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  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal Join Letter To Attorney General Bondi On Appointment Of Kash Patel As ATF Acting Director

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 14 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter to U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi inquiring into what policies and procedures she will commit to implementing in her capacity as AG to ensure that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity under Kash Patel’s stewardship.

    In February, President Trump announced that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel would also serve as Acting Director of ATF, the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for addressing gun-related crime and violence in America. However, the Senators’ letter to AG Bondi argues that Mr. Patel threatens to undo the significant gains made in recent years to ensure Americans’ safety as he lacks the relevant experience to lead ATF and has ties to the gun industry.

    “As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person,” the senators wrote. “We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity.”

    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.” Though under the Trump Administration, the Surgeon General has since removed the advisory, the report analyzed data from 2002 to 2022, finding that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer. In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries.

    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, the United States is starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths. Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts.

    “While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had ‘the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,’ evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain,” the senators wrote. “The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.”

    The senators’ letter went on to explain why Mr. Patel is not the right person to lead ATF.

    “As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director. Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations,” they continued. “Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.”

    The senators concluded: “Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws. During one exchange, you assured the Committee: ‘I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.’ In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: ‘I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.’”

    To better understand how AG Bondi intends to accomplish these goals, the senators asked that she promptly respond to a series of questions.

    U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of letter is available HERE and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We write with great concern regarding President Trump’s appointment of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel as Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person. We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity.

    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.”  Analyzing data from 2002 to 2022, the Surgeon General reported that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer.  In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries.

    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, we were starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths.  Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts.

    For example, ATF’s crime gun intelligence tools eTrace, which “is used to trace the purchase and/or use history of firearms used in violent crimes,” and the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, which “is the only interstate automated ballistic imaging network in operation in the United States,” together “have transformed crime-solving by generating over 1.1 million investigative leads from ballistic evidence and linking suspects to major crimes within hours.”  ATF has also worked to increase DNA matches from cartridge casings and has expanded Crime Gun Intelligence Centers, which use “data-driven strategies” to foster “cross-agency collaboration.”

    ATF has also focused on eliminating firearms trafficking networks that unlawfully smuggle guns from the United States to Mexico, arming dangerous cartels which, in turn, send illicit drugs such as fentanyl into the United States.  And ATF created an Emerging Threats Center, which among other things, has focused on the proliferation of privately-made firearms, or ghost guns, and machine-gun conversion devices, or Glock switches.  These represent only some examples of ATF’s nationwide initiatives to reduce gun violence and keep Americans safe.

    While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had “the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,” evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain.  The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.

    Mr. Patel is, quite simply, not the right person to lead the ATF. As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director.  Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations.  Last year, Mr. Patel spoke at the inaugural summit for group Gun Owners of America, a “no-compromise gun lobby” that has announced it “look[s] forward to dismantling gun control with Kash.”  Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.

    Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws.  During one exchange, you assured the Committee: “I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.”  In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: “I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.”  To better understand how you intend to accomplish these goals, please promptly respond to the following questions:

    1. Recently, we have seen notable success in curtailing gun violence. While the United States experienced a spike in gun-related crimes and deaths during the pandemic, through bipartisan congressional action and the previous Administration’s efforts, that trend has begun to reverse. Given ATF’s central role in curbing violent crime, it is of paramount importance that the agency be staffed by experienced leaders, agents, and others who support ATF’s core mission, without the appearance of or actual conflict, in order to continue this downward trend. By contrast, firearm-industry personnel advocate for gun companies’ bottom lines by pushing for the repeal of commonsense gun regulations in order to sell more weapons and weapons accessories. Hiring such individuals for critical public-safety positions at ATF would endanger the agency’s core mission and Americans’ safety while prioritizing increases in private company profits.

    Will you place constraints on the hiring of firearm-industry personnel for ATF positions? If not, why?

    1. ATF must comply with all existing legal obligations. This includes exercising statutorily-required regulatory authority over the firearms industry, fully implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, and complying with the Administrative Procedures Act if changing existing ATF regulations. However, Acting Director Patel lacks experience with ATF’s core responsibilities, including ATF’s regulatory oversight of the gun industry. Moreover, Acting Director Patel was only temporarily appointed under the Vacancies Reform Act and has not been subject to the Senate’s advice and consent process for this role. It is therefore particularly important that you exercise your authority as Attorney General to give final approval of all actions ATF takes under Acting Director Patel’s stewardship, including all policy changes.

    Will you commit to personally reviewing for approval all new or revised ATF policies and actions? If not, why?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Continues Support for Private Astronaut Missions to Space Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA is seeking proposals for two new private astronaut missions to the International Space Station, targeted for 2026 and 2027, as the agency continues its commitment to expanding access to space. These private missions enable American commercial companies to further develop capabilities and support a continuous human presence in low Earth orbit.
    “We are in an incredible time for human spaceflight, with more opportunities to access space and grow a thriving commercial economy in low Earth orbit,” said Dana Weigel, program manager for the International Space Station at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “NASA remains committed to supporting this expansion by leveraging our decades of expertise to help industry gain the experience needed to train and manage crews, conduct research, and develop future destinations. Private astronaut missions are a key part of this effort, providing companies with hands-on opportunities to refine their capabilities and build partnerships that will shape the future of low Earth orbit.”
    The new flight opportunities will be the fifth and sixth private astronaut missions to the orbiting laboratory coordinated by NASA. The first three missions were accomplished by Axiom Space in April 2022, May 2023, and January 2024, with a fourth scheduled for no earlier than May 2025.
    Each of the new missions may be docked to the space station for up to 14 days. Specific dates depend on spacecraft traffic at the space station and in-orbit activity planning and constraints. Private astronaut missions must be brokered by a U.S. entity and use U.S. transportation spacecraft that meet NASA’s International Space Station visiting vehicle requirements, policies, and procedures. For additional details, refer to Focus Area 4A of NASA Research Announcement (NRA) NNJ13ZBG001N.
    Proposals are due by 5 p.m. EDT on Friday, May 30, 2025.
    For solicitation information, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/johnson/jsc-procurement/pam
    For more than two decades, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and demonstrating new technologies, making research breakthroughs not possible on Earth. The station is a critical testbed for NASA to understand and overcome the challenges of long-duration spaceflight and to expand commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit. As commercial companies focus on providing human space transportation services and destinations as part of a robust low Earth orbit economy, NASA’s Artemis campaign is underway at the Moon, where the agency is preparing for future human exploration of Mars.
    Learn more about the International Space Station at: 
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lagniappe for April 2025

    Source: NASA

    Explore Lagniappe for April 2025 featuring:

    NASA-Sponsored FIRST Robotics Welcomes Teams to Magnolia Regional
    NASA Leaders Visit Representatives
    Blood Moon in South Mississippi

    New beginnings feel a lot like the month of April. It is the heart of spring and the season that symbolizes growth and renewal.
    April is the perfect time to break free from old routines and try something new.
    If you have landed here in this website corner of our digital world, consider this your open invitation to continue ahead on the journey with NASA Stennis by following us on social media.
    It is time to say goodbye to the Lagniappe publication as we know it, but do not worry. All of the great news about the center and its frontline activities still will be available, just in a new way – via our social media platforms! Gator wants you to feel more connected than ever as we continue to help power space dreams in south Mississippi. Moving forward, join NASA Stennis in our digital playground for even more of that extra-something special.
    This playground is not limited to only fun, or making new friends, or learning new stuff.
    Whether you are on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or X, there is a place, and space, for all of that and more. 
    As we close out the website edition of NASA Stennis Lagniappe, we turn the page and look forward to new possibilities ahead.
    Let’s keep building one connection at a time because here at America’s largest rocket propulsion test site, it is more than just content.
    It is where the NASA Stennis team will continue building on its proven expertise in all areas of work, and where you will have a front row seat to experience it unfold.
    So, click the links below to become a NASA Stennis follower today. Then, invite your friends to become followers as well.

    > Back to Top

    NASA-Sponsored FIRST Robotics Welcomes Teams to Magnolia Regional

    > Back to Top

    NASA Leaders Visit Representatives

    NASA Space Flight Awareness Program Recognizes Stennis Employees
    NASA’s Stennis Space Center employees were recognized with Honoree Awards from NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program during a March 10 ceremony in Orlando, Florida, for outstanding support of human spaceflight.

    Blood Moon in South Mississippi

    U.S. Senator’s Staff Visit NASA Stennis

    NASA Stennis Hosts Leadership Class

    NASA Stennis Interns Tour Site

    Rocket Test Group Visits NASA Stennis
    NASA Stennis partnered with Mississippi Enterprise for Technology to host more than 100 members of the 57th Rocket Test Group on March 18-19.
    The group toured the south Mississippi NASA center on March 19, learning how NASA Stennis operates as NASA’s primary, and America’s largest, rocket propulsion test site to serve the nation and commercial sector with its unique capabilities and expertise.

    > Back to Top

    NASA’s Artemis II Orion Service Module Buttoned Up for Launch – NASA
    Welcome Home! NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Back on Earth After Science Mission – NASA
    NASA Science Continues After Firefly’s First Moon Mission Concludes – NASA
    NASA Artemis II Core Stage Goes Horizontal Ahead of Final Integration – NASA

    > Back to Top

    A career path can unfold in unexpected ways. Ask NASA’s Rebecca Mataya. The journey to NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, was not planned but “meant to be,” she said.

    > Back to Top

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Space Flight Awareness Program Recognizes Stennis Employees

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s Stennis Space Center employees were recognized with Honoree Awards from NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program during a March 10 ceremony in Orlando, Florida, for outstanding support of human spaceflight.

    Melissa Wagner of Pass Christian, Mississippi, is a NASA contract specialist in the Office of Procurement at NASA Stennis. She received the honor for contributions to NASA’s Artemis campaign by identifying potential risks related to propulsion test efforts in support of the initiative, resulting in successful mitigation actions.

