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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Russia: PhysMech and SPbPU PISh “Digital Engineering” presented research at the Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Representatives of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU) and the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” (AES) took part inXXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics in Perm. The event was held within the framework of the Program for the creation and development of a world-class scientific center “Supersonic” for 2020-2024 with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    The event was organized by the Institute of Continuous Media Mechanics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences – a branch of the Perm Federal Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    The Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics is held to build a systematic discussion on current issues in this field and is aimed at developing research activities, including among young specialists. The event included a competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists.

    The XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics was attended by 320 people from 21 cities of Russia, including St. Petersburg, Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Izhevsk, Kazan, Samara and others. The event featured 319 reports in eight sections, the abstracts of which were included in the collection of papers on the results of the school.

    The main topics of the event program:

    computational continuum mechanics, physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems, mechanics of functional materials, convection, hydrodynamic stability and turbulence, hydrodynamics of non-Newtonian fluids and fluids with special properties, fundamental and applied magnetohydrodynamics, continuum mechanics in biology and medicine, mining mechanics, monitoring of natural and man-made systems.

    Scientists, postgraduates, and students of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU presented the results of research and development by research teams on current issues in computational continuum mechanics, mechanics of functional materials, hydrodynamic stability, physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems, chemomechanics, fundamental and applied hydrodynamics, and gas dynamics. The research results contribute to the development of engineering applications of microelectronics, hydrogen technologies, modern electronic and optoelectronic devices, boiler equipment, methods for testing thermal conductivity at the nanoscale, and calculations of fracture mechanics parameters.

    Plenary reports:

    Krivtsov Anton-Irzhi Miroslavovich, Director of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU, Head of the Laboratory of Modeling of Production Technologies and Processes of the PISh SPbPU, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Using Approaches Based on the Bernoulli-Euler and Schrödinger Gas Dynamics Kinetics Equations to Describing Transport Processes”; Freidin Alexander Borisovich, Senior Researcher, Professor of the Higher School of Mechanics and Control Processes of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Related Problems of Chemomechanics: Statements and Solutions”.

    Sectional reports:

    Belyaev Aleksandr Konstantinovich, Director of the Higher School of Mechanics and Control Processes of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Models of Hydrogen Motion in an Extruder at Low Temperatures”; Kovalev Igor Alekseevich, student of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Dislocation Relaxation of Stresses in a Cylindrical Quantum Ring Near the Free Surface”; Kuzkin Vitaly Andreevich, Professor of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Topic of the report: “Ballistic Thermoelasticity of Nonlinear Chains”; Savikovsky Artem Viktorovich, postgraduate student of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Calculation of Stress Intensity Factors through Jk-Integrals for Anisotropic Materials”; Sedova Yulia Sergeevna, postgraduate student of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Analysis of the results of testing ring samples of boiler tubes using mechanical models of hydrogen embrittlement”; Ivanova Alexandra Borisovna, postgraduate student of the Physics and Mechanical Institute of SPbPU. Topic of the report: “Related problems of chemomechanics for an elastic and viscoelastic reaction product”.

    The winners of the competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists were awarded diplomas for the presentations of student Igor Kovalev, postgraduates Artem Savikovsky, Alexandra Ivanova and Yulia Sedova, as well as professor of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Physical-Mechanical Institute of SPbPU Vitaly Kuzkin.

    The laureates were awarded at a meeting of the Academic Council of the Physics and Mechanics Institute of SPbPU. Acting Director of the Physics and Mechanics Institute of SPbPU Nikolay Ivanov congratulated the winners and presented them with diplomas.

    The council members highly appreciated the contribution of young scientists to the development of their research areas.

    It is gratifying that such a representative delegation from the Polytechnic University participated in the Perm Winter School. Young scientists and venerable professors confirmed the high level of the St. Petersburg school of mechanics. We wish everyone further success, and especially students who are just starting their path in science, – noted Nikolay Georgievich.

    The team of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” demonstrated research in the field of continuum mechanics, implemented using systems digital engineering technologies for the tasks of medicine, healthcare, construction, automotive and aircraft manufacturing.

    Sectional reports:

    Antonova Olga Vladimirovna, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”, Candidate of Technical Sciences. Topic: “Application of hyperelastic material models to describe the mechanical behavior of high-tech medical devices and biological tissues”; Sadovchenko Ekaterina Alekseevna, Master’s student of the Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU, engineer in the Applied Research and Development direction of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU. Topic: “Modeling the process of installing dental implants using finite element analysis”; Nezhinskaya Liliya Sergeevna, Master’s student of the Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU, engineer in the Applied Research and Development direction of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of Primorsky Polytechnical School of SPbPU. Topic: “Study of elastic-plastic properties of meta-biomaterials. Full-scale and virtual tests” in the section “Physics and mechanics of meso- and nanostructured systems”; Ivanov Maxim Vyacheslavovich, engineer of the Department of development of cars and equipment of the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of PISh SPbPU, assistant of the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies, graduate of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering”. Topic: “Optimization of the bearing capacity of metal panels with a tetrahedral filler”.

    In the course of Olga Antonova’s research, an analysis was conducted of the features of the application of hyperelastic models of materials to describe the behavior of various medical devices and biological tissues used in modern medical practice, primarily in the field of cardiology.

    In the future, the obtained results can be used as a basis for modeling the processes of installing coronary and endobiliary stents, prosthetic rings for annuloplasty, optimizing the methods of these medical interventions, as well as in developing recommendations for medical workers, concluded Olga Vladimirovna.

    Ekaterina Sadovchenko spoke about the methodology for modeling the process of installing dental implants in bone blocks of different densities using the finite element method.

    The research presented by Liliya Nezhinskaya within the framework of the XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics will allow the formation of mathematical models of meta-biomaterials of various topologies for their further application in the development of products in the field of tissue engineering for the treatment of bone defects.

    It should be noted that the project represents a part research, supported by the Russian Science Foundation, which is carried out by a research group led by the Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation of SPbPU, Head of the SPbPU Digital Engineering School Alexey Borovkov.

    Maxim Ivanov spoke about a project to optimize the load-bearing capacity of metal panels with a tetrahedral filler, which is part of his PhD thesis. Layered panels with such a filler are actively used in construction, the automotive industry, and aircraft manufacturing. The results obtained can be used to optimize the technological process of manufacturing a filler of complex shape.

    The presentations of Liliya Nezhinskaya and Ekaterina Sadovchenko were also noted at the competition of reports among students, postgraduates and young scientists. The winners received diplomas.

    The research of the participants of the XXIV Winter School on Continuous Media Mechanics was highly appreciated by the scientific committee, which noted their relevance and practical focus while maintaining the fundamental nature of the approaches used.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre organises Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre organises Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha
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    The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Promotion Centre, under the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, held the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Youth Entrepreneurship Carnival in Nansha, Guangzhou, today (March 7). The Carnival, with the participation of over 40 youth start-ups, provided a platform for young entrepreneurs in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to showcase their ventures as well as exchanging and sharing ideas.           In her opening address at the Carnival, the Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Ms Maisie Chan, said, “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has been encouraging and supporting Hong Kong young people to aim high and seize the vast opportunities offered by the GBA to pursue and realise their dreams. To assist young people in grasping the development opportunities of the GBA, the HKSAR Government has introduced various schemes and measures. For entrepreneurship, the HKSAR Government has rolled out the Funding Scheme for Youth Entrepreneurship in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Funding Scheme for Experiential Programmes at Innovation and Entrepreneurial Bases under the Youth Development Fund, among others, with a view to encouraging Hong Kong young people with ambition and creativity to start and develop their businesses in the Mainland cities of the GBA, thereby realising their aspirations.”      Ms Chan added that the Promotion Centre was set up by the HKSAR Government to enhance support for Hong Kong residents and enterprises in the Mainland cities of the GBA. She encouraged Hong Kong young people who are interested in developing careers in the GBA to actively participate in the activities organise by the Promotion Centre to foster mutual exchange and inspire more innovative ideas.       The Carnival was jointly organised by the Promotion Centre, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Youth Exchange Promotional Association, and the Guangzhou Nansha Hong Kong and Macao Youth Wule Service Centre. The event features a youth entrepreneurship bazaar, thematic sharing sessions, and live performances by young people, etc. Among them, the youth entrepreneurship bazaar contains five main themes: advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, new media, and integrated projects, with over 40 booths showcasing innovative achievements of young entrepreneurs and facilitating exchanges.       Young entrepreneurs were invited to share their entrepreneurial journeys. On-site displays included information boards on youth entrepreneurship policies and a dedicated zone showcasing youth entrepreneurship bases, enabling participants to learn about relevant policies and support measures to facilitate their planning of entrepreneurial pathways.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 16:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medicine shop salesman convicted of engaging in commercial practice involving misleading omission for selling Chinese herbal medicine

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Medicine shop salesman convicted of engaging in commercial practice involving misleading omission for selling Chinese herbal medicine
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    A medicine shop salesman was earlier convicted of engaging in a commercial practice involving a misleading omission in the sale of a Chinese herbal medicine, in contravention of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance (TDO), at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on February 21. After being remanded in custody for 14 days, the salesman was sentenced to 120 hours’ community service order today (March 7) and must compensate the victim in the case by an amount of $11,000.     Customs earlier received information from a Mainland visitor alleging that a staff member of a medicine shop in Mong Kok misled him in the course of selling a Chinese herbal medicine. After an investigation, it was revealed that the staff member did not disclose the pricing unit of the medicine despite the visitor’s inquiry, misleading the visitor to believe that the unit price of the medicine was calculated per catty. After the medicine was ground into powder, the staff member revealed that it was priced per mace and cost $22,400 in total, which was 160 times higher than what was expected. Eventually the visitor was forced to purchase a portion of the medicine at around half the price.     Customs has long been concerned about visitors being misled into making purchases by unfair trade practices and has established a Quick Response Team to handle urgent complaints lodged by short-haul visitors. The complaints will be promptly referred to investigators to handle with priority.     Customs reminds traders to comply with the requirements of the TDO. Consumers should procure products from reputable traders. They are also reminded to check carefully the total price and unit price of the goods before making a payment, and to retain the transaction receipts and related records, which can be used as the basis for follow-up action in case a complaint is lodged in the future.       Under the TDO, any trader who engages in a commercial practice that omits or hides material information or provides material information in a manner that is unclear, unintelligible, ambiguous or untimely, and as a result causes, or is likely to cause, an average consumer to make a transactional decision, commits an offence of misleading omissions. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.     ???     Members of the public may report any suspected violation of the TDO to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 15:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates and launches various development works worth over Rs 2580 crore in Silvassa,Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates and launches various development works worth over Rs 2580 crore in Silvassa,Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, are our pride, our heritage: PM

    Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu have reached a saturation level in several schemes: PM

    Jan Aushadhi means guarantee of affordable treatment! The mantra of Jan Aushadhi is – lower prices, effective medicines: PM

    We all should reduce 10% of the cooking oil in our food,manage with 10% less oil every month,This will be a significant step towards reducing obesity: PM

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:59PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched various development works worth over ₹2580 crore in Silvassa, Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu today. He also inaugurated the Namo Hospital in Silvassa earlier to the event. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude towards the dedicated workers of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu for giving him the opportunity to connect and engage with the region. He acknowledged the warmth and the long-standing connection he has had with the people, sharing that his bond with the region is decades old. He highlighted the progress the region has made since his government came to power in 2014, transforming the potential of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu into a modern and progressive identity.

    “The natural beauty of Silvassa and the love of its people, as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, you all know how long my connection with you has been. This decades-old bond, the joy I feel when I come here, only you and I understand it”, Shri Modi added. The Prime Minister mentioned that when he first visited, the area was vastly different, with people questioning what could come of a small coastal region. However, he always had faith in the people of this place and their capabilities. The Prime Minister pointed out that under the leadership of his government, this faith has been transformed into progress, turning Silvassa into a cosmopolitan city, thriving with new opportunities for all its residents.

    Shri Modi also shared an example of Singapore, which, in its early days, was a small fishing village. He emphasized that the transformation of Singapore happened due to the strong willpower of its people.  The Prime Minister encouraged the citizens of the Union Territory to adopt a similar resolve for development, assuring them that he would stand by them, but they too must take the initiative to move forward.

    “Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu is not just a Union Territory but a source of pride and heritage. This is why we are transforming the region into a model state known for its holistic development”,  Shri Modi emphasized. The Prime Minister stated how he envisions the region to be recognized for its high-tech infrastructure, modern healthcare services, world-class educational institutes, tourism, blue economy, industrial progress, new opportunities for youth, and women’s participation in development.

