NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FEHD takes serious follow-up actions against suspected misconduct of outsourced cleaning workers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In response to media enquiries about a video being circulated on social media, in which outsourced cleansing workers were suspected of removing display bills posted by themselves in Nam Cheong Street, Sham Shui Po, a spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (February 24) responded as follows:

         The FEHD is very concerned about, and is investigating, the incident. A preliminary investigation revealed that the four staff members involved were employed by an outsourced street cleaning service contractor. The FEHD has instructed the contractor to suspend the staff members concerned from carrying out their contractual duties until the investigation is completed.

         The spokesman reiterated that the department attaches great importance to the performance of contractors and the behaviour and conduct of their employees. The FEHD has immediately requested the contractor to submit a report on the incident. If the investigation confirms the incident, the FEHD will seriously hold the contractor liable in accordance with the contract, which may include the deduction of service fees, and record the incident as a considering factor for future service procurement. Moreover, the FEHD will refer the suspected falsification of records to the Police for follow-up.

         The spokesman said that the workers concerned are responsible for removing unauthorised display bills and posters in public places, and must take photos for record purposes. The FEHD has not set a minimum target for the number of bills and posters to be removed by the contractors.

         The FEHD will continue to closely monitor the contractor’s service performance to ensure compliance with the service contract requirements.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Policy to Practice

    Source: Government of India

    Policy to Practice

    Harnessing Biotechnology for a Greener Tomorrow

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 4:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    Biotechnology is emerging as a transformative force in addressing global challenges related to environmental sustainability and energy conservation. By leveraging cutting-edge innovations in bio-manufacturing, bioresources, and bioenergy, India is actively advancing its commitment to green growth and a sustainable future. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has been at the forefront of driving policy reforms and research initiatives aimed at fostering a bio-based economy that aligns with the nation’s environmental and economic goals.

    Policy Reforms Driving Biotech Advancements

    Recognizing the potential of biotechnology to revolutionize key sectors, the Government of India has introduced several landmark policy reforms:

     Approved on August 24, 2024, this policy aims to accelerate innovation-driven research and entrepreneurship in high-performance biomanufacturing.

    • Positioning India as a Global Biomanufacturing Hub.
    • Steer India on the path of accelerated Green Growth.
    • To fast-track innovation to technology sustainably.
    • Drive employment and intensify entrepreneurial momentum.
    • Achieve bioeconomy targets and national economic goals for 2047.
    • Create a Bio-Vision for Bharat.[2]

    [3]

    This scheme consolidates previous DBT initiatives into a single framework, with a budget allocation of Rs 1,500 crore. Bio-RIDE aims to accelerate research, enhance product development, and bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications. The scheme is part of the Government of India’s mission to harness the potential of bio-innovation to tackle national and global challenges such as healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, and clean energy.

    [4]

    The establishment of the BRIC-National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute (BRIC-NABI) marks a significant milestone in India’s agricultural biotechnology landscape. This newly established entity aims to streamline the journey from research to commercialization, facilitating pilot-scale production and delivering innovative Agri-tech solutions to the market.

    [5]

    Launched in 2024, this PhD initiative aims to build a highly skilled workforce with a problem-solving approach to address societal needs. The programme will foster greater academic and research interaction among the institutions of the DBT BRIC (iBRICs), RCB and ICGEB, and will increase the professional networking opportunities for the Ph.D. scholars. With its first call opened in June 2024, a total of 58 students have been enrolled in its very first batch.

    [6]

     The Emerging Frontiers in Biotechnology (EFB) program of DBT is designed to promote innovative and high-risk research in emerging areas of biotechnology. It aims to address cutting-edge scientific challenges and create new knowledge and technologies that could have significant societal and economic impacts.157 innovative projects have been supported so far across 73 institutions nationwide, spanning 21 states.

    India’s commitment to bio-innovation is yielding tangible results in bioenergy, bioresources, and environmental restoration:

    The integration of biotechnology into environmental and energy conservation efforts is paving the way for a sustainable future. Through progressive policy reforms, strategic investments, and groundbreaking research, India is strengthening its bioeconomy while addressing critical environmental challenges. As biotechnology continues to evolve, it holds immense potential to drive economic growth, foster ecological balance, and ensure energy security for future generations.

    References

    https://x.com/moesgoi/status/1827381922844065876/photo/2

    https://x.com/PIB_India/status/1836354791506919516/photo/1

    Bio E3 brochure: https://dbtindia.gov.in/publications

    Annual Report 2022-23 https://nabi.res.in/cms?slug=annual-reports

    Click here to see PDF.

    ******

    Santosh Kumar/Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

    (Release ID: 2105774) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: OFFICER TRAINEES OF INDIAN AUDIT AND ACCOUNTS SERVICE, INDIAN RAILWAY PROTECTION FORCE SERVICE, INDIAN RAILWAY MANAGEMENT SERVICE (ACCOUNTS) AND INDIAN RAILWAY MANAGEMENT SERVICE (TRAFFIC) CALL ON THE PRESIDENT

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    A group of officer trainees of Indian Audit and Accounts Service, Indian Railway Protection Force Service, Indian Railway Management Service (Accounts) and Indian Railway Management Service (Traffic) called on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 24, 2025).

    Addressing the Indian Audit and Accounts Service officers, the President said that they have a role to play in the great national effort of making India a developed nation by the year 2047. She advised them to keep in mind the provisions of the Indian Constitution which is the basis of the entire institution of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.  She said that while Chapter-V of Part-V of the Constitution makes them aware of the role, duties and powers of the institution, the Preamble of the Constitution and the oath of the CAG should be the guiding spirits of each and everyone in the discharge of the important roles and duties of their institution. She urged them to guide and facilitate the stakeholders with innovative solutions. She said that their role as the friend, philosopher and guide will be as important as that as a monitor and controller.

    Addressing the Railway Services officers, the President said that a major part of India moves on the railway tracks every day. As the Railway Services officers, they have to play a major role in accelerating our mobility, and thereby the growth of our economy. She highlighted that Railway services determine the quality of daily lives of a large number of people. She advised officers to keep in mind that they are working for the overall effectiveness of the railways as a change agent and service provider to the nation on the move.

     

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2105753) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE: DLIR HOSTS JOB FAIR FOR FEDERAL WORKERS AND CONTRACTORS

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE: DLIR HOSTS JOB FAIR FOR FEDERAL WORKERS AND CONTRACTORS

    Posted on Feb 24, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

    KA ʻOIHANA PONO LIMAHANA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    JADE T. BUTAY

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

    DLIR HOSTS JOB FAIR FOR FEDERAL WORKERS AND CONTRACTORS

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    February 24, 2025

     

    HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) is hosting a hiring fair on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, aimed at addressing the state’s labor shortages and supporting workers affected by federal layoffs, resignations and other employment transitions.

    “We invite individuals impacted by recent federal policy changes to explore career opportunities within our department or consider other state positions,” said DLIR Director Jade T. Butay. “We have immediate openings and an expedited hiring process for those interested in continuing their careers in public service.”

    “We value the experience and dedication of federal workers,” said Department of Human Resources Development Director Brenna H. Hashimoto. “We are eager to welcome those impacted by the changes at the federal level to our workforces, as we believe they will make an immediate, positive impact.”

    Attendees will have the chance to explore open positions within DLIR’s divisions, meet with hiring managers, participate in on-the-spot interviews, and receive support with job-matching and applications for DLIR.

    The event, “Operation Hire Hawaiʻi: A Workforce Transition Initiative,” will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 830 Punchbowl St., Rooms 310, 313 and 314, in Honolulu.

    # # #

    Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
    Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
    TDD/TTY Dial 711 then ask for 808-586-8842

    View DLIR news releases:

    http://labor.hawaii.gov/blog/category/news/

    Media Contact:

    Chavonnie Ramos

    Public Information Officer

    Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

    Phone: 808-586-9720

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: http://labor.hawaii.gov

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release-Voyaging Canoe Lost in Lahaina Wildfires Being Replaced, Feb. 21, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release-Voyaging Canoe Lost in Lahaina Wildfires Being Replaced, Feb. 21, 2025

    Posted on Feb 21, 2025 in Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

         JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

     

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

     

     

    VOYAGING CANOE LOST IN LAHAINA WILDFIRES BEING REPLACED

    Donations Came From Around the State

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

    Feb. 21, 2025

     

    KAHULUI, Maui — A trucker, a shipping company, a canoe builder, and the DLNR are helping Hui O Wa‘a Kaulua replace a voyaging canoe that burned in the Lahaina wildfires.

     

    The Mo‘olele was birthed 50 years ago and was in a park along the ocean, at 525 Front Street, when it burned. Timothy ‘Timi’ Gilliom is a captain and the builder of the Mo‘okiha O Pi‘ilani and the new canoe that’s replacing the Mo‘olele, the Nāleilehua.

     

    He’d been working in Lahaina on August 8, 2023, and had gone to the boat hale where the Mo‘olele was being restored. As he was evacuating the burning town he looked back and recalls, “When I looked at Mo‘olele, I knew I’d never see her again. And she was already finished, ready to go.”

     

    Gilliom said it was a devastating blow. Building Polynesian canoes is a laborious, painstaking and expensive process. It’s rich in Hawaiian tradition, which explains the kōkua his group received through a series of connections and donations.

     

    Tons of koa, land and ocean shipping and fiberglass hulls – all donated – has Gilliom and his crew of three working to try and have Nāleilehua finished this year.

     

    “Mo‘olele was 42 feet. This (Nāleilehua) is 44 feet, a little longer, same crab claw sail, same parts, and everything. And we moved from Lahaina (to Kahului) which is where our nonprofit was. It’s called Hui O Wa‘a Kaulua, the group of the double hull canoes,” Gilliom explained.

     

    He said they didn’t know if they would be able to use koa for the new canoe, because it was hard to get. “Then we got ahold of David Tsuchiya (Kaua‘i Branch District Superintendent for the DLNR Division of State Parks-DSP) and he ended up sending us a container load. So, we got a lot of koa now. It was 22,000 pounds,” Gilliom commented.

     

    Some of the koa was salvaged from tree fall from lessees, but most of it was collected in Koke‘e State Park when it falls across roadways and other common areas of the park. It is stored for potential future public auction, which has happened in the past. DSP Administrator Curt Cottlrell said, “There was no question that State Parks preferred to donate this koa for Nāleilehua.”

      

    From Koke‘e, trucker Timmy Lopez, drove the long shipping container to the harbor, where Pasha-Hawai‘i loaded it onto a container ship for the voyage to Maui.

     

    “The trucking was free…the shipping was at the discounted employee rate. The koa that we have is heavy koa. So, it’s older koa,” Gilliom said. “It was overwhelming,” he added.

