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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: First Phase of the ‘Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’ concludes with Historic Five Guinness World Records

    Source: Government of India (2)

    First Phase of the ‘Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’ concludes with Historic Five Guinness World Records

    First phase of the Abhiyaan saw an extraordinary response, conducting prakriti parikshan for over 1.29 crore individuals, surpassing the target of 1 crore

    Posted On: 21 FEB 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    In a historic milestone for India, Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan achieved an unprecedented five Guinness World Records, highlighting the nation’s dedication to holistic healthcare and the growing global recognition of Ayurveda. The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), with the support of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, concluded the closing ceremony marking the completion of the first phase of the ‘desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyaan’ on 20thFebruary 2025 at Mumbai.

    Five Guinness World Records:

    1. The most pledges received for a health campaign in one week: with 6,004,912 pledges, surpassing the minimum requirement of 14,571, setting a new global benchmark as there was no previous record holder.

    2. The most pledges received for a health campaign in one month: with 13,892,976 pledges, surpassing the previous record of 58,284 pledges held by Cigna & CMB Life Insurance Company Limited (China) in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.

    3. The most pledges received for a health campaign: overall with 13,892,976 pledges, surpassing the previous record of 569,057 pledges held by Zifi FDC Limited (India).

    4. The largest online photo album of people displaying a digital certificate: with 62,525 photos, breaking the previous record of 29,068 photos held by Accenture Solutions Private Limited (India).

    5. The largest online video album of people saying the same sentence: with 12,798 videos, surpassing the previous record of 8,992 videos held by Ghe Bharari, Rahul Kulkarni, and Neelam Edlabadkar (India).

    The Guinness World Records adjudicator, Mr. Richard Williams Stenning officially announced the successful completion of all five records. He presented the certificates to the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav.

    Maharashtra’s Health Minister Shri Prakash Abitkar, Secretary of the Ministry of Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Chairman of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) Vaidya Jayant Devpujar were also present on the occasion.

    Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav highlighted the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to the development of all Ayush healthcare systems. He detailed the various steps being taken to expand Ayurveda and Ayush practices, praising the dedication and hard work of every individual in the Ayurveda sector who contributed to the campaign’s success.

    Maharashtra’s Health Minister Shri Prakash Abitkar emphasized that this campaign was a significant step toward re-establishing Ayurveda and assured Maharashtra’s active contribution in making Ayurveda a part of mainstream public health services.

    Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, Padmashri Vaidya  Rajesh Kotecha, stated that under the guidance of the Ayush Minister, the Ministry has set six world records in just two months, which is an achievement in itself. He expressed confidence that under the Minister’s leadership, the Ministry of Ayush will reach new heights of progress.

    The announcement of the launch of this campaign was made by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on the occasion of National Ayurveda Day. A landmark moment during the first phase was when President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, became the first individual to undergo Prakriti assessment, inspiring widespread participation across the country. The first phase of the Abhiyaan saw an extraordinary response, conducting prakriti parikshan for over 1.29 crore individuals, surpassing the target of 1 crore. This remarkable achievement involved 1,81,667 volunteers, including 1,33,758 Ayurveda students, 16,155 teachers, and 31,754 physicians, setting a world record in itself. The participants represented various age groups, ethnicities, and backgrounds, truly reflecting the unity in diversity of the nation.

    This extensive participation underscores India’s leadership in personalized healthcare, emphasizing Ayurveda’s vital role in preventive healthcare and lifestyle management. This data-driven approach is expected to provide critical insights for evidence-based research, bridging Ayurveda with modern medicine and propelling India’s healthcare landscape forward.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DPIIT Secretary chairs PMG Review of Mega Infrastructure Projects ofArunachalPradesh, Sikkim, Delhi, and Jharkhand

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 FEB 2025 5:41PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Amardeep Bhatia, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT),chaired a high-level meeting to review key issues affecting mega infrastructure projects in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Delhi, and Jharkhand. The meeting, attended by senior officials from central ministries, state governments, and project proponents, focused on expediting issue resolution through enhanced inter-ministerial and state coordination facilitated by the Project Monitoring Group (PMG).

    In the meeting, 21 issues across 17 significant projects were reviewed, including 9 projects under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, with a total cost of all projects exceeding Rs 13,501 crore.The Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway project, valued at Rs 9,623.72 crore and comprising seven issues across six packages, was also reviewed.

    The meeting placed significant emphasis onthe project of setting up new NITs in strategic locations through which the government seeks to bridge regional disparities in technical education and meet the increasing demand for skilled engineers and technical professionals. These institutions will not only enhance the academic landscape but also contribute to regional economic growth by fostering innovation, research, and industry collaboration.

    The Varanasi-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway project, a key project under the Bharat Mala Yojana, will enhance regional connectivity across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal,and is expected to significantly boost trade and freight movement, particularly benefiting industries reliant on the Kolkata and Haldia ports for maritime trade– was also reviewed.

    The Secretary,DPIIT, reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing the institutional framework for project monitoring and instructed the relevant authorities to take a proactive approach in addressing pending issues.He emphasized the importance of private proponents leveraging this specialized mechanism of Project Monitoring Group (PMG) (https://pmg.dpiit.gov.in/) to expedite project implementation and ensure efficient and timely resolution of their concerns through collaboration among the Central Government, State Authorities, and Private Stakeholders.

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    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijeet Narayanan

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Upgrade to iPhone 16e and save with incredible offers from Verizon

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Upgrade to iPhone 16e and save with incredible offers from Verizon

    NEW YORK – Verizon will offer iPhone 16e, a new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup, featuring breakthrough battery life, the fast performance of the A18 chip, Apple Intelligence1, and a 48MP 2-in-1 camera system — all at an incredible value. Customers can pre-order the new iPhone 16e starting Friday, February 21, with availability beginning Friday, February 28. Visit verizon.com for complete pricing and availability details,

    Major savings and value on iPhone 16e at Verizon

    Starting February 21, Verizon customers can get:

    • Switch to Verizon or add a new line and can get iPhone 16e for $5 a month for 36 months on myPlan2.
    • Want to trade in your phone? Get iPhone 16e on us when you trade-in your current iPhone, Samsung or Google phone — in any condition — and sign up for a new line on myPlan3.
    • Verizon Business customers: For a limited time, get iPhone 16e on us with a new activation on either the Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan with a Verizon Device Payment agreement4. And, eligible Public Sector customers can get a new 128GB iPhone 16e on us on a qualifying two year agreement5.

    Verizon myPlan gives you ultimate access to Apple One

    Supercharge your iPhone 16e with Verizon myPlan, built to give you more flexibility, more perks and more value. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone for yourself or keeping your business running smoothly with a Verizon Business Unlimited Plan, you’ll stay connected with Verizon’s ultra-fast 5G network—built for whatever life throws your way.

    With myPlan, you’re in control. Pick the perks that matter to you, like Apple One for just $10/month (Individual Plan) or $20/month (Family Plan), plus get deals on entertainment, shopping and more. It’s your phone, your plan, your way — only with Verizon.

    Everything you need to know about the iPhone 16e

    iPhone 16e offers powerful capabilities at a more affordable price. It delivers fast, smooth performance and the best battery life ever on a 6.1-inch iPhone, thanks to the industry-leading efficiency of the A18 chip and the new Apple C1, the first cellular modem designed by Apple. iPhone 16e is also built for Apple Intelligence, the intuitive personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence while taking an extraordinary step forward for privacy in AI. The 48MP Fusion camera takes gorgeous photos and videos, and with an integrated 2x Telephoto, it is like having two cameras in one, so users can zoom in with optical quality. When outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, iPhone 16e can use Apple’s groundbreaking satellite features — including Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My via satellite.

    With custom-designed components and deeply integrated software, iPhone 16e users can stay connected and get help when it matters most6. iPhone 16e will be available in two elegant matte finishes — black and white — with colorful cases available to accessorize.

    iPhone 16e can be activated with an eSIM, a more secure alternative to a physical SIM card. With eSIM, users can quickly activate their cellular plan, store multiple cellular plans on the same device, and stay connected. Verizon supports eSIM Quick Transfer which allows users to transfer their existing plan to their new iPhone.

    Visit verizon.com on February 28 to order your new iPhone 16e.

    For more details on Apple products, please visit www.apple.com.

    1 Apple Intelligence is available in localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S. Additional languages, including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (simplified), English (Singapore), and English (India) will be available in April. Some features, applications, and services may not be available in all regions or all languages.

    2 $599.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan req’d. Less $419.99 promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Offer may not be combined with other offers. Apple Intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later.

    3 $599.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Welcome plan (min. $65/mo w/Auto Pay (+taxes/fees) for 36 mos) req’d. Less $600 trade-in/promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Trade-in must be from Apple, Google or Samsung; trade-in terms apply. Apple Intelligence requires iOS 18.1 or later.

    4 Taxes & fees apply. New line w/device payment purchase agmt & Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan req’d. $599.99 credit applied to acct. over the term of your agmt (up to 36 mos, 0% APR); promo credit ends when eligibility requirements are no longer met. Credits begin in 2-3 bills & will include appropriate credit amounts from order date. Cannot be combined with other device offers. This device supports only 5G Ultra Wideband mid-band (C-band), 5G and 4G LTE. iPhone 16e 128GB monthly fee after credit: $0. Offer ends 3.31.2025.

    5 iPhone 16e offer only. Plan Requirements: Fed – $15+ with data feature; State & Local – $19.99+ with data feature; State of TN – flat rate plan with data feature (must meet PP requirement). Available to government-liable subscribers only and subject to the terms, provisions and conditions of Verizon Wireless-approved government contracting vehicles. An Offer Recovery Fee (ORF) will be assigned to NASPO MA 152 customer lines that take advantage of select quarterly offers and will be charged on the customer’s bill if the line is disconnected before the end of the line term. 5G and 5G UWB may not be available to all government customers. See terms and conditions of your contract. Pricing excludes taxes and fees and is subject to change without notice. Offer ends 3.31.2025.