    Shri Modi noted that under the leadership of Shri Praful Patel and with the support of the central government, the region is fast progressing towards these goals. Over the last 10 years, significant progress has been made in development. The region is now emerging on the national map with a distinct identity in terms of development. Various government schemes, such as One Nation One Ration Card, Jal Jeevan Mission, BharatNet, PM Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima, and PM Suraksha Bima, have brought substantial benefits to the people, especially the underprivileged and tribal communities.

    The Prime Minister announced that the next goal is to achieve 100% saturation in initiatives like Smart Cities Mission, Samagra Shiksha, and PM Mudra Yojana. He highlighted that for the first time, the government is reaching out directly to people with these welfare schemes, ensuring that every citizen benefits from the government’s plans.

    The Prime Minister  highlighted the transformation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu in infrastructure, education, employment, and industrial development. He pointed out that earlier, youth from the region had to go outside for higher education, but today, the region is home to six national-level institutes. These include Namo Medical College, Gujarat National Law University, IIIT Diu, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, and the Daman Engineering College. These institutions have made Silvassa and the region a new education hub. “To further benefit the youth, seats have been reserved for them in these institutes. Earlier, I was happy to see that this is a region where education is provided  in four different mediums: Hindi, English, Gujarati, and Marathi. Now, I am also proud to say that children in primary and junior schools here are studying in smart classrooms”, Shri Modi added.

    Shri Modi said that in recent years, modern healthcare services have expanded significantly in the region. “In 2023, I  had the opportunity to inaugurate Namo Medical College here. Along with this, a new hospital with a capacity of 450 beds has been added, which was also inaugurated today. The healthcare facilities in Silvassa will greatly benefit the tribal community in the region”, Shri Modi underscored. 

    The Prime Minister  highlighted the significance of today’s healthcare projects, as it coincides with Jan Aushadhi Diwas. He emphasized that Jan Aushadhi ensures affordable treatment. Under this initiative, the government is providing quality hospitals, free treatment under Ayushman Bharat, and affordable medicines through Jan Aushadhi centers. More than 15,000 Jan Aushadhi centers across the country offer medicines at up to 80% lower prices. Around 40 Jan Aushadhi centers are benefiting the people of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu. The government aims to open 25,000 Jan Aushadhi centers nationwide in the future. “Since the launch of this initiative, nearly ₹6,500 crore worth of affordable medicines have been provided to the needy, saving over ₹30,000 crore for the poor and middle class. This initiative has made the treatment of several critical diseases more affordable, demonstrating the government’s sensitivity to the needs of ordinary citizens”, Shri Modi emphasised.

    The Prime Minister addressed the rising concern of lifestyle diseases, particularly obesity, which has become a major health threat. He referred to a recent report predicting that by 2050, over 440 million Indians will suffer from obesity. “This alarming figure indicates that one in every three people could face serious health issues due to obesity, potentially making it a life-threatening condition”, Shri Modi stated.

    To combat this, the Prime Minister urged everyone to take proactive steps to reduce obesity. He emphasized the importance of reducing the consumption of cooking oil by 10% each month, asking people to commit to using 10% less oil in their daily cooking. He also encouraged the inclusion of regular physical activity, like walking a few kilometers daily, to maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent obesity. “India is committed to achieving the vision of a developed nation. Only a healthy nation can achieve such a goal”, Shri Modi emphasised.

    Shri Modi highlighted the rapid industrial growth in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu over the past decade. With the launch of the Mission Manufacturing initiative in the recent budget, the region is poised to benefit significantly. Hundreds of new industries have started, and several existing industries have expanded, attracting thousands of crores in investment. These industries are providing large-scale employment opportunities, especially for the tribal community, women, and marginalized groups. “The Gir Adarsh Jeevika Yojana has been implemented to empower SC, ST, OBC, and women, while new self-employment opportunities have been created with the establishment of small dairy farms”, Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister underscored that tourism has also emerged as a major source of employment. The region’s beaches and rich heritage are attracting tourists from both India and abroad. Developments like the Ram Setu, Namo Path, Tent City in Daman, and the popular Night Market are enhancing the region’s appeal. Shri Modi stated that a large bird sanctuary has been established, and plans for an eco-resort in Dudhani are underway. Coastal promenade and beach development work is being carried out in Diu. “The Diu Beach Games in 2024 boosted interest in beach sports, and the Blue Flag certification has made the Ghoghla Beach in Diu a popular tourist destination. Additionally, a cable car project is being developed in Diu, offering spectacular views of the Arabian Sea, making the region one of India’s top tourist destinations”, Shri Modi added.

    Highlighting the significant connectivity improvements in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi  said that a bullet train station is being built near Dadra, and the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway passes through Silvassa. Over the past few years, several kilometers of new roads have been constructed, with over 500 kilometers of road work currently underway, involving investments worth thousands of crores. “The region is also benefiting from the UDAN scheme, and the local airport is being upgraded to enhance connectivity. The government is committed to ensuring comprehensive development and improving infrastructure in the region”, Shri Modi added.

    The Prime Minister  expressed his happiness that Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu are becoming models of development, good governance, and ease of living. He pointed out that in the past, people had to visit government offices repeatedly to resolve their issues, but now most government-related tasks can be completed with just one click on their mobile phones. This new approach has greatly benefited the tribal areas that were neglected for decades. Special camps are being organized in villages to listen to people’s problems and resolve them on the spot. The Prime Minister congratulated Shri Praful Patel and his team for these efforts and assured the people that the government will continue working towards the development of the region.“I congratulate the people of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu for the successful development projects launched today. I express my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome, affection, and respect shown by the citizens of the Union Territory”, the Prime Minister concluded.

    Background

    Boosting healthcare facilities in all corners of the country has been a primary focus of the Prime Minister. In line with this, he inaugurated NAMO Hospital (Phase I) in Silvassa. This 450 bedded hospital, built at the cost of over Rs 460 crore, will significantly strengthen healthcare services in the Union Territory. It will provide state-of-the-art medical care to the people in the region, especially the tribal communities.

    The Prime Minister also inaugurated and  laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects for the UT worth over Rs 2580 crore at Silvassa. These include various village roads and other road infrastructure, schools, health and wellness centres, Panchayat and administrative buildings, Anganwadi centres, water supply and sewage infrastructure among others. These projects aim to improve connectivity, promote industrial growth, encourage tourism, create employment opportunities and aim at enhancing public welfare initiatives in the region.

    Gir Adarsh Aajeevika Yojana aims to boost economic empowerment of women belonging to scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), other backward classes (OBCs), minorities and divyangjan in the region through setting up small dairy farms and bringing social and economic changes in their lives. The Sylvan Didi scheme is an initiative to uplift women street vendors by providing them with aesthetically designed carts, with co funding from PM SVANIDHI scheme.

     

    दादरा और नगर हवेली, दमण और दीव… ये प्रदेश हमारा गर्व है… हमारी विरासत है। pic.twitter.com/CN1ZjijEOH

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 7, 2025

    दादरा और नगर हवेली, दमण और दीव… ये कई योजनाओं में सैचुरेशन की स्थिति में पहुंच गए हैं: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/xRjJqsmScw

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 7, 2025

    जनऔषधि यानी- सस्ते इलाज की गारंटी!

    जनऔषधि का मंत्र है- दाम कम, दवाई में दम! pic.twitter.com/4GscUrLDb9

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 7, 2025

    हम सभी को अपने खाने के तेल में 10% की कटौती करनी चाहिए।

    हमें हर महीने 10% कम तेल में काम चलाने का प्रयास करना है।

    मोटापा कम करने की दिशा में ये एक बहुत बड़ा कदम होगा: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/61lgZ4XAFc

    — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 7, 2025

    A landmark day for Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu as key development projects are being launched. Speaking at a programme in Silvassa. https://t.co/re1Am2n62t

    — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 7, 2025

     

    ***

    MJPS/VJ

    (Release ID: 2109163) Visitor Counter : 78

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Electrical and Mechanical Expo 2025 provides one-stop career information (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Electrical and Mechanical Expo 2025 provides one-stop career information (with photos)
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    The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group today (March 7) jointly held the Electrical and Mechanical (E&M) Expo 2025.      With the theme “E&M, Together We Forge Ahead”, the Expo provided information on career prospects, continuing education and training of the E&M industry. Trade representatives were invited to share the latest trade developments at career talks.      The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying, said at the Expo that the EMSD is committed to driving the development of the E&M industry through digitalisation and the application of innovative technologies. He encouraged young people to seize opportunities and join the industry to pursue their aspirations and showcase their talents.      The representative of the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group and President of the Hong Kong Federation of Electrical and Mechanical Contractors Limited, Mr Emil Yu, said that with the launch of major construction projects, the prospects for the E&M industry are promising. He expressed hope that more young people will join this industry, which has significant development potential, to inject new impetus.      Established in 2012, the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group includes members from the EMSD. The Working Group is committed to promoting the sustainable development of the E&M industry.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 18:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of Human Metapneumovirus in United Christian Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Cluster of Human Metapneumovirus in United Christian Hospital
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    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesperson for United Christian Hospital made the following announcement today (March 7):     Mild respiratory symptoms appeared in patients in a female psychiatric ward starting on February 25. Appropriate tests had been arranged for the patients, among which three patients (aged 61 to 70) tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus and met the case definition. Patients are being treated in isolation and are in stable condition.     A full investigation and thorough cleaning and disinfection have been conducted in the ward. Stringent droplet and contact precautions and enhancement of hand hygiene will be carried out.     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the conditions of the patients in the ward. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 18:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government gazettes Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government gazettes Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025
    ******************************************************

    The Government gazetted today (March 7) the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2025 for the implementation of an electronic driving licence (eDL).           The Bill aims to amend the Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374) and related legislation to provide holders of a driving licence (including a driving instructors’ licence) an alternative to fulfil the relevant statutory requirements of carrying or producing a driving licence for examination or inspection by displaying their electronic licences on a specified electronic platform with smart phones. The eDL will not be a substitute for a physical driving licence, as driving licence holders will still be issued with a physical driving licence, but they may use an eDL at their preference.           A Government spokesperson said, “The implementation of an eDL can bring greater convenience to some 2.5 million driving licence holders, especially commercial vehicle drivers whose physical driving licences are more susceptible to damage due to frequent use. Those who choose to use an eDL can display it by logging on to a specified eDL mobile application on their smart phones via iAM Smart or the Transport Department (TD)’s e-Licensing Portal. To prevent a forgery of an eDL, the relevant application will be equipped with security features, including identity authentication and disabling the screen capture function, etc. Meanwhile, the TD will continue to issue a physical driving licence to meet the needs of different parties.           “The TD has long been striving for innovations in licence management through streamlining procedures and implementing e-initiatives. In recent years, the TD has also recorded a significant increase in the use of online services. For example, in 2024, the proportion of online applications for renewal of full driving licences and International Driving Permits reached 40 per cent. The TD will continue to implement various e-licensing initiatives, bringing greater convenience to the public,” the spokesperson supplemented.           The Bill will be introduced into the Legislative Council for first reading on March 19.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in 2024 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Drug abuse and drug situation in Hong Kong in 2024 (with photos)
    ****************************************************************

    The Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) noted at its meeting today (March 7) the figures of the Central Registry of Drug Abuse (CRDA) and other drug-related figures for 2024. ACAN noticed that the total number of reported drug abusers in 2024 was lower than that in 2023.           Figures from the CRDA revealed that the total number of reported drug abusers in 2024 decreased by 9 per cent (from 5 540 to 5 068) compared with that in 2023. The three most common types of drugs abused in 2024 were heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine (commonly known as “Ice”). Nevertheless, the number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 in 2024 increased by 8 per cent (from 664 to 720), of which 226 vaped the “space oil drug”. In this group, the most common type of drugs abused was cannabis, followed by cocaine and the “space oil drug”. Since the first half of 2024, the “space oil drug” has continued to be the third most common type of drugs abused by this group.           To step up the control of the “space oil drug”, the Government has listed etomidate, the main ingredient of the “space oil drug”, and its three analogues, (metomidate, propoxate and isopropoxate) as dangerous drugs.           A spokesman for the Security Bureau (SB) said, “Etomidate, the main ingredient of the ‘space oil drug’, has been listed as a dangerous drug, which has significantly enhanced deterrence against ‘space oil drug’-related crimes. The move has also facilitated the law enforcement agencies to take more stringent enforcement actions against ‘space oil drug’-related crimes.”           Recently, Hong Kong Customs arrested a 20-year-old man who carried a vape stick containing the suspected “space oil drug”. In addition, the Police have arrested an 18-year-old man, a 16-year-old male and a 16-year-old female on suspicion of “outraging public decency”. Police later seized “space oil drug” electronic cigarette cartridges suspected to contain etomidate from the residences of two of the arrested persons. The Police arrested the three persons on suspicion of “possession of dangerous drugs” and other offences.           The Chairman of ACAN, Dr Donald Li, said, “I am glad to see that the Government has adopted the suggestions from ACAN and promptly listed the main ingredient of the ‘space oil drug’ as a dangerous drug. I suggest that the Government continues to step up anti-drug publicity on all fronts. I also hope that primary and secondary schools can take the initiative to continuously inculcate in their students the proper knowledge and values of resisting drugs.” He added, “The wickedness of the ‘space oil drug’ has been laid bare in recent controversial incidents. Teenagers who have mistaken vaping the ‘space oil drug’ as just a trivial matter should come to realise the drug harm of the ‘space oil drug’ from the cases in which young people have been arrested. I urge everyone to stay away from the ‘space oil drug’.”           The Government’s new TV Announcement in the Public Interest (API), “Don’t fall into ‘space oil drug’ traps!”, has been launched on various television and radio channels. In addition, relevant advertisements and publicity materials have been displayed on public transport networks, large outdoor advertising spaces, cinemas, public housing estates, private housing estates, Community Living Rooms and villages in the New Territories, etc. The advertisements will also be pushed to mobile phone users on popular mobile application websites. Information and videos about the ‘space oil drug’ have been uploaded onto the dedicated webpage of the Narcotics Division (ND) of the SB (www.nd.gov.hk/en/space_oil_drug.html) for reference by the public.           The Anti-“Space Oil Drug” Week has just been co-organised by the ND and the Education Bureau, which was held in all schools in Hong Kong. At the time, teachers and students participated together in a number of interactive activities, which included game booths and interactive drama shows, to enable students to understand the harm of the “space oil drug” and the severity of committing “space oil drug” crimes. Anti-drug education activities in schools will not stop after the Anti-“Space Oil Drug” Week. The Government will continue to spread anti-“space oil drug” messages through different activities in schools, with a view to cultivating proper values among students and building a stronger anti-drug barrier for them.           As regards drug treatment and rehabilitation services, the Government will continue to foster cross-sectoral collaboration, including the social welfare, healthcare and education sectors, to enhance the awareness and handling capability of social workers, healthcare professionals and teaching staff in relation to the “space oil drug” to facilitate early identification of and assistance to “space oil drug” abusers.           According to statistical figures from law enforcement agencies, the number of persons arrested for drug offences in 2024 dropped by 5 per cent (from 3 407 to 3 243) when compared with 2023. The number of young arrestees aged under 21 decreased by 7 per cent (from 323 to 301). Cannabis, cocaine and “Ice” were the main drugs involved in these arrests. According to court cases concluded for the same period, the conviction rate of persons being prosecuted for drug offences was as high as nearly 90 per cent. As for young offenders aged under 21 who were sentenced to imprisonment for drug trafficking, more than half of them were sentenced to over five years in prison, and the longest period of imprisonment was 22 years.           This year marks ACAN’s 60th anniversary. ACAN and the ND are taking the opportunity to co-organise a series of commemorative events, including an interactive roving exhibition in education institutions and the community, community engagement activities and competitions, with a view to consolidating anti-drug awareness in the community. In addition, the roving exhibition features a theme zone dedicated to the 60th anniversary of ACAN, where a number of precious historical posters, photos, anti-drug videos and TV APIs are displayed. The roving exhibition is divided into different theme zones with interactive games and digital exhibition panels etc. By incorporating the old and the new, visitors will be able to learn from the past and have a better understanding of the harm caused by drugs. The next stop of the roving exhibition will take place at City University of Hong Kong from March 11 to 14. For more details of the roving exhibition, please visit the dedicated webpage on the ND’s website (www.nd.gov.hk/en/ACAN60A_exhibition.html).           The statistical figures of the CRDA for 2024 are available on the ND website (www.nd.gov.hk/en/crda_main_charts_and_tables.html). The ND’s website (www.nd.gov.hk) as well as its official accounts (narcotics.divisionhk) on Facebook and Instagram also contain detailed information about drugs including the “space oil drug” for the public’s reference.

    Ends/Friday, March 7, 2025Issued at HKT 19:09

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    South Africa took over the presidency of the G20 at the end of 2024. Since then the world has become a more complex, unpredictable and dangerous place. The most powerful state in the world, the US, seems intent on undermining the existing order that it created and on demonstrating its power over weaker nations. Other influential countries are turning inward.

    These developments raise concerns about how well mechanisms for global cooperation, such as the G20, can continue to operate, particularly those that work on the basis of consensual decision making. Danny Bradlow sets out how the G20 works, and what’s at stake.

    What’s the G20’s purpose?

    The G20 is a forum in which the largest economies in the world meet regularly to discuss, and attempt to address, the most urgent international economic and political challenges. The group, which includes both rich and developing countries, accounts for about 67% of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade.

    The G20, in fact, is a misnomer. The actual number of G20 participants in any given year far exceeds the 19 states and 2 international entities (the European Union and the African Union) that are its permanent members. Each year they are joined by a number of invited “guests”. While there are some countries, for example Spain and the Netherlands, that are considered “permanent” G20 guests, the full list of guests is determined by the chair of the G20 for that year. This year, South Africa has invited 13 countries, including Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. They are joined by 24 invited international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the United Nations and eight African regional organisations, among others.

    The G20 should be understood as a process rather than a set of discrete events. Its apex is the annual leaders’ summit at which the participating heads of state and government seek to agree on a communiqué setting out their agreements on key issues. These agreements are non-binding and each of the participating states usually will implement most but not all the agreed points.

    The communiqué is the outcome of a two track process: a finance track, consisting of representatives of the finance ministries and central banks in the participating counties, and a “sherpa” track that deals with more political issues. In total these two tracks will involve over 100 meetings of technical level officials and policymakers.

    Most of the work in each track is done by working groups. The finance track has seven working groups dealing with issues ranging from the global economy and international financial governance to financial inclusion and the financing of infrastructure. The sherpa track has 15 working groups dealing with issues ranging from development and agriculture to health, the digital economy, and education.

    The agenda for the working group meetings is based on issues notes prepared by the G20 presidency. The issues notes will discuss both unfinished business from prior years and any new issues that the president adds to the G20 agenda.

    The working group chairs report on the outcomes of these meetings to the ministerial meetings in their track. These reports will first be discussed in meetings of the deputies to the ministers. The deputies will seek to narrow areas of disagreement and sharpen the issues for discussion so that when they are presented at the ministerial meeting the chances of reaching agreement are maximised.

    The agreements reached at each of these ministerial meetings, assuming all participants agree, will be expressed in a carefully negotiated and drafted communiqué. If the participants cannot agree, the minister chairing the meeting will provide a chair’s summary of the meeting. These documents will then inform the communiqué that will be released at the end of the G20 summit. This final communiqué represents the formal joint decision of the participating heads of state and government.

    The G20 process is supplemented by the work of 13 engagement groups representing, for example, business, labour, youth, think tanks, women and civil society in the G20 countries. These groups look for ways to influence the outcomes of the G20 process.

    What is the G20 troika and how does it operate?

    The G20 does not have a permanent secretariat. Instead, the G20 president is responsible for organising and chairing the more than 100 meetings that take place during the year. The G20 has decided that this burden should be supported by a “troika”, consisting of the past, present and future presidents of the G20. This year the troika consists of Brazil, the past chair; South Africa, the current chair; and the US, the future chair.

    The role of the troika varies depending on the identity of the current chair and how assertive it wishes to be in driving the G20 process. It will also be influenced by how active the other two members of the troika wish to be.

    The troika helps ensure some continuity from one G20 year to another. This is important because there is a significant carryover of issues on the G20 agenda from one year to the next. The troika therefore creates the potential for the G20 president to focus on the issues of most interest to it over a three year period rather than just for one year.

    How successful has the G20 process been?

    The G20 is essentially a self-appointed group which has designated itself as the “premier forum for international economic cooperation”.

    The G20 was first brought together during the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s. At that time, it was limited to a forum in which ministers of finance and central bank governors could meet to discuss the most important international economic and financial issues, such as the Asian financial crisis.

    The G20 was elevated to the level of heads of state and government at the time of the 2008 global financial crisis.

    The G20 tends to work well as a cooperative forum when the world is confronting an economic crisis. Thus, the G20 was a critical forum in which countries could discuss and agree on coordinating actions to deal with the global financial crisis in 2008-9.

    It has performed less well when confronted with other types of crises. For example, it was found wanting in dealing with the COVID pandemic.

    It has also proven to be less effective, although not necessarily totally ineffective, when there is no crisis. So, for example, the G20 has been useful in helping address relatively technical issues such as developing international standards on particular financial regulatory issues or improving the functioning of multilateral development banks. On other more political issues, for example climate, food security, and funding the UN’s sustainable development goals, it has been less effective.

    There’s one less obvious, but nevertheless important, benefit. The G20 offers officials from participating countries the chance to interact with their counterparts from other G20 countries. As a result, they come to know and understand each other better, which helps foster cooperation between states on issues of common interest. It also ensures that when appropriate, these officials know whom to contact in other countries and this may help mitigate the risk of misunderstanding and conflict.

    These crisis management and other benefits would be lost if the G20 were to stop functioning. And there is currently no alternative to the G20 in the sense of a forum where the leading states in the world, which may differ on many important issues, can meet on a relatively informal basis to discuss issues of mutual interest. Importantly, the withdrawal of one G20 state, even the most powerful, should not prevent the remaining participants from using the G20 to promote international cooperation on key global challenges.

    In this way it can help manage the risk of conflict in a complex global environment.

    Danny Bradlow, in addition to his position at the University of Pretoria, is working as a G20 senior advisor to the South African Institute of International Affairs and is co-chair of the T20 Taskforce on Financing of Sustainable Development.

    – ref. The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed – https://theconversation.com/the-g20-how-it-works-why-it-matters-and-what-would-be-lost-if-it-failed-251500

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint statement on the occasion of the International Women’s Day

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Joint statement on the occasion of the International Women’s Day

    SARAJEVO, 07 March 2025 – Today, we honor the strength, resilience, and leadership of the women of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Across generations, they have been the backbone of their communities, rebuilding in time of crisis, defending human rights, and shaping democracy. Yet, despite their invaluable contributions, too many doors remain closed, preventing women’s full participation in political, economic, and social life.
    Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina hold just 24% of seats in the state and entity parliaments, limiting their voice in shaping policies that affect their lives. Only 34% of women are employed – compared to 59% of men – and they continue to earn 20% less than their male counterparts. Nearly half of all women (48%) experience some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime. At home, their work is often invisible — spending an average of six hours a day caring for others alongside their jobs. These are not just statistics, but daily realities that demand urgent change.
    This year marks 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a global blueprint for advancing women’s rights—and 25 years since UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. When women are sidelined in leadership, the economy, and public life, the whole of society is held back. Investing in gender equality is not just about fairness — it is about unlocking the full potential of any society. Real progress requires real commitment.
    We call on all actors — government institutions, political leaders, civil society, the private sector, and individuals — to take concrete steps to break down barriers to gender equality. This means enforcing legal protections for women’s rights, expanding economic opportunities for women, ensuring equal representation in leadership and decision-making, and adopting a zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence.
    Gender equality is more than a fundamental human right — it is the foundation of a thriving and just society. The road to gender equality is still being paved, but we can and must build it together. Every policy, every investment, every action matters. We have the power to build a future where every woman and girl can thrive — free from discrimination, violence, and inequality. We cannot afford to wait for another generation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: NRRP steering committee meeting held to verify progress of local healthcare measures

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    A steering committee meeting for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) was held at Palazzo Chigi today, focusing solely on the Plan’s Health Mission. The purpose of the meeting, chaired by the Minister for European Affairs, the NRRP and Cohesion Policy, Tommaso Foti, and attended by the Minister of Health, Orazio Schillaci, as well as regional presidents and representatives from the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, was to review in detail the progress of measures at local level. The healthcare-focused steering committee forms part of the enhanced monitoring of NRRP-funded investments, which see regions playing an active role in their implementation, launched by the Government ahead of negotiations with the European Commission regarding possible adjustments aimed at fully implementing the Plan.

    In order to achieve the objectives required for the ninth and tenth (and final) instalment of the NRRP, the meeting reviewed implementation of strategic projects, such as: community homes and hospitals; major healthcare equipment; building renovation work and safety upgrades to ensure safe hospitals; and, digitalisation of I and II level emergency departments (‘DEA’). These measures are of significant importance to strengthen Italy’s entire national health system and improve citizens’ quality of life.

    The meeting focused on the strategic investments included in the Plan’s Health Mission aimed at enhancing primary care, speeding up service delivery and improving healthcare at local level, with regional authorities, as implementing bodies, having the delicate task of finalising, testing and activating all the planned measures, in accordance with the Plan’s conditions.

    In order to help regional authorities verify schedules and achieve the planned objectives, a certification has been created to certify implementation status and the achievement of the Plan’s milestones and targets. This thorough review process by the Government will allow regional authorities to indicate any areas requiring attention in relation to the specific implementation of their measures, and to propose possible solutions and targeted actions to achieve the objectives provided for.

    The NRRP task force within the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, working in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, ensures the utmost cooperation with the authorities in charge of implementing measures, providing appropriate support for the preparation of the certifications. Without prejudice to the milestones and targets to be achieved for the ninth and tenth instalments, official 2024 figures confirm the launch of 480 ‘local operational centres’ (‘Centrali Operative Territoriali’, ‘COT’), the first community homes and hospitals opened throughout Italy and approximately 2,500 pieces of major healthcare equipment, which will play a crucial role in reducing regional divides and in making the services provided by the national health system more efficient.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Orion Funded Launches Orion V2 with New Funding Models, Trader Dashboard, and AI-Powered Tools

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orion Funded has announced the launch of Orion V2, an update to its proprietary trading program that introduces new funding models, an enhanced trader dashboard, and AI-powered trading tools.

    The Orion V2 update introduces a revised funding model in which traders pay a portion of the challenge fee at the start of their evaluation and complete the remaining payment upon successful funding. Previously, traders were required to pay the full amount upfront. This adjustment restructures the cost framework for evaluation and funding.

    Orion Funded was recognized with the Best Challenge Prop Firm Award by Funded Trading, an industry-ranking platform. The award highlights firms that offer evaluation structures designed to align with trader interests. The award details can be found at FundedTrading.com.

    “Orion V2 is the evolution of our commitment to transparency, and trader success. While most firms follow the same outdated models, we are here to truly change the space, revolutionizing the funding process, reducing conflicts of interest, and giving traders the best opportunity to succeed with the most innovative model in the industry,” said David Viota, CEO of Orion Funded.

    Key Updates in Orion V2

    • Updated Challenge Funding Model – Traders now have the option to pay a portion of the evaluation fee upfront, completing payment upon funding.
    • Customizable Evaluation Options – New add-ons allow traders to adjust evaluation structures.
    • Redesigned Trader Dashboard – A new interface providing real-time performance tracking and data analysis.
    • WebTrader Integration – Traders can now access Orion Funded’s platform directly through a web-based trading terminal.
    • AI-Powered Trading Tools – New analytics and risk management features supported by artificial intelligence.
    • Orion University – A structured education platform with expanded learning resources.

    Institutional Trading Pathway

    Orion Funded continues to offer selected traders the opportunity to engage with Zenith Global, a trading firm managing its own capital, through the Pro & Ultimate Program. This initiative provides a structured pathway for traders who meet specific criteria to transition from proprietary trading to institutional trading roles.

    “We believe in creating real career opportunities for traders. The best-performing traders should have a pathway to professional, institutional-level trading, and that’s exactly what we’re offering,” said David Viota, CEO of Orion Funded.

    Expansion in the Spanish-Speaking Trading Community

    Orion Funded has also expanded its presence within the Spanish-speaking trading community, offering live mentorship, educational content, and a dedicated community platform. Additionally, Orion Room, the #1 trading podcast in Spanish, continues to provide traders with insights, interviews, and expert discussions.

    Orion V2 is now available for traders worldwide. Further details can be found at orionfunded.com.

    About Orion Funded

    Orion Funded is a proprietary trading firm that provides traders with access to capital through one-phase, two-phase, and instant funding models. The firm offers a range of funding options, trading analytics, and educational resources designed to support trader development.

    Contact
    Chief Executive Officer
    David Viota
    Orion Funded
    david@orionfunded.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b764c18f-174e-4194-8e87-d32dc4d9a6d6

    The MIL Network –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES GROUP PLC – 06 03 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES GROUP PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 06 MARCH 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.375p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 8,925,762 1.1263    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 8,925,762 1.1263    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.375p ORDINARY SALE 27,410 99.3p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 07 MARCH 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Permanent Secretary

    Source: Scottish Government

    Joe Griffin appointed top civil servant at the Scottish Government.  

    Joe Griffin has been appointed Permanent Secretary to the Scottish Government and will take up post in April 2025.   

    Mr Griffin has served as a Director General in the Scottish Government since 2021 and led across a range of policy and delivery priorities during his 29 years in the Civil Service, including delivery of the expansion of Early Learning and Childcare to 1,140 hours per week, the same level as primary school. 

    This appointment has been made formally by the UK Cabinet Secretary, Chris Wormald, on the agreement of the First Minister, John Swinney, and the recommendation of the First Civil Service Commissioner. Mr Griffin will succeed John-Paul Marks, who will take up the role of First Permanent Secretary and Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

    As chief official policy adviser, the Permanent Secretary works closely with the First Minister across the full range of responsibilities, including major strategic and policy issues, and is Secretary to the Scottish Cabinet.  

    The First Minister, John Swinney, said:  

    “My thanks to JP Marks for his devoted public service and leadership of the Civil Service. My Cabinet and I are grateful for the invaluable advice he has provided during his time at the Scottish Government. I join with so many across the Scottish public sector and beyond in wishing JP every success in his new role at HMRC.   

    “I welcome Joe Griffin’s appointment as Permanent Secretary of the Scottish Government. He brings a wealth of experience to this role from his distinguished career in the Civil Service.  I know from his record of delivery, not least on the massive expansion of early learning and childcare that he led, that Joe will deliver an unyielding focus on delivering for the people of Scotland.” 

    UK Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald said:

    “I would like to congratulate Joe on his appointment. He brings extensive experience from his roles at Scottish Government, including as Director General for Strategy and External Affairs and previously Director General for Education and Justice. Joe is well placed to lead the organisation and provide excellent support to Ministers. 

    “I would like to thank JP Marks for his leadership of the Scottish Government over the last three years.”

    Commenting on his appointment, Joe Griffin said:

    “It is a privilege to be appointed Permanent Secretary and lead the Civil Service in the Scottish Government. I am grateful to the First Minister and the Cabinet Secretary for this opportunity. 

    “My focus will be on working with colleagues and partners to drive progress and deliver the government’s four priorities; eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency, and ensuring high quality and sustainable public services. I look forward to leading the organisation as we deliver in the service of Scotland.”

    Background

    As the principal accountable officer for the Scottish Government, the Permanent Secretary is personally responsible to the Scottish Parliament for the exercise of their responsibilities. This includes the management of the Scottish Government’s budget and the economic, efficient and effective use of all related resources. 

    Joe Griffin is currently Director General Strategy and External Affairs and has served as a Director General in the Scottish Government since 2021. Joe brings a wealth of experience leading across a range of policy and delivery priorities, including external affairs, intergovernmental relations, strategic cross-cutting policy alignment and the education and justice briefs. He is also DG ally for the Race Equality Network.

    Mr Griffin was previously Director of Early Learning and Childcare where he worked in partnership with local government to successfully expand services to 1,140 eligible two year olds, and all three and four year olds.

    Earlier in his career Joe was a diplomat at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office which included postings to New York and Paris.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mini Spartans excited to promote recycling message in St Patrick’s Day parade debut

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mini Spartans excited to promote recycling message in St Patrick’s Day parade debut

    7 March 2025

    City of Derry Spartans’ legion of underage runners are set to highlight the circular recycling message of reusing, recycling and repairing items when they take part in this year’s St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival parade through the city centre.
    The youngsters will be wearing costumes made from old running t shirts from the Strabane Lifford and Waterside Half Marathons when they join hundreds of performers and tens of thousands of spectators at the spectacle on March 17th.

    The Flowers, Fur and Feathers themed parade, co-ordinated by the North West Carnival Initiative, will leave Bishop Street Carpark at 3pm.

    The Spartans, an institution of Derry sport who celebrated their 50th anniversary last year, have always had junior runners in their ranks and formally set-up a primary school age section, the Mini Spartans, 15 years ago.

    There are over 100 underage runners registered with the club and many of them will take part in their first appearance in the parade which is part of packed programme of events in and around the city centre to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. 

    “We are delighted to get the opportunity to take part in the parade and the youngsters can’t wait for it,” said Karen Farry from the City of Derry Spartans.
    “It’s a great chance for us to showcase our club at such a large scale event and highlight that we cater for runners of all levels and ages.
    “The mini Spartans have had great success as a team this season and they are excited to be able to celebrate this and St Patrick’s Day on March 17th.”
    “We want to thank the North West Carnival Initiative and the Council for the opportunity to get involved.”
    Last year’s Waterside Half Marathon and Strabane Lifford Half Marathon attracted a combined field of over 3,000 participants who secured the coveted commemorative t shirts and medals by taking part.
    The shirts are designed to be hard wearing and to dry easily so runners can reuse them on multiple occasions.
    Event organisers Derry City and Strabane District Council had a small surplus of shirts after the event from runners who were unable to take part and the North West Carnival Initiative’s talented dress making team have used them to create costumes that will be unveiled by the Spartans on March 17th.
    “The Waterside Half Marathon and Strabane Lifford Half Marathons are events that all our underage runners would aspire to race in when they are older so we are delighted to be wearing the upcycled T shirts,” Karen added.
    “Our club members love the T shirts from athletics events in the city and no matter what event or training session you attend there’s nearly always someone wearing a t shirt from the Half Marathons in Derry and Strabane.
    “Hopefully it will help highlight to runners that the t shirts aren’t just for race day and encourage people to recycle or reuse any event t shirts they have lying around the house that aren’t being used.”

    The 2025 St Patrick’s Day parade route will begin at Bishop Street and passes through The Diamond, Shipquay Street, Whitaker Street, Foyle Embankment, Harbour Square Roundabout and down the Strand Road to Strand Road carpark.

    The parade will feature hundreds of flamboyant performers from local dance groups, sports clubs and community organisations and will be the centrepiece of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s comprehensive programme of music, dance, food and folklore for its 2025 Spring Carnival celebrations.

    The full programme for the 2025 Spring Carnival celebrations for Derry and Strabane can be accessed now at derrystrabane.com/springcarnival.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Taxi Times Newsletter Spring 2025

    Source: City of York

    Welcome to the Taxi Times, a newsletter for the taxi trade showing updates on legislation, policy and enforcement.

    In this edition of the Taxi Times we’ve got information on:

    We welcome your feedback. If you have any topics you’d like raised in this newsletter contact the Licensing Team with any comments.

    New Taxi Licensing Policy

    The council has adopted a new Taxi Licensing Policy. This is the first major update to the policy since the introduction of the Department for Transport (DFT) Statutory Standards and Best Practice Guidance for Private Hire and Hackney Carriage. It was adopted by the council on 22 November 2024, after a 12-week public consultation.

    Since the previous policy was adopted there have been changes in legislation in respect to a number of requirements relevant to licensing.

    This includes immigration and right to work, tax checks, safeguarding and equalities requirements and standards of the DFT Statutory Standards and Best Practice Guidance. Many of these have been included in the new policy to ensure there is a comprehensive document covering all the prerequisites and legal requirements.

    Top of page

    Online DBS checks

    A condition for renewing your licence is having an up-to-date Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

    The updated Taxi Licensing Policy proposes that when a driver is granted a licence, they subscribe to the DBS update service so officers can carry out quick online status checks. A subscription is annual and will save you money.

    If you are due or are renewing your DBS, you must subscribe to the Online DBS service when you receive your certificate. Find out more about the DBS Update Service.

    Top of page

    Safeguarding reminder

    Please complete the safeguarding refresher training before renewing your licence.

    These must be completed at least every 3 years and and training can be booked online.

    A course fee applies. For further information email: wdu@york.gov.uk.

    Guidance on how to spot safeguarding issues and reporting your concerns can be found on the Safeguarding Adults website.

    Top of page

    DriveTech Account and DVLA Mandate

    As part of the council’s Taxi Licensing Policy we’re required to undertake a periodic DVLA driving licence check. These checks are carried out for us by DriveTech Fleet management.

    The check of your DVLA driving licence is a statutory requirement of your Private Hire or Hackney Carriage driver’s licence grant. This process can be found in the Taxi Licensing Policy.

    Authorisation to check your documents with the DVLA lasts for 3 years, after which time drivers will be requested to renew the authorisation. Over the next few months DriveTech and the council will be emailing licensed drivers if their authorisation is due to expire.

    Full instructions will be provided to resubmit the DVLA Licence Check Document online via your specific account. If you receive an email, please complete the resubmission requirement within 7 days.

    Failure to complete this requirement may result in non-compliance with the policy and further action may be taken.

    Top of page

    Pay online update

    You now have an easy option to pay for licensing fees online!

    You can now pay for your applications, renewals, transfers and DBS appointments at your convenience:

    Select ‘Pay licence fees’ from the menu.

    As we are not able to accept cash payments for any fees, please use this new secure systems which allows you to pay by debit or credit card.

    Top of page

    New taxi licensing web pages

    We’re updating our web pages with information for new applications, guidance for drivers, vehicle proprietors and operators, and an area to pay for licensing services and download relevant forms.

    Our new web pages also include links for members of the public on taxi accessibility.

    See our new web pages, with information for drivers, operators and passengers.

    Top of page

    Training to use wheelchair-accessible vehicles

    If you own or drive a licensed wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV), you must ensure that it is only driven by a licensed driver who has:

    • completed and passed the Driving Standards Agency wheelchair exercise or equivalent, and;
    • completed and passed City of York Council’s Disability Awareness Training Course (Taxi) or equivalent

    This training is compulsory and requires refresher training every 3 years to ensure that all current drivers remain up-to-date with current industry legislation and practice. If you’re a proprietor of a WAV, please ensure you retain a copy of the driver’s certification.

    Top of page

    Taxi Times

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Centre and States/UTs Deliberate at Chintan Shivir to Strategize for 2028 Olympics and Strengthen India’s Bid for 2036 Olympics

    Source: Government of India

    Centre and States/UTs Deliberate at Chintan Shivir to Strategize for 2028 Olympics and Strengthen India’s Bid for 2036 Olympics

    Talent Identification, Impact of Khelo India, Infrastructure Development and Corporate Partnerships among Key Discussions on Day 1

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:32PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, chaired a two-day Chintan Shivir focused on India’s preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and strengthening the country’s bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics at Kanha Shanti Vanam in Telangana today. The Shivir brought together sports ministers from various States/UTs, senior sports administrators, key government officials, and domain experts to exchange ideas and craft a roadmap for India’s emergence as a global sports powerhouse.

    हैदराबाद, तेलंगाना में आयोजित दो दिवसीय चिंतन शिविर के उद्घाटन सत्र को संबोधित किया।

    प्रधानमंत्री श्री @NarendraModi जी के नेतृत्व में भारत खेलों का हब बनने की दिशा में तेज़ी से आगे बढ़ रहा है। मुझे पूर्ण विश्वास है कि इस चिंतन सत्र में केंद्र सरकार और राज्य/UTs मिलकर देश को… pic.twitter.com/eXSg66Pc2k

    — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) March 7, 2025

    Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned India hosting the 2036 Olympics and urged states to actively contribute to making this ambition a reality. “Chintan Shivir is an initiative guided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of good governance. This forum allows us to collaborate and take forward our dream of hosting the Olympics,” he stated.

    The Chintan Shivir facilitated dialogue on critical areas such as talent identification, coaching methodologies, sports infrastructure, and sustainable development of sports. Representatives from multiple States/UTs, including Jammu & Kashmir, Odisha, Haryana, Bihar, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, shared their best practices, with Dr. Mandaviya stressing the importance of learning from each other to accelerate progress.

    Highlighting India’s vision for becoming a global sporting powerhouse, Dr. Mandaviya stated, “Making India a Viksit Bharat by 2047 requires a well-structured and collaborative approach towards sports. While sports is a State subject, a unified effort is essential to position India as a formidable sporting nation.”

    A key area of discussion was the impact of the Khelo India initiative in identifying and nurturing young athletes. Dr. Mandaviya noted that over 2,800 Khelo India academies have been established, and 937 out of 1,045 Khelo India Centres are currently operational. He emphasized the importance of creating a national athlete repository with unique IDs to track talent and ensure their growth within the system.

    “We cannot afford to let talent slip through the cracks. A scientific approach in talent identification and management, along with active participation from National Sports Federations is crucial for the Olympic mission,” he added.

    Dr. Mandaviya also underlined the need to strengthen grassroots sports by identifying young athletes between the ages of 9-14 and nurturing them for long-term Olympic preparation. He announced that new initiatives under Khelo India, such as beach games, water sports, and indigenous games, will be introduced to encourage regional participation and enhance India’s sports culture.

    Sports governance was another key theme of the discussions. Delegates underscored the need for enhanced transparency in National Sports Federations to ensure fair selection processes and build confidence among parents to encourage their children to take up sports as a career. The deliberations focused on improving coordination among all stakeholders to foster an athlete-centric governance model.

    Infrastructure development was also a major focus, with an emphasis on optimizing the utilization of sports infrastructure of States, PSUs, Ministries, and the private sector. The discussions highlighted the need for a sustainable model where stadiums and existing infrastructure are used efficiently. It was also discussed to establish District-Level Sports Schools (DLSSs) by upgrading existing schools to increase grassroots-level talent scouting and training.

    During the day, participants engaged in a meditation session led by Padma Bhushan Daaji, fostering mindfulness and focus. In the evening, a vibrant cultural program was organized, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and artistic performances, celebrating the nation’s diversity and spirit.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2109135) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IBC to Organise “The Bodhipath Film Festival”

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:24PM by PIB Delhi

    The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in association with The Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, is organising ‘The Bodhipath Film Festival’, scheduled to be held on 10-11 March 2025 at the India International Centre, New Delhi.

    This event is dedicated to Buddhists globally and offers a platform for myriad representations, ranging from historical teachings of the Buddha to unravelling the tribulations of the mind, to be shared and appreciated by the global audience. Over two days, the festival will feature screenings of ten highly recommended global films that have been meticulously curated to reflect the beauty of Buddhist practices, experiences, and the appreciation of values such as compassion, mindfulness, and impermanence, which are prerequisites in diurnal life. In addition to the film screenings, the festival will host four panel discussions, each designed to seek the crux of the themes and insights presented in the films. The broad topics for the panel discussions are as follows:

    • Relevance of Buddhist Films in India – Past, Present and Future.
    • Opportunity and Challenges in Spiritual Film Making.
    • Concept of Art in Buddha Dhamma.
    • Mindful Communication.

     

     

    ‘Meticulous progression,’ an integral aspect of Buddha Dhamma, emphasizes careful and deliberate advancement towards enlightenment. Buddha Dhamma involves mindfulness and precision, where every thought, action, and moment are carefully considered to achieve spiritual awakening. This dedication to meticulous progression reinforces the impact of mindfulness in achieving depth and truth.

    Similarly, as a medium and art form, film making represents an exceptionally intricate and sophisticated technological endeavour. The multifaceted relationship among the conceptualizations of the filmmaker, the machinery, the art, the narrative building, and the human resources involved is so intensely knitted that it often defies comprehensible description. The veracity and authenticity achieved by motion pictures are directly proportional to the filmmaker’s depth of observation and insight.

    Creating a film requires careful attention to detail, much like Buddha Dhamma’s emphasis on systematic advancement. Every frame and interaction must be crafted for an authentic and harmonious representation. Buddhist films provide significant opportunities to visualise the Buddha, his teachings, and the self in nuanced ways. Buddhist films can be considered as part of the spiritual journey that reshapes vision and the act of viewing becomes a ritual process and contemplative practice.

    The Bodhipath Film Festival aims to celebrate and showcase the rich spiritual, cultural, and philosophical traditions of Buddha Dhamma through the motion picture medium. The film festival underscores the universality of Dhamma, reflecting common values between various traditions, practices, and beliefs across Asian Buddhist countries as individuals, families, societies, and nation at large grapple with contemporary challenges; seeking answers from dharma to address the chaos and uncertainty all- around and the breakdown of human relationships. 

    The festival aims to illuminate and nurture the core values of Buddha Dhamma through the powerful cinematic expression. The panel discussions will serve as a bridge between filmmakers, scholars, and audiences, encouraging meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas. The festival aspires to preserve and celebrate Buddhist heritage in a rapidly modernizing world, ensuring that the teachings and philosophies of the Buddha continue to awaken and motivate the future generations.

    Click here for more detail: –

    *****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

     

    (Release ID: 2109129) Visitor Counter : 58

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Green and efficient synthesis of hydrogen peroxide under sunlight could benefit the industry

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Researchers have found an efficient, less energy-intensive, and environmentally friendly way of synthesizing hydrogen peroxide, a chemical that is crucial to the industry for disinfection, paper bleaching, and so on.

    Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a versatile oxidizing agent that is widely used in environmental disinfection, chemical synthesis, paper bleaching, and fuel cells. In addition, the growth of this market is driven by the increasing awareness of disinfection, the rise in the number of surgeries, the prevalence of hospital-acquired infections, and so on. Currently, over 95% of H2O2 is produced industrially using the anthraquinone oxidation process, which is very energy intensive, expensive and produces many hazardous chemicals as by-products.

    Scientists are therefore looking for an environmentally friendly and economical strategy to produce H2O2 from renewable resources with minimal environmental impact. In this context, a new class of porous and ordered polymers with modifiable catalytic sites and light-harvesting properties in visible range, called covalent organic frameworks (COFs), have emerged as promising photocatalysts.

    Figure 1.  Sustainable synthesis and versatile applications of hydrogen peroxide.

    Researchers at S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have designed and prepared a series of COFs having good water affinity through careful control of the hydrazone linkage density and studied their effect on the photocatalytic performance for H2O2 generation. It was observed that the hydrazone-linked COFs provide abundant docking sites for water and oxygen, thereby promoting water oxidation reaction (WOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) – two main pathways for photocatalytic H2O2 generation.

    As a result, the hydrazone-linked COF exhibited exceptional photocatalytic H2O2 production without external sacrificial electron donors when irradiated with a 40 W blue LED (λ = 467 nm). Interestingly, a significant amount of H2O2 (550 μmol g-1 h-1) was also produced under sunlight irradiation, which outperforms most organic photocatalysts under similar conditions, thus demonstrating a clean and sustainable pathway.

    Furthermore, as-synthesized hydrazone-linked COFs can generate H2O2 up to 21641 μmol g-1 h-1 using an aqueous benzyl alcohol solution (water: benzyl alcohol = 90:10) by preventing the degradation of H2O2. This strategy of using a mixture of water-benzyl alcohol solution will be helpful in developing a continuous flow reactor for the sustainable production of H2O2 and will reveal a laboratory-to-industry technology transfer for the benefit of mankind.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2109125) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to visit UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Gujarat on 7th – 8th March

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PM to visit UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Gujarat on 7th – 8th March

    PM to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects for the UT worth over Rs 2,580 crore at Silvassa

    PM to inaugurate NAMO Hospital (Phase I) in Silvassa

    PM to launch Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign and distribute the benefits of National Food Security Act to over 2.3 lakh beneficiaries in Surat

    On the occasion of International Women’s Day, PM to participate in Lakhpati Didi programme at Navsari

    PM to launch G-SAFAL (Gujarat scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting Livelihoods) and G-MAITRI (Gujarat Mentorship and Acceleration of Individuals for Transforming Rural Income) in Navsari

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 7:09AM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Gujarat on 7th – 8th March. He will travel to Silvassa on 7th March and at around 2 PM he will inaugurate the NAMO Hospital (Phase I). At around 2:45 PM, he will also inaugurate and  lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects for the UT worth over Rs 2580 crore at Silvassa. Thereafter, he will travel to Surat and at around 5 PM, he will launch the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign. On 8th March, Prime Minister will travel to Navsari and at around 11:30 AM, he will interact with Lakhpati Didis which will be followed by a public function which will witness the launch of various schemes.

    PM in UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    Boosting healthcare facilities in all corners of the country has been a primary focus of the Prime Minister. In line with this, he will inaugurate NAMO Hospital (Phase I) in Silvassa. This 450 bedded hospital, built at the cost of over Rs 460 crore, will significantly strengthen healthcare services in the Union Territory. It will provide state-of-the-art medical care to the people in the region, especially the tribal communities.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate and  lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects for the UT worth over Rs 2580 crore at Silvassa. These include various village roads and other road infrastructure, schools, health and wellness centres, Panchayat and administrative buildings, Anganwadi centres, water supply and sewage infrastructure among others. These projects aim to improve connectivity, promote industrial growth, encourage tourism, create employment opportunities and aim at enhancing public welfare initiatives in the region.

    Prime Minister will distribute appointment letters under Rozgar Mela. He will also distribute benefits to the beneficiaries under PM Awas Yojana – Urban, Gir Adarsh Aajeevika Yojana and Sylvan Didi scheme.

    Gir Adarsh Aajeevika Yojana aims to boost economic empowerment of women belonging to scheduled castes (SCs), scheduled tribes (STs), other backward classes (OBCs), minorities and divyangjan in the region through setting up small dairy farms and bringing social and economic changes in their lives. The Sylvan Didi scheme is an initiative to uplift women street vendors by providing them with aesthetically designed carts, with co funding from PM SVANIDHI scheme.

    PM in Gujarat

    On 7th March, Prime Minister will launch the Surat Food Security Saturation Campaign Programme in Limbayat, Surat and distribute the benefits under National Food Security Act to over 2.3 lakh beneficiaries.

    Women empowerment has been a cornerstone of the work done by the government. Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, the government has been committed to taking steps towards their all round development. In line with this, on 8th March, on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Prime Minister will participate in the Lakhpati Didi programme in Vansi Borsi village in Navsari district and interact with the Lakhpati Didis. He will also felicitate 5 Lakhpati Didis with Lakhpati Didi Certificates.

    Prime Minister will launch the G-SAFAL (Gujarat scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting Livelihoods) and G-MAITRI (Gujarat Mentorship and Acceleration of Individuals for Transforming Rural Income) programme of the Government of Gujarat.

    The G-MAITRI scheme will provide financial assistance and handholding support to Startups which are working for creating a conducive environment for rural livelihoods.

    G-SAFAL will provide financial assistance and entrepreneurial training to SHG women of Antyodaya families in two Aspirational districts and thirteen Aspirational Blocks of Gujarat.

     

    ***

    MJPS

    (Release ID: 2108964) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Noem Honors Fallen Customs and Border Protection Agent and His Fellow Officers

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Secretary Noem Honors Fallen Customs and Border Protection Agent and His Fellow Officers

    In November 2022, Agent Santiago, Agent Lamphere, and Agent Maceda intercepted a vessel 14 miles off the coast of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. The individuals on board were attempting to smuggle drugs into American communities. After the agents identified themselves as law enforcement, the drug traffickers opened fire. All three agents were hit. Despite his near fatal injuries, Agent Santiago gave lifesaving first aid care to Agent Lamphere and attempted to save Agent Maceda. That day, Agent Maceda made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our great nation. 

    Secretary Kristi Noem presented Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agent Jorge Santiago and Agent Mark Lamphere with the Medal of Valor and Purple Cross awards.” data-asset-id=”58999″ data-asset-link=”1″ data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”medium” src=”https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/externals/146e5b3d68ce3a373b0615ff4dcd2018.jpg.webp?itok=5WENAoVu”>
    Secretary Kristi Noem presented Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agent Jorge Santiago and Agent Mark Lamphere with the Medal of Valor and Purple Cross awards. | View Original

    A statement from Secretary Noem is below: 

    “It was my honor to present CBP Agent Jorge Santiago and Agent Mark Lamphere with the Medal of Valor and Purple Cross awards. In November 2022, both men and their fellow CBP Agent Michael Maceda were shot by drug traffickers attempting to bring drugs into American communities. Tragically, Agent Maceda lost his life. Thank you to all of our law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to keep America safe.” 
    While in Puerto Rico, Secretary Noem also met with Governor Jennifer González-Colón to discuss partnership efforts to secure America’s maritime borders.  

    While in Puerto Rico, Secretary Noem also met with Governor Jennifer González-Colón to discuss partnership efforts to secure America’s maritime borders.” data-asset-id=”59000″ data-asset-link=”1″ data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”medium” src=”https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/externals/d4981d754a8cc3a7c068473e1dbab984.jpg.webp?itok=L6-PO0i6″>
    While in Puerto Rico, Secretary Noem also met with Governor Jennifer González-Colón to discuss partnership efforts to secure America’s maritime borders. | View Original

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4473-4474: So Many Rocks, So Many Textures!

    Source: NASA

    Written by Susanne Schwenzer, Planetary Geologist at The Open University
    Earth planning date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
    The Martian landscape never ceases to amaze me, there is so much variation in texture and color! As a mineralogist, I marvel at them, but my colleagues trained in sedimentology regularly teach me how to see even more than the beauty of them: they can discern whether the materials that make up a rock were transported and laid down by the action of water or wind. The image above shows a rather unusual texture alongside more normal-looking laminated rocks. Just compare the small, brighter block in the foreground with the darker bigger rock in the center of the image. How should we interpret it? Well, that jury is still out. Are they sedimentary textures formed when the rock first was laid down, or shortly after, or are they textures that formed much later when water entered the rock and formed new minerals in the already existing rock? The latter would be more my area of research, and they are often called concretions. And I vividly remember the first concretions a rover ever found, the “blueberries.” Curiosity, of course, found many concretions, too. There is an interesting comparison between rocks that the Mars Exploration rover Opportunity found, and the one that Curiosity found very early in the mission, back at Yellowknife Bay. We have seen many more since, and the above might be another example.
    The landscape directly around the rover today also has some interesting textures and, most important, some more regular-looking bedrock targets. Bedrock is what the team perceives to be the rocks that make up the part of the hill we are driving through. The dark blocks, like the one above, that are also strewn occasionally in the path of the rover are called float rocks, and we always look higher up into the hills to find out where they might have come from. As interesting as all those blocks and boulders are, they pose a huge challenge for the rover drivers. Today, they had managed to get us all the way to the intended stopping point, which in itself is a huge achievement. A mixture of large rocks and sand is just not conducive to any form of travel, and I always wonder how tiring it would be to just walk through the area. But we made it to the intended stopping point, driving just under 20 meters (about 65 feet), as intended. Unfortunately though, one of the rover’s wheels was perched on a rock in ways that posed a risk of dropping off that rock during an arm move. So, as is usual in those cases, we accept that contact science is not possible. The risk would just be too great that the rover moves just at the wrong moment and the arm bumps into the rock that an instrument is investigating at that moment. So, safety first, we decided to keep the arm tucked in and focus on remote science.
    The team quickly pivoted to add some remote science to the already existing observations. As you might imagine in a terrain as interesting as this, Mastcam did get a workout. There are seven different observations in the plan! It looks into the distance to the Texoli Butte we are observing as we drive along it, and at a target, “Brown Mountain.” Looking into the many different features are also imaging activities on the targets “Placerita Canyon,” “Humber Park,” and two others just named “trough,” which is a descriptive term for little trough features the team is tracking for a while with the quest to better understand their formation. ChemCam has a LIBS investigation on target “Inspiration Point,” and two long-distance RMI (Remote Micro Imager) observations. One is truly at a long distance on Gould Mesa, another of the mounts we are observing as we go along. There is another RMI activity closer to the rover, to investigate more of those very interesting structures.
    We also have environmental observations in the plan, observing the opacity of the atmosphere and of REMS investigations are occurring throughout the plan. REMS is our “weather station” measuring atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, winds, and ultraviolet radiation levels. DAN looks at the surface to measure the water and chlorine content in the rocks that the rover traverses over and RAD is looking up to the sky to measure the radiation that reaches the Martian surface. We do not often mention those in our blocks, because we are so used to seeing them there every single sol, doing their job, quietly in the background.
    With so much to do, the only remaining question was where to drive. That was discussed at length, weighing the different science reasons to go to places along the path, and after much deliberation we decided to go to one of the float rocks, but reserve the option to make a right turn in the next plan, to get to another interesting place. All those discussions are so important to make sure we are making the most of the power we have at this cold time of the year, and getting all the science we can get. I am excited to see the data from today’s plan… and to find out where we end up. Not with a wheel on a rock, please, Mars — that would be a good start. But if we do, I am absolutely confident there will be lots to investigate anyway!

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Scientific Mission on Space Station Concludes

    Source: NASA

    NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission with agency astronauts Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, and Suni Williams, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov is preparing to return to Earth following their science mission aboard the International Space Station. Hague, Williams, and Wilmore completed more than 900 hours of research between over 150 unique scientific experiments and technology demonstrations during their stay aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    Here’s a look at some scientific milestones accomplished during their journey:

    NASA astronaut Nick Hague processes samples for Arthrospira C, an investigation from ESA (European Space Agency) that transplants and grows Arthrospiramicro-algae eboard the International Space Station. These organisms conduct photosynthesis and could be used to convert carbon dioxide exhaled by crew members into oxygen, helping maintain a safe atmosphere inside spacecraft. Arthrospira also could provide fresh food on long-duration space missions.

    Researchers are testing the European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D), a modular device that combines cycling, rowing, and resistance exercises to help keep crews healthy on long-duration missions. A single, small device effective at countering bone and muscle loss and improving cardiovascular health is needed for use on future spacecraft such as the Gateway lunar space station. NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore works on installing the device aboard the International Space Station ahead of its evaluation.

    This red romaine lettuce growing in the International Space Station’s Advanced Plant Habitat is part of Plant Habitat-07, a study of how different moisture levels affect the microbial communities in plants and water. Results could show how less-than-ideal conditions affect plant growth and help scientists design systems to produce safe and nutritious food for crew members on future space journeys.

    Packed bed reactors are systems that “pack” materials such as pellets or beads inside a structure to increase contact between any liquids and gasses flowing through it. NASA astronaut Suni Williams installs hardware for the Packed Bed Reactor Experiment: Water Recovery Series (PBRE-WRS) investigation, which examines how gravity affects these systems aboard the International Space Station. Results could help scientists design better reactors for water recovery, thermal management, fuel cells, and other applications.

    During the Residence Time Driven Flame Spread (SOFIE-RTDFS) investigation at the International Space Station, this sheet of clear acrylic plastic burns at higher oxygen levels and half the standard pressure of Earth’s atmosphere. From left to right, the image sequence shows a side and top view of the fuel and the oxygen slowly diffusing into the flame. Studying the spread of flames in microgravity could help improve safety on future missions.

    During a recent spacewalk, NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore swabbed the exterior of the International Space Station for ISS External Microorganisms, an investigation exploring whether microorganisms leave the spacecraft through its vents and, if so, which ones survive. Humans carry microorganisms along with them wherever they go, and this investigation could help scientists take steps to limit microbial spread to places like the Moon and Mars.

    NASA astronaut Nick Hague exercises on the International Space Station’s Advanced Resistive Exercise Device while wearing the Bio-Monitor vest and headband. This set of garments contains sensors that unobtrusively collect data such as heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, and temperature. The data supports studies on human health, including Vascular Aging, a CSA (Canadian Space Agency) investigation that monitors cardiovascular function in space.

    NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore works with hardware for InSPA Auxilium Bioprinter, a study that tests 3D printing of an implantable medical device that could facilitate recovery from peripheral nerve damage, a type of injury that can cause sensory and motor issues. In microgravity, this manufacturing technique produces higher-quality devices that may perform better, benefitting crew members on future long-duration missions and patients back home.

    A deployer attached to the International Space Station’s Kibo laboratory module launches LignoSat into space. JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) developed the satellite to test using wood as a more sustainable alternative to conventional satellite materials. Researchers previously exposed different woods to space and chose magnolia as the best option for the study, including sensors to evaluate the wood’s strain and its response to temperature and radiation. Researchers also are monitoring whether Earth’s geomagnetic field interferes with the satellite’s data transmission.

    NASA astronaut Suni Williams poses with bacteria and yeast samples for Rhodium Biomanufacturing 03, part of an ongoing examination of microgravity’s effects on biomanufacturing engineered bacteria and yeast aboard the International Space Station. Microgravity causes changes in microbial cell growth, cell structure, and metabolic activity that can affect biomanufacturing processes. This investigation could clarify the extent of these effects and advance the use of microbes to make food, pharmaceuticals, and other products in space, reducing the cost of launching equipment and consumables from Earth.

    The International Space Station’s Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer, or NICER, studies neutron stars, the glowing cinders left behind when massive stars explode as supernovas. NASA astronaut Nick Hague installs patches during a spacewalk to repair damage to thermal shields that block out sunlight while allowing X-rays to pass through the instrument. NICER continues to generate trailblazing astrophysics discoveries reported in hundreds of scientific papers.

    From inside the International Space Station’s cupola, NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore photographs landmarks on Earth approximately 260 miles (418 kilometers) below. Crew members have taken millions of images of Earth from the space station for Crew Earth Observations, creating one of the longest-running records of how our planet changes over time. These images support a variety of research, including studies of phenomena such as flooding and fires, atmospheric processes affected by volcanic eruptions, urban growth, and land use.

    This photograph captures an orbital sunrise above the lights of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo as the International Space Station orbits above Brazil. This image is one of the millions of photographs taken by crew members for Crew Earth Observations. These images teach us more about our home planet, and studies show that taking them improves the mental well-being of crew members. Many spend much of their free time pursuing shots that, like this one, are only possible from space.

    The BioNutrients investigation demonstrates technology to produce nutrients during long-duration space missions using engineered microbes like yeast. Food stored for long periods can lose vitamins and other nutrients, and this technology could provide a way to make supplements on demand. NASA astronaut Suni Williams prepares specially designed growth packets for the investigation aboard the International Space Station.

    The International Space Station’s robotic hand, Dextre, attached to the Canadarm2 robotic arm, moves hardware into position for the COronal Diagnostic EXperiment, or CODEX. This investigation examines solar wind and how it forms using a solar coronagraph, which blocks out bright light from the Sun to reveal details in its outer atmosphere or corona. Results could help scientists understand the heating and acceleration of the solar wind and provide insight into the source of the energy that generates it.

    Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov conducts a hearing test in the relative quiet of the International Space Station’s Quest airlock. Crew members often serve as test subjects for research on how spaceflight affects hearing and vision, the immune and cardiovascular systems, and other bodily functions. This research supports the development of ways to prevent or mitigate these effects.

    Euro Material Ageing, an ESA (European Space Agency) investigation, studies how certain materials age when exposed to the harsh space environment. Findings could advance design for spacecraft and satellites, including improved thermal control, as well as the development of sensors for research and industrial applications. NASA astronaut Suni Williams installs the experiment into the Nanoracks Bishop airlock for transport to the outside of the International Space Station.

    NASA astronauts Don Pettit and Butch Wilmore remove a small satellite deployer from an airlock on the International Space Station. The deployer had released several CubeSats into Earth orbit including CySat-1, a remote sensor that measures soil moisture, and DORA, a receiver that could provide affordable and accurate communications among small spacecraft.

    The Responsive Engaging Arms for Captive Care and Handling demonstration (Astrobee REACCH) uses the International Space Station’s Astrobee robots to test technology for capturing objects of any geometry or material orbiting in space. This ability could enable satellite servicing and movement to maximize the lifespan of these tools and removal of space debris that could damage satellites providing services to the people of Earth. NASA astronaut Suni Williams checks out an Astrobee fitted with tentacle-like arms and adhesive pads for the investigation.

    As part of a program called High school students United with NASA to Create Hardware, or HUNCH, NASA astronaut Nick Hague demonstrates the HUNCH Utility Bracket, a student-designed tool to hold and position cameras, tablets, and other equipment that astronauts use daily. Currently, crew members on the International Space Station use devices called Bogen Arms, which have experienced wear and tear and need to be replaced.

    The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft fires its thrusters after undocking from the International Space Station as it flies 260 miles (418 kilometers) above the Pacific Ocean west of Hawaii. NASA’s commercial resupply services deliver critical scientific studies, hardware, and supplies to the station.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grateful Heart Attack Survivor Gives $1.5 Million to UConn School of Medicine

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Donald Reefe thought something was a little off when he had a nagging ache between his shoulders in December 2023. But he never imagined that a few weeks later he would end up in UConn Health’s Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center receiving life-saving treatment for a heart attack.

    “I attribute my recovery to the hospital, of course,” says Reefe. “As well as the quick work of the doctors, the nurses, and the support staff.”

    Reefe and his wife of 57 years, Jean, are thanking his care team by leaving a $1.5 million bequest to the UConn School of Medicine. The Donald and Jean Reefe Family Fund for Cardiology will support clinical technology, education, and research at the Calhoun Center.

    Donald and Jean Reefe (contributed photo).

    “I am very grateful to the Reefes for their support and generosity,” says UConn School of Medicine Dean Dr. Bruce T. Liang. “I am proud of our cardiologists, providers, and researchers who bring cutting edge medical advances to benefit our patients”.

    Life-Saving and Compassionate Care

    Reefe knew something was wrong when he awoke one morning and felt pressure in his chest following an intense dizzy spell the night before. He called 911 and was rushed to the emergency room at UConn Health. Dr. Michael A. Azrin led the care team.

    “Dr. Azrin came in and knew right away what was going on,” Reefe explains. “I don’t know how he determined it so quickly. I remember him saying the stent I needed was available and then I went right to the catheterization lab. It couldn’t have been more than 20 minutes from when I first arrived.

    “I looked at the doctor, he looked at me, and I had that almost overwhelming feeling that I was in good hands. I trusted him.”

    “They are very in tune with the patient and the family, which you don’t see everywhere,” Jean Reefe adds. “The doctor came up to me after and we had a real conversation. I never had a feeling they weren’t listening to us.”

    Recognizing and Preventing Heart Disease

    Heart disease, especially heart attack and stroke, is the leading cause of death in both men and women in the U.S. Don’t ever ignore or delay emergency care for these heart attack warning signs:

    Sudden chest pain, heaviness, or tightness/squeezing
    Shortness of breath
    Sweating or lightheadedness
    Dizziness
    Nausea
    Indigestion, heartburn, or an esophageal burning sensation.

    Dr. Maxwell Eder, assistant professor of cardiology in the School of Medicine, advises three ways to prevent heart disease.

    First, eat a daily diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and high in fiber.

    Second, stay active weekly with brisk walking or other vigorous exercise. The official recommendation for exercise by the American Heart Association (AHA) is 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week with strength training two days per week.

    Lastly, don’t ever smoke, or quit smoking now.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: US car insurance premiums that rank among highest globally poised to go even higher with tariffs, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    US car insurance premiums that rank among highest globally poised to go even higher with tariffs, says GlobalData

    Posted in Insurance

    With the recent 25% tariffs imposed on goods imported from Mexico and Canada, the cost of vehicle repairs is expected to rise in the US, placing additional pressure on insurers to increase car insurance premiums, which are already among the highest globally, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s 2024 Emerging Trends Insurance Consumer Survey reveals that 53.5% of US consumers pay over $1,000 annually for car insurance. In comparison, only 21.0% of UK consumers report paying more than GBP750 ($966), while just 16.9% of Chinese consumers state their premiums exceed CNY7,000 ($963). Among all 11 countries included in the survey, none have a higher proportion of consumers paying $1,000 or more for car insurance than the US.

    Charlie Hutcherson, Insurance Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The recent trade measures introduced by the US government will have significant repercussions across the automotive and insurance industries. The tariffs on imported auto parts from Mexico and Canada will drive up costs across the supply chain, making vehicle repairs more expensive and contributing to rising insurance premiums.”

    The rising costs stem from the integrated supply chains that auto companies have established with manufacturers in Mexico and Canada, which play a critical role in the US automotive industry. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), Mexico and Canada accounted for approximately 35% of US steel imports last year, while Canada supplied nearly half of the country’s aluminum imports. Additionally, more than 30% of total auto parts used in the US were imported from these two countries, reflecting the industry’s reliance on cross-border trade to keep costs down.

    Hutcherson continues: “As US consumers are already paying some of the highest car insurance premiums globally, the tariffs are likely to exacerbate the situation. Rising repair costs will force insurers to adjust pricing models, and many consumers may see their premiums increase further. To navigate these challenges, insurers must focus on improving claims cost management and exploring alternative solutions such as telematics-based policies and strategic partnerships with repair networks.”

    Hutcherson concludes: “The knock-on effect of higher tariffs will be felt across the entire automotive ecosystem. Consumers, insurers, and manufacturers will all have to adapt as costs rise. For insurers, retaining customers in a competitive market will require innovative pricing strategies and cost-effective solutions to help offset the financial strain caused by these policy changes.”

    *GlobalData’s Emerging Trends Insurance Consumer Survey featured a panel of consumers aged 18+, with 5,520 respondents spread across 11 countries in different regions to identify global trends. There was a minimum of 500 respondents per country. It is GlobalData’s first-ever dedicated multi-market insurance consumer survey.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ditches and canals are a big, yet overlooked, source of greenhouse gas emissions – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Teresa Silverthorn, Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Liverpool

    Dick Kenny/Shutterstock

    It’s a cold winter morning in the bleak and bare arable fields of the East Anglian fens. At the edge of a field, a scientist dips a long pole into a ditch. So, what is a climate researcher doing here?

    We are measuring greenhouse gas emissions from ditches and canals by collecting samples of ditch water and analysing them in the laboratory. We also use floating chambers – a low-tech creation (sometimes coupled with high-tech sensors) made of a plastic bucket and noodle-shaped swimming floats that sit on top of the water and collect the gases emitted from it.

    As freshwater biogeochemists, we investigate how elements like carbon and nitrogen are cycled through freshwater ecosystems such as rivers, lakes and ponds. We study how human-induced pressures including eutrophication – when excess nutrients cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen – and climate change affect these cycles.

    Unlike many other scientists, we have a fondness for ditches and canals (we’ll call them all ditches from now on), which don’t tend to receive a lot of attention in the freshwater research world.

    Researchers have previously calculated that ditches emit up to 3% of the total global methane emissions from human activities. In our new study, we find they also emit a lot of CO₂ and nitrous oxide.

    In fact, when comparing the same surface area, ditches emit more CO₂ and nitrous oxide than ponds, lakes and reservoirs – probably due to the high nutrient inputs that go into ditches.

    Using a rough approximation of the global surface area of ditches, we estimate that including ditches would increase global freshwater CO₂ emissions by up to 1% and nitrous oxide emissions by up to 9%.

    These percentages might seem small, but they add up. When accounting for all three greenhouse gases, the world’s ditches emit 333Tg CO₂e (teragrams of CO₂ equivalents – a common unit to express the total climate impact of all greenhouse gases). This is nearly equivalent to the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 (379Tg CO₂e).

    For this study, we collaborated with ditch experts from the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Australia and China. We collected existing data of greenhouse gas emissions from 119 ditches in 23 different countries, across all major climate zones.

    We estimated that global ditches cover about 5,353,000 hectares – about 22% of the UK’s total land area, or the whole of Costa Rica. However, researchers still don’t definitively know the global extent of ditches – they may actually cover a much larger area.

    Ditches are human-made, linear waterways built to serve a variety of purposes. By draining wetlands, they can help create productive soils for growing crops or trees.

    They also transport water for irrigating crops. Some are built to create desirable waterfront properties. Bigger canals play a role in shipping and transportation, while roadside ditches serve to redistribute storm water runoff.

    The global length of ditches is unknown but very large. In many European countries, the total ditch length rivals that of their streams and rivers. The Netherlands has 300,000km of ditches criss-crossing agricultural land. In Finland, networks of forestry drains total around 1 million km.

    Ditches can emit large amounts of greenhouse gases (CO₂, methane and nitrous oxide) that contribute to global warming and climate change. Ditches often contain stagnant water and are commonly found in agricultural and urban landscapes, which means they can receive high nutrient inputs from agricultural runoff containing manure and fertilisers, and from stormwater runoff containing lawn fertilisers, pet and yard waste.

    This creates the low-oxygen, high-nutrient conditions ideal for the production of greenhouse gases – especially methane and nitrous oxide, whose global warming potentials are much higher than CO₂. Given their extent, ditches therefore make a notable contribution to freshwater greenhouse gas budgets in many countries throughout the world.

    Fence, plant and dredge

    By considering ditches when reporting their annual greenhouse gas emissions, nations can build a more accurate picture of the problem. Proper quantification can also help researchers target ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ditches. For example, stronger legislation can limit the use of fertilisers and manure near ditches.

    In Australia, installing fences to prevent cattle from entering farm dams has reduced methane emissions from dams by half. A similar strategy could be applied to ditches to minimise the amount of nutrient-rich manure flowing into them.

    Planting more trees along ditch banks could help take up some of the nutrients and lower water temperature through shading, which also reduces greenhouse gas production. Dredging ditches can remove nutrient-rich sediments, while aerating ditch water can make conditions less ideal for the production of methane.

    So, solutions do exist – but they’ll only be employed and scaled up once the significance of emissions from ditches is quantified and more widely recognised.

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

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

    Teresa Silverthorn has received funding for ditch research from from Defra, the Environment Agency, and EPSRC (UK research councils).

    Mike Peacock has received funding for ditch research from Defra, the Environment Agency, NERC and EPSRC (UK research councils), and Formas and VR (Swedish research councils).

    – ref. Ditches and canals are a big, yet overlooked, source of greenhouse gas emissions – new study – https://theconversation.com/ditches-and-canals-are-a-big-yet-overlooked-source-of-greenhouse-gas-emissions-new-study-250240

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ilona Maher and the myth of feminine fragility – how one rugby player is reshaping sport

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sheree Bekker, Associate Professor, Department for Health, University of Bath

    American rugby player Ilona Maher has risen to global fame. Not just because of her athletic ability (though that is remarkable, winning an Olympic bronze in 2024 in the USA rugby sevens team, and now signing a professional contract with England’s Bristol Bears), but because of what she represents.

    Maher received widespread attention during the Paris Olympics as she shared her journey to sporting success and acceptance on TikTok. It’s a streak she’s continued with a recent turn on the US reality contest Dancing With the Stars, in which she finished second.

    Now in Bristol to play 15-a-side rugby in preparation for the 2025 World Cup, Maher’s popularity (she has 3.4 million followers on Tiktok, more than any other rugby player in the world, of any gender) signals a generational shift. One that is increasingly rejecting outdated notions of femininity, fragility and women’s place in sport.

    Maher is unapologetically big, strong and bold, embodying traits that women have historically been told they shouldn’t possess. She doesn’t shy away from expressing herself. Instead, she has expanded the western cultural model of what strength and confidence can look like.

    On Dancing with the Stars, Maher reversed conventional gender roles by lifting her partner during routines. After the show, she spoke candidly about the financial challenges of being a professional athlete in women’s rugby. She highlighted how lack of investment in the sport has forced her to find additional ways to sustain her career, such as participating in the dance show.

    Maher lifted her partner on Dancing with the Stars.

    Breaking barriers

    This rebellion against gender norms is both personal and political. Sport has long been a site of this struggle for women.

    Participation itself was once radical, as women had to fight just to step onto the field. When American runner Bobbi Gibb broke the rules to run the Boston Marathon in 1966, it was a subversive act that sparked backlash. She ran without permission, having been told women weren’t capable enough, and completed the race easily.

    In our new book, Open Play: The Case for Feminist Sport, we explain how women who excelled in physically demanding sports were often vilified for threatening the traditional gender norms that placed them in passive or nurturing roles, rather than active, competitive ones.

    Athletes who showed strength, endurance and skill in these domains challenged deeply ingrained stereotypes of women as physically inferior and fragile. As a result, they faced intense scrutiny, both socially and publicly. Their achievements were often dismissed as anomalies, and they were frequently subject to sexist criticism, questioning their femininity or even whether they were “real” women at all.

    Maher, too, has faced this misogynistic criticism, with online trolls questioning her gender identity. She has spoken openly about the shame she felt as a child, growing up in a body which defied traditional expectations of femininity that are defined by smallness. Yet by confronting these prejudices, she offers the world a new example of what a woman’s body – and a woman’s power – can look like and do.

    Feminism and sport

    Feminism has historically focused on achieving equality in social, political and economic realms. Yet thinkers like Mary Wollstonecraft recognised early on that physicality was central to maintaining men’s dominance. Wollstonecraft argued in 1792 that women’s perceived physical inferiority wasn’t natural, but a product of their subjugation.

    Sport has since become a pivotal arena for challenging the myth of feminine fragility, which persists in part because of the supposedly objective proof that men outperform women in many physical feats. But Wollstonecraft’s insights remain relevant: men and women still do not compete on equal terms. Women’s sports receive a fraction of the funding, resources and cultural support of men’s.

    And the inequalities extend far beyond economic and cultural support. Women are often discouraged from participating in sport, and shamed if they excel.

    We argue that the segregation of women’s sport, often framed as necessary to “protect female athletes”, actually perpetuates inequality. Around the world, women are still barred from competing against men no matter how exceptional they are, while men retain access to the best facilities, funding and opportunities.

    In our book, we argue that this structural segregation reinforces the myth of women’s inferiority while denying women and other athletes with marginalised gender identities the chance to push boundaries and showcase their full potential. Ending this segregation would challenge the narrative of feminine fragility and open the best of sport to everyone.

    We believe that Maher embodies this challenge. Her fans see in her a bold rejection of outdated gender stereotypes and a celebration of what women can achieve when given the chance. But her visibility also threatens those invested in maintaining traditional hierarchies. The backlash she faces is a reminder of how high the stakes are.

    Sheree Bekker is Co-Director of the Feminist Sport Lab. She is also affiliated with the UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport, an International Olympic Committee Research Centre.

    Stephen Mumford is Co-Director of the Feminist Sport Lab.

    – ref. Ilona Maher and the myth of feminine fragility – how one rugby player is reshaping sport – https://theconversation.com/ilona-maher-and-the-myth-of-feminine-fragility-how-one-rugby-player-is-reshaping-sport-248395

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Constructing Change’ on the Littleborough Flood Scheme

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    ‘Constructing Change’ on the Littleborough Flood Scheme

    A new initiative in Littleborough is encouraging girls and women into the construction industry.

    Littleborough Flood Risk Management scheme under construction

    The Environment Agency, Volker Stevin, Jacobs, Flannery Plant Hire, AE Yates, JN Bentley and Rochdale Borough Council are working together to deliver a new project aimed at encouraging girls and women into the construction industry.

    Constructing Change is a new social value initiative which supports the future generation of construction workers. It aims to provide local female students with an experience of the construction industry and insight into what career opportunities are available.

    Hosted by the Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme project team, the launch of the Constructing Change initiative will see students escorted safely through the site to get an overview of the construction of the Flood Risk Management Scheme.

    The day also includes presentations by contractors VolkerStevin, consultants Jacobs, suppliers Flannery’s as well as the talks from the Environment Agency, AE Yates and JN Bentley. There is also an interactive session taking place in a machine simulator and the on-site laboratory.

    Constructing Change is working to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry and empower underrepresented communities to have a career in construction – building a more inclusive and socially responsible industry for the future. This aligns with the objectives of the Environment Agency, as an inclusive employer.

    Caroline Douglass, Executive Director Flood and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency said:

    I welcome the Environment Agency supporting this initiative to showcase opportunities in the construction industry to young women and ultimately improve diversity which will benefit everyone in the wider sector.

    CEO and Founder of Constructing Change Elizabeth Griffin-Bennett said:

    The launch of Constructing Change at Littleborough marks a key moment in our mission to transform construction. Through collaboration across the sector, we are bringing young people to live sites, showcasing career opportunities, breaking barriers, and embedding social value. This is just the beginning of a movement to build a more diverse, skilled, and resilient future for the industry.

    Environment Agency Senior Project Manager for the Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme, Neil Johnson said:

    This is a great opportunity to provide young, local people with the opportunity to experience a major construction site – right on their doorstep. The Environment Agency is committed to encouraging a diverse and inclusive workforce.

    The work ongoing as part of scheme delivery provides an insight into many aspects of the construction industry, which we hope will inspire local young people to choose a career in construction.

    When completed the Littleborough Flood Risk Management Scheme will better protect 337 residential properties and 185 local businesses across Littleborough from the impact of flooding.

    The Environment is also working closely with Rochdale Borough Council on delivery of the Resilient Roch project which aims to raise flood risk awareness, reduce surface water risk, increase property resilience and implement integrated water management.

    For more information on the Littleborough and Rochdale Flood Risk Management Scheme visit the Flood Hub or download the Volker Engage app.

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    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah inaugurates the Sri Vishweshathirtha Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah inaugurates the Sri Vishweshathirtha Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka

    Sri Vishweshathirtha Memorial Hospital will serve as a modern center for free treatment for the poor and marginalized, providing services to people for many years to come

    The Pejawar Mutt has earned a respected place across the country by promoting national unity, preventing forced conversions, supporting the Ram Mandir movement, and serving Sanatan Dharma

    Sri Vishweshathirtha Swamiji, who took sanyas at the age of 8, dedicated his life to society, religion, and community

    Swamiji combined religious teachings with modern education and dedicated his entire life to education, service, healthcare, and the promotion of the Vedas

    Sri Vishweshathirtha Swamiji made a significant contribution in preventing the division of Hindu society into castes in South India

    Sri Krishna Seva Ashram Trust, established by the revered Sri Vishweshathirtha Swamiji, has always worked for the service of the poor and marginalized people in society

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 4:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the Sri Vishweshathirtha Memorial Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka today.

    In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that today, the 150-bed Multi-Speciality Sri Vishweshathirtha Memorial Hospital has been inaugurated in Bengaluru, Karnataka, on a 2-acre land at a cost of ₹60 crore. He mentioned that this modern center for free treatment for the poor and underprivileged sections of society will serve people for many years to come. He said that 60 per cent of the beds in this hospital have been reserved for the poor, and the center is equipped with several state-of-the-art services. Shri Shah mentioned that the Sri Krishna Seva Ashram Trust has always worked for the service of the poor and marginalized sections of society. He noted that this trust was founded by the revered Sri Vishweshathirtha Swamiji, and today his successor, Sri Vishwprasannteerth Swamiji, is carrying forward this tradition. He added that the Sri Krishna Medical Center, Sri Krishna Netralaya, Dental Center, and Sri Vishwprasannteerth Memorial Clinic have been established. He emphasized that there cannot be a better treatment center for the poor in Bengaluru than this one.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Minister said that the Pejawar Mutt is not only a prominent mutt in Karnataka and South India but also in all of India, serving as a beacon of light. He mentioned that under the leadership of Sri Sri Vishweshathirtha, the Pejawar Mutt has earned a respected place across the country for its long-standing efforts in promoting national unity, preventing forced conversions, supporting the Ram Mandir movement, and serving Hindutva and Sanatan Dharma throughout South India and the nation. Shri Shah added that the Pejawar Mutt, located in Udupi, is one of the eight Mutts and has played a significant role in guiding many people on the path of devotion to Lord Krishna, following the teachings of Sri Madhvacharya.

    Shri Amit Shah said that finding a saint like Sri Vishweshathirtha Swami is extremely rare in today’s times. He mentioned that Swamiji lived his life for society, religion, and community, taking sanyas at the age of 8 and dedicating his eight decades of life to spirituality. He added that Swamiji was always at the forefront not only in serving Hinduism but also in serving society and the nation. Shri Shah further stated that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi conferred the Padma Vibhushan on Swamiji in 2020.

    Union Home Minister said that Swamiji has always worked for national unity. He mentioned that Swamiji played a significant role in preventing the division of Hindu society into castes in South India. He added that Swamiji dedicated his entire life to education, service, healthcare, and the propagation of the Vedas. Shri Shah also said that Swamiji worked to combine religious teachings with modern education. He mentioned that today, Swamiji’s tradition is continuing, and the Udupi Mutt holds great expectations for the country. He highlighted that the Pejawar Mutt played a crucial role in the religious ceremonies of Lord Ram’s consecration at the Ram Mandir. Shri Shah further stated that when Shri Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India in 2014, Swamiji was one of the prominent saints who went to Delhi to bless him.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has focused a great deal on the health and wellness of the people over the past 10 years. He mentioned that campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Fit India Movement, Nutrition Mission, Mission Indradhanush, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, and Jal Jeevan Mission are different components of the Healthy India campaign. He emphasized that cleanliness can manage health, fitness can make health eternal, and only nutritious and balanced food can keep the human body healthy. Shri Shah further stated that Mission Indradhanush covers all types of vaccinations, the Jal Jeevan Mission has ensured fluoride-free water reaches every home, and under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, Prime Minister Modi has provided free treatment up to ₹5 lakh for 60 crore people. He also mentioned that these health initiatives will not succeed unless religious and service-oriented organizations actively promote them. He concluded by stating that the hospital built in memory of Swamiji will play a significant role in keeping society healthy.

    *****

    RK/RR/ASH/PS

    (Release ID: 2109109) Visitor Counter : 90

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Two-Day Armed Forces Display – ‘Shaurya Vedanam Utsava’ – begins in Motihari

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 4:36PM by PIB Delhi

    A vibrant display of military might of the Armed Forces, Shaurya Vedanam Utsav, is being showcased for the first time in Motihari, Bihar on March 07, 2025. The two-day event unfolded with great enthusiasm as it displayed military equipment, martial arts, mass performance by military bands, combat demonstration by special forces, motorcycle, dog show and more.

    The ceremony was graced by, Governor of Bihar Shri Arif Mohammed Khan; Member of Parliament and Chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence Shri Radha Mohan Singh; Army Commander Central Command Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta and senior officials from the Armed Forces, central and state Governments. The occasion was further enriched by the participation of students from various schools & colleges, NCC cadets and citizens from Bihar. As part of the occasion, the Governor paid tributes to gallant soldiers who laid down their lives to defend the nation.

    In his address, Shri Radha Mohan Singh expressed satisfaction that an event at such scale could be organised in Motihari and would go a long way in motivating the youth to join the Armed Forces. As part of the grand festival, the audience was treated to an exhibition featuring notable exhibits like the T-90 tank, the Indian Army’s Main Battle Tank, indigenous K-9 Vajra self-propelled artillery gun, BMP vehicles and domestically produced Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) Swathi.

    The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a flypast featuring three Su-30 fighter aircraft, two AN 32 Transport Aircraft and Chetak Helicopters. The IAF’s Akash Ganga team performed a combat free fall from 8,000 feet, thrilling the spectators. The Indian Navy personnel interacted with the visitors, sharing about the three dimensional capabilities of the navy and motivating youth to join. Performances from the navy band mesmerized spectators highlighting jointmanship between the Armed Forces. A memorial honouring the sacrifice of all bravehearts of the Armed Forces was established at the site. Visitors were made aware of the courageous deeds & valour and paid tributes to these fallen soldiers. Static displays by IAF and the Navy’s Models of Aircraft Carriers, Submarine & Destroyers were also featured.

    The event highlighted Aatmanirbhar Bharat’s tech-driven forces, with indigenously produced versions of tanks and Artillery Guns. The event, organised with meticulous precision, also included an array of informative counters and captivating military demonstrations.

    A Job Fair organised by Directorate of Resettlement for veterans served as a valuable hub, offering resources, support, networking opportunities for picking up a second career. Zonal Recruiting Offices of the Indian Army connected with the youth, providing insights into career opportunities and the latest developments in military service.

     *****

    VK/SR/SPS/KB

    (Release ID: 2109108) Visitor Counter : 84

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    March 8, 2025
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