     

    “My actual genealogy is from Pi‘ilani, from that area where Mo‘olele lived before,” remarked Makaio Lorenzo as he sawed and cut fiberglass hatch covers. He describes Nāleilehua as, “Kind of riding the line, right in the middle. So, functions as traditional, looks very traditional, but we have more modernized stuff, like hatch covers for our storage. I’m sure back then our kūpuna had something like storage containers, but it’s just the cleaner, more modernized way of doing it.”

     

    But, it’s the sense of tradition and ancestry that has Lorenzo all in, “100%” he says. “I get to be what Timi was to Mo‘olele, to this canoe now. And it doesn’t stop with Timi and Mo‘olele. It goes further with his teachers, Uncle Leon, and it’s continuing that genealogy through our canoes.”

     

    Lorenzo looks forward to sailing on the Nāleilehua. One day he’d like to be its captain. “I dream about it every single night and I just keep thinking about her. I have no idea what’s going to happen. I don’t know if I’m going to cry. I don’t know if I’m going to just stand there and be like, good job. No idea,” Lorenzo concluded.

     

    # # #

     

         RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

     

    HD video – A New Wa‘a for Lahaina (web feature):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/52ldhm7ucwf2fog160z2f/A-New-Wa-a-for-Lahaina.mov?rlkey=i4om3yjk4ncjixcz5aiuvxyrz&st=zdmffla8&dl=0

     

    HD video – New wa‘a for Lahaina media clips (Feb. 19, 2025)

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/a2yqbwx2852oz5x7bb942/New-Wa-a-for-Lahaina-media-clips-Feb.-19-2025.mov?rlkey=j6zf39npth3pvopjjpn9xrech&st=pwcuoh9e&dl=0

    (Shot sheet/transcriptions attached)

     

    Photographs – New wa‘a for Lahaina (Feb. 19, 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/iacc0ic3vexhs5zvffdka/ABYFZYpXQ_ihpxQqboKDVqs?rlkey=7ripzvh88hclphdlito6kbr4u&st=pdlv7w8k&dl=0

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Dan Dennison

    Communications Director

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    Dlnr.comms@hawaii.gov

     

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panel to examine measures adopted by Türkiye targeting Chinese electric vehicle imports

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS629: Türkiye — Measures Concerning Electric Vehicles and Other Types of Vehicles from China

    China submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel to rule on various measures taken by Türkiye concerning electric vehicles (“EVs”) and certain other types of vehicles originating in China. China’s first request was blocked by Türkiye at the previous DSB meeting on 27 January. China said challenges faced by one member’s industry need to be addressed in a way consistent with its WTO obligations and should not be used as an excuse for abandoning the core principle of non-discrimination that is the bedrock of the WTO and of the rules-based international trading system.

    Türkiye said it is deeply concerned that China is making such a request before all possible bilateral consultations are exhausted. China’s request relates to a major sector that has been facing strong challenges for many years due to uncompetitive practices, subsidization and excess capacity, Türkiye said.

    The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel. The European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Brazil, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, Norway, Singapore, the Russian Federation, Thailand and India reserved their third-party rights to participate in the panel proceedings.

    DS593: European Union — Certain Measures Concerning Palm Oil and Oil Palm Crop-Based Biofuels

    Indonesia noted the panel ruling circulated on 10 January, which it said found that the European Union’s 2018 renewable energy directive and related regulations unfairly discriminated against Indonesia’s palm oil biofuels. The economic impact of these discriminatory measures is substantial and has severely affected Indonesian palm oil exports, impacting millions of farmers and businesses, Indonesia said. It called on the EU to adjust its policy and the measures at issue so that they are in line with the WTO agreements; Indonesia will closely monitor implementation and expects swift compliance.

    The European Union said it welcomed the panel’s findings, which confirm that the EU has the right to take measures to ensure that its policies on renewable fuels do not exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions associated with indirect land-use change. While it raised some concerns regarding the panel’s findings, the EU said the panel found that the EU measures aim to achieve legitimate environmental objectives and that they are science-based.

    Russia, Brazil, the United States, and St Vincent and the Grenadines (for the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States) took the floor to comment on the panel report.

    The DSB took note of the statements and adopted the panel report.

    DS599: Panama — Measures Concerning the Importation of Certain Products from Costa Rica

    Costa Rica made a statement criticizing Panama’s decision to appeal the panel report in DS599, which upheld Costa Rica’s complaint regarding Panama’s import restrictions on various fruit, dairy and meat products from Costa Rica. Costa Rica proposed a bilateral agreement to Panama that would enable both parties to proceed to arbitration under Article 25 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), but Panama refused, Costa Rica said. Panama’s appeal “into the void” should serve to highlight the importance of alternative avenues under the DSU to resolve disputes, Costa Rica said.

    Panama said it reaffirms its commitment to international law and to the WTO agreements in general and the DSU in particular, and its willingness to settle any dispute with its trading partners.

    The European Union, Canada and Colombia made statements on the matter.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 84th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States repeated that the US is currently transitioning to a new administration and that, as US concerns with WTO dispute settlement remain unaddressed, it does not support the proposed decision.

    Twenty-two members then took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of the ACP Group. Most reiterated their support for the joint proposal and for the urgent need to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system. Several welcomed the progress made in the dispute settlement reform discussions last year and supported the proposal by the previous General Council Chair to commence consultations on advancing the discussions.

    Ten members (China; Canada; Hong Kong, China; Switzerland; Singapore; the European Union; Australia; Norway; Japan; and New Zealand) urged members to consider joining the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body.

    Colombia said on behalf of the 130 members that it regretted that, on 84 occasions, members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and, in line with 17.2 of the DSU, members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said on behalf of the group.

    Surveillance of implementation

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “United States — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”, DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Election of Chairperson

    At the end of the meeting, the DSB elected Ambassador Clare Kelly of New Zealand as Chair of the DSB for the coming work year.

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 24 March.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Processes leading to fines for car manufacturers exceeding emissions targets – P-000402/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The procedure for the Commission’s annual assessment of the CO2 emission performance of car and van manufacturers, including their compliance with the emission targets set out in Regulation (EU) 2019/631[1], is outlined in Articles 7 and 9 of that regulation and in Chapter 2 of Regulation (EU) 2021/392[2].

    The Commission calculates the average CO2 emissions and CO2 emission targ ets for each manufacturer based on the vehicle registration data, which Member States submit to the European Environment Agency e ach year by 28 February, in respect of the preceding calendar year.

    The Commission shares those provisional findings with the manufacturers, who then ha ve three months to notify any errors.

    Subsequently, the C ommission is required to adopt a decision setting out the final CO2 emission performance of all cars and vans manufacturers for the monitoring year concerned, by 31 October of the following year. That Decision is notified to the manufacturers and published in the Official Journal.

    Manufacturers not meeting their CO2 emissions target in a given calendar year are obliged to pay an excess emissions premium, which is calculated following the formula set out in Article 8(2) of Regulation (EU) 2019/631 and using the data set out in the Commission Decision on the CO2 emission performance for that year.

    The premium amounts to EUR 95 multiplied by the excess emissions (number of g/km by which the target was exceeded) and by the number of newly registered vehicles of the manufacturer in that calendar year.

    Manufacturers that are due to pay a premium receive a ‘Letter of advice of recovery’ and have the opportunity to raise any comment. After that period, the Commission issues a debit note, payable by the manufacturer within 45 days after receipt.

    • [1] Regulation (EU) 2019/631 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 setting CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and for new light commercial vehicles, and repealing Regulations (EC) No 443/2009 and (EU) No 510/2011 (OJ L 111, 25.4.2019, p. 13).
    • [2] Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/392 of 4 March 2021 on the monitoring and reporting of data relating to CO2 emissions from passenger cars and light commercial vehicles pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2019/631 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Commission Implementing Regulations (EU) No 1014/2010, (EU) No 293/2012, (EU) 2017/1152 and (EU) 2017/1153 (OJ L 77, 5.3.2021, p. 8).
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Developing tourism in Europe – E-000031/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has been working together with tourism stakeholders in supporting resilient, sustainable and digitally-fit European tourism along the priorities and actions agreed together under the Transition Pathway for Tourism and European Agenda for Tourism 2030.

    All the priorities the Honourable Member is referring to — better connected tourism destinations, training and skills, as well as proper working conditions for tourism staff — are part of the EU’s shared agenda and efforts.

    For example, the EU Pact for Skills initiative and large-scale partnership (LSP) for tourism has a headline objective of reskilling and upskilling 10% of the tourism workforce per year.

    Efforts under the Pact for Skills and the Erasmus+-funded projects related to it have resulted in the training of tens of thousands of tourism employees. The tourism LSP will continue its collective efforts to reach this goal and ensure a robust and skilled tourism workforce.

    Building on the progress achieved so far, which is well reflected in the upcoming stock-taking report on the implementation of the Transition Pathway for Tourism, as well as on the upcoming report to the Council on the implementation of the European Agenda for Tourism 2030, the Commission will be proposing a new EU strategy for sustainable tourism.

    The priorities will be designed following consultation with relevant tourism stakeholders, including local and regional authorities, civil society and youth.

    A sustainable transport sector is also a key priority for tourism, with a view of improving accessibility and passenger rights. This includes instruments such as multi-modal single digital booking and ticketing. This will help to promote Destination Europe beyond the European continent.

    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Inadequate impact assessment of the proposal for a directive harmonising certain aspects of insolvency law (2022/0408(COD)) – E-002904/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The impact assessment on the proposal for the Insolvency Directive[1] included a direct consultation carried out by the Commission, and an additional study which included further consultations. The Study was published on the Commission website[2].

    The Commission ensured that there was a balanced geographical distribution of stakeholders and experts consulted. Its direct consultation was open to all stakeholders and published on the Commission website[3]: stakeholders consulted came from 18 Member States and dedicated workshops with private and governmental experts were organised.

    Contractor’s consultation was performed via direct interviews with stakeholders from 15 EU Member States, including the Netherlands, and through an online survey targeting more than 800 stakeholders covering 24 Member States with 120 completed responses[4].

    Since most stakeholders and experts favoured a harmonisation of directors’ duties in the vicinity of insolvency and in view of its economic benefits as assessed in the impact assessment, the Commission proposed a requirement to request the opening of insolvency proceedings within three months[5].

    • [1] SWD(2022) 395 final.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/civil-justice/civil-and-commercial-law/insolvency-proceedings_en#research-and-key-documents.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/12592-Insolvency-laws-increasing-convergence-of-national-laws-to-encourage-cross-border-investment/public-consultation_en
    • [4] Annex 2 of the impact assessment and Section 2.3. of the impact assessment study.
    • [5] Sections 2.2., 2.6. and 3 of Appendix to Annex 2 of the impact assessment.
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Re-approval of 8-hydroxyquinoline and use of the negligible exposure criterion – E-003066/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The re-approval of a substance classified as toxic for reproduction Category cB is possible when exposure to humans under realistic conditions of use is considered negligible.