    6 Apple’s satellite features are included for free for two years starting at the time of activation of a new iPhone 16e . For Emergency SOS via satellite availability, visit support.apple.com/en-us/HT213426. Messages via satellite will be available in the U.S. and Canada in iOS 18 or later. SMS availability will depend on carrier. Carrier fees may apply. Users should check with their carrier for details. Roadside Assistance via satellite is currently available in the U.S. with AAA and Verizon Roadside Assistance, and in the U.K. with Green Flag. Participating roadside assistance providers may charge for services, and iPhone users who are not members can take advantage of their roadside assistance services on a pay-per-use basis. Apple’s satellite features were designed for use in open spaces with a clear line of sight to the sky. Performance may be impacted by obstructions such as trees or surrounding buildings.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 02/21/2025 Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Help Rescue Children from Violence by Recording Child Protective Services Interviews

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Generate Recordings of All Child protective Interviews Everywhere (GRACIE) Act, which would incentivize states to require the recording of all Child Protective Services (CPS) interviews with children and adults. Modernizing CPS interview protocols would increase the likelihood that child trafficking victims will be identified and removed from dangerous situations, including sex and labor trafficking, domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse, and other forms of violence.
    “Children are often silenced by their abusers, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that does not happen,” said Senator Blackburn. “The GRACIE Act would help give more children a voice, increase domestic violence reporting, and strengthen the foster care system.”
    “We can never do enough to support vulnerable children in Georgia and across the country,” said Senator Ossoff. “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this new bipartisan bill to strengthen transparency in State child protective agencies and help States better fund their operations.”
    BACKGROUND
    In the U.S., it is estimated 37.4% of children will be interviewed by CPS at some point in their childhood. These initial interviews can be traumatic, so we must do everything we can to ensure transparency and accountability during the process. CPS is the gateway to the foster care system, and approximately 60% of U.S. domestic child sex trafficking victims have engaged with the foster care system. Many of them undergo multiple interviews without one CPS staffer identifying them as child trafficking victims or removing them from real-time trafficking violence.
    CPS has a history of distorting the testimony of children who are trying to speak out about abuse and trafficking. As a result, children can remain in abusive and dangerous situations. CPS interview protocols are broken, and mandating all CPS interviews be recorded would be a good first step toward fixing this broken system.
    The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has required recordings of all interrogations for nearly a decade, and state law enforcement departments often require police body cameras. Similar accountability measures are long overdue in the child protection space. It is imperative that federal and state legislation require at least audio recording – if not video recording, too – of all CPS interviews.
    THE GRACIE ACT
    The GRACIE Act would create a program within the DOJ to award states that require the recording of all CPS interviews with children and adults. This legislation includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of those recordings, so they are not shared with anyone outside of a law enforcement investigation. They would also only be retained for the amount of time needed to deal with the case.
    Click here for bill text. 
    ENDORSEMENTS
    This legislation is endorsed by Street Grace, No Trafficking Zones, Pearl at the Mailbox, The Foundation United, Rights for Girls, 3Strands Global, Engage Together, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking, and Paving the Way Foundation. 
    “As an organization dedicated to stopping the exploitation of children, we have seen firsthand the urgent need for reform—especially at the intersection of child protection and foster care. The GRACIE Act is a crucial step toward ensuring that every child’s voice is heard and that those on the frontlines of working with exploited children are held to the highest standards of accountability. This legislation closes a critical gap, providing necessary safeguards to protect vulnerable youth from further harm.” – Bob Rodgers, CEO of Street Grace

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BOLSTERING INNOVATION: GOVERNOR HOCHUL AND SENATOR SCHUMER ANNOUNCE $65 MILLION EXPANSION OF NEXT-GENERATION BATTERY INNOVATION COMPANY BAE SYSTEMS IN THE SOUTHERN TIER

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    BAE Systems Commits To The Creation Of More Than 130 New Good-Paying Jobs At Village Of Endicott Location
    Continued New York State Investments Support The Southern Tier Region’s Comprehensive Strategy To Revitalize Communities And Grow the Economy By Focusing On Clean Energy Solutions
    Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Charles Schumer today announced that BAE Systems is investing $65 million to expand operations in the Village of Endicott, Broome County. The company will add a total of 150,000 square-feet to its existing site to make way for the addition of a new battery production line and lab space, and new office space. As a result of the expansion, the company has committed to creating up to 134 good-paying jobs onsite. BAE Systems is a global defense, aerospace and security company with approximately 93,500 employees worldwide. The BAE Systems facility in Endicott designs, develops and produces a broad portfolio of safety-critical electronic systems from flight and engine controls to power and energy management systems. The company has been operational at the Huron Campus site since 2011.
    “BAE Systems’ decision to further expand its business represents yet another win for New York State and for the Southern Tier, which is laser focused on becoming a global hub for next-generation battery innovation efforts,” Governor Hochul said. “Since taking office, I have remained committed to bringing jobs back to Upstate New York. This incredibly successful company chose to grow its operations here, spurring top-quality, good-paying job creation in the region because they have seen firsthand how hardworking New Yorkers are.”
    Senator Charles Schumer said, “BAE Systems is adding 130+ good-paying jobs right here in the Southern Tier to make sure the next generation of America’s batteries are stamped ‘Made in Upstate NY.’ This $65 million expansion to add a new battery production line, research lab, and office helps show how we can bring this supply chain back from overseas, with the Southern Tier leading the way to make sure the future of battery manufacturing is manufactured in Broome County, not Beijing. BAE Systems is a vital part of the Southern Tier economy, with a world-class workforce of over 1200 people, and selecting this area for their major battery production expansion is no accident. I’m proud of the millions in federal support I’ve delivered – via the American Rescue Plan and my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act – to the region to make it a global center for battery research and set the stage for today’s announcement. Today BAE is helping add another loop to establish this region as a core of manufacturing and innovation for America’s battery belt.”
    The project involves the expansion of BAE Systems battery production line, including the purchase and installation of machinery and equipment to efficiently produce an energy storage system for electric/hybrid electric aircraft. This facility will include an automated state-of-the-art production line, an engineering lab, and an aftermarket center, and is expected to be fully complete in 2027.
    Empire State Development is assisting the project with up to $8.5 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit Program in exchange for the job creation commitments. Broome County is also providing assistance for the project.
    BAE Systems Senior Director Jim Garceau said, “This facility expansion reinforces our commitment to the Southern Tier and builds on New York State’s vision to create a regional hub for battery innovation.  With this investment, we will enhance our capabilities to address the emerging needs of the next-generation hybrid/electric aircraft.”
    Bolstering Next-Generation Battery Innovation
    Governor Hochul and Senator Schumer were instrumental in the company’s decision having worked closely with company officials to ensure that the project would move ahead in New York’s Southern Tier region which is laser-focused on supporting next-generation energy efforts – a top priority for the governor and senator.
    In January 2024, the Governor and Senator announced that the U.S. National Science Foundation had designated the New Energy New York (NENY) Storage Engine as a Regional Innovation Engine (NSF Engine), which was created by the Senator’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. The NENY Storage Engine, anchored at Binghamton University in the Southern Tier Region, will receive up to $15 million in federal funding for two years and up to $160 million over 10 years to establish a hub that will accelerate innovation, technology translation and the creation of a skilled workforce to grow the capacity of the domestic battery industry. Through Empire State Development, New York State will match up to 20 percent for the first five years of the project as well as provide support through established programs. The NENY Storage Engine was chosen for its diverse, cross-sector coalition that will build a leading ecosystem driving battery technology innovation, workforce development and manufacturing to support U.S. national security and global competitiveness.
    Schumer has long fought to secure federal investment to boost the Southern Tier’s battery manufacturing and R&D. In 2021, Schumer created the Build Back Better Regional Challenge in the American Rescue Plan that he led to passage as Majority Leader. The senator personally advocated for the selection of the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York’s (NENY) battery hub proposal, helping deliver a $63.7 million federal investment with a $50 million funding match from New York State. In 2023, Schumer also delivered the prestigious federal Tech Hub designation, also created by his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law for the Binghamton University-led NENY proposal.
    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul’s strategic and laser-focused support for next-generation clean energy companies accelerates this cutting-edge industry’s growing presence in New York State. BAE Systems’ expansion will create top-quality jobs and opportunities in the Southern Tier, furthering the region’s leadership in battery technology innovation.”
    New York State’s Climate Agenda
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.
    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “BAE Systems has been a major driver of economic growth in Broome County, and I congratulate them on their new $65 million expansion. Thanks to strategic investments from Governor Hochul and Senator Schumer, New York has become a testbed for battery storage innovation, and NYPA will continue to support firms like BAE Systems developing cutting-edge technology and spurring economic growth with low-cost power.”
    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “With this investment in next generation battery technology at their Broome County location, BAE Systems is supporting local jobs and strengthening the state’s clean energy supply chains, ensuring New York continues to lead the way in innovation and clean tech economic opportunity. The expansion will also advance clean transportation in the aviation industry and support NYSERDA’s efforts in research, development, and demonstration of new technologies in the energy storage sector.”
    State Senator Lea Webb said, “It’s exciting to see BAE Systems expand its next-generation battery innovation operations right here in the Southern Tier, bringing up to 134 new jobs to the Village of Endicott, ” said State Senator Lea Webb. “This investment strengthens our region’s role as a leader in clean energy technology and advanced manufacturing. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to growing our local economy and everyone who made this expansion possible. This investment not only creates new opportunities for workers but also reinforces New York’s leadership in the future of sustainable energy solutions.”
    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “Years of hard work and dedication have made our area a designated hub for battery innovation and manufacturing. BAE’s expansion to include a new battery production line will further establish our community as a leader in clean-energy technology. Their work on electric/hybrid bus and aircraft battery systems are game changers for the industry and for our local workforce. I’d like to thank BAE Systems for their continued investment in our community, and the Governor and Empire State Development for their ongoing support of this important work.”
    Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said, “BAE Systems’ expansion in Endicott is another major win for Broome County, reinforcing our region’s role as leader in next-generation battery innovation while creating even more job opportunities for our community. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to economic growth in the Southern Tier and to BAE Systems for choosing to expand here in Broome County.”
    Village of Endicott Mayor Nick Burlingame said, “BAE Systems’ decision to expand its operations in Endicott is a testament to the strength of our community, our workforce, and our region’s commitment to innovation. This investment not only reinforces Endicott’s legacy as a hub for cutting-edge technology but also brings new opportunities for local families and businesses. We are proud to support BAE Systems as they continue to grow and shape the future of clean energy and battery innovation right here in our village. We look forward to the jobs, economic impact, and advancements this expansion will bring to Endicott.”
    For additional information about BAE Systems, visit: https://jobs.baesystems.com/global/en/.
    Accelerating Economic Development in the Southern Tier
    Today’s announcement advances the Southern Tier Strategic Plan and complements “Southern Tier Soaring” strategy by facilitating economic growth and community development. These regionally designed plans focus on attracting a talented workforce, growing business and driving next-generation innovation. More information is available here.
    About Empire State Development
    Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. 
    The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on GOP Budget that Sets the Stage to Dismantle Health and Nutrition Programs, Increase Everyday Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Senate Republicans Block Luján Amendments to Improve Public Safety, Keep New Mexicans Safe
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), a member of the Senate Committee on the Budget, issued the following statement on the Republican Budget Resolution: 
    “In the dark of night, Senate Republicans passed a partisan budget that will fund the Trump Tax Scam 2.0 at the expense of everyday Americans. This will make it harder for families to afford health care, put food on the table, and get a quality education – all to give a tax handout to the wealthiest Americans and corporations.
    “Slashing programs that millions of Americans rely on will devastate our families and communities. I joined my Democratic colleagues in introducing dozens of common-sense amendments that would make Americans safer, give children the resources needed to succeed, and lower costs for families. Senate Republicans blocked every single amendment, including one that I led to provide increased support for local law enforcement. 
    “Make no mistake, Republicans are using this opportunity to fund their newest tax scam instead of lowering costs for Americans.” 
    Senator Luján introduced and co-led a series of amendments to the Republican budget that will protect access to health care, make our communities safer, and improve the quality of life for New Mexicans. Senate Republicans blocked common-sense amendments introduced by Senator Luján and Senate Democrats. 
    Keeping New Mexico Communities Safe
    Amid a nationwide shortage of police officers, Senator Luján introduced an amendment to provide increased resources for local law enforcement by funding the COPS Hiring Program. The COPS Hiring Program provides funding directly to law enforcement agencies to increase their community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. This amendment was voted down by Senate Republicans. Watch Senator Luján’s floor speech HERE.
    Putting Food on the Table
    Millions of families across the country rely on nutrition assistance programs. Senator Luján introduced an amendment to protect funding for programs that make sure New Mexico families and children have the nutritious food they need. Watch Senator Luján’s floor speech HERE.
    Stopping the Flow of Fentanyl 
    As the fentanyl crisis devastates families in New Mexico and across the country, Senator Luján introduced an amendment addressing the need to have 100% screening using non-intrusive inspection technology to stop fentanyl and illicit activity from entering the U.S.
    Boosting U.S. Manufacturing 
    Senator Luján is committed to boosting domestic manufacturing and good jobs for New Mexicans. To create more American jobs, Senator Luján introduced an amendment to provide greater incentives for companies to manufacture right here at home unlike the first Trump Tax Scam that drove jobs overseas. 
    Protecting Medicare and Medicaid
    Republicans want to fund tax breaks for the wealthy and corporations by ripping health care away from Americans on Medicaid. New Mexico has the most Medicaid recipients per capita than any other state, and millions of children and pregnant women across the country rely on Medicaid to access health care. Senator Luján introduced an amendment to strengthen Medicaid for pregnant women and children under five years old. Senator Luján also co-led an amendment to ensure there is no reduction in benefits for people with Medicare and Medicaid. 
    Protecting Veterans’ Sensitive Data
    Senator Luján introduced an amendment to protect the sensitive, private information of veterans from being accessed by private companies including those owned by Elon Musk.
    Supporting Firefighters
    As New Mexico and Western states have been devastated by wildfires in recent years and months, Senator Luján co-led an amendment highlighting the vital role firefighters play in fighting wildland fires in the wake of the Trump administration’s hiring freeze and firings of federal firefighters.
    Supporting our National Parks, Forests, and Wildlife
    As federal employees at the Forest Service, National Park Service, United State Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management have been recklessly fired in recent weeks, Senator Luján co-led an amendment highlighting the importance of reinstating these fired federal employees.
    Additionally, Senator Luján introduced 34 amendments that boost safety, lower everyday costs, fund critical health care programs, and improve disaster relief. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: This Week February 21, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This Week: Secretary Burgum applauds an EPA ruling to allow West Virginia to regulate its own carbon injection procedures; the Secretary welcomes Bret Baier of Fox News’ “Special Report” for a live broadcast from Interior; the Bureau of Indian Affairs launches an initiative to help solve missing and unidentified person cases involving American Indians and Alaska Natives; governors and delegates of American island territories convene at Interior for the annual Interagency Group on Insular Areas; and a colorful scene salutes a master of black-and-white photography in our social media Picture of the Week! Make sure you follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X!