    Samone Wilson of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a NASA public affairs specialist in the Office of Communications at NASA Stennis. She received the honor for her work in telling others about NASA and NASA Stennis activities and missions.
    Timothy Miller of Pearl River, Louisiana, is a senior drafter for Syncom Space Services at NASA Stennis. Although unable to attend the ceremony, he received the honor for contributions supporting flight systems integration, facility readiness, and cost reduction with his use of Creo Parametric modeling, a powerful 3D software.
    Madison Monti of Kiln, Mississippi, is a security support specialist for Chenega Global Protection at NASA Stennis. Although unable to attend the ceremony, she received the honor for contributions supporting the badging office at NASA Stennis to ensure a consistent, efficient, and secure process.
    NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik, Space Operations Mission Directorate Associate Administrator Kenneth Bowersox, and Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate Acting Associate Administrator Dr. Lori Glaze presented the awards.
    Bresnik, assistant-to-the-chief of the Astronaut Office for Exploration, was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2004. He manages the development and testing of everything that will operate beyond low-Earth orbit on Artemis missions. Bresnik previously served as commander of the International Space Station for Expedition 53 and flight engineer for Expedition 52.
    In recognition of flight program contributions, honorees toured NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida and viewed the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Endurance in conjunction with the launch of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10.
    The spacecraft carried NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscomos cosmonaut Kirill Pesko to the International Space Station on March 14 as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. NASA’s Space Flight Awareness Program recognizes outstanding job performances and contributions by civil service and contract employees throughout the year and focuses on excellence in quality and safety in support of human spaceflight. The Honoree Award is one of the highest honors presented to employees for their dedication to quality work and flight safety. Recipients must have contributed beyond their normal work requirements toward achieving a particular human spaceflight program goal; contributed to a major cost savings; been instrumental in developing material that increases reliability, efficiency or performance; assisted in operational improvements; or been a key player in developing a beneficial process improvement.
    For information about Silver Snoopy and other Space Flight Awareness awards, visit:
    SFA Honoree Award – NASA
    For information about NASA’s Stennis Space Center, visit:
    Stennis Space Center – NASA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Assistance Now Available to More West Virginians

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Assistance Now Available to More West Virginians

    FEMA Assistance Now Available to More West Virginians

     FEMA Assistance Now Available to More West VirginiansCHARLESTON, W

    Va

    — West Virginians in Raleigh County can now apply for FEMA assistance to help with costs from the Feb

    15, 2025, winter flooding

     FEMA assistance may be able to help you pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster

    It is available to residents of Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne and Wyoming counties, and includes: Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportationRental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster including financial assistance for the following: hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unitRepair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computerBooks, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employmentMoving and storage fees and medical, childcare and funeral expenses There are multiple ways to apply: Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages

    If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service

    Visit a Disaster Recovery Center for face-to-face assistance

    At a recovery center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application and learn about other resources available

    FEMA’s locator for DRCs in West Virginia  can help you find your nearest center, or you can check the FEMA app

    Visit DisasterAssistance

    gov

    Download the FEMA AppDisaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will soon be on the ground in Raleigh County, walking door to door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance

    If you have insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible

    FEMA can’t pay for losses your insurance will cover

     In addition, communities in Raleigh and Boone counties are now eligible for FEMA’s Public Assistance

    This program reimburses governments and certain nonprofits for expenses incurred from life-saving measures taken during the emergency, along with infrastructure repairs and other expenses

     For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

    wv

    gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4861, and www

    facebook

    com/FEMA

    ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished impartially, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status

    If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, ask for assistance on the FEMA Helpline 1-800-621-3362 (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages)

    In addition, FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema

    dhs

    gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448

     
    kimberly

    fuller
    Wed, 04/02/2025 – 14:04

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kentuckians: Prepare for Severe Weather Now

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Kentuckians: Prepare for Severe Weather Now

    Kentuckians: Prepare for Severe Weather Now

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – With another round of severe weather on the way here in Kentucky, you need to stay prepared

    It’s critical to have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts—whether you’re at home, school, work, or out in the community

    Stay alert, follow guidance from your local officials, and keep up with the latest forecasts by following your local National Weather Service office

    Read more about emergency alerts here

    Before a TornadoHave a pre-determined place to meet after a disaster

    Increase your situational awareness by monitoring the weather on weather

    gov, watching local TV, or listening to NOAA Weather Radio

    Know the signs of a tornado: dark, greenish sky; large hail; dark, low clouds; and loud roaring sounds

    When a tornado watch is issued, practice your drill and check your safety supplies

    Flying debris is the greatest danger in tornadoes, so store protective coverings (e

    g

    , mattress, sleeping bags, thick blankets, etc

    ) in or next to your shelter space, ready to use on a few seconds’ notice

    Tornado rule of thumb: Put as many walls and floors between you and the tornado as possible

    In a mobile home: Get out! Go to a neighbors, underground shelter, or a nearby permanent structure

    Most tornadoes can destroy even tied-down mobile homes

    Read the Commonwealth of Kentucky Division of Emergency Management’s Tornado Safety List herePrepare for FloodingIf you are under a flood warning, find safe shelter right away

    Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away

    Follow instructions from local officials

    If told, evacuate immediately

    Never drive around barricades

    Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas

    Stay off bridges over fast-moving water

    Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning

    Avoid driving except in emergencies

    Read the Commonwealth of Kentucky Division of Emergency Management’s Flood Safety List here

    pdfBe Ready for a Power OutageLocate flashlights, radio and extra batteries now

    Charge electronic devices now

    Generators are helpful during power outages but can present serious health and safety risks

    Only use a generator outdoors and far from open doors and windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

    Read the Commonwealth of Kentucky Division of Emergency Management’s Preparedness Checklist here

    martyce

    allenjr
    Wed, 04/02/2025 – 12:39

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Notice for L-85 Boilermakers: Cigna contract negotiation resolved

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    Bon Secours Mercy Health has resolved an issue impacting Local 85 Boilermakers’ health care providers participating in the Cigna network. As of April 1, 2025, Bon Secours Mercy Health providers will remain in network with Cigna as part of a multi-year agreement.

    “We are grateful to the Boilermakers National Funds for their work monitoring the situation and addressing the issue,” said L-85 BM-ST Tim Timmons. “We’re glad this is resolved and that members can continue using their health care providers in network.”
     
    Read Bon Secours’ full statement.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Thoreau Man Sentenced to Probation for Accidental Shooting During Drunken Altercation

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Thoreau man was sentenced to five years of supervised probation for the accidental shooting of his friend during a drunken altercation in 2022.

    According to court documents, on August 20, 2022, Gerrick Mariano, 27, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and John Doe were drinking and shooting Mariano’s recently purchased AR-15 at Doe’s home, located on the Navajo Nation. Mariano pointed his new rifle at one of Doe’s pets, which upset Doe, who demanded Mariano leave his home. This angered Mariano, who then pointed his rifle at Doe’s chest, intending to frighten Doe. Doe quickly pushed the barrel away, which resulted in Mariano inadvertently pulling the trigger once. The bullet struck John Doe in his upper-right shoulder.

    Post-crime photo of the weapon on Doe’s bed.

    Doe required an airlift to a hospital. Mariano initially said the shooting was accidental and alleged Doe had been attempting suicide. Interviewed later, Mariano admitted responsibility and apologized to Doe. Doe continues to experience pain and restricted movement because of the gunshot injury.

    Mariano will be subject to five years of supervised probation. During this period, he cannot consume alcohol or drugs, he must maintain gainful employment or enroll in school, and he must not break any additional laws—federal, state, or tribal. Should he do so, Mariano will face the revocation of probation, which could result in a prison sentence. As a convicted felon, Mariano cannot possess any sort of gun.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation, New Mexico State Police, and New Mexico Park Rangers. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Jones is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chester County Man Indicted on Multiple Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Allegedly Engaged in Disturbing, Violent Online Conversations With Victim He Knew Was a Minor

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Aniruth Kuppusamy, 25, of Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania, was charged by indictment with one count each of manufacturing child pornography, receiving child pornography, possessing child pornography, and the use of an interstate commerce facility to entice a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct.

    As detailed in court filings, the defendant, who has been in custody since his arrest last month pursuant to a federal complaint and warrant, allegedly engaged in disturbing and violent conversations with Minor #1, who he knew was under the age of 18, and elicited sexually explicit videos of her.

    In addition, the indictment alleges that the defendant knowingly received those visual depictions of Minor #1 engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and that he possessed images constituting child pornography on an iPhone 15 that had been shipped and transported using any means and facility of interstate and foreign commerce.

    The indictment further alleges that Kuppusamy used a facility and means of interstate and foreign commerce, namely the internet and cellular telephone service, to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce Minor #1 to engage in sexual activity for which any person could be charged with a criminal offense, that is, the manufacture and receipt of child pornography.

    If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Danielle Bateman.

    An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Beckley Medical Clinic and Physician Agree to Pay $152,382.70 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston announced today that Med-Surg Physician Group Inc. and its owner Oluyemisi Sangodeyi, M.D., have agreed to pay the United States $152,382.70 to resolve civil allegations that they violated the federal False Claims Act by submitting false claims for payment to Medicare and Medicaid and falsely certifying compliance with program requirements.

    Med-Surg Physician Group, Inc. (Med-Surg) is a medical practice based in Beckley, West Virginia, providing both general internal medicine services as well as medication assisted treatment (MAT) for substance use disorder. Analysis of Med-Surg’s Medicare and Medicaid claims revealed an unusual billing pattern for Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) procedure code Q3014 (telehealth originating site facility fee). This billing code is intended to allow an enrolled facility where a patient is physically located to recoup costs associated with connecting the patient in the facility with an outside provider such as a specialist for telehealth services. Federal regulations specify that “only the originating site may bill for the originating site facility fee.” 

    After conducting patient interviews, investigators determined that Med-Surg was regularly billing procedure code Q3014 for telehealth visits where the patient was at home, in violation of federal law and regulations that specify that the facility fee is not payable where the patient’s originating site is their home. The policy manual for the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services (BMS), the designated single state agency responsible for the administration of West Virginia’s Medicaid program, states plainly “the provider may not bill originating site code when the originating site is the home of the member.” In addition, a clarifying letter was issued by BMS Commissioner Cynthia Beane on March 16, 2020, specifying “there will be no reimbursement for the originating site of the members home (Q3014).” 

    Despite the clear requirements of the statutes, regulations, and policy guidance, between March 25, 2020, and January 27, 2021, Med-Surg routinely added the Q3014 billing code when submitting claims to Medicare and Medicaid for telehealth visits. During the relevant time period, Med-Surg received a total of $76,191.35 from Medicare and Medicaid as a result of this inappropriate billing.

    “Dr. Sangodeyi and Med-Surg repeatedly billed for fees they knew they were not entitled to, at the expense of the American taxpayer,” said Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston. “The resolution of this matter is the result of the outstanding investigative work of the U.S.  Department of Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the West Virginia Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), in collaboration with the United States Attorney’s Health Care Fraud Task Force. I also commend our office’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement and Health Care Fraud Investigative Specialist, Tyler E. Japhet, for assisting the investigation and Assistant United States Attorney Gregory P. Neil for securing the settlement announced today.”

    “Accurately submitting claims for reimbursement from the Medicare and Medicaid Program is required of all health care providers,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. “HHS-OIG and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to evaluate and pursue allegations of fraud in federal health care programs.”

    “We are committed to ensuring money for Medicare and Medicaid is used for its intended purpose,” said West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey. “Many people rely on these programs and we, with our partners, will continue to work to protect taxpayer dollars.”

    The United States Attorney’s Health Care Fraud Task Force brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement partners from numerous agencies to coordinate intelligence sharing and prosecution of health care fraud impacting Medicare, Medicaid, and other public health care programs.     

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Railways Implements Digital Solutions for Transparent Revenue Monitoring

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Railways Implements Digital Solutions for Transparent Revenue Monitoring

    Regular Workforce Assessment Ensures Efficient Manpower Utilization in Indian Railways

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 7:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Railways has a detailed mechanism in place for continuous monitoring of revenue generated at each Railway Station. Based on passenger earnings and footfalls, Railway stations are categorized into Non-suburban Grade (NSG1-6), Suburban Grade (SG1-3) and Halt Grade (HG1-3) Stations.

    The sources of revenue at the station include:

    1. Passenger earnings: Reserved passenger earnings (through the Passenger Reservation System) and unreserved passenger earnings (through Unreserved Ticketing System).
    2. Freight earnings: transportation of Goods, demurrage, wharfage, etc.
    3. Other Coaching earnings: Parcel, Luggage, platform tickets, postal haulage charges, cloak room charges, demurrage / wharfage of Parcels, etc. and
    4. Sundry earnings: revenue from rent, leased parking lots, catering receipts, revenue from commercial utilization of land, advertisements on coaches and stations, etc.

    Designated officials such as Commercial Inspectors, Travelling Inspectors of Accounts, etc. of the concerned Division supervise the revenues. The monitoring of revenue generated at each Railway station is done by concerned officials at all levels i.e. Station, Division and the Zonal Head Quarters.

    With a view to ensure transparency, accuracy and efficiency in the present revenue management system, following digital applications are in use which are developed by domain experts of CRIS (Centre for Railway Information Systems):

    • Passenger Reservation System (PRS)
    • Terminal Management System (TMS)
    • Parcel Management System (PMS)
    • Freight Operations Information System (FOIS)
    • Traffic Accounts Management System (TAMS)
    • Online payment system
    • e-payment system
    • e-Balance sheet
    • Indian Railways E-Procurement System (IREPS) etc.

    Human resources are very vital asset of Indian Railways and it is imperative that it is utilized effectively, efficiently and rationally. In order to optimally utilize the manpower continuous review of manpower is crucial, in view of changing workload condition, introduction of new technologies, working systems and creation of new assets.

    Indian Railways assessing the workload of each employee regularly by reviewing the yardsticks from time to time for achieving the same. Besides this, work studies and benchmarking are regularly conducted for rationalization of manpower for various activities of different departments to review the provision of staff.

    The workload of each employee is also guided by provisions of Hours of Employment Regulations (HOER), which is statutory in nature. Classification of staff as per HOER is also periodically revised based upon job analysis. This exercise enables Indian Railways to deploy manpower for new organizations & assets and also to utilize its existing human resources in most efficient and productive manner.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2118008) Visitor Counter : 32

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Railways Advancing Speed and Capacity Upgrades on Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah Corridors with Multi-Tracking, DFC Expansion, and High-Speed Enhancements

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 7:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Presently, Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project (508 Kms) is the only sanctioned project of High-Speed Rail in India under execution with technical and financial assistance from Government of Japan.

    Being highly capital intensive, the decision to sanction any HSR Corridor/Project depends on many factors such as outcome of DPR, techno-economic feasibility, availability of resources such as financing options.

    In order to increase the speed and capacity of Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah routes, following works/surveys have been taken up:

    Delhi-Mumbai section (1386 Km):

    1. The work for raising sectional speed to 160 kmph has been sanctioned and is in advance stage.
    2. Out of 1386 Km route length, 196 Km has 4 rail lines and construction of 3rd & 4th line between Dahanu Road-Virar (64 Km) has been taken up.
    3. Survey for 3rd and 4th line in the balance section for 1126 KM has-been sanctioned.
    4. 1404 Km of Western DFC (double line) has been commissioned and the work in the balance section for 102 Km has been taken up.
    5. Construction of Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Corridor (double line) covering length of 508 Km has been taken up.

    Delhi-Howrah section (1450 Km):

    1. The work for raising sectional speed to 160 kmph has been sanctioned and is in advance stage.
    2. Presently, out of 1450 Km route length, 194 Km is 4-line section, 312 Km is 3-line section and balance 944 Km is double line rail section.
    3. Following projects have been sanctioned and work taken up:
    • Multi tracking of Son Nagar – Andal (375 Km)
    • Aligarh  – Daud Khan 3rd line (18 Km)
    • Mughalsarai – Allahabad  3rd line (150 Km)
    • Kalipahari-Bakhtarnagar 5th Line (18 Km)
    • Saktigarh-Chandanpur 4th line (43 Km)
    • Extension of Nimcha up avoiding line (9.42 Km)
    1. Surveys for construction of 3rd line of 480 km, 4th line of 96 Km and 5th line of 151 Km have been sanctioned.
    2. Eastern DFC (1337 Km) has been commissioned.

    Augmentation/Improvement of passenger amenities on Indian Railways is a continuous and on-going process. Accordingly, Ministry of Railways has launched Amrit Bharat Station Scheme for redevelopment of stations which envisages development of stations with a long-term approach. It involves preparation of master plans and their implementation in phases to improve the amenities at the stations like improvement of station access, circulating areas, waiting halls, toilets, lift/escalators as necessary, platform surfacing and cover over platform, cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, kiosks for local products through schemes like ‘One Station One Product’, better passenger information systems, executive lounges, nominated spaces for business meetings, landscaping, etc. keeping in view the necessity at each station.

    The scheme also envisages improvement of building, integrating the station with both sides of the city, multimodal integration, amenities for Divyangjans, sustainable and environment friendly solutions, provision of ballastless tracks, etc. as per necessity, phasing and feasibility and creation of city centre at the station in the long term. So far, 1337 stations have been identified for development under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

    In order to ensure safety, Indian Railways continuously upgrades and modernises its signaling system like Electrical/Electronic Interlocking Systems with centralized operation of points and signals, Complete Track Circuiting of stations, Interlocking of Level Crossing Gates (LC) etc. Indian Railways has also gone for implementation of advance technology system “Kavach” as an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system which required safety certification of highest order.

    This information was given by the Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

     

    (Release ID: 2118006) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Government released Rs 4,906.32, 666.33 crore and 1,238.48 crore under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Jan Shikshan Sansthan scheme and National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme respectively in the last five years (upto 2023-24)

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

    Union Government released Rs 4,906.32, 666.33 crore and 1,238.48 crore under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Jan Shikshan Sansthan scheme and National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme respectively in the last five years (upto 2023-24)

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 6:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Under the Government of India’s Skill India Mission (SIM), the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) delivers skill, re-skill and up-skill training through an extensive network of skill development centers under various schemes, viz. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme, National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS) through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), to all the sections of the society across the country. The SIM aims at enabling youth of India to get future ready, equipped with industry relevant skills. The Schemes of MSDE are demand driven and the Training Centers are set up or engaged on need basis. Details of the State-wise Training Centers set up or engaged under the schemes of MSDE are at Annexure.

    Funds under PMKVY and JSS scheme are released to implementing agencies for meeting the training cost as per prescribed norms. Funds are released under JSS scheme to Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) directly. Under NAPS, stipend support up to Rs 1500/- per month is released to apprentices through DBT. Day to day administration as well as financial control in respect of ITIs lies with the respective State government/UT Administration. Details of funds released for implementation of skill development schemes of MSDE during last five years up to 2023-24 are as under:

    Scheme

    Funds Released (Rs in Cr)

    PMKVY

    4906.32

    JSS

    666.33

    NAPS

    1238.48

     

    To promote the digital skills, including advanced digital skills and artificial intelligence, MSDE has undertaken the following initiatives:

    • New training programs have been introduced under PMKVY 4.0 to enhance digital and technical skills among youth. PMKVY 4.0 has focus on new age skills like AI/ML, Web 3.0, etc. which are specially designed for upcoming market demand and industry requirements.
    • Under NAPS, there are approx 60 private establishments which are currently providing apprenticeship in seven (07) AI-related courses.
    • Directorate General of Training (DGT) under the aegis of MSDE has introduced 31 new age /future skills courses under Craftsmen Training Scheme in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) to provide digital training in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Mechatronics, Internet of Things, Cybersecurity, Semiconductor, etc.
    •  With a view to adopt the best practices in the digital skill training, DGT has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with leading IT tech companies like IBM, CISCO, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft. These partnerships facilitate the provision of technical and professional skills training in modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data Analytics (BDA), Blockchain, Cloud Computing, etc.
    • Directorate General of Training (DGT) under MSDE has introduced one course ‘Artificial Intelligence Programming Assistant (AIPA)’ to impart AI-based skill training through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs). Also, a micro-credential course “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)” of 7.5-hour has been developed for all CTS trainees in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), in collaboration with industry and academic experts.
    • MSDE has launched ‘Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH)’ platform, a comprehensive and accessible platform for skill enhancement, offering industry-relevant skill courses, job opportunities, and entrepreneurship support to youth of the country. SIDH offers an extensive array of AI and ML courses, ranging from foundational programs like ‘Fundamentals of Azure AI Speech’ and ‘Machine Learning’, to specialized offerings such as ‘Google Cloud Generative AI’ and ‘AI Strategy to Create Business Value in Healthcare’, to cater to varying levels of expertise and application, enabling participants to stay at the forefront of AI and ML technology.
    • National Skill Development Corporation under the aegis of MSDE has partnered with a number of international organizations such as AWS, Microsoft, Intel, Redhat, Pearson VUE, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Cisco Networking Academy for providing digital courses.

    ANNEXURE

    State-wise details of the Training Centres set up or engaged under schemes of MSDE

     

    State/UT

    PMKVY 4.0

    Centres

    JSS

    Centers

    NAPS

    Establishments

    CTS ( ITIs)

    Govt. ITIs

    Pvt. ITIs

    Andaman and

    Nicobar Islands

    7

    1

    20

    3

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    408

    6

    1,147

    85

    434

    Arunachal Pradesh

    86

    0

    25

    7

    0

    Assam

    833

    6

    941

    31

    16

    Bihar

    596

    21

    548

    150

    1,219

    Chandigarh

    9

    1

    166

    2

    0

    Chhattisgarh

    202

    14

    324

    120

    106

    Delhi

    222

    3

    3,013

    18

    28

    DNH & DD

    9

    2

    130

    4

    0

    Goa

    8

    1

    495

    11

    2

    Gujarat

    377

    8

    12,458

    273

    215

    Haryana

    629

    2

    5,872

    159

    222

    Himachal Pradesh

    210

    11

    740

    128

    139

    Jammu And Kashmir

    694

    1

    554

    49

    0

    Jharkhand

    246

    13

    442

    77

    269

    Karnataka

    457

    12

    2,452

    274

    1,192

    Kerala

    145

    9

    1,904

    149

    297

    Ladakh

    12

    0

    16

    3

    0

    Lakshadweep

    1

    1

    1

    1

    0

    Madhya Pradesh

    1,527

    29

    1,126

    195

    767

    Maharashtra

    684

    21

    9,086

    422

    615

    Manipur

    164

    4

    23

    10

    0

    Meghalaya

    99

    1

    41

    7

    1

    Mizoram

    102

    1

    20

    3

    0

    Nagaland

    91

    1

    22

    9

    0

    Odisha

    307

    29

    738

    73

    427

     

    Puducherry

    23

    0

    245

    8

    7

    Punjab

    617

    2

    933

    115

    205

    Rajasthan

    1,613

    9

    984

    182

    1,363

    Sikkim

    37

    0

    69

    4

    0

    Tamil Nadu

    581

    9

    2,892

    93

    363

    Telangana

    157

    6

    1,314

    66

    232

    Tripura

    151

    2

    98

    20

    2

    Uttar Pradesh

    2,965

    47

    6,395

    294

    2,964

    Uttarakhand

    231

    8

    738

    103

    71

    West Bengal

    344

    8

    1,352

    168

    139

    Overall

    14,844

    289

    49,788

    3,316

    11,296

     

    This information was given by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhry, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on April 02, 2025.

    ****

    Manish Gautam/Divyanshu Kumar

    (Release ID: 2117941)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: INNOVATION IN SCIENCE PURSUIT FOR INSPIRED RESEARCH SCHEME

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 5:40PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is implementing Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) scheme to attract, nurture and retain meritorious youth to study natural sciences areas at the college and university level and to pursue research careers in both basic and applied science areas including engineering, medicine, agriculture and veterinary sciences. The ultimate objective is to expand the R&D base of the country. It is implemented on pan India scale through four components. INSPIRE scheme’s component-wise salient features are given below:

    INSPIRE Internship component of INSPIRE aims at providing exposure to the top 1% students at Class X Board level by organizing Science Camps either during summer or winter and provide opportunity to them to interact with science icons from India and abroad, including Nobel Laureates, to experience the joys of scientific pursuit. These science camps nourish the curiosity of students in science, help them to think out-of-the box and attract students at an early age of 16-17 years to choose science subjects for further studies.

    Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)component of INSPIREaims to enhance the rate of attachment of talented youth to undertake higher education in science intensive programs by providing scholarships and mentorship support. The scheme offers 12,000 scholarships of 5-year duration @ Rs 0.80 lakh per year to undertake Bachelor and master’s level education in basic and natural Sciences area for the top 1% talented youth as per central and state education board data in the age group 17-22 years.

    INSPIRE Fellowshipcomponent of INSPIREaims to provide fellowship to M.Sc. 1st Rank holders in Basic & Applied Sciences including engineering, medicine, agriculture, veterinary at the University/academic institute of national importance i.e. IITs, NITs, IISERs level examination as well as Inspire Scholars having secure 70% marks in aggregate at the MSc level who are eligible for admission to the Ph.D. program in any recognized university/ academic institutions in the country every year. The Fellowships are tenable for maximum 5 years (2 years as JRF @ Rs.37000/pm + HRA + Contingency grant of Rs.20000/annum and 3 years as SRF @ Rs.42000/pm + HRA + Contingency grant of Rs.20000/annum) or completion of PhD, whichever is earlier to pursue full-time Ph.D. program. Maximum 1000 INSPIRE Fellowships per year are tenable.

    INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship component of INSPIRE aims to provide opportunities to post- doctoral researchers in the age group of 27-32 year (the upper age limit for SC/ST/Women candidates and persons with benchmark disabilities is 37 and 42 years respectively) for 5 years in both basic and applied sciences area including engineering, agriculture, veterinary and medicine every year. Aspirants having Ph.D. degree with strong academic and research track record are considered on competitive basis. It grants an attractive fellowship for a duration of 5 years with a consolidated emolument of Rs. 1,25,000/- p.m. with annual increment of Rs.200 per annum and a research grant of Rs.7 lakh per annum. This scheme has motivated young researchers to pursue high-quality post-Ph.D. research within the country. Maximum 150 INSPIRE Faculty Fellowships per year are tenable.

    The details of the number of students selected from the States/Union Territories during 2024-2025 till 27.03.2025 under the said scheme are given below:

    S. No.

    State/UT

    INSPIRE-Internship

    INSPIRE-SHE

    INSPIRE-Fellowship

    INSPIRE-Faculty Fellowship

     

     

     

     

    1

    Andhra Pradesh

    530

    5

    11

    0

     

     

    2

    Arunachal Pradesh

    0

    0

    2

    0

     

     

    3

    Assam

    0

    84

    24

    4

     

     

    4

    Bihar

    0

    172

    6

    1

     

     

    5

    Chandigarh

    0

    3

    10

    0

     

     

    6

    Chhattisgarh

    150

    421

    13

    0

     

     

    7

    Delhi

    200

    61

    53

    8

     

     

    8

    Goa

    0

    6

    10

    0

     

     

    9

    Gujarat

    350

    93

    21

    0

     

     

    10

    Haryana

    0

    66

    7

    1

     

     

    11

    Himachal Pradesh

    450

    138

    7

    1

     

     

    12

    Jammu and Kashmir

    150

    2

    21

    3

     

     

    13

    Jharkhand

    0

    23

    5

    3

     

     

    14

    Karnataka

    150

    60

    46

    16

     

     

    15

    Kerala

    150

    376

    31

    3

     

     

    16

    Madhya Pradesh

    0

    573

    28

    2

     

     

    17

    Maharashtra

    200

    198

    34

    8

     

     

    18

    Manipur

    0

    138

    2

    1

     

     

    19

    Meghalaya

    0

    49

    1

    0

     

     

    20

    Mizoram

    0

    13

    4

    0

     

     

    21

    Nagaland

    0

    9

    1

    0

     

     

    22

    Odisha

    0

    108

    23

    2

     

     

    23

    Puducherry

    0

    2

    3

    0

     

     

    24

    Punjab

    550

    61

    30

    2

     

     

    25

    Rajasthan

    0

    2879

    9

    0

     

     

    26

    Sikkim

    0

    0

    2

    0

     

     

    27

    Tamil Nadu

    975

    44

    59

    6

     

     

    28

    Telangana

    450

    31

    36

    4

     

     

    29

    Tripura

    0

    3

    1

    0

     

     

    30

    Uttar Pradesh

    1200

    5374

    40

    4

     

     

    31

    Uttarakhand

    400

    387

    22

    0

     

     

    32

    West Bengal

    350

    362

    52

    9

     

     

     

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2117886) Visitor Counter : 72

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Scientists have developed advanced technologies for solid waste management, including plastic waste. Significant progress has been made by Indian researchers, institutions, and innovators in devising technologies and strategies to manage solid waste.

    1. Various technologies have been developed for effective management of the solid waste. Some of these technologies are given below: –
    • CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) has developed a novel high-rate bio methanation technology for decentralized applications of sewage and organic solid waste. This technology is superior in terms of biogas and bio-manure production as it incorporates novel pre and post processing technologies required for the bio methanation of organic solid waste. This technology has been commercialized and is in operation.
    • CSIR- Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has developed a decentralised solid waste management technology. The significant features of the technology include mechanized segregation system for biodegradable & non-biodegradable waste; Eco-friendly disposal of plastic waste through agglomeration process; Generation of bio-gas from organic waste and conversion of agro-waste into briquette. The technology has been transferred to industries for commercialization.
    • Indian scientists have developed a technology to recycle the Construction & Demolition (C&D) waste to produce a high compressive strength Glass Foam Bricks, which are offering a sustainable alternative to conventional building materials.
    • A robust mechanical separator has been developed to facilitate the efficient disassembly of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, supporting enhanced recycling and sustainability in the solar energy sector.
    • CSIR- Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute (AMPRI) has developed a technology for the bulk utilization of fly ash in the production of synthetic fine and coarse aggregates, which can replace conventional natural aggregates in construction, promoting sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of traditional aggregate production.
    • Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupathi and CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML) has developed a technology for recycling of graphite from spent Lithium-ion batteries for high energy Li-ion capacitors.
    • With the support of DST, CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) has developed an indigenous non-pathogenic psychrophilic bacterial formulations and composting methods for accelerated composting of municipal solid waste and agricultural waste in cold regions.
    • Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has setup Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) nationwide, for sorting, processing and recycling of segregated dry waste .
    1. Technologies developed for management of plastic waste:
    • Department of Science and Technology (DST) through Waste Management Technologies (WMT) program, has developed and demonstrated a technology for conversion of municipal mixed plastic waste to high quality plasto-fuels for transportation and industrial heating applications. A 2-TPD (Tonnes Per Day) demo plant was setup at Vadodara. The plant is flexible enough to convert all kinds of mixed plastic waste collected from residential communities, railway establishments and industries.
    • Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET)-Bhubaneswar has developed an eco-friendly technology for upcycling of different grades of plastics from waste electrical and electronic equipment to high impact grade plastics.
    • Recycling of plastic waste into tiles: CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) has developed a novel technology to convert waste plastic scrap to floor tiles, interlock tiles, paver tiles, and roof tiles. The technology has been transferred to industry for commercialization.
    • Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals (DCPC) has established three Plastic Waste Management Centres (PWMCs) for effective plastics waste management solutions, to develop eco-friendly cost-effective value added recyclates and to establish digital demonstration facilities on plastic recycling and waste management.
    • Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): Government’s initiative like Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has played a key role in improving solid waste and plastic-waste management, in both urban and rural areas. In October 2021, government launched the Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0 (SBM-U 2.0), with the overall vision of creating “Garbage Free Cities.” Under this mission, material recovery facilities (MRFs), waste-to-energy plants, and recycling units have been created which have led to an increase in the solid waste processing capacity by 1,05,876 TPD in the urban areas under SwachhBharat Mission Urban.

    These steps reflect Government’s commitment to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and practical implementation, ensuring sustainable solid waste management and a reduction in plastic pollution.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: WESTERN GHATS PROJECT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 5:38PM by PIB Delhi

    A call for proposals (CFP) on “Geospatial Technology and Solutions” was issued on 13th June 2024 through the Electronic Project Management System Portal (e-PMS portal), in which Proposals were invited only in consortium mode, comprising academia, startups/MSMEs/industry, and user-agencies/practitioners.

    A total of 280 proposals were received under this CFP. The proposal titled “Spring Shed Management and linking of Ecohydrological processes to Human well-being in water-scarce regions of the Western Ghats using Geospatial Technology” was also received online under the above said CFP.  The proposal aimed to develop a Geographical Information System (GIS)-based Spring Information System for selected districts of Western Ghats for assessing climate and land use impacts on watershed hydrology.

    A Project Screening Committee was constituted under the Chairmanship of an eminent professor and other Expert members representing, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Survey of India (SoI), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Central Universities, Other IITs, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), as well as from private sector etc. The total 280 proposals received online through e-PMS portal, were presented before the Project Screening Committee during its meeting held on 26th–27th September 2024 at IIT Delhi. The said proposal was not recommended by the Project Screening Committee for the next level as the committee opined that “The proposal seems to be more research focused lacking scalability and commercialization potential; the consortium partner appears to lack experience and/or expertise”. Out of the 280 proposals, committee finally recommended 11proposals for financial support.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Strengthening of Coal Supply Chain

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 6:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Following measures have been adopted to establish a resilient and cost-effective coal evacuation logistics system:

    1. Coal Logistic Plan and Policy was launched by Ministry of Coal in February, 2024 to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce costs & promote sustainability.
    2. Development of First Mile Connectivity (FMC) Projects to enhance the efficiency of coal evacuation from mines to dispatch points. These projects focus on developing mechanized coal loading infrastructure, such as conveyor belts, and crushers with minimal manual intervention to make the system more cost-effective.
    • iii. Improvement in Rail Infrastructure to expand rail network to ensure smoother and faster evacuation of coal.
      • iv. Use of Rail Sea Rail Mode as an alternate route to rail or road for coal evacuation especially for power plants and industries located near coastal regions to ease the coal transportation movement in the country.

    39 First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects with a total capacity of 386 million tons have been completed by coal companies.

    During last two years, coal movement via Rail-sea-Rail route has increased from about  28 million tons in financial year 2021-22 to about 54 million tons in financial year 2023-24.

    This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government of India Takes Measures for Digital Infrastructure Upgradation in Villages

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Electronics & IT

    Government of India Takes Measures for Digital Infrastructure Upgradation in Villages

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The BharatNet project is being implemented in a phased manner to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats (GPs) and villages beyond GPs on demand basis across the country.

    For providing a reliable network to ensure quality internet for the users, amended BharatNet program approved by the Union Cabinet on 04.08.2023 has inter-alia provisions to upgrade existing BharatNet network in ring architecture, focus on utilization of the network through BharatNet Udyamis, BSNL is appointed as the single Project Management Agency (PMA) under Amended BharatNet program for Operation & Maintenance of the entire network based on Service Level Agreement (SLA), Dedicated Network Operation Centre, etc.

    State-UT/wise details of FTTH connections provided under BharatNet is attached as Annexure-I.

    Government of India launched National Broadband Mission 2.0 on January 17, 2025, with the vision of fast-tracking the rapid expansion of digital communications infrastructure, bridging the digital divide and fostering digital empowerment and inclusion, ensuring High-Speed Broadband and Meaningful Connectivity for all.

    MeitY initiated Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) to ensure/provide digital literacy in 6 crore rural households (one person per household) nationwide. The Scheme was implemented by CSC e-Governance Services India Limited through Common Service Centres (CSCs) present at Gram Panchayats level across the country. As against 6 crore, 6.39 crore individuals were trained. The training & certification under the scheme was officially concluded on March 31 , 2024. The States/UTs wise achievement is given as Annexure-II.

    The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) conducted the ‘Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey’ (CAMS) in its 79th round (July, 2022 to June, 2023). As per the survey, among the persons aged 15-24 years, around 78.4 percent reported execution of skill of ‘sending messages (e.g., e-mail, messaging service, SMS) with attached files (e.g., documents, pictures, video)’. Further, about 94.2 percent of rural households and about 97.1 percent of urban households possess telephone and/or mobile phone. From the said report, given the significant rise in smart-phone usage, internet penetration, and digital engagement in rural areas, the objectives of the scheme were successfully achieved.

    Impact analysis of the PMGDISHA scheme was carried out by three agencies namely IIT Delhi, Council for Social Development (CSD) and Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). The gist of the evaluation report is that the PMGDISHA is a unique scheme due to its large scale and the use of remotely proctored examinations. The training provided under PMGDISHA has had a significant impact on the adoption of Information & Communication Technology (ICT) and other forms of digital media. It has benefited its participants by enabling their access to a wide range of information and services for various purposes, helping to reduce the overall digital divide in the country.

    The National Broadband Mission (NBM) was launched by the government on 17th December 2019 with a vision to enable fast-track growth of digital communications infrastructure, bridge the digital divide for digital empowerment and inclusion; and provide affordable and universal access to broadband for all. The NBM addresses the major bottleneck of Right of Way (RoW) issues, enabling faster telecom infrastructure deployment across the country. Key initiative under NBM are:

    (i) Centralized Right of Way (RoW) Portal GatiShakti Sanchar.

    (ii) Telecommunication Right of Way Rules, 2024

    (iii) ‘Call Before u Dig’ (CBuD) mobile app

    (iv) The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP) Platform

     

    Progress under the National Broadband Mission (NBM) 1.0 since the launch

    • No. of broadband subscribers increased from 66 crores to 94.49 crores.
    • Per capita average monthly wireless data consumption increased from 10 GB to 21.10 GB.
    • The median mobile broadband download speed witnessed a substantial increase, rising from 10.71 Mbps in 2019 to an impressive 144.33 Mbps in February 2025. Similarly, the median fixed broadband download speed increased from 29.25 Mbps in 2019 to 61.66 Mbps in February 2025, according to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index.
    • Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) length increased from 19.35 lakh route km to 42.13 lakh route km.
    • Mobile towers increased from 5.37 lakh to 8.23 lakh.
    • Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) increased from 21.80 lakh to 29.97 lakhs including 4.69 lakh 5G BTSs.
    • As of March 25, 2025, 206 State Broadband Committee (SBC) meetings were held for the effective implementation of the mission and proliferation of broadband across the country.
    • Capacity-building conferences for 5G use cases were held in the majority of States/UTs focussing on various sectors viz. health, education, Industry 4.0 and public safety domains.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology Shri Jitin Prasada in Lok Sabha today.

    ******

     

    Annexure-I

    State-UT/wise details of FTTH connections provided under BharatNet

    S.No.

    State

    Total FTTH connection

    1

    A & N

    7741

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    50142

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    16

    4

    Assam

    5877

    5

    Bihar

    42121

    6

    Chandigarh

    300

    7

    Chhattisgarh

    12202

    8

    Dadra Nagar Haveli

    173

    9

    Daman & Diu

    0

    10

    Gujarat

    125864

    11

    Haryana

    150256

    12

    Himachal Pradesh

    3650

    13

    Jammu & Kashmir

    9789

    14

    Jharkhand

    25899

    15

    Karnataka

    53530

    16

    Kerala

    199753

    17

    Lakshadweep

    0

    18

    Leh (UT)

    0

    19

    Madhya Pradesh

    57914

    20

    Maharashtra

    27328

    21

    Manipur

    3957

    22

    Meghalaya

    102

    23

    Mizoram

    48

    24

    Nagaland

    136

    25

    Odisha

    11832

    26

    Puducherry

    4105

    27

    Punjab

    230243

    28

    Rajasthan

    52041

    29

    Sikkim

    46

    30

    Telangana

    22409

    31

    Tamilnadu

    102

    32

    Tripura

    1408

    33

    Uttar Pradesh-E

    77698

    34

    Uttar Pradesh-W

    35

    Uttarakhand

    21481

    36

    West Bengal

    55834

     

    Total

    12,53,997

    Source: Department of Telecommunications

    Annexure- II

    State/UT-wise achievement made under PMGDISHA Scheme

    Sl. No.

    State Name

    Registered Candidates

    Trained Candidates

    1

    Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    5,564

    2,931

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    23,01,731

    19,17,452

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    14,949

    11,615

    4

    Assam

    27,21,585

    23,60,195

    5

    Bihar

    82,40,606

    74,12,740

    6

    Chhattisgarh

    24,86,455

    21,37,064

    7

    Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman  & Diu

    20,522

    18,029

    8

    Goa

    58,569

    53,784

    9

    Gujarat

    30,31,310

    26,83,286

    10

    Haryana

    18,57,815

    15,77,109

    11

    Himachal Pradesh

    6,61,922

    5,32,976

    12

    Jammu and Kashmir

    8,70,451

    7,06,991

    13

    Jharkhand

    27,52,731

    22,86,356

    14

    Karnataka

    29,64,726

    24,40,957

    15

    Kerala

    1,77,165

    1,18,132

    16

    Ladakh

    24,785

    22,122

    17

    Lakshadweep

    142

    35

    18

    Madhya Pradesh

    56,92,467

    50,69,449

    19

    Maharashtra

    61,23,970

    53,23,817

    20

    Manipur

    28,397

    18,286

    21

    Meghalaya

    1,52,783

    1,06,063

    22

    Mizoram

    30,317

    23,125

    23

    Nagaland

    11,990

    8,968

    24

    Odisha

    36,16,441

    30,86,143

    25

    Puducherry

    22,079

    15,801

    26

    Punjab

    17,46,448

    15,14,820

    27

    Rajasthan

    45,06,184

    39,70,690

    28

    Sikkim

    27,035

    23,122

    29

    Tamil Nadu

    17,04,537

    14,07,880

    30

    Telangana

    14,56,226

    12,10,448

    31

    Tripura

    3,25,000

    2,64,186

    32

    Uttar Pradesh

    1,63,14,369

    1,45,48,273

    33

    Uttarakhand

    7,85,978

    6,73,306

    34

    West Bengal

    28,36,714

    23,95,565

    Total

    7,35,71,963

    6,39,41,716

    *******

     

    Dharmendra TewariNavin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2117923)

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: IMPACT OF LA NIÑA ON CLIMATE PATTERNS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 4:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Copernicus Climate Change Service report states that the global average surface air temperature during January 2025 was the hottest on record (0.79°C warmer than the 1991-2020) despite the development of La Niña conditions. However, the average temperature in the Indian region was the second highest since 1901 (0.98°C warmer than 1991-2020). The main reason for higher temperatures is global warming, which is closely linked to climate change. Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. This process releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the planet to warm up.

    In general, during the La Niña years, the Indian summer monsoon experiences above-average rainfall, which is beneficial for better crop production. However, currently, neutral El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is prevailing over the equatorial Pacific Ocean with above-average sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the eastern and far western Pacific Ocean and below-average SSTs in the central Pacific Ocean. The latest Monsoon Mission Climate Forecasting System (MMCFS) and other global model forecasts indicate that neutral ENSO conditions are likely to continue during the southwest monsoon season of 2025. Thus, no La Niña impact is expected on the Indian monsoon during 2025. IMD will issue the first stage of the seasonal forecast for the 2025 Southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall by mid-April.

    Various organisations under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) have been conducting regular studies on monsoons and associated rainfall and temperature patterns in the country, including those during the El Niño and La Niña periods. The India Meteorological Department continuously monitors the Sea Surface Temperature (SST) changes globally, especially in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, which have a significant impact on the Indian climate. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also prepares forecasts based on the Monsoon Mission Climate Forecasting System (MMCFS) and issues the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)/ Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) bulletin every month (https://www.imdpune.gov.in/cmpg/Product/Enso.php). IMD also issues monthly and seasonal outlooks for rainfall and temperature with monthly updates, which helps to prepare for the impact of El Niño/La Niña-related weather variations. These forecasts are complimented by the extended range forecasts updated every week for the next four weeks. Additionally, the IMD issues agriculture-specific advisories to help farmers prepare for extreme weather events associated with El Niño and La Niña, such as heavy rains or droughts. These advisories are helpful for decision-making in various agriculture operations, such as crop selection, irrigation practices, pest and disease warnings, disaster management, preparedness, etc.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION; THE HEAT MITIGATION STRATEGY

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 4:54PM by PIB Delhi

    Several parts of the country, including States like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, are likely to be severely impacted by heat, and as per the recent report by the World Bank, the rising temperatures are expected to cause India to lose up to 5% of its Gross Domestic Product by 2030. Heat is recognized as a severe threat, and the State Disaster Management Agencies of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have prepared State heat action plans in 2016 and 2019, respectively, to manage the heat stress. Also, the State Planning Commission has set up the heat action network to advance efforts for inter-departmental and intersectoral engagement toward heat mitigation.

    As per the State-wise statement of Climate Report-2023 published by,   (https://imdpune.gov.in/Reports/Statewise%20annual%20climate/statewise_annualclimate.html)   the India Meteorological Department (IMD)  a significant increasing trend of +0.68°C/100 years is observed in the Tamil Nadu State averaged annual mean temperature series for the period 1901-2023. The increasing trend is relatively higher in the case of maximum temperature (+0.84°C/100 years) compared to that in the case of minimum temperature (+0.51°C/100 years). The five warmest years on record for the state of  Tamil Nadu are 2019 (temperature anomaly of +0.848°C), 2016(+0.837°C), 2017(+0.624°C), 2020(+0.493°C) and 2023(+0.432°C). Under the changing climate, various parts of the country, including Tamil Nadu, are projected to experience increased heatwaves.

    Due to climate change, annual temperatures are increasing globally and the impact of the same is reflected in the rising frequency and intensity of heatwaves in various parts of the globe, including India. The Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) also reflects the same observations (https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_SYR_SPM.pdf). Addressing the root causes of global climate change is essential to mitigate the impact of heat waves. This involves international cooperation to reduce green house gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and implement sustainable practices across all sectors. Various initiatives have been undertaken by the Government of India with the help of States to reduce the impact of heatwaves in the coming years. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) are one of the major initiatives in this direction. Additionally, India has taken a proactive role in fostering international collaborations through initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure. India is committed to pursuing low-carbon strategies for development and is actively pursuing them, as per national circumstances.

    The India Meteorological Department, in coordination with various research centers across the country, has taken multiple steps to improve monitoring and early warning systems, which has helped minimize loss of life and property during extreme weather events, including heat waves. These include:  

    • Issuing seasonal and monthly outlooks, followed by extended-range forecasts of temperature and heatwave conditions. The early warning and forecast information are disseminated through the website,  various social media,etc., for timely public outreach.
    • District-wise heatwave vulnerability Atlas over India to help State Government authorities and disaster management agencies for timely planning.
    • The hot weather hazard analysis map over India includes daily temperature, winds, and humidity conditions.
    • Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in 23 States that are prone to heatwave conditions were jointly implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with the State Governments.
    • A series of National and State-level heatwave preparedness meetings are conducted much before the start of the summer season, with regular review meetings from time to time during the season.

    IMD has launched seven of its services (Current Weather, Nowcast, City Forecast, Rainfall Information, Tourism Forecast, Warnings, and Cyclone) with the ‘UMANG’ Mobile App for use by the Public. Moreover, IMD has developed a mobile App, ‘MAUSAM’ for weather forecasting, ‘Meghdoot’ for Agromet advisory dissemination, and ‘Damini’ for lightning alerts. The common Alert Protocol (CAP) developed by the NDMA is also being implemented to disseminate extreme weather warnings by the IMD.

    This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Education reaffirms its commitment to inclusive education by strengthening support systems for children with autism spectrum disorder in schools

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Education reaffirms its commitment to inclusive education by strengthening support systems for children with autism spectrum disorder in schools

    Strengthening Inclusive Education: Block Resource Centres under Samagra Shiksha provides Essential Therapy Services for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day (April 2, 2025), the Ministry of Education, Government of India reaffirms its commitment to inclusive education by strengthening support systems for children with autism spectrum disorder in schools.

    Through Block Resource Centres (BRCs), the government is ensuring that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) receive essential therapy services, specialized interventions, and learning support to help them reach their full potential.

    Supported under the centrally sponsored scheme- Samagra Shiksha, the BRCs serve as dedicated resource centers, offering essential therapy-based interventions to support the physical, cognitive, and communicative needs of CwSN.

    These include:

    • Occupational Therapy: Helps children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and independence in daily activities.
    • Physiotherapy: Supports children with mobility challenges, improving posture, muscle strength, and physical coordination.
    • Speech and Communication Therapy: Supports children with delayed speech, difficulty in communication, or social interaction challenges, especially beneficial for children with autism.
    • Psychological & Behavioural Support: Provides emotional and behavioural counselling to enhance confidence, social interaction, and well-being.

    BRCs are staffed with trained resource persons, special educators, and therapists who work closely with parents, teachers, and caregivers to create personalized intervention plans for children.

    These centres also organize regular screening camps, parent counselling sessions, orientation/teacher training programs, assistive devices, appropriate Teaching-Learning Material (TLM), and aids & appliances etc. to ensure a holistic approach to inclusive education.

    As envisioned in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the government is continuously strengthening these inclusive learning environments by integrating therapy services with classroom learning and ensuring accessible infrastructure, assistive devices, and digital learning solutions for CwSN across the country.

    State and district education authorities are encouraged to maximize the utilization of Resource Centres and also collaborate with local health and social welfare departments to further expand support for children with diverse needs.

    On this World Autism Awareness Day, the Ministry appeals to schools, educators, and parents to optimally utilise the services of BRCs for CwSN and also work together to promote awareness, acceptance, and meaningful inclusion of children with autism spectrum disorder.

    ******

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Prevention and treatment of hepatitis

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ14: Prevention and treatment of hepatitis 
    Question:
     
         It is learnt that hepatitis is one of the common diseases in Hong Kong, and it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people in Hong Kong are affected by hepatitis. Hepatitis may further develop into cirrhosis of the liver or even liver cancer if it is not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, which will bring about a serious impact on the health and finances of patients and their families, and place a burden on the public healthcare system. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) in respect of education on the prevention of hepatitis, whether the Government has organised preventive educational programmes to promote the importance of keeping the liver healthy in schools and in the community in 2024; if so, of the relevant expenditure, the number of programmes organised, as well as the respective numbers of students or members of the community who have participated in such programmes; whether it will increase the relevant estimated expenditure for this year; if it will, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) in view of the Government’s commitment in the 2024 Policy Address to implement hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer, whether the Government has formulated the relevant implementation plan; if it has, of the budget and target number of people to be screened; whether it will accord priority to screening for high-risk persons, and introduce primary healthcare networks and the public-private partnership approach to expand the screening capacity, e.g. carrying out blood monitoring for liver cancer in high-risk groups; if it will, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (3) whether it knows the respective numbers of new cases of liver cirrhosis diagnosed by the Hospital Authority (HA) and patients with liver cirrhosis who continued to receive treatment in public hospitals under HA in each of the past five years;
     
    (4) whether it knows the respective numbers of cases of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer among the oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy services provided in public hospitals in each of the past five years; whether the relevant data reflects the incidence trends of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in Hong Kong; whether the Government has adjusted its prevention strategies on the basis of such data; and
     
    (5) in order to provide more treatment options for patients and effectively relieve the pressure on public hospitals, whether the Government will consider using the public-private partnership approach or expanding the scope of the “Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme” to arrange, under the risk-based principle, for low-risk patients to receive treatment at healthcare institutions in the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, which can be classified into acute or chronic disease. Serious hepatitis cases will lead to liver failure, cirrhosis or liver cancer Hepatitis is the most commonly caused by the hepatitis virus infection worldwide. In Hong Kong, the major risk factor leading to liver diseases including liver cancer is chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. The Government is strongly committed to the prevention and treatment of hepatitis and liver cancer. Among which, in 2018, the Government established the Steering Committee on Prevention and Control of Viral Hepatitis (SCVH) to provide advice on overall policy, targeted strategies and effective resource allocation related to prevention and control of viral hepatitis. In October 2020, the SCVH formulated the Hong Kong Viral Hepatitis Action Plan 2020 – 2024 and all the new initiatives outlined in the plan have been fully implemented.
     
         The Government has been adopting a series of effective and free-of-charge measures to prevent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) which may lead to CHB, including:
     
    (i) universal neonatal hepatitis B vaccination since 1988;
    (ii) universal antenatal screening for hepatitis B;
    (iii) administration of hepatitis B immunoglobulin for babies born to mothers with hepatitis B;
    (iv) using antivirals to further minimise the risk of MTCT of HBV among pregnant women with CHB and high viral load since August 2020 under the steer of the SCVH; and
    (v) post-vaccination serologic testing arranged for babies born to mothers with hepatitis B since January 2022. 
         The reply, in consultation with the DH, the Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission) and the Hospital Authority (HA) to the question raised by the Hon Joephy Chan is as follows:
     
    (1) Viral Hepatitis Control Office (VHCO) of the DH co-ordinates the actions and programmes related to prevention and control of viral hepatitis, including health education, and surveillance and prevention of viral hepatitis, and provides secretariat support to the SCVH. The VHCO has been providing health education related to viral hepatitis for the public through various channels, including social media, health talks and themed exhibitions. The VHCO also collaborates with community partners to launch promotion activities. 
     
         Currently, the Maternal and Child Health Centres under the DH provide hepatitis B vaccination services for infants and young children from birth to five years old. For those primary school children who have not completed the hepatitis B vaccination, the School Immunisation Team under the Centre for Health Protection of the DH provides mop-up vaccination services to ensure that local school children are protected by the hepatitis B vaccine. The current vaccination rate for school children is 99 per cent while the prevalence of HBV infection among those under 35 years old is below 1 per cent. Hence, the health promotion efforts of the VHCO focus on reminding adults at higher risk of infection in the community to undergo early testing and treatment for hepatitis B, including those who have not been benefited from vaccination.
     
         In 2024, the VHCO conducted nine public health talks and 11 themed exhibitions, reaching over 7 000 attendances. Over 33 000 health education materials were distributed to community health promotion partners, healthcare institutions and the general public. The related expenditure cannot be separately identified given that they have been subsumed into the viral hepatitis control programmes provided by the DH.
     
         The Government will closely keep in view local and international situation of hepatitis B, promulgate the Hong Kong Viral Hepatitis Action Plan 2025 – 2030 this year, and continue to enhance health promotion and educational activities.
     
         Meanwhile, District Health Centres and District Health Centres Expresses (collectively referred to as DHCs) in all 18 districts across the city are promoting the Life Course Preventive Care Plan along with family doctors to enhance citizens’ self-management ability. Family doctors and primary healthcare professionals will provide vaccination information and education (such as Hepatitis B vaccine), guidance on healthy lifestyles, as well as recommendations and services for chronic disease and cancer screening, according to personal factors like age, sex and family history. DHCs also organise talks on liver health, providing the public with related education and information.
     
    (2) The DH has been enhancing the focused risk-based testing service for viral hepatitis for people at a higher risk of HBV infection in its Services in recent years. With effect from April 2022, all men who have sex with men and sex workers attending Social Hygiene Clinics of the DH are offered with HBV screening as part of the comprehensive screening for sexually transmitted infections. With effect from July 2023, the DH has launched risk-based viral hepatitis screening services at its Elderly Health Service, Woman Health Service, Families Clinics and methadone clinics.
     
         As announced in the 2024 Policy Address, the Government will roll out a new programme to subsidise hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer. The PHC Commission will provide hepatitis B screening and continued management to groups with higher risk via DHCs and family doctors through strategic purchasing and co-payment model. The programme enables early detection of people infected with HBV in the community and early identification and treatment of CHB to reduce the risk of complications (such as cirrhosis and liver cancer). The PHC Commission will announce the programme details within 2025.
     
    (3) The number of in-patient and day-in-patient discharges and deaths with the principal diagnosis of chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis at various hospitals under the HA in the past five years is set out as follows:
     

    Yeardischarges and deaths with the principal diagnosis of chronic liver disease and liver cirrhosis(Provisional figures) 
    (4) Oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (commonly known as gastroscopy) is not a mandatory examination for the diagnosis, assessment, or treatment of liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. The HA provides appropriate examination and necessary treatment to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer patients based on clinical needs. The HA does not maintain statistics on the number of cases diagnosed with liver cancer or liver cirrhosis among those undergoing gastroscopy. The relevant data is not related to the trends of liver disease incidence in Hong Kong.
     
         According to data from the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, there were 1 612 new cases of liver cancer in 2022, accounting for 4.6 per cent of all new cancer cases in Hong Kong. Liver cancer ranks as the fifth most common types of cancer and is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in Hong Kong. Based on the crude incidence rate, there are 22 new cases per 100 000 population in Hong Kong. Males are more susceptible to liver cancer than females, with a male-to-female incidence ratio of 2.7 to 1 in 2022. Compared with ten years ago, the number of new cases of liver cancer has dropped by about 10 per cent.
     
         The number of liver cancer cases diagnosed each year and its percentage in the total number of new cancer cases from 2012 to 2022 are set out below:
     

    Year     On prevention and control strategies, key measures of the Government include:
     
    (i) continuing to closely monitor the hepatitis situation locally and internationally;
    (ii) formulating the Hong Kong Viral Hepatitis Action Plan 2025-2030 within 2025;
    (iii) preparing for the launch of a pilot programme for hepatitis B in the community in a risk-based approach by the PHC Commission with reference to the screening strategy recommended by the SCVH; and
    (iv) apart from the three clusters currently piloting the collaborative service model for the management of hepatitis B, the HA will continue to pilot the service model concerned in the Medicine Specialist Out-patient Clinics and Family Medicine Specialist Clinics of other clusters, as well as collaborate with the DH and the PHC Commission to promote hepatitis B management to family doctors. Through the above measures, it is expected that the overall management capability for hepatitis B and service volume in Hong Kong will be further enhanced, thereby reducing the transmission of hepatitis B and its associated disease burden. 

         In addition, the Cancer Expert Working Group on Cancer Prevention and Screening (CEWG), established under the Cancer Coordinating Committee chaired by the Secretary for Health, regularly reviews local and international scientific evidence with a view to making recommendations to the Government on formulating evidence-based measures for cancer prevention and screening programmes applicable to the local population. Currently, the CEWG does not recommend routine liver cancer screening for asymptomatic individuals at average risk.
     
         Primary prevention (i.e. reducing exposure to cancer risk factors) is the most important strategy for reducing the risk of developing cancer. The DH has long been encouraging citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, including avoidance of smoking and alcohol, healthy diet, regular physical activities and maintenance of a healthy body weight and waist circumference to reduce the risks of non-communicable diseases including cancer.
     
    (5) In terms of primary healthcare, the Government is establishing a “Family Doctor for All” system and a multidisciplinary public-private partnership model with DHCs as the hub through the Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme (CDCC Pilot Scheme) to subsidise citizens in the diagnosis and management of chronic diseases in the private medical sector. As mentioned above, the Government is planning to implement a subsidised hepatitis B screening programme through family doctors and DHCs using the same multidisciplinary public-private partnership model to encourage citizens to understand their health status through early screening to achieve the goals of “early prevention, early detection, and early treatment”. The DH will also continue to strengthen the Government’s different vaccination programmes, such as exploring the best use of public-private partnership arrangement where appropriate.
     
         The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been following the principles of complementarity and mutual benefits to enhance the cooperation with various cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), on the premise that the development of Hong Kong and the Mainland’s healthcare system will be benefited. This is to promote the medical professional standard in the region in general and provide convenience for Hong Kong citizens travelling to and from the Mainland in terms of choices of medical services. Among which, in collaboration with designated collaborating healthcare institutions in the Mainland cities of the GBA, the Government gradually launched the Pilot Scheme for Supporting Patients of the Hospital Authority in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme, the Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in Greater Bay Area, as well as the new functions under the five-year plan of eHealth+, which enables citizens to keep and use their personal medical records from within and outside Hong Kong across the boundary.
     
         As a member of the GBA, the HKSAR Government, in formulating cross-boundary healthcare measures, will not only focus on meeting the needs of Hong Kong citizens, but will also consider the potential impact of the policies on the social resources and livelihood of citizens on the Mainland. The healthcare resources and needs, relevant laws and regulations, as well as regulatory regimes for healthcare professions are different in Hong Kong and the Mainland. Upholding the important role of protecting the health of Hong Kong citizens, the HKSAR Government will continue to provide quality healthcare services to Hong Kong citizens, including the above-mentioned strategies and work in the prevention and treatment on hepatitis B. The Government will also explore cross-boundary healthcare measures under the premise that these measures are feasible and mutually beneficial. Meanwhile, the HKSAR Government is exploring the strategic purchase of healthcare services for Hong Kong citizens from suitable healthcare institutions in the GBA to alleviate the pressure on service demand of our public hospital services and shorten the waiting time of Hong Kong residents.
    Issued at HKT 19:58

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Mobility poverty in the EU’s outermost regions – E-001290/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001290/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sérgio Gonçalves (S&D), André Rodrigues (S&D)

    A recent study commissioned by Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism, entitled ‘Transport and tourism in outermost regions: assessing mobility poverty and the effects of new climate policies’, confirms that mobility poverty remains a major and persistent structural challenge in the EU’s outermost regions. This is aggravated by geographic isolation, underdeveloped transport infrastructure and additional burdens stemming from the implementation of new EU climate legislation.

    The study concludes that, in the absence of appropriate structural investment, the implementation of the ‘Fit for 55’ package risks deepening mobility poverty and undermining territorial cohesion, especially in archipelagic regions. Specifically, this would threaten the affordability and availability of essential transport services for residents and tourists alike.

    In the light of the above, can the Commission clarify whether it is considering:

    • 1.the establishment of a permanent support programme for transport specific to the outermost regions?
    • 2.making current derogations in transport-related climate legislation for outermost regions permanent, or introducing further flexibility in the application of these instruments?
    • 3.taking into account the additional costs incurred by the EU’s outermost regions for necessary infrastructure investment within the context of the future multiannual financial framework?

    Submitted: 27.3.2025

    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the execution spree in Iran and confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani – RC-B10-0220/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    pursuant to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of the Rules of Procedure
    replacing the following motions:
    B10‑0220/2025 (Verts/ALE)
    B10‑0224/2025 (Renew)
    B10‑0225/2025 (S&D)
    B10‑0226/2025 (ECR)
    B10‑0228/2025 (PPE)

    Sebastião Bugalho, Loucas Fourlas, Michael Gahler, Isabel Wiseler‑Lima, Michał Wawrykiewicz, Tomas Tobé, Davor Ivo Stier, Luděk Niedermayer, Seán Kelly, Vangelis Meimarakis, Andrey Kovatchev, Wouter Beke, Danuše Nerudová, Loránt Vincze, Jessica Polfjärd, Łukasz Kohut, Antonio López‑Istúriz White, Tomáš Zdechovský, Miriam Lexmann, Inese Vaidere, Milan Zver
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Daniel Attard, Evin Incir
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Reinis Pozņaks, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Rihards Kols, Michał Dworczyk, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Maciej Wąsik, Aurelijus Veryga, Dick Erixon, Charlie Weimers, Beatrice Timgren, Ondřej Krutílek, Veronika Vrecionová, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Assita Kanko, Alexandr Vondra
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Helmut Brandstätter, Oihane Agirregoitia Martínez, Petras Auštrevičius, Malik Azmani, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Engin Eroglu, Bart Groothuis, Svenja Hahn, Karin Karlsbro, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Nathalie Loiseau, Urmas Paet, Hilde Vautmans, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Hannah Neumann
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on the execution spree in Iran and confirmation of the death sentences of activists Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani

    (2025/2628(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran,

    – having regard to Rules 150(5) and 136(4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A whereas Iran has the highest death sentence rate per capita in the world; whereas since the Women, Life, Freedom uprising in 2022, the Iranian authorities have embarked on an execution spree, including against dissidents, women, journalists and minorities;

    B whereas the human rights situation in Iran is worsening, including the systemic targeting of women, children and ethnic and religious minorities, such as Christians, Baha’is, Kurds and Baluchis;

    C. whereas according to Iran Human Rights, at least 975 people were executed in Iran in 2024, the highest number in more than two decades; whereas this includes individuals arrested as minors, as well as European citizens;

    D. whereas political prisoners Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani were arrested in November 2022 and subjected to torture and prolonged solitary confinement, denied their basic rights during their incarceration and sentenced to death on charges of ‘armed rebellion against the state’, ‘enmity against God’ and ‘corruption on earth’;

    E. whereas several human rights defenders, including Pakhshan Azizi, Wirishe Moradi, Mahvash Sabet and Sharifeh Mohammadi, face severe persecution in Iran, with some sentenced to death and others imprisoned;

    1. Reiterates its strong opposition to the death penalty; urges the Iranian Government to introduce an immediate moratorium leading to its abolition;

    2. Condemns the decision by Iran’s Supreme Court to uphold the death sentence against Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani, detained under inhumane conditions and subjected to unfair trials;

    3. Calls for their release, together with all prisoners currently on death row for political activism; recalls, in particular, the urgent cases of Pakhshan Azizi, Wirishe Moradi, Sharifeh Mohammadi and Mahvash Sabet;

    4. Condemns the unprecedented rise in executions and the systematic targeting of human rights activists and minorities through the death penalty and persecutions, in particular Christians, Baha’is, Kurds and Baluchis; calls for the immediate and unconditional release of individuals detained on account of their religion or belief;

    5. Demands the immediate release and repatriation of and dropping of all charges against condemned EU nationals, including Cécile Kohler, Jacques Paris and Ahmadreza Djalali; condemns Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy;

    6. Calls on the Council and Member States to make the abolition of the death sentence and the release of political prisoners and EU nationals a condition for improving relations with Iran;

    7. Reiterates its call on Iran to give the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran and the UN Fact-Finding Mission unimpeded access to the country;

    8. Reiterates its call on the Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organisation and continue identifying and sanctioning Iranian officials responsible for human rights violations;

    9. Encourages the Commission and Member States to expand technical and financial assistance for Iranian civil society;

    10. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the VP/HR, the Islamic Consultative Assembly and the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enhancing transparency in transition finance for retail investors – E-000303/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission work programme for 2025 contains a proposal to revise the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, planned for the fourth quarter of 2025[1].

    This will take into account the feedback received in the consultations carried out in 2023 and summarised in a statement published in May 2024[2], as well as several other inputs received since then[3].

    This feedback generally reflects support for the creation of simple and standardised financial product categories for investments toward sustainability objectives, including one dedicated to facilitating the transition of activities and companies. The Commission will duly consider this feedback in its proposal.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/strategy-documents/commission-work-programme/commission-work-programme-2025_en
    • [2] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/document/download/0f2cfde1-12b0-4860-b548-0393ac5b592b_en?filename=2023-sfdr-implementation-summary-of-responses_en.pdf
    • [3] E.g. ESAs propose improvements to the sustainable finance disclosure regulation: https://www.esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-propose-improvements-sustainable-finance-disclosure-regulation ;Platform on Sustainable Finance on the Categorisation of products under SFDR — Report: https://finance.ec.europa.eu/publications/categorisation-products-under-sfdr-proposal-platform-sustainable-finance_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Rule of law concerns in Slovakia – P-000667/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission is monitoring the developments in Slovakia. An environment enabling political pluralism, equality in the democratic debate as well as freedom of expression and association is an essential component of democracies.

    Democratic accountability and transparency are also key elements of well-functioning democracies. The proposed Directive on interest representation carried out on behalf of third countries lays down balanced and proportionate transparency requirements accompanied with strong safeguards to prevent misuse.

    Such internal market standards should apply to all economic operators carrying out interest representation activities in the internal market impacting the regulatory and decision-making process in the EU, regardless of their legal form.

    The Commission is preparing the European Democracy Shield, as announced in the Political Guidelines[1]. It will constitute a horizontal strategic framework to better protect and promote democracy, in full compliance with fundamental rights and democratic principles including freedom of expression and of association.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/document/e6cd4328-673c-4e7a-8683-f63ffb2cf648_en
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – STMicroelectronics’ plans to lay off 2 500 workers at its Catania facility and the effectiveness of state aid for employment in the semiconductor sector – P-000759/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    STMicroelectronics’s Catania initiative is in line with the European Chips Act[1] objectives to strengthen the global competitiveness of the EU industry and ensure the security of supply in the semiconductor sector by attracting investments and enhancing production capacities.

    The implementation of this project is ongoing. While it is too early to assess its impact on the semiconductor ecosystem, the sheer volume of investment involved is expected to have a significant impact both on the market and on highly skilled jobs created by STMicroelectronics. It is worth noting that the facility is planned to operate at full capacity by 2032.

    The Catania project places in Europe a substantial source of silicon-carbide device production for which there are currently capacity constraints.

    It strengthens the European competitiveness in this key technology at global level, when the green and digital transition accelerate the silicon-carbide expected demand by numerous industrial sectors.

    This investment in new technologies aligns well with the long-term semiconductor strategy of the European Chips Act while attracting and safeguarding high-quality jobs.

    As stated by the Italian authorities, in the period from 2024 to 2031, approximately 26 000 full-time equivalent positions will be employed, out of which 19 000 refer to local, regional and national induced employment, and another 4 000 to other EU regions[2].

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/european-chips-act_en
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/competition/state_aid/cases1/202450/SA_107594_101.pdf
    Last updated: 2 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – New tariffs by the Trump administration: press conference on Thursday at 9.00 CET

    Source: European Parliament

    The Chair of the International Trade Committee and standing rapporteur for the US, Bernd LANGE (S&D, DE), will hold a press conference in Strasbourg on Thursday at 9.00.

    Mr Lange will comment on the announcement by the Trump administration expected tonight on new measures related to international trade, and will answer questions from the media.

    Who? Bernd LANGE (S&D, DE), Chair of the International Trade Committee

    When? Thursday, 3 April 2025, 9.00 CET

    Where? European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (WEISS N -1/201) and via Interactio or via Parliament’s webstreaming and EbS

    Journalists wishing to participate actively and ask questions, please connect via Interactio using this link: https://ep.interactio.eu/s871-h7gf-91mi

    Background

    Since the beginning of the second Trump administration, the US has taken several measures to increase tariffs on e.g. steel, aluminium and cars. The EU has in turn reacted with countermeasures. President Trump said he will be taking new, additional measures on 2 April and is expected to make an announcement on what form they will take tonight.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Sign Landmark Agreement to Build the First KRONOS MMR™ Research Reactor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Site Selected and Preparatory Work to Begin for Construction Permit Application as NANO Nuclear Accelerates Toward Microreactor Deployment

    NEW YORK, NY, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, is pleased to announce the signing of a strategic collaboration with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.) to construct the first research KRONOS micro modular reactor (MMR) on the university’s campus.

    The agreement formally establishes U. of I. as a partner in the licensing, siting, public engagement, and research operation of the KRONOS MMR, while also identifying the university campus as the permanent site for the reactor as a research and demonstration installation. This milestone marks the beginning of site-specific development for NANO Nuclear’s advanced KRONOS MMR technology and represents a defining moment in NANO Nuclear’s path to commercialization of the KRONOS MMR Energy System.

    “This is the milestone we’ve been working so diligently towards, transforming design into reality,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “With a site now selected and a world-class university as our partner, we are positioned to be among the first companies to deliver advanced reactor systems within the United States. This isn’t just a research reactor, it’s a proving ground for the future of safe, portable, and resilient nuclear energy. Moreover, this agreement will serve as a foundation for our long-term reactor strategy. Every milestone from this point forward brings us closer to delivering the next generation of nuclear energy to communities, campuses, and industries across the world.”

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Signs Strategic Collaboration with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for the KRONOS MMR

    Following initial arrangements, NANO Nuclear will begin the process of geological characterization, including subsurface investigations, to support preparation of a Construction Permit Application (CPA) for submission to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This preparatory work is essential to understanding the environmental parameters of the site, including critical inputs to safety analysis, to ensure the utmost reliability and safety of the facility, and support NANO Nuclear’s Preliminary Safety Analysis Report (PSAR) and Environmental Report (ER).

    “The start of geotechnical investigations represents our first physical action toward constructing the KRONOS MMR,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “This is a powerful signal to the industry, to investors, and to regulators: NANO Nuclear is building. We are not theorizing. We are much beyond conceptualizing. We are moving toward construction, and this is only the first step.”

    Figure 2 – Rendering of NANO Nuclear’s KRONOS MMR™ Energy System at the University of Illinois.

    Through this strategic collaboration, U. of I. and NANO Nuclear will work together throughout the regulatory licensing process, plant design implementation, public and stakeholder engagement, and workforce development. The collaboration builds on the university’s prior experience and engagement with nuclear regulators, while introducing an advanced and simplified reactor system to lead the next generation of clean energy deployment.

    “The KRONOS MMR project can not only be a national first, it can be a first for academia, enabling students, researchers, regulators, and the public to learn directly from a real-world microreactor development effort,” said Illinois Grainger Engineering Professor Caleb Brooks, Principal Investigator for the University of Illinois. “This system can be the most advanced nuclear research platform on any U.S. campus, with the potential to enable a new paradigm of nuclear power through education, research, and at scale demonstration.”

    As part of the agreement, U. of I. will lead the regulatory engagement with the NRC as well as public engagement, support licensing activities including the PSAR and Environmental Report, and play a key role in site layout, constructability assessment, and future operator training programs. NANO Nuclear will oversee plant design, construction, system integration, and commercial pathway development.

    “This agreement brings NANO Nuclear to the forefront of advanced reactors deployment in the United States,” said Dr. Florent Heidet, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear. “This construction project is where KRONOS’ engineering meets execution and demand. It will set a precedent for all future university-led nuclear technology reactor projects.”

    The KRONOS MMR Energy System, NANO Nuclear’s flagship micro modular reactor, is designed to redefine what’s possible in nuclear energy and features:

    • Truly modular, containerized construction.
    • Highest in class safety margins, creating an inherently safe reactor.
    • Rapid & flexible deployment capabilities for remote and secure applications.
    • Seamless integration with local grids, renewable grids and process heat systems.

    The KRONOS MMR Energy System leverages proven, state-of-the-art technology solutions, and combines them into a product that is not reliant on new breakthroughs or lengthy and costly research programs.

    This announcement reflects NANO Nuclear’s transition from design to deployment, initiating the first physical project work in the Company’s history. As preparations begin for regulatory licensing and construction activities, NANO Nuclear remains focused on delivering clean, safe, scalable energy through its advanced nuclear technologies.
    About The Grainger College of Engineering

    The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is one of the world’s top-ranked engineering institutions, and a globally recognized leader in engineering education, research and public engagement. With a diverse, tight-knit community of faculty, students and alumni, Grainger Engineering sets the standard for excellence in engineering, driving innovation in the economy and bringing revolutionary ideas to the world. Through robust research and discovery, our faculty, staff, students and alumni are changing our world and making advances once only dreamed about, including the MRI, LED, ILIAC, Mosaic, YouTube, flexible electronics, electric machinery, miniature batteries, imaging the black hole and flight on Mars. The world’s brightest minds from The Grainger College of Engineering tackle today’s toughest challenges. And they are building a better, cooler, safer tomorrow.
    Visit https://grainger.illinois.edu for more information.

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN

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    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its agreement with U. of I., as well as NANO Nuclear’s development plans, each as described herein. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Natural Testosterone Booster Supplement for Muscle Growth (TestoPrime Review)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Affiliate Credo, a leading platform in health and fitness reviews, has released an updated overview of TestoPrime, a widely discussed natural testosterone support supplement for men looking to improve strength, performance, and energy levels in 2025.

    The review provides timely insights into how TestoPrime continues to gain popularity among athletes, bodybuilders, and aging individuals seeking to support their testosterone levels through plant-based and clinically studied ingredients.

    With a focus on transparency, safety, and research-backed components, TestoPrime reflects a growing trend in natural supplementation for hormone support and muscle enhancement.

    Key Benefits of TestoPrime:

    • Naturally increases testosterone production
    • Supports lean muscle growth and strength
    • Enhances endurance and training performance
    • Reduces post-workout fatigue and supports recovery
    • Improves mental focus and drive

    Pros:

    • Natural, clean formula backed by research
    • No prescription required
    • Produced in FDA-approved, GMP-certified facilities
    • Lifetime money-back guarantee
    • Noticeable results in strength, stamina, and recovery

    Cons:

    • Requires daily use for best effects
    • Higher cost compared to generic supplements

    Why TestoPrime Is Being Noticed in 2025

    According to recent analysis conducted by Affiliate Credo, TestoPrime remains one of the most talked-about testosterone support supplements in the natural wellness space. Its formula includes:

    • D-Aspartic Acid – promotes the release of luteinizing hormone
    • Ashwagandha Extract – helps manage cortisol levels for improved recovery
    • Fenugreek – linked to enhanced performance and stamina
    • Panax Ginseng, Zinc, and Vitamin D – support hormonal balance and energy metabolism

    These ingredients work synergistically to support lean muscle development, post-workout recovery, and overall vitality.

    Supplementation and Fitness Trends

    Affiliate Credo’s 2025 supplement outlook shows that more consumers are seeking hormone-support formulas that do not rely on synthetic hormones or prescriptions.

    TestoPrime is positioned as a product that aligns with this demand, offering a blend that supports testosterone levels naturally while appealing to both younger athletes and older adults managing age-related decline.

    You can learn more about the product breakdown and detailed ingredient insights by visiting our website.

    “Our goal at Affiliate Credo is to deliver reliable supplement reviews based on performance, scientific validation, and user feedback,” said the editorial team. “TestoPrime has maintained strong consumer interest due to its transparent formulation and consistent results.”

    About Affiliate Credo

    We are involved in affiliate marketing and create reviews of health-related products.

    Our office:

    Kyiv, Ukraine, Berejanskaya str 18-91
    E-mail: hennadii.kamentsov@affiliatecredo.com
    Website https://affiliatecredo.com/testoprime

    Disclaimers:

    The information provided in this article has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    TestoPrime is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or illness.

    Results may differ from person to person. It’s strongly recommended to consult with a licensed healthcare provider before beginning any supplement routine, especially if you are under medical care, pregnant, nursing, or taking prescribed medications.

    Mentions of scientific studies or institutions are shared solely for general educational purposes related to men’s health and well-being. They do not serve as an endorsement of TestoPrime.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6f32bc4f-68d3-4e39-8391-0d1e808befc0

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