    The discussions at the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCoPAFF) were based on the findings regarding exposure in the recent scientific assessment carried out by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

    Dietary exposure is considered negligible as EFSA found that the residue levels are below the default value as set out in point 3.6.4 of Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009[1].

    For non-dietary exposure, the discussions in SCoPAFF focused on strict conditions to ensure that exposure is reduced to a level considered negligible.

    The proposed conditions include a use restriction in permanent greenhouses via a closed transfer system designed to avoid the exposure of operators during mixing and loading for application via drip irrigation.

    Although the study referred to by the Honourable Member had certain limitations, the data available suggest that exposure via air is unlikely[2].

    To increase confidence in this conclusion, the proposed approval conditions include a requirement to submit a new study on non-dietary exposure as confirmatory information.

    EFSA considered the predicted exposure of bystanders and residents to be an overestimate; This is because the estimates in the EFSA conclusion were based on data from application by spraying, while the actual representative use is via drip irrigation in permanent greenhouses.

    Therefore, the resulting exposure will be significantly lower[3]. EFSA also concluded that exposure via volatilisation is low[4].

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2009/1107/oj
    • [2] The study monitored the concentrations in air inside and outside the greenhouse and no peaks were found in any of the samples. The lack of detection peaks shows that exposure via air is unlikely and can be considered negligible.
    • [3] As also reported in the EFSA conclusion, for example on page 27 ‘Predicted exposure to vapour is exceeding the (A)AOEL for children, but these values are very likely overest imated due to the model assumptions as it is based on data for spray application and not for drip irrigation. (RMS suggested that the product should only be applied in high-technology greenhouses, preventing the exchange of vapours of the active substance with the outside. During the peer review meeting, the experts agreed that this should be considered at Member State level for national authorisations)’.
    • [4] See page 9 of the EFSA conclusion ‘This was considered possible for the drip irrigation use because the substance Henry’s Law constant is below 1 Pa m3 mol -1; this indicates active substance volati lisation would be low, so minimising the possibility for its condensation on greenhouse structures’.
    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Cumulative impact of the Świnoujście container terminal on Natura 2000 areas – P-000765/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-000765/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Hannah Neumann (Verts/ALE)

    Following the Commission’s opinion C(2024)299 of 23 January 2024 and challenges brought by the City of Świnoujście and Polish and German civic movements, the Polish Directorate-General for Environmental Protection (GDOŚ) confirmed the environmental decision for the Świnoujście container terminal, albeit with some changes to the environmental requirements.

    The permit acknowledges the significant impact on Natura 2000 site PLH320019 Wolin i Uznam, but does not identify any substantial effects on maritime Natura 2000 sites PLH990002 and PLB990003. A key criticism therefore remains unresolved: the environmental impact assessment (EIA) dealt only with the effects of the terminal’s construction on land, but did not assess the cumulative effects of building channels or increased shipping traffic. A separate environmental impact assessment should be carried out to cover those aspects. In accordance with Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive and the EIA Directive (2011/92/EU), all cumulative, direct, indirect and long-term effects of a project must be taken into account.

    • 1.What does the Commission make of the amended environmental requirements?
    • 2.Would the environmental impact assessment not have to cover the entire project?
    • 3.How does the Commission ensure that the protection status of Natura 2000 sites is not undermined by split or incomplete EIAs?

    Submitted: 19.2.2025

    Last updated: 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacts with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacts with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi

    The main objective of the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme is to familiarize the youth of J&K with the social and cultural diversities of the country and to bring about an emotional connect among them

    PM Modi united the entire country by abolishing Article 370, now the children of Kashmir have as much right over the country as the children of any other state

    Our goal is to make Jammu and Kashmir such that not a single person of Jammu and Kashmir dies due to terrorism

    The peace that has come to Jammu and Kashmir has to be converted into permanent peace

    In the last 10 years, stone pelting, bomb blasts and terrorism have ended in Jammu and Kashmir and development has gained new momentum

    Union Home Minister appeals to the children to go back and talk about peace, harmony and development to their families, friends and villages

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:24PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah interacted with 250 children from Jammu and Kashmir under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in New Delhi today. Union Home Secretary and Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) were also present on the occasion. The program aims to introduce the youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir to the nation’s dynamic progress, rich social fabric, and cultural diversity, fostering a strong sense of social, cultural, and emotional connection.

     

     

    During the interaction, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah described the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ program as an initiative to deepen the understanding of our country. He said that our country is our home and just as we are familiar with every part of our home, we should also know our country in the same way. Shri Shah said that this vision led the Government of India to launch the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ program. Home Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has united the whole country by abolishing Article 370 and now the citizens of Kashmir have the same rights on the country as the citizens of any other state.

     

    Shri Amit Shah underlined that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, significant efforts have been made over the past decade to make India prosperous, modern, and a global leader. He expressed confidence that in the future, students from around the world will come to India for education. As India advances, it will naturally drive progress for all. Home Minister emphasized that a more prosperous, modern, and developed India will bring benefits to everyone.

    Union Home Minister said that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed significant development in education, industry, healthcare, and infrastructure. He highlighted that the world’s highest railway arch bridge, Asia’s largest tunnel, and the country’s only cable suspension bridge have all been built in Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is also the only region in India to have two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), along with two Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). It also has 24 major colleges, and eight universities. He emphasized that Kashmir, once badly affected by bomb blasts and terrorism, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Incidents of stone pelting, bomb blasts, and terrorism have been eliminated, allowing schools to function smoothly. Infrastructure development, including roads, hospitals, and universities, has progressed rapidly. Moreover, 36,000 elected public representatives now have their rightful authority at the Panchayat and Municipality levels, strengthening grassroots democracy in the region.

    Shri Amit Shah said that development can only happen when there is peace. He said no one benefits from terrorism. In the last 30 years, 38 thousand people have been killed in Kashmir due to violence. Shri Shah said that there has been an 80 per cent reduction in the death of civilians in Kashmir, and people are happy about this, but true happiness will come when not a single citizen of Jammu and Kashmir loses their life. Union Home Minister said that it is our goal to make Jammu and Kashmir a place where not a single person dies due to terrorism. He said that the responsibility of creating such a Jammu and Kashmir lies with the children and youth.

     

     

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation told the children that the entire country belongs to them and they should go back to Kashmir with the same spirit. He said that peace and tranquility is the most important thing and peace has come there under the rule of PM Modi. He said that under the Modi government, educational systems have been established, industries have come, hospitals have been built, drinking water facilities have been provided, and large infrastructure projects have been carried out. Shri Shah stated that no government can maintain peace in Jammu and Kashmir, only children can do so. He mentioned that if every child in Jammu and Kashmir explains to their parents and neighbours that the entire country belongs to us, and we need to live in peace with everyone while driving terrorism out of here, then there will be no need for police or army. He further said that the day is not far when there will be no weapons in anyone’s hands, and there will be no need for police or army with weapons.

    Shri Amit Shah appealed to the children to go back to their villages and talk to their parents, siblings, friends, relatives, and people in their village about peace, harmony, and development. He said that this country belongs to everyone, and it is important to instill this belief in the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Shri Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has brought so much development to the country, creating numerous avenues and opportunities that await the youth and children, and they should take advantage of these opportunities. He added that we all must work together to transform the peace established in Jammu and Kashmir into lasting peace.

     

    Two hundred fifty children from weaker sections of Jammu and Kashmir including 62 girls and 188 boys in the age group of 9-18 years visited Jaipur, Ajmer and Delhi under ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme organized by Social Welfare Department of the Govt of J&K in coordination with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). During their exposure trip, started on 15th February, 2025, the children visited many important and historic places in Jaipur and Ajmer. They reached Delhi on 23rd February to meet dignitaries and to visit Qutub Minar, Red Fort and other important places in the national capital. The children will return to Jammu & Kashmir on 27th February, 2025.

    The Ministry of Home Affairs and Government of Jammu and Kashmir have been conducting Youth Exchange programme.  The main objective of the programme is to expose the youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir to vibrant development and social and cultural diversity of India so that they can feel socially, culturally and emotionally integrated with rest of the country. The programme is expected to have positive impact on the thinking of the youth.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the MHA is committed to such initiatives for development and progress of youth and children of Jammu and Kashmir. ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme in one such initiative through which, children of terrorism affected families and/or weaker sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir identified by J&K Rehabilitation Council are taken for exposure trip.

    The youth and children are mainly selected from the various orphanages in the districts of J&K. Preference is given to children from terrorism affected families, destitute children and children from weaker sections. The other criterion for selection apart from socio economic background, is proficiency in education, sports and cultural activities.  So far, about 2868 youth/children have participated in ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme.

    *****

    RK/VV/ASH/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2105908) Visitor Counter : 98

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The India-EU Trade and Technology Council first Workshop on Electric Vehicles (EV) Charging Technology paves the way for new advancements in standardisation and sustainable mobility

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:14PM by PIB Delhi

    The EU and India are deepening their partnership as part of a new strategic agenda to enhance prosperity, stability, security and people-to-people connections, to which the cooperation in the area of research brings a dynamic contribution.

    The first India-EU Workshop on Electric Vehicles Charging Technology was held in Pune, India, on 24th Feb 2025 under the auspices of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies, successfully bringing together policy-makers, representatives from electro-mobility industry, standardisation associations and technical testing facilities, to foster harmonised solutions for sustainable transport.  The workshop was attended by Dr. Monoranjan Mohanty (Adviser) and Dr Hafsa Ahmad (Scientist) from Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to Government of India, Dr. Reji Mathai (Director) and Mr. Abhihit Mulay (Deputy Director) from the Automotive Research Association of India and Mr. Nitish Kumar Jain, Deputy Director, Bureau of Indian Standards. Participants from European Commission included Dr. Liliana Pasecinic, Dr. Harald Scholz, Mr. Dirk Groβmann and Dr. Saki Gerassis, who joined online. Stakeholders from the Indian and European industry also actively participated in the workshop.

    The workshop has been one of milestones in the TTC Working Group 2 work agenda and will be discussed as an achievement in the forthcoming 2nd TTC Ministerial meeting to be held in New Delhi on 28th Feb 2025.

    Organised by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), with the support of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, the workshop addressed key policy and technical aspects of EV charging, covering all size classes of electric vehicles, and focusing on standardisation, and strategic cooperation. The workshop featured expert presentations, policy dialogues, and panel discussions, covering critical topics such as:

    • The EU- and Indian charging standards, infrastructure requirements, requirements for communication and interoperability targets;
    • Insights about the future strategic directions in India and the EU in sustainable mobility, including potential synergies leading to economies of scale;
    • EV Charging system testing capabilities and pre-normative research, with focus on ARAI and JRC facilities;
    • Industry perspectives to enhance India-EU collaboration in EV-charging

    The workshop provided the opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation on harmonising standards for EV charging infrastructure, including cooperative, pre-normative research for harmonised testing solutions and knowledge exchange in the field of electro-mobility.