    http:/www.facebook.com/usinterior
    http:/www.instagram.com/usinterior
    http:/www.x.com/Interior

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLrB0p5ewBc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: VA Secretary Doug Collins addresses Veterans benefits rumors

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    VA Secretary Doug Collins Addresses Veterans Benefits Rumors in Latest Video.

    VA Secretary Doug Collins released a video from his office today addressing misinformation circulating about Veterans’ benefits and VA healthcare.

    In a direct and candid message, Collins refuted several rumors he described as “whoppers” originating from Washington, DC.

    Collins began by reaffirming VA’s commitment to prioritizing Veterans.
    “We’re putting Veterans number one back at the VA,” he stated. He acknowledged that changes can generate friction, but emphasized that these reforms are aimed at strengthening VA services for Veterans.

    Among the rumors he dispelled was the claim that VA healthcare would suffer. Collins categorically denied this, stating the department has reinforced healthcare and benefits by safeguarding 300,000 mission-critical positions to ensure uninterrupted services.

    Another rumor he addressed was that Veterans’ benefits were being cut.
    “They’re not,” he said, explaining that VA had redirected nearly $98 million toward Veterans’ care, reinforcing services rather than reducing them.

    Finally, Collins addressed the rumor that VA was laying off Veterans Crisis Line responders.
    “We did not lay off any Veteran Crisis Line responders,” he stated firmly, assuring that those answering crisis calls remain in place to support Veterans in need.

    Collins concluded by urging Veterans to seek information directly from VA rather than relying on misinformation circulating in political discourse. “When you want the truth, come to me, not the Whopper line up on Capitol Hill.”

    Veterans are encouraged to visit news.va.gov or contact their local VA offices.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LTVcT28rlE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Nearly 148,000 in Gaza receive cash aid

    Source: United Nations 2

    Humanitarian Aid

    Aid operations in the Gaza Strip continue to reach people from north to south with critical assistance, including cash, the UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, said on Friday. 

    Since the ceasefire on 19 January, some 138,000 Palestinians have benefited from cash assistance, including people with disabilities and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

    The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported that market conditions across Gaza have improved since the ceasefire took effect. Goods are reportedly less expensive, and more commodities are available. 

    Diet diversity improving

    Furthermore, for the first time since July, children under age five and pregnant and breastfeeding women have a more diverse diet. They are consuming more fruit, vegetables, eggs and dairy products.                                                                    

    Humanitarians also continue to provide shelter support to people in Gaza, with the UN Palestine refugee agency, UNRWA, distributing tents, tarpaulins, blankets, mattresses, clothes and kitchen items to thousands of families hosted in 120 shelters. 

    West Bank hostilities

    Meanwhile, OCHA remains concerned by Israeli forces’ ongoing operations in the northern part of the West Bank which began on 21 January,  the longest there since the early 2000s. 

    OCHA warned that settler violence also continues. Between 11 and 17 February, the agency documented 34 incidents – an average of almost five per day – involving settlers and resulting in casualties or property damage. 

    In one incident, Israeli settlers severed agricultural water pipes in the Tulkarm governorate, affecting the livelihoods of a dozen Palestinian farmers. 

    During the same period, nearly 40 Palestinians were displaced near Al Maniya village in Bethlehem following recurrent attacks from Israeli settlers over the past year.   

    Access restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities continue to hinder Palestinians’ movement, affecting access to markets, workplaces, emergency services and health and educational facilities.

    OCHA has documented the displacement of almost 2,300 Palestinians, including 1,100 children, across the West Bank since the start of 2023 due to heightened settler violence and access restrictions by Israeli authorities. 

    In other developments:

    Ensure return of human remains

    UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the Secretary-General is deeply concerned by reports that the remains of an Israeli hostage in Gaza, Shiri Bibas, which were due to be returned on Thursday alongside her children’s remains, are still missing.

    The Secretary-General “stresses the imperative to respect the dignity of the deceased and to ensure their remains are returned to their families in accordance with international humanitarian law and human rights law,” he said.

    He underlined that every release must be carried out with the utmost dignity and in line with humanitarian principles.

    The Secretary-General renewed his appeal to the parties to abide by all their commitments and continue the full implementation of the ceasefire and hostage release deal.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Drug Cartel Member Sentenced to Over 20 Years in Prison for Trafficking Hundreds of Kilos of Cocaine and Methamphetamine

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Mexican national and armed member of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) was sentenced today in the District of Columbia to 20 years and 10 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy that distributed large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine destined for the United States.

    “For at least five years, Edgar Fabian Villasenor-Garcia took up arms to carry out the CJNG’s criminal activities, including trafficking enormous amounts of cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These highly addictive drugs and the violence associated with the CJNG’s criminal operations have devastated communities in the United States, Mexico, and elsewhere. Today’s sentence sends another clear message to members of the CJNG and other Mexican drug trafficking organizations: We are committed to working tirelessly with our domestic and international law enforcement partners to eradicate Mexican cartels.”

    “Eliminating the cartels responsible for the deadly drug crisis in the United States is the Drug Enforcement Administration’s top operational priority, and Edgar Fabian Villasenor-Garcia’s sentencing today — as an armed CJNG operative — brings us a step closer to our goal,” said Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “The CJNG is responsible for fueling the deadly drug crisis in the United States, as well as unprecedented violence in Mexico, our neighbor. The DEA is relentlessly committed to defeating the CJNG and other cartels, and we will exhaust every tool in the justice system to fight back, to save American lives, and to bring these cartels to justice.”

    According to court documents, Edgar Fabian Villasenor-Garcia, also known as Gary and El Monje, 54, was responsible for trafficking at least 450 kilograms of cocaine and at least 780 kilograms of methamphetamine for importation into the United States on behalf of the CJNG, one of the most powerful, violent, and prolific drug cartels in Mexico. The CJNG kills, tortures, corrupts, and traffics hundreds of tons, if not more, of cocaine, methamphetamine, and other drugs into the United States and other countries. The CJNG also uses its drug proceeds to fund its violence, and by doing so, ravages communities and imperils countless lives.

    Villasenor-Garcia joined the CJNG before 2017 and carried a firearm in furtherance of the CJNG’s criminal operations. In November 2024, he pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy charges and admitted that CJNG members used firearms and violence to advance their mandate, including to protect drugs and drug proceeds, to control the CJNG members, to fight rival cartels, and to escape capture by law enforcement.

    The DEA Los Angeles Field Division investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Lernik Begian and Douglas Meisel of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Criminal Division’s Office of Enforcement Operations also provided significant assistance.

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Israeli Freight Forwarder Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Violating Export Restrictions Imposed on Russia

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Gal Haimovich, 49, of Israel, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to illegally ship aircraft parts and avionics from U.S. manufacturers and suppliers to Russia, including for the benefit of sanctioned Russian airline companies. In addition, Haimovich paid the full forfeiture amount of $2,024,435.44 at today’s sentencing.

    As part of his plea agreement, Haimovich admitted that his scheme involved deceiving U.S. companies about the true destination of the goods at issue, and that the defendant and others attempted to conceal the scheme by submitting false information in export documents filed with the U.S. government.

    According to court documents, Haimovich owned an international freight forwarding company that was an affiliate in a group of companies that did business in various countries, including the United States and Israel. Haimovich, through those companies, operated as a freight forwarder of choice for individuals and entities seeking to illegally export goods to Russia in violation of U.S. export control laws. Between approximately March 2022 and May 2023, Haimovich facilitated the export of aircraft parts and avionics, including those with missile technology applications, from the United States through the Southern District of Florida, to various third-party transhippers on behalf of Russian customers. These Russian-end customers routinely instructed Haimovich to deceive the U.S.-based manufacturers and suppliers about the ultimate destination of the goods.

    For example, between April 2022 and April 2023, after the United States imposed additional restrictions on the export of goods to Russia in response to the country’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Haimovich arranged for more than 160 shipments to companies in the Maldives and United Arab Emirates that were responsible for the illicit transshipment of the goods to Russia. One such shipment, of an air data module, occurred in August 2022. Haimovich, who had been hired by Siberia Airlines (doing business as S7 Airlines) to deliver the aircraft component to Russia, directed a co-conspirator to falsely inform the U.S. supplier that the part was destined for the Maldives; in fact, Haimovich knew that the part was destined for Russia for the benefit of S7 Airlines.

    Haimovich also agreed that, between March 2022 and May 2023, he billed Russian customers, including Siberia Airlines (doing business as S7 Airlines), more than two million dollars to have aircraft parts and avionics illegally exported from the United States to Russia. In connection with Haimovich’s plea, he agreed to the entry of a forfeiture money judgment in the sum of $2,024,435 and to forfeit various aircraft parts and components.

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Kevin J. Kurland of the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, and Assistant Director Kevin Vorndran of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    BIS and FBI investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Christopher M. Rigali of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Browne for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Paster for the Southern District of Florida handled the asset forfeiture component of the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Balancing green transition goals and the competitiveness of Europe’s car industry – E-002976/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The CO2 emission standards for new cars and vans[1], including a 100% emission reduction target from 2035 onwards , provide long-term certainty and predictability for investors, while allowing sufficient lead time for a fair transition .

    They will drive the transition towards zero-emission mobility and support the competitiveness of the EU industry in view of global trends, and are essential to deliver the EU objective of becoming climate neutral by 2050.

    It is clear that manufacturers need to act to reduce their emissions and comply in 2025, but it is premature to draw any conclusion on specific compliance situations.

    These targets were agreed by the co-legislators in 2019 and confirmed in 2023, providing manufacturers with the necessary lead-time to set-up their compliance strategies, which may include selling more zero-emission cars, hybrids and plug-in hybrids, but also deploying smaller and more efficient conventional vehicles.

    Several European manufacturers are launching new and cheaper electric car models, which should increase the attractiveness of zero-emission vehicles for a broader audience.

    The President of the Commission has convened on 30 January 2025 a Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the Car Industry in Europe to urgently address the current challenges and design concrete strategies and solutions to ensure this key industry has a solid future in Europe[2].

    As part of the dialogue, solutions will be identified to safeguard industry’s capacity to invest, by looking at possible flexibilities to make sure the EU industry remains competitive, without lowering the overall ambition of the 2025 targets[3].

    The dialogue will feed into an EU industrial action plan for the automotive sector, to be presented on 5 March 2025.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/851/oj
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_299
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/document/download/10017eb1-4722-4333-add2-e0ed18105a34_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Meetings with National Parliaments – ICM on the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 – 6 March – 06-03-2025 – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    ICM on the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 – 6 March On Thursday, 6 March 2025, to celebrate the IWD 2025, the FEMM Committee, in collaboration with the Directorate for Relations with National Parliaments, organises an inter-parliamentary committee meeting on “Strengthening the Women, Peace and Security Agenda – Upholding Women’s Rights in Defence, Security and Peace Building”.

    This year’s IWD event will, amongst others, focus on the need to ensure women’s full participation in decision-making processes, particularly in defence, security, and peacebuilding, where their leadership leads to more inclusive and lasting peace. It is further crucial to protect women and girls in conflict and post-conflict settings from trafficking, exploitation, and the use of rape as a weapon of war.

    High-level representatives of Members States, EU institutions, Members of the European Parliament and of EU National Parliaments are invited to discuss the different ways in which women can contribute to combating inequalities and empowering future generations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – ICM on the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 – 6 March – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    On Thursday, 6 March 2025, to celebrate the IWD 2025, the FEMM Committee, in collaboration with the Directorate for Relations with National Parliaments, organises an inter-parliamentary committee meeting on “Strengthening the Women, Peace and Security Agenda – Upholding Women’s Rights in Defence, Security and Peace Building”.

    This year’s IWD event will, amongst others, focus on the need to ensure women’s full participation in decision-making processes, particularly in defence, security, and peacebuilding, where their leadership leads to more inclusive and lasting peace. It is further crucial to protect women and girls in conflict and post-conflict settings from trafficking, exploitation, and the use of rape as a weapon of war.

    High-level representatives of Members States, EU institutions, Members of the European Parliament and of EU National Parliaments are invited to discuss the different ways in which women can contribute to combating inequalities and empowering future generations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Plight of Basque tuna-fishing vessels in Senegal – E-000088/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Senegal is a long-standing partner of the EU in the fisheries sector. A Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA)[1] was concluded between Senegal and the EU in 2014. The last protocol (2019-2024) expired in November 2024.

    In line with the EU’s zero tolerance policy towards illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing[2], the Commission decided not to renew the Protocol, given its decision of the pre-identification of Senegal as a non-cooperating country in the fight against IUU fishing.

    The formal IUU dialogue has just begun, and so long as the yellow card is in place, the renewal of the protocol cannot be considered.

    The Commission recognises the challenges faced by the Basque tuna vessels and other European fleets due to the expiration and the non-renewal of the protocol.

    However, the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF)[3] for 2021-2027, as agreed and adopted by the co-legislators, does not envisage the possibility to compensate losses in cases of non-renewal of SFPAs or their implementing protocols.

    The Commission is available to further engage with any stakeholders concerned to discuss possible alternative options for fishing grounds offered by the network of fisheries agreements covering several countries in the region and other regions, the regional fisheries management organisations and EU waters.

    • [1] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/fisheries/international-agreements/sustainable-fisheries-partnership-agreements-sfpas_en
    • [2] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/fisheries/rules/illegal-fishing_en
    • [3] https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/funding/emfaf_en
    Last updated: 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Commission challenging France’s energy success, ignoring the EU’s climate and environmental challenges – E-001873/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    For over 50 years, nuclear power has played an important role in those Member States that have chosen to rely on it. Currently, nuclear reactors operate across 12 of the 27 Member States and generate almost a quarter of the EU’s total electricity.

    The Commission has long acknowledged the role of nuclear energy as a low-carbon energy source, while recognising that the decision on its use remains within the discretion of each Member State, in line with their rights to determine their energy mix enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

    The Commission Communication on the 2040 climate target[1] emphasises the need for further electrification with a fully decarbonised power system by 2040, using all available low-carbon technologies.

    Projections show that decarbonised sources will generate over 90% of electricity in the EU in 2040. The bulk is projected to come from renewable energy with an important contribution from nuclear energy.

    In line with his mission letter, the Commissioner for Energy and Housing is committed to support the acceleration of the development of Small Modular Reactors in Europe, and to continue ensuring nuclear safety and safeguards, including diversified supplies, safe waste management and new technologies.

    As regards the Renewable Energy Directive, the priority is a timely and thorough implementation of the existing legal framework for 2030.

    The Commission has worked closely with all stakeholders to prepare the legal framework for energy for 2030 and will continue to do so with all stakeholders on board and in close cooperation with all Member States.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52024DC0063
    Last updated: 21 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Enhancing Computing Power for the Public Good

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced further details of her proposal to expand New York’s first-in-the-nation Empire AI Consortium. The Governor’s FY26 Executive Budget includes $90 million in capital funding to substantially increase the computing power of Empire AI, expand access for SUNY researchers, and support the addition of new members including the University of Rochester, the Rochester Institute of Technology, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. The proposal will be matched by $50 million in private funding from new members and $25 million in SUNY operating funding over ten years. This investment will make the Empire AI supercomputer more powerful, leading to more research for the public good being done faster and more efficiently compared with currently available computing power.

    “The United States is in a race with China and the rest of the world in the global AI revolution, and with our first-in-the-nation Empire AI Consortium, New York is leading the way in research and innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “With Empire AI, we are setting the standard for harnessing the power of AI for the public good and ultimately creating a better future for New Yorkers.”

    Last year, Governor Hochul reached historic agreement with the state legislature as part of the FY25 Budget to establish Empire AI, a first-of-its-kind independent consortium to secure New York’s place at the forefront of artificial intelligence research. The consortium will leverage a $275 million state investment to create and launch a state-of-the-art artificial intelligence computing center on the University at Buffalo’s campus. The center will be used by leading New York institutions to promote responsible research and development, create jobs and advance AI for the public good. The founding members of Empire AI include SUNY, CUNY, Columbia University, Cornell University, New York University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and the Flatiron Institute.

    In October 2024, only six months after Budget enactment, Governor Hochul launched the first phase of Empire AI thanks to a philanthropic contribution from the Simons Foundation. Housed at the University at Buffalo, the Empire AI Alpha system is operating at maximum capacity and has allowed over 200 researchers across the seven founding members to begin work aimed at addressing major societal challenges.

    Researchers are already using Empire AI to conduct groundbreaking research, from medical breakthroughs in treating cancer to making better weather predictions, which will make life better for everyday New Yorkers. Current projects include:

    • Developing technologies that could provide adaptive speech and language therapies to children with special needs.
    • Building models of the climate, which can help communities prepare for future impact of extreme weather events.
    • Building models to help analyze CT scans to better diagnose and treat lung cancer.

    Now, Governor Hochul’s proposed expansion will allow Empire AI to secure a future full-scale computing system that supports expanded capacity for SUNY and the addition of new members. The proposed new members of Empire AI consortium include:

    • University of Rochester, a leading research university and the largest health care system in Upstate New York, will vastly improve AI-powered medical research and give consortium researchers unparalleled access to medical technologies and information.
    • Rochester Institute of Technology, which announced the formation of its Artificial Intelligence Hub last August, has proven to be a nationwide leader developing AI solutions for teaching and learning. By joining the consortium, they are contributing academic and strategic power to Empire AI’s member schools and researchers.
    • Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, one of the top medical schools in the country, the first medical school to establish a Department of Artificial Intelligence (the Windreich Department of AI and Human Health) and is ranked as number 1 in AI according to Nature AI Index, has expressed intent to join the Empire AI consortium. The School will work collaboratively with the other healthcare and public health partners to accelerate health AI research with a focus on translation, aimed at improving New York’s health care and public health infrastructure.
    • SUNY will double its participation in Empire AI’s consortium, allowing more researchers and students from SUNY’s most research-intensive campuses to access the world-class computing power.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s vision and commitment, New York State is a clear leader in harnessing the power of AI – one of the most revolutionary technologies of this century – to improve people’s lives and promote the public good. ESD is proud of its pioneering part in its effort, and eager to work with the expanded consortium, to not only leverage AI to tackle society’s most vexing challenges, but also cultivate New York’s AI ecosystem, which will create quality jobs, attract additional investments, and further grow the state’s economy.”

    SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul, New York State is leading the nation in the use of artificial intelligence to advance the public good. SUNY’s world-class researchers are already accelerating groundbreaking work on climate change, curing diseases, and civic discourse thanks to Empire AI, and Governor Hochul’s budget proposal will help SUNY and other higher education institutions conduct research that strengthens our economic well-being and national security.”

    Empire AI Interim Executive Director Robert Harrison said, “Empire AI is advancing research in public health, environmental science, computing and countless other areas, and we’re doing it at a scale and pace that would have been unthinkable even a few short months ago. This is only possible because of Governor Hochul’s leadership and the legislature’s vision to partner with some of the state’s leading research institutions and invest in New York’s computing capabilities. And thanks to Governor Hochul, we now have the opportunity to do even more, adding new members and increasing our research capabilities to cement New York as the national leader in AI research for the public good.”

    Rochester Institute of Technology Research Vice President Ryne Raffaelle said, “Joining Empire AI would strengthen our commitment to leading the way in the higher education artificial intelligence space. Our researchers would have unique opportunities to access cutting-edge equipment, connect with other thought leaders, and engage students in work related to responsible artificial intelligence. This partnership would be valuable for our university and would escalate our state as a national leader in this area.”

    University of Rochester Research Vice President Steve Dewhurst said, “AI is rapidly changing our lives in fundamental and profound ways. That’s why we would be so excited to join Empire AI to leverage our incredible assets and strengths in AI and supercomputing. In partnership with our state’s leading experts, we could enhance how we learn, discover, heal, and create, while harnessing our collective strengths to best position New York to lead and benefit from this technology. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her leadership and vision in creating this innovative collaboration and look forward to working with our partners when it passes in the Budget.”

    Nash Family Professor of Neuroscience Director, The Friedman Brain Institute Dean for Academic Affairs, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Chief Scientific Officer, Mount Sinai Health System Dr. Eric Nestler said, “Joining Empire AI would ensure that we remain at the forefront of AI innovation and progress — where AI-driven insights enhance diagnosis, personalize treatments, and revolutionize research and practice. Together, we and members of this consortium would harness the power of AI technology to improve patient health, drive medical breakthroughs, and shape the future of healthcare.”

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “The Rochester region is fortunate to have nationally renowned universities on the cutting edge of technological research like Rochester Institute of Technology and University of Rochester. Today’s announcement from Governor Hochul that these institutions will be bringing their expertise to the Empire AI consortium is a win for our universities, their students, and our area as a whole. With the inclusion of RIT and University of Rochester, area researchers will be leading the way on AI innovation and helping to establish New York on the forefront of this vital work.”

    Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, “Congratulations to the Rochester Institute of Technology and the University of Rochester on their intention to join Empire AI consortium. This collaboration will connect the Rochester region to the world-class talent and cutting-edge technologies needed to prepare the workforce of today and tomorrow, and ensure these universities continue to lead the way in pioneering technological advancements. As Chair of Labor, I recognize that this initiative is critical to growing our economy by guaranteeing we have the expertise and qualified workforce required for nation-leading research and education.”

    Expanding Artificial Intelligence Across New York State
    Access to the computing resources that power AI systems is prohibitively expensive and difficult to obtain. These resources are increasingly concentrated in the hands of large technology companies and other global competitors, who maintain outsized control of the AI development ecosystem. As a result, researchers, public interest organizations, and small companies are being left behind, which has enormous implications for AI safety and society at large. Empire AI is bridging this gap and accelerating the development of AI centered in the public interest for New York State. Enabling this pioneering AI research and development is also helping educational institutions nurture the next generation of talent that will create AI-focused technology startups, driving job growth.

    By increasing collaboration between New York State’s world-class research institutions, Empire AI is creating efficiencies of scale not achievable by any single university, empowering and attracting top notch faculty, expanding educational opportunity, and enabling responsible innovation that will significantly strengthen our state’s economy and our national security.
    The initiative is currently funded by over $400 million in public and private investment, including a $250 million State capital grant investment and $25 million over ten years in SUNY operating funding. The project will also receive more than $125 million from the founding institutions and other private partners, including the Simons Foundation, whose Flatiron Institute works to advance research through computational methods, and Tom Secunda, co-founder of Bloomberg LP and the Secunda Family Foundation, which provides millions of dollars a year in grants to conservation, health care, scientific advancement and other causes.

    Governor Hochul’s Innovation Agenda
    Governor Hochul’s commitment to advancing New York’s leadership in artificial intelligence builds on her broader agenda to expand cutting-edge technology development in the Empire State. Last year, Governor Hochul announced that IBM CEO Arvind Krishna and Girls Who Code CEO Dr. Tarika Barrett would co-chair the new Emerging Technology Advisory Board (the Board) — an independent group of industry leaders tasked with informing and accelerating New York’s transformation into a hub for growth and innovation. The Board released their initial recommendations in December 2024.

    The Governor previously signed New York’s historic Green CHIPS legislation to drive semiconductor research, development, and manufacturing in New York State and announced a $10 billion partnership to bring next-generation chips research to NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex. The Governor has continued to advance a $620 million Life Science Initiative to support innovation in biomedical research. And through strategic investments like the $113.7 million Battery-NY initiative, Governor Hochul has fueled the growth of the sustainability, green technology and energy storage economies in New York State.

    The Governor’s innovation agenda has catalyzed major public and private investments, transforming New York’s economy and creating good-paying jobs of the future. GlobalFoundries recently announced an $11.6 billion investment to expand its chip manufacturing campus in New York’s Capital Region, creating 1,500 direct jobs and thousands of indirect jobs. In 2022, Micron announced a 20-year, $100 billion investment to create a megafab campus in Central New York, creating 50,000 new direct and indirect jobs and unlocking hundreds of millions of dollars in community benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Ambridge Water Authority Manager Sentenced to Prison and Ordered to Pay Restitution of More Than $1 Million for Defrauding Utility

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on February 20, 2025, to 27 months of incarceration, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,073,185 on his conviction of mail fraud, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Michael Dominick, 44, who pleaded guilty to the mail fraud charge on October 8, 2024 (read the plea news release here).

    According to information presented to the Court, Dominick was a former manager at the Ambridge Water Authority (AWA), where, during the period of January 2020 through August 2022, Dominick defrauded AWA of money and property totaling approximately $1,073,185. As manager of AWA, Dominick was responsible for overseeing all daily business and financial activity and had access to AWA’s bank accounts as well as cash and check payments made to AWA for water and related services. Dominick secretly diverted AWA’s money into his own personal bank accounts by writing checks to himself, depositing cash and checks issued to AWA into his personal bank accounts, using the AWA debit card to make purchases of personal items, and adjusting or failing to report the true location of AWA’s funds on critical financial records. As part of his sentencing, Dominick was ordered to pay restitution to the AWA and one of its insurers in the full amount stolen.

    Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Bissoon stated that the sentence imposed would reflect Dominick’s significant abuse of public trust in perpetrating the fraud.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and investigators with the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dominick.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: TWO TALLAHASSEE MEN FOUND GUILTY IN LARGE-SCALE CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE MARIJUANA

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Tyquan M. Watson, 28, and Dezaneil D. Cosby Jr., 27, both of Tallahassee, Florida, were found guilty by a federal jury of conspiring to distribute marijuana as part of a large-scale conspiracy distributing hundreds of pounds of marijuana per week. The guilty verdict, returned at the conclusion of a four-day trial, was announced by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    Trial testimony and evidence demonstrated that Watson was purchasing hundred-pound quantities of marijuana per week from farms and brokers in California and reselling the marijuana in Tallahassee and surrounding areas. Evidence demonstrated that Watson had purchased at least 3169 pounds of marijuana between September 24, 2023, and January 10, 2024, with proceeds of at least $2.4 million during that period.

    The long-term investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). On October 13, 2022, FDLE conducted a controlled purchase of 28 pounds of marijuana from a subsequently charged codefendant. During the surveillance, FDLE agents observed the codefendant obtaining the marijuana from Cosby’s residence immediately prior to the controlled purchase. Both the codefendant and Watson’s fingerprints were identified on packaging material associated with the purchased marijuana. On October 28, 2022, DEA executed a federal search warrant at Cosby’s residence and seized 238 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.

    Watson and Cosby were both convicted of distribution of marijuana related to the October 13, 2022, controlled purchase. Cosby was also convicted of possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana for the October 28, 2022, search warrant.

    Watson and Cosby were arrested together on federal arrest warrants on March 11, 2024, at another residence in Tallahassee. During that arrest, law enforcement seized another 183 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.

    Sentencing is scheduled for May 2, 2025, at 11:00am (Watson) and 2:00pm (Cosby) at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

    This conviction was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson prosecuted the case.

    This prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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. More information about OCDETF may be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stowe Man Charged with the Deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on February 20, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Theodore Bland, 29, of Stowe, Vermont, with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base, possession of cocaine base and fentanyl with intent to distribute, using and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime, discharging that firearm during the commission of the offense, and through his use and carrying of a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime causing the deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White in circumstances that constitute murder under federal law.

    Bland’s arraignment on the new charges will occur on a date to be determined by the United States District Court for the District of Vermont. Bland is currently detained pending trial on charges included in the original indictment in the case.

    According to court records, on October 12, 2023, Bland used, carried, and discharged a firearm, in relation to his drug trafficking activities. Also according to court records, Bland’s October 12 firearm discharges caused the deaths of Jahim Solomon and Eric White. Bland used social media messaging to communicate with his co-conspirators regarding, among other topics, the procurement of controlled substances for distribution, the pricing of controlled substances for sale to drug customers, and the distribution of controlled substances to drug customers. Bland also used social media messaging to communicate with his co-conspirators following the homicides of Solomon and White on October 12, 2023, including communications about his attempts to conceal the homicides. Court documents also state that Bland induced others to help him move the bodies of Solomon and White to two wooded areas in Eden, Vermont, where the bodies were discovered by law enforcement on October 24 and 25, 2023.

    The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Bland is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted of the new charges in the superseding indictment, there is a possibility the federal death penalty could apply. The United States has not yet reached a decision whether it will pursue the death penalty against Bland. If convicted of the new charges Bland also faces a potential prison term of up to life. Any prison sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Morristown Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department.

    The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jason Turner and Paul Van de Graaf. Bland is represented by David Sleigh, Esq.

    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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Businessmen Receive Prison Sentences in COVID-19 Mask and Glove Sale Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ATLANTA – Brian H. Sperber and Edmond S. Norkus have received prison sentences for conspiring to commit wire fraud in a scheme in which the men tricked expectant purchasers of personal protective equipment out of more than $14 million. 

    “Sperber and Norkus cashed in on the unprecedented scarcity and skyrocketing price of personal protective equipment to get rich quick at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic was exploding,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “Now they justifiably confront prison terms for their cynical, illegal cash grab.”

    “These sentences underline the FBI’s commitment to holding those who exploit federal relief programs for personal gain accountable,” said FBI Atlanta Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke.

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court: Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic began, Brian H. Sperber became an authorized distributor for a Georgia-based personal protective equipment (“PPE”) manufacturer. Edmond S. Norkus operated warehouse space in Florida and was Sperber’s longstanding business associate. As the pandemic worsened, demand for, and market value of, PPE steeply increased. Even though Sperber was only authorized to sell to customers in a specific geographic sales territory and manufacturers had only extremely limited supplies available, Sperber and Norkus promised to sell large quantities of PPE to a wide range of would-be buyers. 

    But to make it appear that they could deliver on their promise, Sperber and Norkus diverted and showcased products already earmarked for other customers. They also provided customers with a variety of altered and counterfeit documents, designed to deceive customers into believing the products they had ordered were on the way. Ultimately, there were no products to supply and Sperber and Norkus pocketed the money while providing the victims with nothing.

    United States District Judge Michael J. Brown sentenced Brian H. Sperber, 48, of Plantation, Fla., to two years, two months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $14,231,605.36. Sperber was convicted on May 28, 2024, after he pleaded guilty.

    Judge Brown sentenced Edmond S. Norkus, 61, of Deerfield Beach, Fla., to three years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Norkus was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $13,821,605.36. Norkus was convicted on May 28, 2024, after he pleaded guilty.

    Sperber used proceeds from the scheme to purchase a multi-million dollar waterfront mansion in Boca Raton, Florida. In a related civil forfeiture action, the United States and Sperber agreed to sell the property, netting approximately $4 million, and resolve the forfeiture in the criminal prosecution. As part of Sperber’s sentence, the district court forfeited Sperber’s interest in the funds. The United States, in Sperber’s plea agreement, agreed to recommend that the funds seized from the sale of the property be restored to the victims named in the restitution order. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Alana R. Black and C. Brock Brockington prosecuted the case.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Importing Suicide Drug Into the United States From Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — A man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge for illegally importing the drug Pentobarbital into the United States from Mexico for use in committing suicide.

    DANIEL GONZALEZ-MUNGUIA, also known as “Alejandro Vasquez,” 41, of Puebla, Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court in Chicago to one count of importing a controlled substance into the United States.  The charge is punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.  U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis set sentencing for Sept. 9, 2025.

    Pentobarbital, also known as Nembutal, is a drug sold in Mexico for the purpose of euthanizing animals.  In the U.S., Pentobarbital is a controlled substance and has been used in state-sponsored executions.  Gonzalez-Munguia admitted in a plea agreement that from 2012 to 2021, he operated an online drug business that sold and distributed bottles of Pentobarbital to hundreds of individuals in the U.S. and throughout the world, including individuals in Illinois.  Many of the buyers consumed the product and died, the plea agreement states.

    The investigation by Homeland Security Investigations began in 2016 after a parcel of the drug was intercepted in a Chicago suburb.  Authorities in the U.S. and several foreign countries conducted well-being checks and recovered Pentobarbital from numerous individuals who admitted to being despondent and ordering the suicide drug online from Gonzalez-Munguia.  Law enforcement provided assistance to those individuals.

    Gonzalez-Munguia admitted that he initially shipped bottles of the drug directly from Mexico and in the manufacturer’s packaging, but thereafter disguised it as a cosmetic product and used intermediaries to transport it into the U.S. before shipping to customers around the world.

    The guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Daniel Johnsen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations, and Ruth Mendonça, Inspector-in-Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Illinois Army National Guard Counterdrug Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, and law enforcement agencies in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kartik K. Raman is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to More Than 2 Years for Trafficking Drugs at a Public Housing Development in Portsmouth

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CONCORD – A Dominican man was sentenced yesterday in federal court for trafficking drugs at a public housing development in Portsmouth, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    Maikol Jordan Saldivar-Diaz, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott to 30 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release. In November 2024, Saldivar-Diaz pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution of controlled substances.

    “Saldivar-Diaz is an illegal immigrant who chose to distribute drugs outside of a public housing development,” said Acting United States Attorney Jay McCormack. “The families at the housing development deserve better than to be endangered by those dealing and buying dangerous narcotics nearby. We will continue to support our partners to ensure public neighborhoods in the Granite State are safeguarded from drug activity and violence.”

    According to court documents, Portsmouth Police Department was notified of drug activity at a public housing development in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Investigators were subsequently able to identify Saldivar-Diaz as the source of this drug activity. On three occasions in June and July of 2024, Saldivar-Diaz sold controlled substances to a confidential informant, including quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

    Portsmouth Police Department led the investigation. The Drug Enforcement Administration provided valuable assistance.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Scanlon is prosecuting the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Over 800 people hospitalised and dozens are dead from waterborne infection in White Nile state Sudan

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Dozens of people have died, and over 800 are being treated for symptoms of acute watery diarrhoea, dehydration, vomiting, and sunken eyes at the Ministry of Health cholera treatment centre in Kosti teaching hospital, which is supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), in Sudan’s White Nile state.

    MSF has been supporting cholera-related responses in Kosti and Rabak hospitals since October 2024. Recently, the number of cases had decreased, with some days seeing fewer than 20 patients. However, that suddenly changed on Wednesday night when the first 100 patients arrived at the cholera treatment centre. By Friday afternoon, there were over 800 admitted patients. At least two dozen people died at the centre and at least one person was dead on arrival. So far, 48 patients have been discharged. The numbers continue to rise and keeping a detailed tally has become difficult for the team responding.  

    Patients have overflowed from the MSF-built cholera treatment centre in Kosti hospital, necessitating the use of the hospital’s adult and paediatric emergency rooms to provide additional space for treatment. The MSF team is collaborating with the Ministry of Health staff from Kosti teaching hospital, and additional medical staff from Rabak hospital have also joined the effort to manage the huge number of patients.

    “The ituation is really alarming and is about to get out of control,” says Dr Francis Layoo Ocan, MSF’s project medical referent in Kosti. “The cholera treatment centre keeps receiving patients in critical condition. We’ve run out of space, and we are now admitting patients in an open area and treating them on the floor because there are not enough beds.” 

    “We are mobilising our resources and have been able to manage so far but we are worried that if the situation continues like this over the next few days, we will run out of medical consumables that treat acute dehydration and are keeping patients alive,” says Dr Layoo Ocan. “Not to mention that the medical teams would be completely overwhelmed.”

    “We urgently need other organisations to help respond to this emergency with staff and supplies for managing patients. People need water and it’s vital that outreach activities start to stem this crisis at the source,” he added.

    MSF is supporting the White Nile state’s Ministry of Health in managing patients while assessing the causes of this surge and identifying ways to reduce and stop the spread of the disease. The most likely source of infection is the river, where many families have been collecting water using donkey carts after a major power outage in the area.

    Local health authorities have banned collecting water from the river by donkey carts and requested reinforcing the chlorination in the water distribution system. The market and most restaurants are closed. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer, Smith Lead Delegation in Reintroducing Bill to Honor North Platte Canteen Volunteers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03) led their Nebraska colleagues in reintroducing the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act. The bill would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the collective individuals and communities who volunteered or donated food and other items to the North Platte Canteen in North Platte, Nebraska, during World War II. 
    U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) is an original cosponsor of the Senate legislation. U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), and Mike Flood (NE-01) are original cosponsors of the House legislation.
    “During the world’s darkest time, a host of patriotic Nebraskans volunteered to give our service members a taste of home and of hope at the North Platte Canteen. Those volunteers included my own mother, Florence. I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation, which will honor the Nebraskans who ran the North Platte Canteen for nearly five years during World War II,” said Senator Fischer.“For four and a half years, the North Platte Canteen gave a sense of home to more than 6 million American troops traversing the country by train to serve in the Second World War. Volunteers from Nebraska communities came from as much as 200 miles away to lend a hand and provide meals, refreshments, and baked goods to up to 5,000 soldiers per day at the Canteen’s peak. This bill will honor this monumental patriotic effort as a great moment in American history. I thank Sen. Fischer for bringing legislation in the Senate and the entire delegation for supporting its introduction,” said Congressman Smith.
    “The North Platte Canteen is an excellent example of Nebraska’s tradition of patriotism. Our nation needs to be inspired by stories of service now more than ever. This bill will give these volunteers the recognition they deserve,” said Senator Ricketts.
    “During World War II, 55,000 Nebraskans showed their patriotism and love for this country by volunteering time and donating food to the North Platte Canteen, which in turn served millions of soldiers. As a veteran, I know how much those soldiers appreciated the acts of kindness exhibited to them and I am honored to join this movement to recognize their work,” said Congressman Bacon.
    “The North Platte Canteen has long been remembered as a symbol of Nebraska’s patriotism and our state’s love for our country’s Armed Forces. This measure is a salute to the people and communities who supported the canteen, and I look forward to working with my colleagues towards awarding them a Congressional Gold Medal as a token of our appreciation,” Congressman Flood.
    “The Nebraska American Legion is proud to endorse Senator Fischer’s bill regarding the North Platte canteen and its many volunteers that served the greatest generation going into battle. For many years, trains carrying our GI’s across America would stop in North Platte to allow railroad workers a short time to perform whatever maintenance was required on the train and get it ready for its next journey. The good people of North Platte took advantage of this opportunity and would provide refreshments to the GI’s during the brief stop. These volunteers demonstrated first-hand the patriotic spirit of Nebraskans and our tremendous Nebraska hospitality,” said Nebraska American Legion Department Adjutant Dave Salak.
    “We appreciate Senator Deb Fischer’s leadership on the effort to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the those who supported the North Platte Canteen. From Christmas Day of 1941 throughout World War II, 55,000 Nebraska women volunteered to provide refreshments and support to nearly seven million American servicemen who passed by rail through North Platte, Nebraska. Stopping by the North Platte Station, many times only for a few minutes, receiving a sandwich, a slice of pie or a cup of coffee, in their route across the country, allowed Nebraska to show their appreciation and support. To recognize the effort of these Nebraskans by awarding them the Congressional Gold Medal is incredibly fitting and perfect timing. Nebraska mobilized 144,000 servicemembers during the second World War,” said Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director John Hilgert. “We are recognizing their service on this 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II by presenting them each with a medal and ribbon especially minted by the State of Nebraska’s Department of Veterans Affairs. To recognize the outstanding effort of those who served on the home front through the efforts made at the North Platte Canteen is only fitting. From the home front to the battle front, Nebraska gave her all for victory. Awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the effort is not simply a remembrance but rather it is a lesson for generations to come. A lesson of sacrifice, teamwork, and dedication to mission. As Nebraska’s Governor Jim Pillen often says, “Together we can!”
    “The Friends of the National World War II Memorial proudly endorses the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act. We commend Senator Fischer for championing this important legislation to recognize the extraordinary volunteers who selflessly served at the North Platte Canteen during World War II. Through their dedication, these volunteers provided warmth, nourishment, and encouragement to more than six million American service members traveling to the European and Pacific theaters. Their efforts embodied the spirit of the Greatest Generation—whose sacrifices, both on and off the battlefield, helped secure victory over tyranny. Honoring the North Platte Canteen volunteers with the Congressional Gold Medal is a long-overdue tribute to their remarkable service and enduring legacy,” said Friends of the National World War II Memorial Executive Director Holly Rotondi.
    “The volunteers of the North Platte Canteen embodied the true Spirit of American patriotism not through combat, but through kindness. In the darkest days of World War II, they turned a small Nebraska train depot into a beacon of hope, serving over six million soldiers with warmth, gratitude and unwavering support. Their selfless dedication to the troops, many of whom were mere teenagers heading to the front lines, exemplifies the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Honoring them with a Congressional gold medal is not just a recognition of their deeds, but a tribute to the power of unity, generosity, and the American spirit,” said North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher.  
    “During the horrors of World War II something amazing happened. Out of the upheaval of war a group of ladies began an effort that would forever affect the lives of six million service personnel. Beginning with a handful of ladies and growing to 55,000 volunteers, the North Platte Canteen became a home away from home for so many young men and women travelling to and from war. These volunteers served food but more importantly they brought love to a group of young people far from home and headed to far away places that they might never return from. Many were returning from experiences most can never imagine. This love (and food) left an indelible mark on all those that experienced it. It was simply America at its best,” said Lincoln County Historical Museum Director and Curator James Griffin.More information:
    The North Platte Canteen was a railroad stop in North Platte, Nebraska, that was recognized during World War II for providing hospitality to soldiers traveling through the area. An estimated 55,000 people from 125 communities throughout Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas contributed food, money, or time to serve the Canteen’s estimated 6 million visitors.
    The North Platte Canteen operated from Christmas Day, 1941 to April 1, 1946. It was the largest community-based canteen in the U.S. and one of the largest volunteer efforts during World War II.
    Read the full text of the bill here.
    Read more about the North Platte Canteen here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: DR Congo crisis: Occupation blocks UN mission from protecting civilians

    Source: United Nations 2

    Peace and Security

    The continued occupation of North Kivu in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by the M23 armed group has “severely constrained” the UN stabilisation force’s ability to protect civilians and carry out lifesaving operations, the mission chief Bintou Keita told reporters on Friday.

    These operational challenges have been exacerbated by ongoing mis- and disinformation campaigns that are misinforming the public of the UN peacekeepers’ role, said the Secretary-General’s Special Representative in the DRC and head of the peacekeeping mission in the country, MONUSCO, briefing the press at UN Headquarters via video-link from the DRC.

    However, the mission remains driven to discharge its mandate and is currently protecting hundreds of thousands of displaced people in eastern DRC, with the recent arrival of the Force Commander in Beni demonstrating that determination, she said.

    Ongoing peacekeeping efforts

    Despite challenges, the UN mission continues to support the DRC and its armed forces, Ms. Keita said. That includes, in recent weeks, MONUSCO’s response to attacks by the CODECO armed group and its establishment of two bases to protect civilians.

    MONUSCO has a core mandate, under international law, to protect unarmed individuals seeking refuge in its posts, Ms. Keita explained. That includes 1,400 people facing high risks – many being women and children – following the fall of Goma in January.

    “However, the current situation is unsustainable,” she warned, citing challenges of continuing to provide shelter and basic supplies to those under its protection.

    Remaining steadfast in maintaining the civilians’ security, MONUSCO urgently called for a safe, dignified and internationally supported solution for the transfer of these individuals to an alternative, secure location in full respect of their rights and choices, she said.

    Call for ceasefire

    Reiterating a call for an immediate ceasefire, she called on Rwanda to end its support for the M23 and to respect the territorial integrity of the DRC.

    She also urged all armed groups in Ituri to immediately stop their atrocities against civilians and condemned the brutal attacks by the ADF armed group in the eastern region.

    In addition, the MONUSCO chief called on all armed groups to lay down their arms and stop seizing communities.

    “There is no military solution that will end this suffering,” she said.

    Only a political solution and dialogue can resolve this conflict, Ms. Keita said, pledging MONUSCO and the UN’s support towards those ends. Women must be included in forging peace, she said, adding that “their voices must be heard.”

    Security Council to vote on draft

    The Security Council is expected to vote on a resolution related to the DRC this afternoon, she said, noting that it was anticipated that the 15-member organ would adopt it unanimously.

    She said the Luanda and Nairobi processes and other African-led efforts must guide the way to peace.

    Above all, peace and security in the DRC requires an end to the conflict, she said.

    Appeal for support

    UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said that the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, launched an appeal on Friday for $40.4 million to deliver protection and assistance to 275,000 internally displaced people in South Kivu, North Kivu, Maniema and Tanganyika provinces of the DRC as well as to support a potential influx of 258,000 refugees, asylum-seekers, and returnees in neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

    “UNHCR said there is an urgent need for shelter, food and latrines as well as relocation of the new arrivals to other sites to address overcrowding,” Mr. Dujarric said. “UNHCR and its partners are stepping up assistance, distributing warm meals and water to new arrivals. They need all sorts of relief supplies.”

    Clashes hinder humanitarian access

    In South Kivu, humanitarian partners have also raised concerns that ongoing clashes in Uvira are hindering access, including the movement of ambulances, while hospitals are reporting daily casualties among civilians, the UN Spokesperson said.

    At the same time, in the Kalehe territory, fighting has forced more than 50,000 people to flee over the past week, many to Burundi, he said.

    Since February, more than 40,000 Congolese nationals – the majority of whom are women and children – have arrived in Burundi seeking protection there, he added.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In All-Night Senate Floor Fight, Cantwell Votes NO on Republican Tax Giveaways to Ultra-Rich, YES on Lower Costs for Working Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    02.21.25

    In All-Night Senate Floor Fight, Cantwell Votes NO on Republican Tax Giveaways to Ultra-Rich, YES on Lower Costs for Working Families

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released this statement following Senate passage of a Republican-led budget resolution, after votes on 30 Democratic amendments.

    “Tonight, Senate Republicans voted to give $4 trillion in tax cuts to corporations and the ultra-rich while failing to protect programs like Medicare and Medicaid,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Republicans voted ‘no’ on our efforts to make housing more affordable, and they rejected efforts to reduce grocery prices. This is the fifth week of the Trump Administration. He is not doing enough to lower the cost of everyday goods for working families and neither will this Republican budget plan.”

    The budget resolution passed 52-48. Senate Republicans now have to hammer out their differences with the budget approach the House is slated to consider, likely next week.

    Before passage, the Senate voted on 30 Democratic amendments to improve the bill, including:

    • An amendment to prioritize the needs of working families first and prohibit tax cuts for people making $1 billion or more. Failed 47-51. Cantwell voted YES.
    • An amendment to prevent giving tax cuts for the wealthy while food prices are still high. Failed 48-52. Cantwell voted YES.
    • An amendment to protect Medicaid and prohibit providing tax cuts for the ultra-rich if any cuts are made to Medicaid. Failed 49-51. Cantwell voted YES.
    • An amendment to make housing more affordable. Failed 47-53. Cantwell voted YES.

    Republicans voted all of these and dozens more Democratic amendments down.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: During a working visit, Marat Khusnullin inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    During a working visit, Marat Khusnullin inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways

    February 21, 2025

    During a working visit, Marat Khusnullin inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways

    February 21, 2025

    During a working visit, Marat Khusnullin inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways

    February 21, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    During a working visit, Marat Khusnullin inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin, during a working trip by car from Moscow to Kazan through the Vladimir and Nizhny Novgorod regions, inspected sections of the M-7 Volga and M-12 Vostok highways.

    “The federal highway M-12 “Vostok” is our largest new infrastructure project of the last decades. The highway is part of the transport route “Russia” from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok. I can say that the condition of the road surface, which I inspected during the trip, is excellent, the road is covered with a stable mobile connection, it is comfortable to drive to the desired location and, what is important, noticeably faster. On the way, I visited a multifunctional zone with a gas station in the Vladimir region, where an entire complex has been built and all the conditions for high-quality service, rest, there is a parking lot for heavy vehicles and an area for walking pets. I believe that such a level of MFC should be on all highways in the country. The section of the M-12 from Moscow to Kazan, which the President opened a little over a year ago, remains consistently in demand among motorists – during this time, more than 30 million trips have been recorded. Despite the fact that in some places the M-12 and M-7 routes are duplicated, we are actively upgrading the M-7 Volga highway, improving its quality. It is also in good condition. Everyone can find the most convenient route for themselves, choose a toll or free road. We will certainly continue to develop highways within the framework of the national project Infrastructure for Life, so that ultimately the quality of life of people only improves,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister also noted that the territories of regions located in the area of attraction of highways are noticeably developing. Highways contribute to an increase in the volume of housing construction, investment activity, the opening of new enterprises, recreation areas, and the creation of jobs.

    During his working visit to Vladimir Oblast, Marat Khusnullin held a meeting with the head of the region, Aleksandr Avdeyev, on issues of the region’s socio-economic development, including the creation of the new city of Dobrograd. In Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, he and Governor Gleb Nikitin inspected the construction of new stations of the Nizhny Novgorod metro and a world-class IT campus.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNFPA statement on sexual violence perpetrated against women and girls in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    New York, 19 February 2025 – Women and girls are experiencing staggering rates of gender-based violence, including conflict-related sexual violence, in the latest outbreak of fighting that has engulfed the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

    Nearly 500 reported cases of sexual violence were reported within a single week in the Goma area, including more than 150 involving children. This number likely represents only a fraction of the actual survivors, those who managed to reach care,  with many more unable to due to services being cut off, fear of retaliation from perpetrators, or stigma in their communities.

    Since the beginning of the year, over 400,000 people–predominantly women and children–have been displaced in North and South Kivu, exacerbating their vulnerability to exploitation and violence. In the absence of protection services, women and girls face an increased risk of attacks, including rape, forced recruitment and sexual slavery by armed gangs who are operating with impunity. 

    Conflict-related sexual violence is being employed as a deliberate tactic of war, intended to terrorize, displace, and control populations, and to violate the dignity and rights of women and girls. Even in times of relative peace, North Kivu province had staggering rates of sexual violence reported every year, with over 50,000 cases of gender-based violence reported in 2023 and over 56,000 cases in 2024.

    But while the rates of sexual violence soar, basic services are being cut off or shut down. The eight UNFPA-supported mobile clinics, safe spaces, and listening centers are only partially functional, while the rest of the facilities that provide medical treatment and counseling to survivors in displacement camps have been looted. Medical supplies and equipment worth millions of dollars have also been looted from storage facilities in Goma, leaving thousands of women and girls without access to quality medical care. In Goma, with more than 2 million inhabitants, there are only three functioning hospitals able to provide clinical care to survivors of sexual assault and a handful of community-level health clinics that can provide basic emergency care. 

    Aid agencies are struggling to deliver food, medical care or essential supplies, with critical supply routes cut off by fighting and movement restrictions imposed by the de facto authorities in control of Goma and its surroundings.

    Under these almost impossible circumstances, UNFPA is doing all it can to provide life-saving reproductive health and protection services for survivors of sexual violence and pregnant women in the affected regions. UNFPA-supported mobile clinics and safe spaces continue to operate, and dignity kits—filled with hygiene essentials—will be distributed to women who have lost everything. 

    UNFPA is urgently appealing for $18 million to scale up its integrated reproductive health and gender-based violence services to address the escalating crisis. Women in the DRC need access to medical services, psychosocial support,  information, and safe passage to secure locations to escape the violence. UNFPA joins the call of other humanitarian actors urging parties to reopen Goma airport, a critical access point for humanitarian supplies and aid workers.

    UNFPA emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive care and access to justice for survivors of sexual violence, including the documentation and investigation of the violence they faced and the prosecution of perpetrators. 

    Finally, UNFPA joins the call for an immediate ceasefire to end the violence and enable peace to be restored. 

    Media: For interview requests please contact Eddie Wright (based in NYC): ewright@unfpa.org; +1 917 831 2074

    About UNFPA

    UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. UNFPA’s mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. UNFPA calls for the realization of reproductive rights for all and supports access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services, including voluntary family planning, quality maternal health care and comprehensive sexuality education.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bolstering efforts to combat human trafficking

    [. 22 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and Alberta’s government is reaffirming its commitment to combatting this unthinkable crime. Human trafficking is a violation of fundamental human rights that takes advantage of vulnerable people, subjecting victims to forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. It perpetuates cycles of poverty and trauma, affecting individuals and communities across the province.

    Alberta’s government recognizes the urgent need to address human trafficking and provide comprehensive supports for survivors. Introduced in December 2024, the Combatting Trafficking in Persons grant helps organizations prevent human trafficking, protect at-risk people and empower survivors. Since being introduced, organizations that play a critical role in ending human trafficking and supporting survivors have applied for the grant and 19 will receive funding to support their critical work.

    “Human trafficking leaves lasting scars on victims, survivors and communities. We are taking a strong stance against traffickers and bolstering support networks for survivors. This funding will empower community-based organizations to provide specialized services that protect vulnerable individuals and disrupt the cycle of exploitation. With these community grants, we are ensuring traffickers are held accountable and survivors have the support they need from organizations such as The Alberta Centre to rebuild their lives.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    Collaboration and community partnerships are vital to combatting human trafficking. These grants strengthen the capacity of organizations to work with law enforcement, non-profits and Indigenous communities to deliver critical supports where they are needed most. These grants provide resources to empower survivors with the tools and services they need to recover and thrive. By investing in prevention, we are addressing the root causes of trafficking and reducing exploitation in our communities.

    The Combatting Trafficking in Persons grants focus on three areas: prevention, protection and empowerment. Funded projects aim to prevent human trafficking by increasing public awareness of its signs and risk factors, supporting community engagement and fostering collaboration. Protection efforts will provide emergency support and help victims navigate legal and health care systems, while empowerment initiatives will assist survivors through peer support networks, skill-building programs and advocacy efforts.

    “With the Alberta Centre leading the way, we now have a dedicated, community-led organization working in partnership with the Government of Alberta and focused on disrupting trafficking networks and empowering survivors. This centre brings hope for vulnerable individuals and a safer future for all Albertans. Our work is focused on empowering those affected by trafficking, disrupting networks of exploitation, and fostering safer, more resilient communities.”

    Paul Brandt, founder and CEO, #NotInMyCity, and co-chair, Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons

    “With the funding from the Government of Alberta, RESET Society of Calgary will increase the capacity within our program and decrease our waitlist to support survivors as they transition from situations of sex trafficking to healing, empowerment and sustaining stable lives for themselves and their children. Proactive initiatives like this from the Alberta government will bring agencies and partners together to provide critical trauma-informed programs and supports.”

    Theresa Jenkins, executive director, RESET Society of Calgary

    “Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) is thankful to the Alberta government for its ongoing commitment to address human trafficking in Alberta and for support to continue our work to prevent human trafficking in friendship centre communities across the province. ANFCA looks forward to working in partnership with our member friendship centres, the Alberta government and other stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking in the province.”

    Jeannette MacInnis, director of partnerships, Alberta Native Friendship Centres

    Priority consideration was given to initiatives that meaningfully include persons with lived experience of human trafficking, as well as Indigenous-led programs. This approach ensures that funding supports culturally relevant, survivor-centered services with the greatest impact on vulnerable populations.

    Quick facts

    • The 19 organizations receiving provincial funding include:
      • Alberta Native Friendship Centres
      • ALERT
      • Buckspring Foundation
      • Catholic Social Services
      • CEASE
      • Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre
      • Chiniki First Nation
      • Goodstoney First Nation
      • HER Victory
      • Hull Services
      • Kainai Transition Centre Society
      • Métis Nation of Alberta
      • Narrow Road Society
      • REACH
      • RESET Society
      • Salvation Army
      • The Alberta Centre for Human Trafficking
      • Tsuut’ina Nation
      • Waypoints
    • Recipients of the Combatting Trafficking in Persons Grant must be located in Alberta. To be eligible to apply, applicants must be one of the following:
      • A registered not-for-profit/charitable organization in Alberta.
      • A community-based coalition or network (with a designated fiscal agent).
      • An Indigenous community, including Tribal Councils, First Nations and Metis Settlements.

    Related information

    • Combatting Trafficking in Persons Grant

    Related news

    • Empowering survivors of human trafficking (Dec. 13, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –