion in 2023-24 and seek to enhance sustainable bilateral trade to realise its full potential, through an expansion of economic linkages in potential areas. Promote sustainable trade in sectors such as value-added marine products, smartphones, electrical vehicles, food processing, petroleum products, auto components, services and pharmaceuticals.

    Promote trade facilitation and to deepen cooperation under the existing agreements and frameworks, including the Framework Agreement for Establishing Comprehensive Free Trade Area between Thailand and India and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA). Provide greater impetus to bilateral trade by exploring the establishment of local currency-based settlement mechanism.

    To support and expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more user-friendly, simple and trade facilitative for businesses, aiming to achieve substantial conclusion in 2025 and to strengthen supply chains between India and ASEAN Countries.

    Promote closer collaboration between the investment promotion agencies of the two countries, including the Board of Investment of Thailand and Invest India, to promote effective utilisation of existing investment policies and schemes, particularly those driving forward the vision of Ignite Thailand through Act East Policy and Make In India, as well as the utilisation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) & Industrial Corridors in both countries for increasing bilateral investment.

    Organise regular meetings on annual basis of the India-Thailand Joint Business Forum (ITJBF) to serve as the main mechanism for exchanges and the promotion of joint projects and collaboration between the private sectors of the two countries.

    Explore appropriate mechanisms to promote exchanges between entrepreneurs, SMEs, and startups. Keeping in mind the common strategic goals of capacity building and increased market access for India and Thailand startup ecosystems, both sides agreed to conduct startup related activities including mentorship programmes and expert sessions on sectors of mutual importance, focused investor pitching, business matchmaking with corporates and business associations, innovation challenges, integration of academic institutes in both countries and supporting cross-incubation models.

    Promote closer collaboration between the financial service providers in India and Thailand to facilitate trade, investment, and cross-border payments to strengthen economic and financial linkages between the two countries.

    Promote cooperation for sustainable economic growth, including Bio-Circular- Green Economy and Life Style for Environment, especially in the areas of renewable energy, and energy efficiency technologies, to meet both sides’ respective climate change goals.

    Connectivity

    Enhance all modes of connectivity such as physical, digital and financial between India and Thailand and strengthen regional linkages, including through expediting the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and its eastward extension, as well as the India, Myanmar and Thailand Motor Vehicles Agreement, strengthening regional maritime connectivity through coastal shipping and enhancing port-to-port connections and to encourage the civil aviation authorities of the two countries to continue engaging in discussions for enhancing air connectivity between both countries.

    Socio-cultural, Educational and People-to-People Exchanges

    Foster the positive momentum of people-to-people exchanges, as well as promote potential areas of tourism between the two countries.

    Strengthen mechanisms of cooperation between the Ministries responsible for education in both countries in order to promote educational cooperation, including through mutual recognition of qualifications, increased exchanges of scholarships for students pursuing university-level education in India and Thailand, to facilitate student exchanges, joint research and fellowships. Promote cooperation in skill development, English Language training, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Thai and Hindi Studies, and collaboration between educational and training institutions in both countries.

    Strengthen the links between the two countries through the deepening of cultural relations and cooperation, including in performing arts, exhibitions, seminars, conference, archaeology, archives, museums, research and documentation, and festivals as identified in the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP).

    Explore potential areas of collaboration in sports, such as sports integrity, sports governing bodies, sport sciences & research, sports industry, and sports tourism, as well as exchanges of experts and practitioners in areas of mutual interest.

    Promote closer collaboration between India and Thailand in establishing closer cooperation with the North Eastern Region (NER) of India and to increase exchanges, particularly in the areas of tourism, culture, education, vocation and technical cooperation.

    Strengthen cooperation between Ministries responsible for science and technology to address new challenges and create opportunities with increased exchanges and closer collaboration in science and technology, through joint research projects, workshops, and exchanges in priority areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, ICT and space technology.

    Promote closer cooperation between the two countries in the areas of health, medical products, as well as traditional medicine, including through increased exchanges of information, research and development, and human resource development.

    Establish exchanges and cooperation involved in women’s all-round development, including leadership, decision-making and vocational skills to enhance women entrepreneurship.

    Regional, Multilateral and International Cooperation

    Enhance cooperation between India and Thailand especially at the United Nations to promote constructive role of both sides on global issues of mutual concern and interest.

    Strengthen cooperation between India and Thailand within regional and sub-regional frameworks, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) and Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) and promote synergies and complementarities among these frameworks with the aim to comprehensively and effectively address regional and sub-regional challenges.

    Strengthen cooperation between Thailand and India in multilateral frameworks such as G77 and South-South Cooperation to jointly advocate the voice of developing countries.

    Jointly strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established at the 19th ASEAN-India Summit to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations in 2022 in Phnom Penh and welcome India’s continued support for ASEAN Centrality and active cooperation in ASEAN-led mechanisms in the evolving regional architecture.

    Further strengthen cooperation under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework for enhancing socio-economic development and connectivity of the region, and further strengthen the centuries old civilisational ties.

    Promote the leading and proactive role of India and Thailand as founding members and the two largest economies of BIMSTEC in working towards a prosperous, resilient and open Bay of Bengal community, while capitalising on the commitment from the recent adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter as well as the unique character of BIMSTEC as a bridge between South and Southeast Asia. Strengthen BIMSTEC transport connectivity through implementation of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity and related agreements, including the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation.

    The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Prime Minister of the Republic of India agreed to task the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India to coordinate with relevant agencies to formulate a Joint Plan of Action towards the effective implementation of the Strategic Partnership.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRODUCTIVITY DURING FOURTH SESSION OF 18TH LOK SABHA WAS AROUND 118 PERCENT: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    Source: Government of India

    PRODUCTIVITY DURING FOURTH SESSION OF 18TH LOK SABHA WAS AROUND 118 PERCENT: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    26 SITTINGS OF LOK SABHA WERE HELD DURING FOURTH SESSION, WHICH LASTED FOR 160 HOURS 48 MINUTES: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    DISCUSSION ON VOTE OF THANKS ON PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS LASTED FOR 17 HOURS 23 MINUTES AND 173 MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN THE DISCUSSION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    GENERAL DISCUSSION ON UNION BUDGET 2025-26 LASTED FOR 16 HOURS 13 MINUTES AND 169 MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN DISCUSSION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    10 GOVERNMENT BILLS WERE INTRODUCED IN LOK SABHA AND 16 BILLS WERE PASSED: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    RECORD 202 MATTERS OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE WERE RAISED DURING ZERO HOUR ON 3 APRIL, 2025: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    FOURTH SESSION OF EIGHTEENTH LOK SABHA CONCLUDES

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Fourth Session of the Eighteenth Lok Sabha, which commenced on 31 January, 2025, concluded today. Shri Birla informed the House that 26 sittings were held during the Session which lasted for around 160 hours 48 minutes. The productivity of the House during the Session was 118 percent, informed Shri Birla.

    Hon’ble President of India addressed Members of both the Houses of Parliament on 31 January, 2025 and the discussion on Vote of Thanks on the President’s Address lasted for 17 hours 23 minutes. 173 Members participated in the discussion, informed Shri Birla.

    The Finance Minister presented Union Budget 2025-2026 on the floor of the House on 1 February, 2025. General Discussion on the Union Budget 2025-26 lasted for 16 hours 13 minutes. Shri Birla informed that 169 Members participated in the discussion. Finance Minister replied to the discussion on 11 February, 2025.

    Demands for Grants of selected Ministries/ Departments were discussed in the House from 17 to 21 March, 2025 and subsequently the Demands for Grants were passed by the House. Appropriation Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on 21 March, 2025 and the Finance Bill was passed on 25 March, 2025.

    Shri Birla further informed that, 10 Government Bills were introduced and 16 Bills were passed, during the session. Some of the important bills which were passed are as follows:

    (i)            The Finance Bill, 2025;

    (ii)           The Appropriation Bill, 2025;

    (iii)          The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025;

    (iv)         The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025; and

    (v)          The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025

    During the Session, 134 starred questions were answered orally. A total of 691 Matters of Public Importance were raised by the Members during the Zero Hour, out of which a record number of 202 Matters of Public Importance were raised during Zero Hour on 3 April, 2025, Shri Birla informed. A total of 566 matters were taken up under Rule 377 during the Session.

    Shri Birla informed that during the Session, a total number of 32 Statements, including 23 Statements under Direction 73A. 61 Reports were presented by Departmentally Related Standing Committees and as many as, 2518 papers were laid on the Table of the House, he further said.

    A Calling Attention Motion on hardships faced by fishermen community was discussed under Rule 197 on 1 April, 2025.

    As regards Private Members’ Business, a Private Member’s Resolution moved by Shri Shafi Parambil, MP, regarding appropriate measure to regulate airfare in the country was discussed in the House on 28 March, 2025 however, the discussion remained inconclusive. On 2 April, 2025, Statutory Resolution ratifying President’s Rule in Manipur was adopted by the House.

    During the Session, the House welcomed the Russian Parliamentary Delegation led by Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, H.E., Mr. Vyacheslav Volodin on 3 February 2025. On 11 February 2025, the House welcomed the Parliamentary Delegation from Maldives led by H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives. Similarly, on 12 March 2025, the House welcomed the Parliamentary Delegation from Madagascar led by H.E. Mr. Justin Tokley, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar.

    ***

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services

    Source: Government of India

    Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services

    Ministry of Ayush has signed 24 Country-to-Country level Memorandum of Understanding and 51 Institute-to-Institute level MoUs, to promote and strengthen traditional Indian Medicine Systems globally

    The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) under the Ministry of Ayush, provides certification of Yoga professionals and accreditation of Institutions

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush is implementing the Central Sector Scheme for Promotion of International Cooperation for AYUSH. Under this scheme the Ministry provides support to Indian AYUSH drug Manufacturers/ Ayush Service providers to give boost to the export of AYUSH products and services; facilitates the International promotion, development and recognition of AYUSH systems of medicine; foster interaction of stakeholders and market development of AYUSH at international level; promote academics and research through the establishment of AYUSH Academic Chairs in foreign countries and holding training workshop/symposiums for promoting and strengthening awareness and interest about AYUSH Systems of Medicine at international level including Yoga. The Ministry of Ayush has signed 24 Country-to-Country level Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs), and 51 Institute-to-Institute level MoUs, to promote and strengthen traditional Indian Medicine Systems globally.

    At the initiative of the Prime Minister, the United Nations General Assembly took a historic decision in 2014 to declare 21st June as the International Day of Yoga. So far, approximately Rs. 161 crore has been spent for the promotion of International Yoga Day. IDY was successfully celebrated every year, spreading the message of yoga across the globe. It is also observed that more and more people from diverse backgrounds are joining the IDY celebrations each year.

    The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) recommended Yoga as an integral part of Health and Physical Education. Health and Physical Education is a compulsory subject from Class I to Class X and optional from Class XI to XII. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has already developed integrated syllabi on Health and Physical Education from Class I to Class X. The syllabus is available on NCERT website www.ncert.nic.in. Further, NCERT has brought up two modules and books for the introduction of Yoga in schools for the age group between 8-18 years.

    The Yoga Certification Board (YCB) under the Ministry of Ayush, provides certification of Yoga professionals and accreditation of Institutions, prescribing syllabus for various levels of Yoga trainers and any such activities that may be considered necessary for the promotion of Yoga. The aim of YCB is to bring quality and standards in practice of Yoga and to promote Classical Yoga as a career skill.

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

    ***

    MV/AKS

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DRDO & Indian Army conduct four successful flight-tests of Army version of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army conducted four successful flight-tests of the Army version of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on April 03 & 04, 2025. The four operational flight-trials were carried out against high-speed aerial targets. The missiles intercepted the aerial targets and destroyed them, registering direct hits. The trials were carried out to intercept four targets at long-range, short-range, high altitude and low altitude, proving the operational capability.

    The flight-tests were carried out with the weapon system in operational condition. The performance of the weapon system was validated through the flight data captured by range instruments like radars and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. The flight tests were carried out in the presence of senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Army.

    The trials were carried out by the Indian Army from Eastern and Southern Commands under DRDO guidance. These trials have proven the operational capability of both Army Commands and paved the way for operationalisation of weapon systems in two Regiments.

    The MRSAM is developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries for use by the Indian Army. The MRSAM Army weapon system comprises multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system and other vehicles.

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, Indian Army and the industries for the successful flight-tests. Four successful tests have re-established the capability of the weapon system in intercepting targets at critical ranges, he said.

    Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat complimented the teams involved in the successful flight-trial, terming the as major milestones for building operational capability of the Indian Army.

    ****

    VK/Savvy

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

    Source: Government of India

    AYUSH

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

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

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

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

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

     

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

     

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

    -3-

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

    Annexure

     

    Sl.

    No.

    Details of MoU

    Country

    1.

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

    in the field of traditional medicine

    USA

    2.

    MoU between CCRH and Royal London Hospital for

    Integrated Medicine, UK

    United

    Kingdom

    3.

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

    Ontario (CHO), Canada

    Canada

    4.

    United         States       Pharmacopoeia          Convention                    and

    Pharmacopoeia Commission of Indian Medicine

    USA

    5.

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

    Aires, Argentina

    Argentina

    6.

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

    Institute (TASMC), Israel

    Israel

    7.

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

    Institute Located in Edmonton, ALBERTA, Canada

    Canada

    8.

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

    Malaysia

    Malaysia

    9.

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

    United States (HPCUS)

    USA

    10.

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

    Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH)

    Germany

    11.

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

    University of Rio De Janerio (FURJ), Brazil

    Brazil

    12.

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

    of Ayurveda (Birstein), (REAA) Germany

    Germany

    13.

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

    Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel

    Israel

    14.

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

    Australia

    15.

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

    United Kingdom

    16.

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

    Austria

    17.

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

    AbualiIbn Sino”

    Tajikistan

    18.

    MoU        on      the      establishment         of      an                 academic

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

    USA

    AYUSH and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, USA

    19.

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

    Germany

    20.

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

    Australia

    21.

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

    Ecuador

    22.

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

    Hungary

    23.

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

    West Indies

    24.

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

    United Kingdom

    25.

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

    Japan

    26.

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

    Germany

    27.

    MoC with Japan

    Japan

    28.

    MoU       between      CCRUM      and     Hamdard               University Bangladesh

    Bangladesh

    29.

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

    USA

    30.

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

    Germany

    31.

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

    Germany

    32.

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

    Development Institute (LDI), Ministry of Sports Saudi Arabia

    Saudi Arabia

    33.

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

    Argentina

    34.

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

    Brazil

    35.

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

    Chu      de             La Reunion

    36.

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

    Brazil

    37.

    MoU between National Institute of Ayurveda Jaipur

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

    Philippines

    38.

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

    Canada

     

    39.

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

    Romania

    40.

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

    WHO

    41.

    India Yoga Center (IYC), Korea

    Korea

    42.

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

    Cuba

    43.

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

    Japan

    44.

    MoU Between MDNIY and Sarv Yoga International Italy

    Italy

    45.

    MoU Between ITRA and National Institute of Health,

    Republic of Peru

    Peru

    46.

    MoU between AIIA and Kvarner Health Tourism

    Cluster, Croatia

    Croatia

    47.

    MoU between NIA and Department of Thai Traditional

    and Alternative Medicine

    Thailand

    48.

    MoU between All India Institute of Ayurveda and Sri

    Vajera Foundation and Associated Institutions

    Brazil

    49.

    MoU Between CCRUM and Allied Health professions

    Council of South Africa (AHPCSA)

    South Africa

    50.

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

    Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda and Yoga

    Czech Republic

     

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

    ***

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2118854)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UPGRADATION OF PORTS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Under Modernisation pillar of Sagarmala Programme, 234 projects at cost of around Rs. 2.91 Lakh crores have been undertaken for implementation across Coastal States/UTs. These projects are implemented by Central Ministries, IWAI, Indian Railways, State Government and Major Ports etc. Out of these, 103 projects worth Rs. 32,634 crores have been completed and 56 projects worth Rs. 74,744 crores are under implementation. The details of projects undertaken in Sagarmala Programme in the State of Andhra Pradesh under Port Modernisation pillar is annexed. [Annexure-I]

    Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date undertaken 119 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 9407 Cr. for partial funding under Sagarmala Scheme. Out of these, 72 projects have been completed till date. The State Wise details of projects under Sagarmala Scheme are annexed. [Annexure-II]. Under Sagarmala Scheme, Ministry is partially funding 12 projects costing around Rs. 2,410 Crore in the State of Andhra Pradesh including Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Out of these, 7 projects have been completed. The details of projects are provided at Annexure-III.

    Major Ports are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The details of companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports across the country is annexed. [Annexure-IV]

    Annexure – I

    List of Sagarmala Projects in Andhra Pradesh under Ports Modernisation pillar.

    Annexure II

    Annexure-III

    List of Sagarmala-funded Projects in Andhra Pradesh

    Annexure-IV

    Companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports

    • West Bengal: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port

    Century Ports Pvt. Ltd.

    Mackintosh Burn Limited

    M/s Biswajyoti Bhattacharyya

    M/s Tribeni Constructions Ltd

    Hooghly Oil and Gas Terminal Private Limited (HOGTPL)

    HDC Bulk Terminal Ltd (HBTL)

    Ganges bulk terminal Pvt. Ltd.

    • Tamil Nadu: Kamarajar Port Limited

    Indian Pors Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited

    Tamil Nadu Road Development Company (TNRDC)

    Jan De Nul Dredging India Pvt. Limited

    Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors bv

    Sripathy Associate Pvt. Ltd.

    Sentinel Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

    • Tamil Nadu:V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority

    M/s Jandenul Dredging India Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Surabhi pile foundation & Gio Technics Pt. Ltd. Mumbai.

    M/s Jefferson samuelraj& Sons.

    M/s TTK Construction, Madurai

    M/s R.K & Sons, Salem

    M/s JSWTMTPL, Mumbai

    M/s Tuticorin International Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (TICTPL), Tuticorin.

    • Maharashtra: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority

    M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd. Indore, MP

    M/s Thakur- Mhatre JV, Mumbai.

    M/s Alfra- Backbone- Tarmat JV Mumbai

    M/s Thakur-Mhatre- Kharpatil JV, Mumbai

    M/s RKEC Projects Ltd., Visakhapatnam.

    M/s Blue Star Construction Co,

    M/s Manoj Infracon Private Limited, Mumbai.

    M/s J.M. Mhatre infra Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai.

    M/s Paresh Construction Co., Mumbai

    M/s JPR Balaji Infra Pvt. Ltd., Jalna.

    M/s Niraj Cement Structurals Ltd., Mumbai.

    M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

    M/s DEV Engineers

    M/s Capacite Engineering Pvt Ltd and M/s. Capacit’e Infraprojects Ltd. (JV), Mumbai.

    M/s P.P. Kharpatil Construction Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

    M/s ITD Cementation Ltd., Mumbai

    M/s Shandar Interior Pvt. Ltd, Pune

    M/s Van Oord India Pvt Ltd

    M/s MAN Infra Construction Ltd

    M/s ITD Cementation

    M/s MAN Infraconstruction Ltd

    M/s Antelec Pvt Ltd

    M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam

    M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam

    M/s Wuxi Huadong Heavy Machinery

    M/s Cullen Grummitt& Roe (India) Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Egis India Consulting Engineers Pvt Ltd

    M/s Ultratech Environmental Consultancy and Laboratory Pvt Ltd.

    M/s National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)

    M/s Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE)

    M/s ARI Simulation, New Delhi

    M/s Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune (CWPRS)

    • Maharashtra: Mumbai Port Authority

    M/s Vanoord India Private Ltd.

    M/s Magoxy Infra Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s BELIEVE Infra Project Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Belhekar and Kale Associated (JV)

    M/s Kargwal Construction Pvt. Ltd

    M/s ITD Cementation India Ltd.

    M/s DVP Infraprojects Pvt Ltd.

    • Andhra Pradesh: Visakhapatnam Port Authority

    M/s Rail Vikas Nigam Limited

    M/s RKEC & M/s SBEC

    M/s ITD Cementation Ltd.,

    M/s SSN&Co.

    M/s Indus Project Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s SSN&Co.

    M/s PJR Constructions (P) Ltd.

    M/s JD Constructions

    M/s GR Constructions

    M/s Sri Venkateswara Constructions

    M/s Md. Jahangeer

    M/s Lalitha Constructions

    M/s Hardware Tools and Machinery Projects Pvt Ltd.,

    M/s IPRCL

    M/s IPRCL

    M/s JD Constructions

    M/s ShrushtiContechPvt. Ltd. & Others.

    M/s AKVR Infra

    M/s Shell Refractories and Insulations, (JV) with M/s. Karagwal Constructions Pvt.

    M/s Integrated Cargo Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Everson Marine Trade Pvt. Ltd.

    • Gujarat: Deendayal Port Authority

    M/s Kandla International Caontainer Terminal

    M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy

    M/s Suzlon Energy Limited, New Delhi

    M/s Inox Wind Limited, Noida.

    M/s RISHI Shipping, Gandhidham

    M/s Merit BMH Engg. Pvt. Ltd., Chennai

    M/s Sterling and Wilson Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Omkar Enterprise, Ahmedabad

    M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad

    M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad

    M/s Woodfield Systems International Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai

    M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy

    M/s Jay Project, Baroda and M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhi Dham

    M/s Jay Project, Baroda

    M/s C.K Electrical, Surat

    M/s L&T Energy Green Tech Limited, Vadodara.

    M/s Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZL)

    M/s Hindustan Gateway Container Terminal Kandla Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Kandla Oil Terminal Private Ltd.

    M/s Coviva Energy Terminal Ltd.

    M/s Rock and Reef Dredging Pvt Ltd.

    M/s K.K. Sorathia JV Hariom Earthmovers and Transport, Adipur

    M/s BMS Projecs – Marymatha JV

    M/s Indian port rail & ropeway corporation limited (IPRCL)

    M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Hariom Earthmovers and Transport – Adipur

    M/s Radhe Associated, Mehsana

    M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Dhanji K. Patel

    M/s Patel Corrtech JV

    M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhidham

    M/s Baldaniya Construction

    • Goa: Mormugao Port Authority

    M/s South West Port Ltd (SWPL)

    M/s Delta Ports Mormugao Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

    M/s Goa IGT Pvt. Ltd. Navi Mumbai

    • Kerala: Cochin Port Authority

    M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi

    M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi

    M/s RKEC Projects Pvt. Ltd., Visakhapatnam

    • Karnataka: New Mangalore Port Authority

    M/s JSW-MCTPL

    • Odisha: Paradip Port Authority

    Paradip East Quay Coal Terminal Pvt. Ltd.

    Jindal Paradip Port Ltd.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in a written reply to QUESTION NO. 5544 in the Lok Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GROWTH DISPARITY BETWEEN MAJOR AND MINOR PORTS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Major Ports are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ports other than Major Ports (Non-Major/Minor) are under the jurisdiction of respective State Government. 12 Major Port in the country accounts for the bulk of India’s cargo handling capacity and have benefitted from substantial investments in infrastructure, modernization, and automation. For a balanced and sustained growth of the Indian port sector, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under Sagarmala Scheme is providing financial assistance to State Government / UT for development of port infrastructure.

    The details of cargo handled by Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-I]

    Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has undertaken implementation of the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) to augment the capacity of National Waterway-1 (NW-1) (from Varanasi to Haldia, 1390 Kilometer stretch). The development objective of JMVP is to enhance transport efficiency and reliability of NW-1 which passes through the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Under JMVP, the details of developments in Bihar along with employment generation is annexed. [Annexure-II]. The number of people directly employed at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-III]

    Ministry constituted Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) in the year 1997, an apex advisory body for the development of maritime sector and aims to ensure development of Major and Non-Major Ports, in consultation with State Governments, the future development of existing and new Minor Ports by the respective Maritime States either directly or through captive users and private participation. Till date, twenty meetings of MSDC have been held. Further, under Sagarmala, the Government aims holistic port infrastructure development along the coastline though modernisation, mechanisation and computerisation.

    Sagarmala is the flagship Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote port-led development in the country through harnessing lndia’s 7,500 km long coastline, and 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways. Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date provided partial assistance to 71 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 4925 Cr. for development of Non-Major Ports under Sagarmala Scheme.

    Annexure-I

    Year

    Cargo handled by Major Ports (Million Tonnes)

    Cargo handled by Non- Major Ports

    (Million Tonnes)

    2019-20

    704.92

    615.05

    2020-21

    672.68

    577.30

    2021-22

    720.05

    603.75

    2022-23

    784.30

    651.01

    2023-24

    819.30

    723.59

     

    Annexure-II

    JMVP Sub Projects in Bihar

    Cost (In Cr.)

    Approx. No. of Employment Generated

    Development of Intermodal Terminal Kalughat

    84.5

    171

    Development of 21 Community Jetties in Bihar

    34.79

    546

    Fairway Development Kalughat Access Channel

    9.63

    24

    Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur (2019 – 2024)

    159.3

    52

    Fairway Development Mahenderpur to Barh (2019 – 2024)

    182.9

    48

    Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur – Barh (2027 -2027)

    147.43

    84

    Fairway Development Barh – Digha

    73.14

    45

    Fairway Development Digha – Majhauwa

    58.93

    50

    Development of Ship Repair Facility Patna

    50

    –

    Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism

    11.61

    5

    Total

    800.62

    1025

              JMVP staff at Project Implementation Unit Patna

    9

                                                                                        Total

    1034

     

    Annexure-III

    Employment of Manpower at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports

    Year

    Major Ports (in numbers)

    Non- Major Ports

    (in numbers)

    2020

    26318

    5232

    2021

    23330

    9945

    2022

    20924

    9598

    2023

    18109

    14219

    2024

    16667

    13381

     

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in written reply to QUESTION NO. 5693 in the Lok Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIA AS TOP MARITIME NATION

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The government’s strategic initiatives seek to position the nation as a leading maritime power by expanding port capacity from about 2,600 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to nearly 10,000 MTPA by 2047. Key to this strategy is developing new ports with deeper drafts, increasing draft of the existing ports, establishing port clusters and transshipment hubs, developing automated ports, increasing private sector involvement, and enhancing policy support.

    Central Government has introduced several legislative reforms to enhance India’s maritime capabilities, including the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, Marine Aids to Navigation Act, 2021, Inland Vessels Act, 2021, Relaxation of Cabotage Rules, 2018, Recycling of Ships Act, 2019, National Waterways Act, 2016, the Policy for the Award of Waterfront and Associated Land to Port-Dependent Industries (Captive Policy), 2016, and Guidelines for Dealing with Stressed Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Projects at Major Ports.

    Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has launched the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP) which aims to reduce carbon emissions and minimize environmental impact by encouraging adoption of environmentally sustainable tugboat operations. Additionally, Government has launched HaritSagar Guideline for Major Ports and Harit Nauka guidelines for inland vessels which aim to promote the adoption of greener technologies.

    MoPSW aligns maritime policies with international best practices through high-level events like the Global Maritime India Summit, Sagarmathan, Chintan Shivir, Post-Budget Industry Meets, and stakeholder consultations, fostering dialogue among policymakers, industry, and grassroots communities. Regular engagements with global maritime leaders and participation in international forums ensure that India’s policies meet global standards, positioning the country as a key player in the maritime sector.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in a written reply to QUESTION NO. 5735 in the Lok Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bridging Progress: The Rise of the New Pamban Bridge

    Source: Government of India

    Bridging Progress: The Rise of the New Pamban Bridge

    India’s first vertical lift sea bridge sets a new benchmark in modern infrastructure and maritime harmony

    Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the New Pamban Bridge during his visit to Tamil Nadu on April 6, on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

    The New Pamban Bridge stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and visionary infrastructure development. Rooted in history, its story traces back to 1914 when British engineers constructed the original Pamban Bridge, a cantilever (a long piece of metal or wood that extends from a wall to support the end of a bridge) structure with a Scherzer Rolling Lift span to connect Rameswaram Island with mainland India.

    For over a century, it served as a critical lifeline for pilgrims, tourists, and trade. However, the harsh marine environment and growing transportation demands necessitated a modern solution. In 2019, the Government of India sanctioned the construction of a technologically advanced, future-ready replacement.

    The result is India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, a 2.07-kilometre-long marvel spanning the Palk Strait in Tamil Nadu. Blending heritage with innovation, the New Pamban Bridge not only preserves the cultural and historical importance of the region but also marks a significant leap forward in design, connectivity, and regional development.

    The New Pamban Bridge was constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways.

    Key Features of the New Pamban Bridge:

    The 72.5-meter navigational span can be lifted up to 17 meters, allowing larger ships to pass underneath.

    The new bridge is 3 meters higher than the existing one, improving sea connectivity.

    The substructure is designed for two tracks, with the superstructure initially accommodating a single line.

    The use of modern materials and engineering techniques will ensure the bridge’s longevity.

    The bridge has been constructed with stainless steel reinforcement, high-grade protective paint, and fully welded joints.

    Special polysiloxane coating protects it from corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh marine environment.

    The Need & Vision for the New Pamban Bridge

    By the early 21st century, the old bridge could no longer meet the demands of modern transportation. The increasing volume of traffic, coupled with the need for faster and safer connectivity prompted the government to envision a new structure that would be technologically advanced, durable, and future-ready.

    The construction of a state-of-the-art sea bridge that could accommodate growing traffic volumes, ensure durability and facilitate smoother maritime navigation. The New Pamban Bridge was conceived to address the limitations of its predecessor while paving the way for enhanced regional connectivity and economic growth.

    The New Pamban Bridge is set to ensure:

    • Enhanced Transportation: Accommodating heavier rail traffic and faster trains.
    • Maritime Integration: Allowing larger vessels to pass without disruptions.
    • Durability: Ensuring a lifespan of over 100 years with minimal maintenance.

    Modern Construction Techniques
     

    The original 1914 bridge was vital for trade and pilgrimage but was no longer suitable for modern rail demands. Given the region’s seismic activity, cyclones, and marine corrosion, a resilient, technologically advanced replacement was essential. Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), under the Ministry of Railways, led the project, ensuring it met higher speed, load, and maritime requirements. This new bridge enhances connectivity while showcasing India’s infrastructure capabilities in safety, durability, and innovation.

    1. Selection of Launching Method
    • Site constraints like limited support structures, low shore draft, ship traffic, fishing activity, and strong sea currents made conventional lift span launching methods unfeasible.
    • The solution used was pier-to-pier launching of the lift span girder using the ‘Auto Launching Method based on Relationship Principle,’ designed by Suntech Construction Engineering Consultants and verified by IIT Madras.
    1. Transportation, Assembly and Final Welding
    • After painting and inspection, segments were trucked to Pamban, where a temporary platform with two EOT cranes (Electric Overhead Traveling Cranes) enabled girder assembly. Welding was done in specialized huts, joints inspected by PAUT (Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing), and corrosion protection completed with metalizing and painting.
    • Metalizing and painting completed corrosion protection, ensuring structural integrity.
    1. Launching of the Lift Span
    • Following assembly at Abutment No. 2, the 448.305m lift span was launched in 90 sequences to Pier 77–78 using launching girders and the auto-launching method, with counterweights ensuring precise movement along a 2.65° curve.
    1. Components of the Launching System
    • Key components included steel stools, stainless steel sliding bases, and swing-type traverse bases with guide rollers. Two front launching girders (51m each) and two rear ones (47m each) were supported at multiple points
    • Each girder set had ~10 MT counterweights. Tooth plates held jack pistons, and 200T Hilman Rollers enabled smooth movement. Pivots allowed 360° rotation. Push/pull jacks (50T, 1000mm stroke) enabled span movement, requiring 13.375T–18.725T force, factoring lateral resistance.
    1. Hydraulic Jacking and Final Placement
    • Eight 200T hydraulic jacks lifted the span and repositioned the girders.
    • Mounted on frames at end cross girders, they hung during movement and were supported by adjustable stools at each pier, ensuring precise placement.
    1. Lift Span Movement Sequence
    • With launching girders aligned and span loaded, movement began. Each pier was spaced 20m apart. The 75.70m span required two moves per pier—16m first (rear over pier), then 4m (front over next pier).
    • Rear and front girders moved in turn to the next piers. This process, repeated over 90 sequences for 448.325m, took 2–3 days per pier. Once at its final position, temporary equipment was removed and the span lowered onto bearings.
    1. Erection of Towers
    • Towers were fabricated in 28 segments, painted, and transported to Pamban using trailers.
    • A temporary jetty allowed segments to be loaded onto barges via a 150 MT crane and hauled by boats. A marine crane launched segments near the navigational channel.
    • Towers were connected by a lintel forming a 21.30m × 6.80m × 4.50m machine room housing the lifting system. The room weighs ~100 MT, with 315 MT counterweights at each end ensuring balance and smooth operation.

     

    Challenges in Construction: Overcoming the Odds

    The construction of the new Pamban Bridge presented numerous challenges, ranging from environmental obstacles to logistical complexities. The Palk Strait’s turbulent waters, strong winds, and unpredictable weather patterns created difficulties in the construction process. Additionally, the region’s susceptibility to cyclones and seismic activity necessitated careful planning and robust design.

    Another significant challenge was managing logistics, particularly the transportation of heavy materials to the remote construction site. The team had to make the most of the narrow timeframes offered by tidal conditions to ensure timely delivery. Despite these obstacles, the engineers and workers demonstrated remarkable ingenuity, leveraging innovative solutions, advanced technology, and unwavering determination to overcome the difficulties and successfully complete the bridge.

    Throughout the execution of the project; which involved over 1,400 tons of fabrication, the launching of lift spans and 99 girders, as well as track and electrification work carried out at sea, the entire operation was completed without a single injury.

    India Making its Mark on a Global Scale

    While the new Pamban Bridge is India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, it shares similarities with other globally recognized bridges known for their technological advancements and unique designs. These include the Golden Gate Bridge in the United States, Tower Bridge in London and the Oresund Bridge in Denmark-Sweden. Each of these iconic structures, though different in design and functionality, represents a pinnacle of engineering excellence. Now, the new Pamban Bridge stands proudly in their company, combining cutting-edge technology with the challenges posed by India’s coastal and seismic conditions.

     

    Safety & Environmental Features

    Conclusion
    The New Pamban Bridge is a symbol of India’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. Overcoming environmental, logistical, and technical challenges, this state-of-the-art vertical lift railway bridge stands as a proud testament to the nation’s growing infrastructure capabilities. With its modern design, enhanced safety features, and commitment to sustainability, the bridge not only revitalizes a critical transport link but also strengthens regional connectivity and economic development. As trains and ships are all set to pass effortlessly over and under, the bridge serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when vision meets determination.

    References:

    • Ministry of Railways

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