    Additionally, the participants were provided the opportunity to visit the ARAI laboratory, gaining first-hand exposure to India’s state-of-the-art EV and electro-mobility testing facilities.

     

    About the Trade and Technology Council set up by India and the EU

    The India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) was first announced by the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in April 2022. Established on February 6, 2023, this strategic coordination mechanism allows both sides to tackle challenges at the nexus of trade, trusted technology, and security, and deepens cooperation in these fields. Establishing India-EU TTC is a key step towards a strengthened strategic partnership for the benefit of all people in India and the EU.

    The TTC is a key forum to deepen the strategic partnership on trade and technology between the two partners. Geostrategic challenges have reinforced the EU and India’s common interest in ensuring security, prosperity, and sustainable development based on shared values.

    The TTC consists of three Working Groups:

    1. Working Group 1 on Strategic Technologies, Digital Governance and Digital Connectivity
    2. Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies; and
    3. Working Group 3 on Trade, Investment and Resilient Value Chains.

    Working Groups are now jointly working to advance identified objectives and key actions. The India-EU TTC Working Group 2 on Green and Clean Energy Technologies is being led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India from the Indian side and the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission from the EU side.

    Both sides expect to report at the next TTC Meeting at Ministerial level, in 2025, on the progress made in this area through initiatives such as this workshop on Standardisation Strategy and trustable testing possibilities in EV mobility.  

     

    *******

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2105904) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates the First-ever Regional Dialogue on Social Justice

    74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Celebrated

    Director General, ILO, Gilbert F. Houngbo Praises India’s Efforts in Doubling Social Protection Coverage to 49%

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 8:05PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first-ever two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice under the Global Coalition for Social Justice in New Delhi today. Director General, International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, graced the event with his presence. Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Ms. Shobha Karandlaje, Secretary (Labour & Employment), Ms. Sumita Dawra, along with other dignitaries were also present at this prestigious international dialogue.

    Commemorating the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), an award ceremony to felicitate achievements across its organisations was also held.

    Launched in 2023, the Global Coalition for Social Justice calls for a collaborative approach and commitment towards promoting decent work, social protection, responsible business conduct and fair work. The Global Coalition has around 340 members of the Global Coalition including Governments, academia, private sector, financial institutions, etc.

    Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized India’s role as a proud member of the Asia Pacific Coordinating Group, leading the first Regional Dialogue. He expressed joy in championing the key Coalition intervention, stating, “India is privileged to spearhead the initiative on Responsible Business Practices for Sustainable and Inclusive Societies.” Union Minister commended the BMS and the CII-EFI’s shared commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices, respect for workers’ rights, and inclusive economic growth. “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undertaken significant steps towards economic transformation. The next five years present a unique opportunity to realize our vision of ‘Sabka Vikas’—balanced growth for all regions and communities,” he asserted.

    During the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya launched the e-Shram mobile app, a key step in strengthening social benefits delivery by offering real-time access to government welfare schemes, intelligent benefit filtering, curated job listings aligned with users’ skills and location, and multilingual support.

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, congratulated the Government of India for the efforts in doubling India’s social protection from 24.4% to 48.8% as reported in the World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024. Recognizing India’s important role in ILO’s leadership, DG ILO remarked that India’s efforts in business growth along with social protection serves as a good example to inspire change and improve social protection systems across the world. He mentioned that this remarkable achievement is an outcome of the decisive actions taken by the Central Government in expanding social protection in the past few years.

    Union Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Smt. Shobha Karandlaje, emphasized that social justice cannot be achieved through a one-size-fit-all approach. She underscored that social justice is embedded in India’s constitutional commitments. Reiterating India’s remarkable progress reported in the WSPR, she highlighted that India’s efforts in improving social protection, drove a 5% increase in the global social protection coverage. Congratulating ESIC on its 74th Foundation Day, she acknowledged its role in strengthening social security and announced the government’s plans to extend coverage to unorganized, agricultural, construction, gig, and platform workers.

    Addressing the gathering, Secretary MoLE, Smt. Sumita Dawra, praised the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice for strengthening global cooperation. Highlighting India as the fastest-growing major economy with a vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, she emphasized the country’s foundation on social justice principles, strong demographic dividend with 65% of the population under the age of 35, and a commitment to employment generation, equity, and welfare. She reiterated India’s goal of achieving 70% females engaged in economic activity by 2047, and applauded industry leaders for adopting responsible business practices, including youth skill development, education, and women’s workforce participation.

    During the occasion, India’s largest workers association, the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) joined the Global Coalition for Social Justice. Through a Joint Statement on Responsible Business Conduct presented by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) and the Confederation of Indian Industry-Employers’ Federation of India (CII-EFI), these organisations showcased their commitment towards this agenda.

    Additionally, several key publications were unveiled, including Best Practices on Responsible Business Conduct in India, Position Paper on Transforming India’s Social Protection Landscape through Data Pooling, Compendium of Social Protection in India, Social Security for Informal Workers: Reflections & Learnings from ISSA-ESIC International Seminar, 2025, and Shram Samarth: A Journey to Excellence.

    An exhibition on the sidelines of the event showcased the innovative use of technology in labour welfare, social security, medical care, personnel management, industrial safety, and more. Participants demonstrated how technology is driving positive change in the ecosystem, enhancing services and outreach for workers.

    A series of insightful technical sessions brought together global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance discussions on youth empowerment, social justice, and inclusion. These sessions explored strategies to bridge the education-to-employment gap, expand social protection for informal workers, and promote gender equality in the workforce. Key stakeholders from India, the Philippines, Namibia, Germany, Australia, Brazil, and international organizations such as the ILO and UN Women shared best practices, including digital skilling platforms, social security frameworks, and gender-responsive workplace policies. Emphasizing collaboration and innovation, the discussions reinforced the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

    Today’s event showcases the progress India has made on the global centre stage. India’s social justice growth journey including 3.2% unemployment rate, modernized labour codes, 48.8% social protection coverage, partnering with ILO on determining living wages, building responsible business conduct, showcasing success business case studies, leading the regional agenda in Asia Pacific, is an epitome of India’s confidence and critical positioning.

    Taking a collaborative approach to further strengthening India’s social protection coverage, making significant strides in developing the G20 international referencing classification of occupations, and advancing the decent work country programme with focus on living wages, AI and Future of Work and Global Value Chains, the two-day summit will prove to be a pathbreaking initiative and a global movement for strengthened cooperation.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2105900) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Holds Bilateral Meeting with Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director General of International Labour Organization in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Holds Bilateral Meeting with Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director General of International Labour Organization in New Delhi

    India’s Commitment to Quality Employment, Skill Development, and Social Protection Aligned with Vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047: Dr. Mandaviya

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo Commends India’s Progress in Doubling Social Protection Coverage from 24.4 percent to 48.8 percent in 2024

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:58PM by PIB Delhi

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Labour and Employment held a bilateral meeting with Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on February 24, 2025, in New Delhi. The meeting took place on the side-lines of the two-day Regional Dialogue on Social Justice being held in New Delhi and provided a platform to strengthen the partnership between India and the ILO, with a focus on advancing social justice, decent work, and inclusive economic growth.

    During the discussion, Dr. Mandaviya underscored India’s proactive role as a member of the Coordinating Group of the Global Coalition for Social Justice from the Asia-Pacific region. He expressed India’s interest to champion the Coalition’s key intervention, “Responsible business practices for sustainable and inclusive societies.” He also emphasized India’s dedication to quality employment, skills development, and social protection as pillars of social justice, aligning with the Government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

     

    Dr. Mandaviya highlighted that India’s National Career Service portal bridges the gap between job seekers and employers, with over 4 million registered employers and 44 million vacancies mobilised so far.

    On social protection, Dr. Mandaviya shared that the e-Shram portal, India’s National Database for Unorganized Workers, has registered over 306 million users, providing them access to social security schemes. With the Government of India’s recent budget announcement, more than 1 crore gig workers will receive unique identity cards and healthcare benefits under the PM Jan Arogya Yojana.

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, DG ILO, commended India’s progress in enhancing social protection coverage, noting the ILO’s World Social Protection Report (WSPR) 2024-26, which acknowledged the doubling of India’s social protection coverage from 24.4 percent to 48.8 percent in 2024.

    Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, DG ILO, appreciated India’s efforts in leveraging digital platforms such as the e-Shram and NCS portals to enhance employment opportunities and social security coverage, acknowledging them as significant steps towards inclusive economic growth. He also acknowledged India’s key and positive role in shaping global social security and labour welfare agenda.

    In this context, both leaders agreed to strengthen India’s role in the ILO as a powerful voice for developing economies and a key advocate for global labour welfare. Both the leaders also agreed on the need for a robust and collaborative data pooling exercise to enhance accuracy in social protection coverage assessments in the country.

    *****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2105899) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Indian Railways is marching towards achieving the objective of Net Zero” -Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Source: Government of India

    “Indian Railways is marching towards achieving the objective of Net Zero” -Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Power purchasing agreement of 170 MW signed between Indian Railways and Madhya Pradesh Government, marking the procurement of cheapest renewable energy in India

    Railways Minister Urges states to share solar & wind energy to Indian Railways

    Till date, Indian Railway has tied up 4,260 MW (installed) of Solar and 3,427 MW (installed) of wind energy for its energy requirements

    Commitment to achieve 100% electrification in Railways and maximize renewable energy usage

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:40PM by PIB Delhi

    Addressing investors and entrepreneurs at the Global Investors Summit 2025 in Bhopal, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined Indian Railways’ vision for electrification and the adoption of alternative energy sources.

    Shri Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, and Shri Rakesh Shukla, Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Government of Madhya Pradesh were also present in the event.

    Participating via video conferencing from Rail Bhawan, the Union Railway Minister emphasized the Indian government’s goal to achieve ‘Net Zero’ carbon emissions for Indian Railways, with 100% electrification slated for completion in the 2025-26 financial year. The next objective is to maximize renewable energy procurement.

    With this vision, Indian Railways has already tied up 1,500 MW of renewable energy. Further strengthening this commitment, a significant 170 MW Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed today with the Madhya Pradesh government. This milestone marks the procurement of India’s cheapest solar power at Rs 2.15/kWh and the Minister reaffirmed enthusiasm for exploring wind and nuclear energy procurement. The Government of Madhya Pradesh, through Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Limited (RUMSL), is supplying solar power to Indian Railways from its largest solar park.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw commended Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Mohan Yadav for his active role in advancing railway development in the state. He reiterated the Indian government’s strong commitment to a sustainable and green future for the country’s transportation network.

    Today’s PPA was signed between key stakeholders, including West Central Railway (WCR), represented by Dy. CEE/HQ Shri Chetan Gulwani; RUMSL, represented by Executive Engineer Shri Avneesh Shukla; and Waree Forever Energies Pvt Ltd, the solar power developer.

    The Minister also added that Indian Railways is committed to achieving net-zero emissions and shifting from road to rail transport to promote environmental sustainability, reduce oil imports, and lower overall logistics costs. As part of this vision, it is meeting its energy requirements through non-fossil sources such as solar, wind, and nuclear power. The collaboration with RUMSL is a significant step in this direction.

    In addition to setting up its own solar systems, Indian Railways is also securing solar power through PPA arrangements with developers. By 2030, Indian Railways’ traction power requirement is projected to reach 10,000 MW. So far, it has secured 4,260 MW of installed solar capacity and 3,427 MW of installed wind capacity to meet its energy needs, the Minister said.

    Call for Nationwide Collaboration in Renewable Energy

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw urged all Indian states to contribute renewable energy—be it solar, wind, hydro, or nuclear power—to Indian Railways, emphasizing a collaborative approach to sustainable energy. He praised the successful partnership model between the Railway Ministry and the Government of Madhya Pradesh, which facilitates direct PPA agreements between the state’s energy generators and Indian Railways.

    Historic Budget Allocation for Madhya Pradesh Rail Infrastructure

    Highlighting the record-breaking budget of ₹14,745 crore allocated to Madhya Pradesh’s railway sector for FY 2025-26, the Minister stated that this is the highest-ever budgetary allocation for the state. Infrastructure development has accelerated significantly, with railway track laying increasing from 29 km per year before 2014 to 230 km per year today—a 7.5x increase.

    Overview of RUMSL

    Parameter

    Details

    Capacity

    1500 MW

    Solar Parks Location

    Agar, Shajapur, and Neemuch districts in Northwest Madhya Pradesh

    Quantum to Railway

    195 MW equivalent (Total installed 400 MW) (Annual Solar Power Supply is 757 Million Units)

    Tariff

    Rs 2.15 /kWh for Neemuch unit (lowest in the country)

    CUF (Capacity Utilization Factor)

    44.3% under Optimum Scheduling

    Joint Venture Partners

    Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVNL)

    PPA Duration

    25 years

    Nodal Railway

    WCR (Power supplied via grid to Indian Railways in six states)

    Target Completion Date

    December 2025

     

    Tied up solar Installed capacity with Indian Railways:

    Project

    Installed Capacity (in MW)

    Rooftop of stations and Rly service building

    203

    Bhilai

    50

    MCF

    3.13

    Diwana

    2

    Bina

    1.7

    RUMS (Rewa)

    400

    BSUL (Bundelkhand)

    800

    IRCON (Pavagarh, Karnataka)

    500

    RERTC (SECI) (Rajasthan)

    100

    900 MW RERTC (Bikaner NTPC, Jaisalmer 450 MW, Fatehgarh 200 MW)

    1300

    600 MW RERTC (NTPC, Bikaner, TEQ Green Barmer)

    901

    Total

    4260.83

     

    About the Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Limited (RUMSL)

    RUMSL, designated as a Solar Power Park Developer (SPPD) by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), was entrusted with developing large-scale solar parks in Madhya Pradesh under the Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Projects (UMREPP) scheme of the Government of India. To ensure efficiency and expertise in executing and operating such large-scale projects, RUMSL adopted the DBFOO (Design, Build, Finance, Own, and Operate) model. The initiative significantly contributed to India’s renewable energy sector, increasing the country’s solar power generation capacity by 2.50%. Notably, it achieved the lowest-ever tariff awarded for a solar public-private partnership (PPP) in India, at INR 2.97 per kWh, without any viability gap funding from the government. Recognized for its innovation and impact, the project was included in the Prime Minister’s “Book of Innovation” and was honored with the prestigious “President Award” from the World Bank.

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2105892) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Piyush Goyal calls for bolstering supply chains and providing high-quality electronic products globally at competitive prices

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Piyush Goyal calls for bolstering supply chains and providing high-quality electronic products globally at competitive prices

    Shri Goyal urges electronics industry to shun protectionism, prioritise consumer interests

    India should become one stop shop for electrical goods, aspire to reach the international trade export target of USD 100 billion in seven years: Shri Goyal

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 7:14PM by PIB Delhi

    India’s electronic goods industry must work together towards more resilient supply chains, upgrade quality standards and provide high quality goods and services to the world at competitive rates. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal during his address as a Chief Guest at the 16th Edition of ‘ELECRAMA’ organised by the Indian Electrical And Electronics Manufacturer’s Association (IEEMA) today in New Delhi.  The Minister urged the participants to work together to bring competitive advantages in manufacturing.

    The Minister highlighted that the industry has a responsibility to care for consumers by ensuring that the consumers are provided better deals. He urged the industry leaders and participants in attendance to shun protectionism and focus on balancing the interests of the industry, particularly the MSME sector. Protectionism beyond a point starts hurting the consumer. Balancing the interests of the MSME sector along with the customers should be the industry’s biggest priority, he said.

    Minister Goyal noted that the export volume of electronic goods ranks second in the country in 2025, compared to 167th ranked sector in 2015. In January, 2025 export volume of electronic goods was USD 3 billion alone, he said. He said that India should become the one stop shop for electrical goods and urged the industry to aspire to reach the international trade export target of USD 100 billion in the next seven years.

    The Minister pointed out that the electronics goods industry has doubled its transmission infrastructure, renewable energy capacity and installed capacity in the last decade. He further stated that the Government has helped set up 1,800 Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in the country. He stated that the Government aims to develop a future ready workforce and promote innovation leveraging the high number of STEM graduates produced in the country.

    Speaking on the theme of the special plenary ‘Bharat – The Vishwa Mitra’, Shri Goyal said that India takes pride in looking at the nation as one family that wishes to work with all countries of the world in a fair, equitable and balanced partnership with each other. India wishes to engage with the developed world from a position of strength offering them goods and services of high quality at affordable prices.  

    The Minister asserted that the Government’s various initiatives like ‘Digital India’, ‘Make in India’, ‘Design in India’ and ‘Serve from India’ along with its efforts to make customers buy local products and enable businesses to go global will help the country’s growth. “Government’s commitments to transform the economy, skill and train the workforce for high quality manufacturing and provision of services, policy certainty and speed and scale of development has led to this milestone, ” he stated.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2105880) Visitor Counter : 43

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Kuwait National Day Reception (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at Kuwait National Day Reception today (February 24):Consul General (Consul General and Ambassador of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong, Mr Naser S Al-Ghanim), Deputy Commissioner Pan (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Pan Yundong), Your Excellencies, Consuls General, ladies and gentlemen,     Good evening.      It is my great pleasure to be here tonight to celebrate with you the 64th National Day of the State of Kuwait.     Kuwait is the first Gulf country to establish diplomatic relations with China. You are also an active participant in our country’s Belt and Road Initiative.       These provide a solid foundation for the growing ties between our two economies. As alluded to earlier by the CG (Consul General), it is heartening to see that our bilateral trade is growing rapidly. Last year, the bilateral goods trade between Hong Kong and Kuwait rose more than 20 per cent year on year, reaching more than US$240 million. On many other fronts, our connections are deepening.       And this is part of a burgeoning relationship between Hong Kong and the Gulf countries. Over the past two years or so, the Chief Executive, myself as well as senior government officials and corporate leaders have been leading delegations to the region, seeking to strengthen connections with our partners in trade, finance, legal services, innovation and technology, cultural exchanges, and much more.       With Kuwait’s presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in 2025 under the leadership of the Amir, much is anticipated on what we can do together to boost our bilateral ties, and the Hong Kong-Gulf relations at large. Indeed, the Secretary-General of the Council, His Excellency Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, also a Kuwait national, came to Hong Kong last month to attend the Asian Financial Forum. I also had a fruitful meeting with His Excellency at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos.        There is a strong will from both sides to strengthen co-operation on multiple fronts. In particular, Hong Kong wants to advance discussions on signing a free trade agreement with the GCC, and looks forward to the support from Kuwait and other Council members. We believe that solidifying our trade partnership will only be beneficial to our respective economies. In light of rapidly changing geopolitical dynamics marked by unilateralism and protectionism, it calls for action to build a fair, open and more resilient global economic and trade system.        Hong Kong is a perfect partner for Kuwait in realising the Kuwait Vision 2035, which covers your nation’s strategic and forward-looking plans for infrastructure development, digital transformation, green transition and global participation, and, above all, a more diversified economy.       Under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, Hong Kong is a place that enjoys unique connectivity with both the Mainland and the rest of the world. We are a converging point of global capital, investors and talent, the gateway not only to China but also the rest of Asia. Kuwaiti businesses and entrepreneurs can capitalise on the city’s full suite of fund-raising options, world-class professional services, and extensive transport and logistics network to expand and thrive.      Hong Kong is keen to share knowledge and expertise with Kuwait, and find new growth frontiers together. For example, Hong Kong’s start-ups, with innovative solutions ranging from AI (artificial intelligence) to biotech, and from greentech to fintech, are keen to support the exciting projects in your country.      Ladies and gentlemen, the promising prospects for our co-operation extend well beyond – to education, arts and culture, and much more.      Since 2023, Kuwait has been actively participating in our Asia+ Festival, giving our residents a taste of your country’s rich cultural heritage. Your Kuwaiti Culture, Art and Literature Week last year, with a host of community-based activities, was a heartening success.       And I can’t tell you how delighted I am to meet with some of Kuwait’s brightest students who are studying in Hong Kong tonight. You are the ambassadors who will build more bridges of understanding and friendship between our two economies.       With all the goodwill and friendship, I am confident that the bonds between Hong Kong and Kuwait will flourish and endure for generations to come.      For that, ladies and gentlemen, please join me now in a toast: to the people of Kuwait.     Cheers.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Ayush Felicitates Ayurveda Stalwarts with ‘National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards’ for pioneering contributions to the field of traditional Indian medicine

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Ayush Felicitates Ayurveda Stalwarts with ‘National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards’ for pioneering contributions to the field of traditional Indian medicine

    The National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards showcase India’s immense contribution to global healthcare: Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, conferred the prestigious National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards for the current year on three distinguished practitioners for their exceptional contributions to the field of traditional Indian medicine. Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, conferred the awards upon the three distinguished Vaidyas during an event held at Mumbai on 20.02.2025.

    This year’s recipients of the coveted award are Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma, renowned Nadi Vaidya and author; Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal, a distinguished scholar of Dravyaguna Vigyana with six decades of service; and Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni, founder of the Vishwa Vyakhyanmala national conference. Each recipient receives a citation, a trophy featuring the Statue of lord Dhanwantari, and a cash prize of ₹5 Lakh. The National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards represent India’s commitment to advancing holistic healthcare while preserving traditional medical knowledge.

    Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (IC), Ministry of Ayush, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the award recipients, stating, “The National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards showcase India’s immense contribution to global healthcare. These visionaries have demonstrated exceptional dedication in promoting Ayurveda worldwide, perfectly aligning with our mission to integrate traditional wisdom with modern healthcare systems.”

    Adding his perspective, Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha remarked, “Through decades of research and innovation, these practitioners have modernised Ayurveda practices while maintaining their authentic essence. Their work exemplifies how traditional knowledge can be adapted to address contemporary health challenges.”

    Vaidya Tara Chand Sharma, renowned for his mastery as a Nadi Vaidya, has also distinguished himself as an insightful author. His thought-provoking publications have opened new doors for explorative Ayurveda learning, encouraging a new generation to dive deep into the science of life. His career, adorned with numerous accolades, is a testament to his impact on the ever-evolving landscape of Ayurveda.

    Equally inspiring is the journey of  Vaidya Maya Ram Uniyal from Uttar Pradesh, a visionary in Dravyaguna Vigyana. With over six decades of unwavering dedication, his prolific writings and stellar administration have inspired many. His recognition with the Vanoushadi Vanaspati and Lifetime Achievement Awards further cements his legacy in raising Ayurveda’s stature worldwide. His work exemplifies how tradition, when blended with modern insight, can become a global force for wellness.

    Adding to this league of legends is Vaidya Sameer Govind Jamadagni, whose contributions span more than four decades. The founder of the Vishwa Vyakhyanmala national conference and Vishwa Ayurveda Prabodhini, he has built platforms that have transformed Ayurveda education. His initiatives have not only advanced innovative practices but have also sparked global dialogues that continue to enrich Ayurveda’s relevance in contemporary healthcare.

    A Legacy Etched in Time: The History of the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Award

    The story of the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards is one of tradition, excellence, and vision. Instituted by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, these awards were conceptualised to recognise the stalwarts who have dedicated their lives to Ayurveda. Over the years, the awards have evolved into a symbol of national pride, celebrating those who have pushed the boundaries of Ayurveda from local roots to global reach. By honouring individuals who have excelled in research, practice, and the propagation of Ayurveda, the awards inspire new generations to embrace holistic health practices that promise a healthier and happier society.

    With every award ceremony, the commitment to making Ayurveda a cornerstone of global healthcare strengthens. The National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards are not just accolades; they are milestones in a journey that celebrates the wisdom of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.

    ****

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2105871) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mobilizing Finance is Key to Achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Source: Government of India

    Mobilizing Finance is Key to Achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

    Renewable Energy Financing Obligation is the need of the hour: Union Minister Joshi National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy Concludes in Mumbai

    Posted On: 24 FEB 2025 6:25PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai : 24 February 2025

    Mobilising finance is key to achieving 500 GW Renewable Energy by 2030, said Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi. He was addressing the National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy organised by Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in Mumbai today. Union Minister Joshi also called for collective efforts from financial institutions and policymakers to ensure accessible funding to Renewable Energy (RE) sector. The Minister along with the Minister of State, (MNRE), Shri Shripad Naik also addressed a Press Conference held in conjunction with the Workshop.

    Highlights of the Workshop

    The Minister stated that the idea for the workshop emerged after a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where discussions focused on accelerating flagship schemes like PM Surya Ghar and PM-KUSUM. Highlighting the scale of India’s energy needs, Shri Joshi said that as the country aims to become the third-largest economy, its energy demand is expected to double. He stressed that renewable energy must be scaled up to match thermal energy production, ensuring a reliable and resilient power supply.

    The Minister also spoke about India’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2070 and reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030. He called upon financial institutions to align their lending policies with India’s renewable energy growth strategy and emphasized that carbon-intensive industries will face reduced export opportunities in the future. Shri Joshi noted that India has already made significant progress in renewable energy, with capacity increasing to 222 GW today. He pointed out that solar tariffs have drastically reduced, with a recent bid in Madhya Pradesh touching ₹2.15 per unit, compared to ₹11 per unit earlier. However, he stressed the importance of battery storage solutions to support large-scale renewable deployment.

    Speaking on the role of decentralization, the Minister highlighted that PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar empower farmers to become “Urjadata” (energy providers), while also reducing transmission losses. He urged banks to simplify financing processes, particularly for rooftop solar projects, and called for the introduction of a Renewable Energy Financing Obligation to ensure dedicated funding for the sector, similar to Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) for discoms.
    Shri Joshi underscored India’s leadership in green hydrogen (GH2), stating that the country has already received major export orders and is ahead of several developed nations in this field. He noted that global investors are increasingly looking at India as a preferred destination for manufacturing and clean energy investments, recognizing its young workforce and strong industrial capacity.

    The Minister also highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s directive to engage global financial institutions for renewable energy investments, citing India’s recent success in securing commitments worth ₹34.5 lakh crore during a global RE summit in Gandhinagar. He emphasized that the transition to renewable energy is not optional—it is a necessity.Concluding his address, Shri Pralhad Joshi called for a national movement in renewable energy financing, stating that PM Surya Ghar is not just a scheme but an Andolan (movement). He urged financial institutions to streamline lending processes, reduce unnecessary compliance burdens, and adopt a more supportive approach towards financing clean energy projects.

    Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Y Naik said that achieving 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 will require an investment of approximately ₹30 lakh crore, covering infrastructure, transmission, and storage systems. He urged the stakeholders to adopt innovative financing models, extend flexible lending terms, and prioritize green investments that will accelerate our energy transition.

    In her context setting speech, Secretary MNRE Smt. Nidhi Khare emphasized the critical role of affordable finance, green bonds, and innovative funding models in driving India’s renewable energy transition.

    The National Workshop on Mobilizing Finance for Renewable Energy featured four key sessions focused on addressing financing challenges in the renewable energy sector. The first session examined the financing landscape for utility-scale renewable energy (RE) projects, assessing challenges faced by developers, banks, and NBFCs in securing funding. Discussions covered interest rates, perceived risks, and potential solutions for financial institutions to support large-scale RE projects. The second session focused on financing new and emerging RE technologies, such as offshore wind, floating solar, and green hydrogen. Panelists, including experts from NABARD, and leading financial institutions, discussed capital allocation strategies, policy interventions, and mechanisms to reduce financial risks for private sector investments in these technologies.

    The third session addressed financing challenges for Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) and innovative RE applications, including rooftop solar, canal-top PV, and Agri-PV. Experts explored financing constraints for startups, perceived investment risks, and policy support required to scale up these solutions. The final session focused on regulatory and capacity-building measures for banks and NBFCs, discussing RBI guidelines, sector-specific lending policies, and strategies to enhance financing in consumer-oriented RE applications. Stakeholders highlighted the need for better regulatory frameworks, risk-sharing mechanisms, and financial instruments to unlock capital for India’s renewable energy ambitions. The discussions reinforced the necessity of collaborative efforts among policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to mobilize large-scale investments and achieve India’s target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030.

    The discussions led to several key takeaways, including the need for lower-cost financing, improved access to global climate funds, and enhanced risk-sharing mechanisms for new technologies. Participants also stressed the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships and expanding green financial instruments to support India’s clean energy transition. The event concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work towards innovative financing models and policy frameworks that can unlock large-scale investments in the renewable energy sector.

    Senior officials from major public and private sector banks such as State Bank of India, Union Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, UCO Bank, IDFC Bank, IDBI Bank, AU Small Finance Bank, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Indian Bank, Central Bank of India, Punjab & Sind Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank and Bank of Maharashtra also attended the event.

    The workshop marked a significant step toward ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder India’s renewable energy ambitions, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a clean, sustainable, and financially inclusive energy future. The workshop provided a platform for key stakeholders, including banks, NBFCs, policymakers, and industry leaders, to discuss strategies for mobilizing large-scale
     
    investments in renewable energy. Participants reiterated their commitment to supporting India’s clean energy transition, ensuring energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The event marked a significant step in bridging the financial gap for renewable energy projects, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in the clean energy revolution.

    Dhanlaxmi/Preeti

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai     /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com   /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2105857) Visitor Counter : 19

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Prolific Alien Smuggler Extradited from Mexico to the United States in Joint Task Force Alpha Investigation

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Extensive coordination and cooperation efforts between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities culminated in the extradition of an alleged alien smuggler who operated in Mexicali on the U.S.-Mexico border for several years as part of an international alien smuggling conspiracy.

    Raul Saucedo-Huipio, 49, was arrested in Mexico on March 2, 2023, pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition, and was surrendered by Mexico to U.S. authorities on Feb. 21 to face charges previously filed in the District of Arizona. Saucedo-Huipio made his initial appearance on Feb. 21 in the Southern District of California. His co-conspirator, Ofelia Hernandez-Salas, 62, was extradited to the United States from Mexico in 2023 and pleaded guilty on Dec. 18, 2024, to conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and substantive counts of bringing an alien to the United States.

    According to court documents, Saucedo-Huipio conspired with other smugglers, including Hernandez-Salas, to facilitate the travel of large numbers of migrants into the United States from and through Bangladesh, Yemen, Pakistan, Eritrea, India, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Russia, Egypt, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico. Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas allegedly charged the migrants as much as tens of thousands of dollars to make the journey and directed the migrants where to unlawfully cross the border into the United States, including by providing them with a ladder to climb over the border fence. Saucedo-Huipio and co-conspirators also allegedly robbed the migrants of money and personal belongings while armed with guns and knives.

    In June 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed corresponding sanctions on this transnational criminal organization.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez for the District of Arizona, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Arizona Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola, made the announcement.

    ICE HSI Yuma is investigating the case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection (CBP); U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; FBI; and the U.S. Marshals Service, working in concert with ICE HSI Tijuana, INTERPOL, and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. HSI also received substantial assistance from CBP’s National Targeting Center/Counter Network Division and OFAC.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart J. Zander for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition from Mexico. The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners, who were instrumental in arresting Saucedo-Huipio, and the Mexican Attorney General’s Office and the Mexican Foreign Ministry for making the extradition possible.

    The indictments against Raul Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas, and their subsequent arrests and extraditions, were coordinated through Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA was created in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the Justice Department’s efforts to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities. JTFA’s goal is to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, with a focus on networks that endanger, abuse, or exploit migrants, present national security risks, or engage in other types of transnational organized crime. The initiative was expanded to Colombia and Panama to combat human smuggling in the Darién in June 2024. JTFA comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, the District of Arizona, the District of New Mexico, and the Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training; the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section; the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; the Office of Enforcement Operations; OIA; and the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; more than 300 U.S. convictions; more than 245 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This investigation is also supported by the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks or raise grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Do you speak other languages at home? This will not hold your child back at school

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Valeria Maria Rigobon, Lecturer in Literacy, Australian Catholic University

    Serwin365/Unsplash, CC BY

    It is common for Australian children to grow up with languages other than English in their family lives.

    More than one-fifth of Australians report speaking a language other than English at home.

    But when it comes time to start school, it’s common for parents to worry about raising a child to be bilingual or multilingual.

    They may wonder, am I harming my child’s English development if I speak another language at home?

    The short answer is no. Research shows speaking more than one language doesn’t hinder a child’s academic progress – in fact, it can even help.

    What does the research say?

    Up until the 1980s, some studies incorrectly suggested early exposure to more than one language could harm a child’s academic achievement. But these findings have since been widely criticised because many of the children in the studies came from economically disadvantaged backgrounds (and so were already disadvantaged in terms of their schooling).

    More recent Australian research has found when socioeconomic status is accounted for, multilingual children are “indistinguishable from their monolingual peers” in literacy and numeracy by the time they are eleven years old. This is provided they have adequate English vocabulary skills by the time they finish Year 2.

    Some studies show multilingual students even surpass monolingual children in different academic areas. This includes English reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation as well as numeracy. Research suggests multilingual students’ enhanced mental flexibility from switching between languages may explain their higher academic performance later in school, but this is not yet confirmed.

    Recent Australian studies show bilingual and multilingual children keep up with their peers at school.
    PNW Promotion/ Pexels, CC BY

    Do you need to learn one language before starting the other?

    Research shows children can learn multiple languages at the same time, starting from infancy.

    This means you don’t have to wait for a child to become fluent in one before you start learning another.

    Similarly, a child does not have to be a highly skilled English speaker to start to learn to read in English. They can develop their spoken and written/reading language skills at the same time.

    It is also important to look at children’s skills across all the languages they know.

    Research on children aged up to 30 months found multilingual children often had smaller vocabularies in English than their monolingual peers. But they had a healthy range when assessed on words they knew in all languages.

    A common misconception is multilingual children may “confuse” words between languages, but this is not the case. They actually learn quite quickly whom they can communicate with in each language, and switch between languages without much effort.

    For example, Valeria’s niece Aurora is four and is already fluent in Hungarian, Spanish and Ukrainian. There are videos of Aurora speaking Spanish with her Venezuelan father and grandmother, turning to respond to her grandfather in Hungarian, and switching to Ukrainian to speak with her mother, all in one conversation.

    Regular calls or visits with family members who speak the home language will help your child develop their languages skills.
    Tima Miroshnichenko/ Unsplash, CC BY

    How can I help my child learn multiple languages?

    Research shows it is important a child receives lots of exposure to each language through meaningful interactions with people who speak those languages.

    There is no clear definition of the amount needed, but it should be regular – for example, everyday talk with parents or visits or phone calls with grandparents who share the home language.

    Also, if you’re worried your child isn’t getting enough English exposure outside school, do not abandon your home language. Instead, create other English opportunities, such as in playgroups, daycare, sports teams or other out-of-school activities.

    Ultimately, the best thing parents can do to support their children’s multilingual learning is build a community filled with native speakers of English and the home language(s).

    Staying consistently connected to this community of people who value each language, especially after children start school, will also support a child’s motivation to keep growing in each language.

    Rauno Parrila receives funding from Australian Research Council and Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Valeria Maria Rigobon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Do you speak other languages at home? This will not hold your child back at school – https://theconversation.com/do-you-speak-other-languages-at-home-this-will-not-hold-your-child-back-at-school-250405

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Scott, Hill Work to Roll Back Biden-Era CFPB Overdraft Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR-04) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the Biden administration’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) final rule capping overdraft fees at banks and credit unions, citing the rule’s damaging impact on access to important financial services. 

    “The CFPB’s overreach is well established and only intensified during the Biden administration. Instead of bringing more consumers into the banking system, this overdraft rule will push them away to unregulated lenders and I’m pleased to join my colleagues to block it,” said Boozman.

    “The Biden administration’s CFPB routinely targeted legitimate payment incentives and practices in pursuit of political headlines over sound policies. The overdraft rule was yet another example – many consumers rely on overdraft services to make ends meet and limiting this practice will push Americans to riskier financial products. I’m proud to lead the effort to overturn this misguided rule and protect Americans’ access to important financial services,” said Scott.

    “As I have consistently said, the CFPB needs guardrails on its enforcement and rulemaking powers, and this rule is another clear example of why. The CFPB’s actions on overdraft is another form of government price controls that hurt consumers who deserve financial protections and greater choice. Our CRA will help overturn this harmful rule and is a next step toward ensuring the CFPB halts all ongoing rules until it answers to Congress, just like any other non-independent federal agency,” said Hill. 

    The resolution is also supported by Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE).

     The CRA has the support of key stakeholders including the Consumer Bankers Association, the Independent Community Bankers of America, the American Bankers Association and America’s Credit Unions.

    A CRA resolution is a tool used by Congress to eliminate onerous regulations imposed by the executive branch through an expedited procedure for consideration in the Senate. A joint resolution of disapproval under the CRA is afforded special privileges that bypass normal Senate rules and allow for a vote on the Senate floor. When a CRA resolution is approved by a simple majority in both chambers of Congress and signed by the president – or if Congress successfully overrides a presidential veto – the rule is invalidated.    

    Click here for full text of the resolution

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland schools attendance survey

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    At the November 2024 Education Committee, the Council reported a review of the Highland Raising Attainment Strategy. Part of that review involves work around better understanding attendance challenges and the reasons for repeat absence from school. Two surveys are being distributed to schools across Highland for either pupils or parent/carers who struggle with regular school attendance to complete the short survey. The survey is anonymous and will run from Monday 24 February until Friday 14 March 2025.

    The surveys are available here:

    Parent survey on attendance: https://forms.office.com/e/vYZvATHXtC

    Pupil survey on attendance : https://forms.office.com/e/QgeMqY21UT

    Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “Highland’s Raising Attainment Strategy includes engaging with pupils and parents/carers through the GIRFEC agenda, as part of that work a survey has been distributed to all schools across Highland, and we ask pupils or the parents/carers of children who struggle attending school on a regular basis to take part in the survey.

    “Findings from the survey will be collated to assist our approaches to raise attainment, support health and wellbeing of learners and to help close the poverty related attainment gap.”

    24 Feb 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prolific Alien Smuggler Extradited from Mexico to the United States in Joint Task Force Alpha Investigation

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Extensive coordination and cooperation efforts between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities culminated in the extradition of an alleged alien smuggler who operated in Mexicali on the U.S.-Mexico border for several years as part of an international alien smuggling conspiracy.

    Raul Saucedo-Huipio, 49, was arrested in Mexico on March 2, 2023, pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition, and was surrendered by Mexico to U.S. authorities on Feb. 21 to face charges previously filed in the District of Arizona. Saucedo-Huipio made his initial appearance on Feb. 21 in the Southern District of California. His co-conspirator, Ofelia Hernandez-Salas, 62, was extradited to the United States from Mexico in 2023 and pleaded guilty on Dec. 18, 2024, to conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States and substantive counts of bringing an alien to the United States.

    According to court documents, Saucedo-Huipio conspired with other smugglers, including Hernandez-Salas, to facilitate the travel of large numbers of migrants into the United States from and through Bangladesh, Yemen, Pakistan, Eritrea, India, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Russia, Egypt, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico. Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas allegedly charged the migrants as much as tens of thousands of dollars to make the journey and directed the migrants where to unlawfully cross the border into the United States, including by providing them with a ladder to climb over the border fence. Saucedo-Huipio and co-conspirators also allegedly robbed the migrants of money and personal belongings while armed with guns and knives.

    In June 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed corresponding sanctions on this transnational criminal organization.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez for the District of Arizona, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Arizona Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola, made the announcement.

    ICE HSI Yuma is investigating the case with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol, Customs and Border Protection (CBP); U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; FBI; and the U.S. Marshals Service, working in concert with ICE HSI Tijuana, INTERPOL, and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. HSI also received substantial assistance from CBP’s National Targeting Center/Counter Network Division and OFAC.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart J. Zander for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and extradition from Mexico. The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners, who were instrumental in arresting Saucedo-Huipio, and the Mexican Attorney General’s Office and the Mexican Foreign Ministry for making the extradition possible.

    The indictments against Raul Saucedo-Huipio and Hernandez-Salas, and their subsequent arrests and extraditions, were coordinated through Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA was created in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the Justice Department’s efforts to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities. JTFA’s goal is to disrupt and dismantle human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, with a focus on networks that endanger, abuse, or exploit migrants, present national security risks, or engage in other types of transnational organized crime. The initiative was expanded to Colombia and Panama to combat human smuggling in the Darién in June 2024. JTFA comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, including the Southern District of California, the District of Arizona, the District of New Mexico, and the Western and Southern Districts of Texas. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training; the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section; the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; the Office of Enforcement Operations; OIA; and the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 355 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; more than 300 U.S. convictions; more than 245 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This investigation is also supported by the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks or raise grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: CPS to Host Conference Call on Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, Nevada, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: CPSS) (“CPS” or the “Company”) today announced that it will hold a conference call on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss its fourth quarter 2024 operating results.

    Those wishing to participate can pre-register for the conference call at the following link https://register.vevent.com/register/BI34e818cf84a24e118241657af74dd2d4. Registered participants will receive an email containing conference call details for dial-in options. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the schedule start time. A replay will be available beginning two hours after conclusion of the call for 12 months via the Company’s website at https://ir.consumerportfolio.com/investor-relations.

    About Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc.

    Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. is an independent specialty finance company that provides indirect automobile financing to individuals with past credit problems or limited credit histories. We purchase retail installment sales contracts primarily from franchised automobile dealerships secured by late model used vehicles and, to a lesser extent, new vehicles. We fund these contract purchases on a long-term basis primarily through the securitization markets and service the contracts over their lives.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Danny Bharwani, Chief Financial Officer

    949-753-6811

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Crofton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to Over 6 Years in Federal Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Paducah, KY – A Crofton, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 6 years and 5 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony offense.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Sheriff Tyler DeArmond of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Earl Ray Cook, Jr., 27, of Crofton, Kentucky, was sentenced to 6 years and 5 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a Taurus model G3C 9mm handgun, and ammunition, on January 29, 2024, in Christian County, Kentucky. Cook was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On June 8, 2016, in Christian Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of first-degree possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, first offense and possession of drug paraphernalia while armed.

    On February 12, 2018, in Daviess Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of theft of identity of another without consent, theft of a motor vehicle registration plate or renewal decal, and first-degree possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, first offense.

    On July 28, 2022, in Daviess Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of third-degree assault and first-degree fleeing or evading police.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and Christian County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Rock Hill Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Their Role in Drug Conspiracy (DOJ)

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    strong>COLUMBIA, S.C. — Emmanuel Deon Foster, 36, and Bobby Antoinios Hall, 41, both of Rock Hill, have been sentenced for their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute quantities of fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin.   

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Foster and Hall had a close relationship with the leader of the conspiracy. Based upon law enforcement efforts, they learned both Foster and Hall purchased fentanyl-lased pills during the time of the conspiracy from the leader.  These pills were then sold to other dealers in the Rock Hill area. Foster also purchased and sold cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine. These drugs were purchased from other members of the conspiracy and sold to other dealers. This operation has been responsible for the arrest and conviction of more than 20 individuals during its existence.

    United States District Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Foster to a total of 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. Hall was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.

    This joint law enforcement activity and prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, York County Multijurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ako Ufodike, Associate Professor, Administrative Studies, York University, Canada

    As Canada moves into 2025, its productivity still lags, despite efforts by the federal government to address the issue in the 2024 federal budget.

    Canada’s productivity has declined in nine of the last 10 quarters. Between 2015 and 2023, Canadian productivity fell by an average of 0.8 per cent per year. This means that, for every hour worked by Canadian employees, their output decreased by about eight per cent over that entire period.

    Labour productivity measures how much an economy produces per hour of work. Increasing productivity means finding ways to help people create more value in the time they spend working. However, how productivity is measured — and who benefits from productivity stimulation initiatives — varies.



    Read more:
    Canada’s lagging productivity affects us all — and will take years to remedy

    From an employer’s perspective, the main factor influencing productivity is the number of hours worked. For employees, the best proxy is wages received per hour worked — two related variables with differing implications.

    To date, Canada’s strategy to improve productivity has been very traditional, in that its primary aim has been to provide incentives for improved business performance.

    Global productivity issues

    Canada’s productivity stagnation struggles are not unique. A December 2024 OECD working paper highlighted a widespread slowdown across the OECD nations.

    From 1995 to 2023, ouputs from labour and capital inputs — know as multifactor productivity — declined sharply in both small and large advanced OECD countries.

    In Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Spain and the United Kingdom, productivity has nearly stalled. Greece, Italy, Luxembourg and Mexico experienced prolonged periods of negative growth.

    The OECD paper also found a link between productivity decline and stagnating human capital development. Since 2003, young citizens of OECD countries have underperformed on standardized tests in science, math and reading.

    At the same time, many skilled immigrants to these countries are selected from the sciences and must score exceptionally high on language proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System.

    This raises questions about how countries assess and utilize human capital, and whether traditional productivity measures fully capture workforce potential.

    Innovation in productivity approaches

    Innovation improves productivity, yet Canada’s 2024 budget fails to embrace this principle. The 2024 budget prescribed five main strategies to address Canada’s productivity issues:

    • incentives for entrepreneurs;
    • fiscal incentives for productivity-enhancing assets;
    • regulatory sandboxes to reduce bureaucratic red tape;
    • enhanced federal research support;
    • a $200-million investment in the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative.

    However, the initiatives largely continue to follow the traditional approach which focuses on incentivizing businesses to increase output, rather than focusing on workers — the factor most relevant to productivity.

    One of the budget’s major assumptions, which has so far failed to materialize, was that productivity would grow by 1.8 per cent between 2024 and 2028, despite a 1.8 per cent decline over the previous three years and a 0.8 per cent decline over the preceding decade.

    Another overlooked factor is that declining wages also decrease productivity. Instead of focusing solely on business incentives, a more effective labour-agency approach would also incentivize those who own the denominator in the productivity formula — workers.

    Addressing immigrant underemployment

    Immigrants are the primary drivers of population growth in most OECD countries, yet many end up in precarious employment or underemployed, despite being exceptionally qualified.

    Even when immigrants are employed at the appropriate level, many are underpaid in comparison to non-immigrant workers or their predecessors in the same roles. This wage suppression is at odds with efforts to improve productivity.



    Read more:
    I’ve worked in precarious jobs for more than 10 years – here’s what unions should do to support migrant workers

    This issue is particularly evident in Canada, where conversations about productivity are being shaped by immigration trends. In 2023, Canada welcomed one million new immigrants without a corresponding increase in economic output. From July 2023 to July 2024, immigrant underemployment rose by 3.1 to 12.6 per cent.

    Labour market integration varies across regions. In Alberta, for example, 80 per cent of new jobs between 2018 and 2022 were filled by immigrants, yet, productivity did not rise.

    Some critics have blamed immigrants for Canada’s productivity struggles, but this narrative risks fostering anti-immigrant sentiment. While population growth may contribute to declining per capita productivity, in reality, many highly qualified immigrants end up underemployed or unemployed through no fault of their own.

    A 2024 Statistics Canada report highlighted this missed economic opportunity, stating: “recent immigrants were more likely than people born in Canada to be employed in professional occupations and lower-skilled and labourer occupations.”

    Despite this, the 2024 budget doesn’t address harmful “unproductive immigrant” narratives.

    Driving productivity growth

    Canada’s current approach to productivity is incomplete. While business incentives play a role, productivity growth cannot be achieved without investing in workers — particularly immigrants, who represent a growing share of the workforce.

    Canada and other OECD nations are missing an opportunity by failing to fully utilize immigrant talent. Rather than blaming immigrants for productivity declines, countries should recognize immigrants as valuable contributors. Proper credential recognition and expanding workforce integration programs could allow immigrants to contribute at their full economic potential.



    Read more:
    Canadian immigrants are overqualified and underemployed — reforms must address this

    A truly innovative productivity strategy would fund reskilling, upskilling and mentorship programs for immigrants and youth. It would also support equity initiatives to ensure immigrants aren’t exploited or paid less than their counterparts.

    Improving career mobility is also essential. Helping immigrants transition into high-output sectors, such as technology or engineering, through retraining programs and targeted incentives could strengthen productivity.

    Addressing wage inequity is also crucial. Ensuring immigrants receive fair wages aligned with their qualifications will improve worker motivation and productivity, consistent with the arguments of efficient wage theory.

    If these issues remain unaddressed, Canada risks continued productivity stagnation by overlooking a key opportunity to harness the potential of its immigrant workforce.

    Ako Ufodike receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

    – ref. Canada’s productivity strategy needs to centre workers – https://theconversation.com/canadas-productivity-strategy-needs-to-centre-workers-249669

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: We need meaningful, not less, EDI and climate action in turbulent times

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Sarah E. Sharma, Assistant Professor, School of Political Studies, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

    Today, both climate action and equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are increasingly under attack. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the United States, where the Trump administration is leading a concerted effort to obstruct climate action and penalize EDI.

    A federal judge recently granted an injunction blocking U.S. government officials from terminating or changing federal contracts they consider equity-related.

    The injunction comes just over a month after President Donald Trump signed executive orders that end federal government support for programs promoting EDI. The judge found the executive orders could likely violate the U.S. Constitution and free-speech rights.

    In Canada, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has blamed carbon pricing for driving up prices, despite research showing that it has a minimal impact on inflation. Meanwhile, provincial governments in Alberta and Saskatchewan are pursuing punitive anti-transgender agendas and some universities are moving away from EDI, claiming it promotes exclusion.

    Until recently, governments, universities and corporations faced criticism for their lack of meaningful commitments on EDI and the climate. Many responded with ambitious pledges but insufficient action. This led to greenwashing and diversity-washing, symbolic commitments that mask inaction.

    Hypocrisies in climate and EDI policies have become easy targets for right-wing populists. As a result, EDI and climate action are being scapegoated for broader systemic failures. For instance, the most deadly American plane crash in two decades has been baselessly linked to EDI, rather than clear evidence of systemic failures.

    There are good reasons to challenge greenwashing and diversity-washing. Yet, denigrating climate and DEI actions wholesale avoids tackling the roots of complex problems and can have dangerous outcomes.

    Why we need meaningful EDI in climate action

    Climate policies that ignore social justice deepen exclusion, weaken public buy-in and provoke backlash. A just energy transition requires policies that resonate with marginalized communities and with those who feel threatened by change. Without this, opposition will only grow.

    We recently published a journal article, co-authored with researchers Neelakshi Joshi and Georgia Savvidou, outlining how greenwashing, diversity-washing and the backlash against EDI all undermine effective climate action. We argue that we cannot address environmental challenges without confronting class, gender and racial inequities.

    EDI is rooted in historical social movements that fought against exclusion. Established rights — like maternity leave, anti-discrimination in the workplace and marriage equality — are all products of these movements.

    Over the past decade, movements like #MeToo, Black Lives Matter and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls have advanced our understanding of systemic discrimination. EDI efforts have aimed to make institutions more representative and reduce inequalities in workplaces and society.

    EDI in climate action has also gained traction, particularly through the push for a “just transition.” This movement seeks to restructure energy systems fairly and inclusively, ensuring no one is left behind.

    Energy systems are deeply inequitable. Who profits, who has access and who shapes energy policy is highly uneven. Meaningful EDI that redistributes these benefits is essential. This includes the need to support workers in fossil fuel industries and the most vulnerable to climate impacts.

    Ironically, political leaders who oppose EDI on merit grounds appoint key figures with no expertise. They ignore that diversity expands merit, not lowers it — EDI removes barriers, not standards.

    Meaningful EDI in energy transitions

    In our journal article we outline how public and private leaders make bold promises without transformative action, leading to greenwashing and diversity-washing.

    Insufficient and superficial efforts can hinder systemic change. In the energy sector, simply prioritizing boardroom and workforce diversity does not necessarily guarantee fairer working conditions or tangible benefits for local communities.

    We must move beyond empty greenwashing and diversity-washing rhetoric towards actions that target the needs of diverse populations where they live and work.

    For example, community-led clean energy projects enable citizens to actively participate in energy transitions. Indigenous-led renewable energy ownership facilitates Indigenous sovereignty. Community organizations like Empower Me address the energy poverty faced by newcomers, immigrants, single mothers, seniors and others.

    These examples demonstrate that more diverse perspectives are needed not to pursue EDI for its own sake, but to transform energy systems in real ways for more people.

    When diverse experiences are not taken into account, our energy and climate decisions are prone to blind-spots and groupthink. This locks us further into existing practices, rather than opening up innovative and transformative paths.

    We must reconnect with reality and not hide in fantasies that reject natural and social science alike. When EDI is obstructed, we cannot make effective progress on the climate crisis. We lose opportunities to discuss the injustices that are baked into energy systems — discussions that can lead to tailored and targeted policies relevant to the everyone’s needs.

    This means heating, cooling and transport options that work for people of all backgrounds, income and ability levels, and initiatives that suit rural and remote communities as well as urban residents.

    In turbulent times, the world needs more meaningful EDI, not less.

    Sarah E. Sharma receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Department of National Defence’s Mobilizing Insights in Defence and Security (MINDS) program.

    Amy Janzwood receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Julie MacArthur receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    Runa Das receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. We need meaningful, not less, EDI and climate action in turbulent times – https://theconversation.com/we-need-meaningful-not-less-edi-and-climate-action-in-turbulent-times-249683

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –