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  • MIL-Evening Report: Australians are waiting 12 years on average before seeking help for a mental health problem – new research

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Birrell, Researcher, Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney

    Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock

    Australians are waiting an average of 12 years to seek treatment for mental health and substance use disorders, our new research shows.

    While many of us are proactive in looking after our physical health, we appear to be seriously neglecting our mental health, suffering for many years before reaching out for help. Some people never seek help.

    In our research, the length of delay in seeking help varied depending on the type of mental health problem and other factors such as sex and age.

    But delays in getting help mean mental health problems can become more complex, severe and difficult to treat. So it’s important to understand why these delays occur – and how we can reduce them.

    Some key findings

    We used national data from the 2020–22 Australian National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, a nationally representative survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

    Among the information collected in this survey, respondents were asked about their history of mental health and substance use problems, and when they first sought help from a medical doctor or other professional regarding their symptoms (if at all).

    The survey asked about the most common types of mental health and substance use problems in the general population under three broad categories: mood disorders (for example, depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (such as social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder) and substance use disorders.

    People with mood disorders waited an average of three years before seeking treatment, those with substance use disorders waited an average of eight, and people with anxiety disorders waited the longest to seek treatment – 11 years on average.

    We found people experiencing panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder, had some of the shortest delays (an average of two years), while those with social anxiety disorder waited the longest (13 years).

    The average delay across all mental health and substance use disorders – 12 years – was calculated based on the prevalence of different conditions. Anxiety disorders, particularly social anxiety disorder, are the most common, which brought up this average.

    We found younger people were more likely to seek help.
    Perfect Wave/Shutterstock

    We also looked at how many people would eventually seek help across their lifetime. Nearly everyone with depression (94%) eventually sought help, but only 25% of people with an alcohol use disorder ever did.

    Women were less likely than men to seek help for alcohol or other drug-related problems but were more likely to reach out for help with anxiety or mood-related concerns.

    Gen Z and millennials were much more likely to seek help than older generations. Compared to people born before 1972, those born between 1992 and 2005 were more than four times as likely to seek treatment for a drug or alcohol problem, more than twice as likely to seek help for a mood disorder, and nearly four times as likely to seek help for an anxiety problem.

    Some limitations

    While the ABS survey is one of the largest and most comprehensive in Australia, it relies on people remembering and accurately reporting when they first experienced symptoms of a mental health or substance use problem, and when they first sought support.

    It was also conducted during the COVID pandemic, a time of heightened stress and increased mental health challenges. However, the impact of this is probably small, given people were asked about their experiences across their entire lifetime.

    The survey also didn’t measure less common (but very impactful) mental health problems such as psychosis or eating disorders.

    How do delays compare to other countries?

    While this data is not perfect, the delays we observed are mostly in line with those seen in other countries. In some ways we are actually doing better.

    The relatively short delays for seeking help for a mood disorder (for example, depression, for which the average delay was three years) are largely consistent with similar studies in the United States, New Zealand, Europe and Asia.

    It’s often several years between when someone first experiences a mental health problem and when they seek treatment.
    Erik Mclean/Unsplash

    While still lengthy, the average delay of 11 years to seek treatment for an anxiety disorder in Australia appears similar if not shorter than in many other countries (ranging between 10–30 years).

    What’s more, when it comes to seeking help for problems with alcohol, things seem to be improving. While overall delays remain long, and most people still don’t seek help for alcohol problems, the delay in getting help appears to have shortened over time in Australia.

    The average time to seek treatment for alcohol use disorder is now eight years shorter than the 18-year delay reported in 2007. This may be due to increased awareness and education around the impact of alcohol use.

    Why do people delay reaching out for help?

    There are a range of reasons someone may delay seeking help. Services are not always available and many carry high out-of-pocket costs. Fear and stigma play a significant role, while many people simply may not know where to seek support or what might help.

    Finding the right treatment can be hard and while some people recover without help, for many these delays come at a huge cost. Delays mean problems can become more complex, severe and difficult to treat.

    We need to actively encourage early help-seeking, as well as continue efforts to reduce the stigma associated with poor mental health. Expanding anti-stigma campaigns and education to encourage people to seek help early could assist with this.

    Alongside these efforts it’s essential that effective treatment services are accessible when people do reach out for help. There has been chronic underinvestment in the mental health treatment system over many decades, while prevalence rates have increased. We need continued and increased investment in mental health treatment, prevention and early intervention.

    Ultimately, by empowering future generations to be proactive about their mental health, we hope we can make going to the doctor for anxiety as normal as doing so for the flu.

    Services available across Australia include the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline (1800 250 015), Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) and Head to Health. Each state and territory also has specialised mental health services.

    Louise Birrell receives funding from The National Health and Medical Research Council and The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.

    Cath Chapman receives funding from The National Health and Medical Research Council and The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.

    Katrina Prior receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council.

    – ref. Australians are waiting 12 years on average before seeking help for a mental health problem – new research – https://theconversation.com/australians-are-waiting-12-years-on-average-before-seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem-new-research-249159

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Humanitarians underscore need for urgent and sustained support in Gaza

    Source: United Nations 2

    Humanitarian Aid

    As the UN and partners continue to deliver life-saving assistance across the Gaza Strip, the scale of needs remains overwhelming, requiring urgent and sustained support, UN aid coordination office OCHA said on Monday. 

    OCHA cited Gaza’s Ministry of Health which stressed that oxygen supplies are critically needed to keep emergency, surgical and intensive care services running at hospitals, including Al Shifa and Al Rantisi hospitals in Gaza City. 

    “Health partners are engaging with the authorities to bring in generators, spare parts and equipment required to produce oxygen locally in Gaza,” the agency said. 

    Shelter and education

    Over the weekend, humanitarian partners working in the shelter sector distributed tarpaulins to more than 11,000 families in the north. 

    In Khan Younis, some 450 families are receiving sealing-off kits to create short-term shelters, kitchen sets and hygiene kits at the displacement site of Al Mawasi.  

    Educational activities also continue to expand, and more than 250,000 children have enrolled in distance learning programmes run by the UN Palestine refugee agency, UNRWA.

    Some 95 per cent of school buildings across Gaza were damaged over the past 15 months of hostilities, according to UN partners working in the education sector. Students are currently attending classes in makeshift tents and open spaces, amid winter temperatures.  

    West Bank hostilities

    OCHA also reported on the situation in the West Bank, where casualties continue to be reported due to the ongoing operations by Israeli forces in Tulkarm and Jenin.          

    “These are the most extensive Israeli operations in the West Bank in two decades, causing high casualties and significant displacement, especially in refugee camps,” the agency noted.

    Critical infrastructure has also been severely damaged, driving humanitarian needs even higher.

    OCHA once again warned that the use of lethal, war-like tactics during these operations raises concerns over the use of force that exceeds law enforcement standards. 

    Settler attacks against Palestinians and their properties also continue to be reported across the West Bank. Israeli settlers attacked residents in several villages in Nablus governorate over the weekend – in one instance, setting a house on fire. 

    Humanitarians are mobilizing resources to support affected communities, OCHA said.

    Averting UNRWA collapse

    The head of UNRWA warned on Monday that if the agency collapses it will create a vacuum in the occupied Palestinian territory and send shockwaves through neighbouring countries.

    Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini was speaking in Cairo at the Fourth Meeting of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

    He said Israeli legislation targeting UNRWA’s operations is now being implemented.

    Last October, Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, adopted two bills banning UNRWA from working in Israeli territory and enforcing a no-contact policy between national authorities and agency representatives. The laws took effect in January.

    Threat to peace and stability 

    Mr. Lazzarini warned against allowing UNRWA to “implode” due to the Knesset legislation and the suspension of funding by key donors. 

    “An environment in which children are deprived of education, and people lack access to basic services, is fertile ground for exploitation and extremism” he said.  “This is a threat to peace and stability in the region and beyond.”

    He said that alternatively, UNRWA could progressively conclude its mandate within the framework of a political process like that championed by the Global Alliance.

    “The agency would gradually transition its public-like services to empowered and prepared Palestinian institutions. This is the future for which we are preparing,” he said. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women Holds Half-Day General Discussion on Gender Stereotypes

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women today held a half-day general discussion on its proposed general recommendation on gender stereotypes.

    In opening remarks, Nahla Haidar, Committee Chairperson, said gender stereotypes created false beliefs, inhibitive gender roles and discrimination. The Committee hoped to prepare guidelines that would help States to address these stereotypes, and counter myths and common excuses as to why gender stereotypes continued to be perpetuated, such as cultural and religious reasons.

    Peggy Hicks, Director, Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division, United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in introductory remarks that the general recommendation would provide guidance on State obligations to address gender stereotypes as root causes of gender-based discrimination.  She expressed hope that it would strengthen standards, principles and guidance to eliminate all forms of gender stereotypes.

    In her introductory remarks, Natalia Kanem, Executive Director, United Nations Population Fund, said that currently, around the world, there were immense pushbacks against women and girls in all their diversity.  In this uncertain moment, all parties needed to stand with women and engage actively in developing this general recommendation.  The work of the Committee saved and transformed lives; it needed to continue.

    Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, Deputy Executive Director, United Nations Women, said gender stereotypes were barriers to the human rights of women and girls.  They restricted education, jobs, leadership, health and justice, fuelling inequality and violence, silencing women and denying freedoms.  General recommendation 41 presented a decisive opportunity to dismantle gender stereotypes at their core.

    Bandana Rana and Rhoda Reddock, Committee Experts and Co-Chairs of the Committee Working Group on gender stereotypes, also made introductory statements, calling on all stakeholders to support and provide input for the general recommendation.

    After the introductory remarks, the Committee held a panel discussion on gender stereotypes, hearing presentations from Adriana Quinones, Head, Human Rights and Development, United Nations Women; Joni van de Sand, Global MenEngage Alliance; Paola Daher, Women Deliver; Alexandra Xanthaki, United Nations Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights; and Marwa Sharafeldin, Musawah.

    Following the panel discussion, States parties, United Nations agencies, and civil society representatives delivered oral statements. Speaking were Malta, Andorra, Poland, Canada, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Japan, Chile, Maldives, Ukraine, Austria, Azerbaijan, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Bulgaria, Israel, Venezuela, Bolivia, Spain, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and Nepal.

    Also speaking were Consortium for Intersectional Justice, Observatorio Iberoamericano Contra la Violencia de Género, Duch Cedaw Network, WILPF, Center for Reproductive Rights, European Network of Migrant Women, Tania Sordo Ruz, Nordic Model Now, and Ilga World.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninetieth session is being held from 3 to 21 February.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet at 5 p.m. on Friday, 21 February to close its ninetieth session.

    Introductory Remarks

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, welcomed all participants to the meeting.  She said that the Committee was mandated to issue recommendations to States parties and provide guidance on themes related to women’s rights.  The discussions to be held today would focus on the Committee’s proposed general recommendation on general stereotypes, which the Committee urged all stakeholders to support.  Gender stereotypes created false beliefs, inhibitive gender roles and discrimination.  Measures needed to be implemented to combat them.  The Committee hoped to prepare guidelines that would help States to address these stereotypes, and counter myths and common excuses as to why gender stereotypes continued to be perpetuated, such as cultural and religious reasons.

    PEGGY HICKS, Director, Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures and Right to Development Division, United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, said she could not think of a timelier topic.  The general recommendation on gender stereotypes would provide guidance on State obligations to address these stereotypes as root causes of gender-based discrimination.  She expressed hope that it would strengthen standards, principles and guidance to eliminate all forms of gender stereotypes.

    Gender stereotypes were justified under the banners of “tradition,” “culture,” “religion” or even “nature.”  They often stemmed from patriarchal systems that tolerated or affirmed unequal power relations, based on the idea that women were inferior to men.  Discriminatory practices against women and girls needed to be eliminated, regardless of their origins, including those perpetuated in the name of culture or religion.

    The impacts of gender stereotyping began in the family and were apparent in every aspect of the lives of women and girls.  Gender stereotyping normalised violence against women and girls, politicised their reproductive functions, and denied them equal participation in political life and economic opportunities.  Women who did not conform to gender stereotypes or who openly contested them were particularly exposed to discrimination, violence and criminalisation.  

    It was crucial to address stereotypes that manifested first in the family and were then perpetuated in education systems and all aspects of society, including virtual spaces.  Transforming education systems to eliminate gender stereotypes was essential; human rights-based education was a powerful tool to dispel stereotypes.

    The discussion would address the unique vulnerabilities faced by women and girls who experienced combined stereotypes based on gender and other grounds, such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, disability and age.  The general recommendation needed to address how to rectify the impact of intersecting forms of stereotypes, resulting discriminations and corresponding State obligations.

    Gender stereotypes trapped men and boys, conditioning them to embrace harmful ideas of masculinity.  Men and boys needed to challenge unequal power relations and structures, recognising how patriarchy privileged them and how gender equality liberated all.  Combatting gender stereotypes demanded a comprehensive approach involving the transformation of laws, policies and societal structures.  

    The general recommendation would enable States parties to change and transform gender stereotypes, paving the way for the full realisation of all human rights for all women and girls.  The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights was ready to support this work.  It had concrete analytical tools and the mandate and expertise to monitor these issues, provide technical assistance, and build the capacity of key stakeholders.

    NATALIA KANEM, Executive Director, United Nations Population Fund, said it was currently a moment of grave import for the rights of women and girls. Around the world, there were immense pushbacks against women and girls in all their diversity.  Fierce opposition was threatening progress on several fronts.  It was welcome that maternal mortality had dropped by a third, and more than 160 countries had passed laws to address domestic violence. 

    However, the United Nations Population Fund regularly heard stories like those of Amena’s, who had been informed at age 13 by her parents that she was to be married.  The Fund had helped Amena to stand up for her rights and she was able to return to school.

    Gender stereotypes perpetuated stigma and shame around girls’ sexuality, and they posed significant risks to economic and social stability, contributing to the gender wage gap. Poverty often wore the face of a woman. Stereotypes also often led to gender-based violence, particularly online.  Discrimination severely limited the participation of women and girls in the digital space.  The ripple effects of these stereotypes drove political polarisation, fractured communities and exacerbated inequality.  They contributed to a world where progress and peace were illusive. 

    Gender discrimination was compounded by factors such as age, race and disability status.  The Fund was training healthcare workers to provide non-judgemental care for women, so women could make informed choices about their bodies and lives.

    Gender stereotypes were perpetuated in all segments of society.  The Fund was empowering girls to become leaders and was working to create a digital world that was safe and accessible for everyone.  It was also working with boys and men to ensure that they were not trapped by gender stereotypes.  It would continue to support policies and programmes that aimed to address harmful social norms.  The Committee needed to formulate processes that would give women their own money, self-agency and bodily autonomy.

    In this uncertain moment, all parties needed to stand with women.  All stakeholders needed to engage actively in developing this general recommendation.  This was not the time to roll back the clock on women’s rights.  The work of the Committee saved and transformed lives. It needed to continue.

    NYARADZAYI GUMBONZVANDA, Deputy Executive Director, United Nations Women, said United Nations Women was proud to support general recommendation 41.  Gender stereotypes were barriers to the human rights of women and girls.  They restricted education, jobs, leadership, health and justice, fuelling inequality and violence, silencing women and denying freedoms.  

    Gender stereotypes’ impact was clear in politics, where women faced double standards, exclusion and relentless scrutiny.  They also fuelled violence and impunity, with women and girls too often being valued first as wives and daughters, and not as full human beings with rights.  Stereotypes further dictated economic power, with women being denied inheritance rights.

    United Nations Women commended its Member States for adopting strong regional frameworks to combat gender-based violence and discrimination, including the Belem do Para Convention, the Istanbul Convention, and the African Union Convention on Ending Violence against Women.  Commitments needed to translate into action.  Lifting reservations to the Convention, which weakened protections and kept barriers in place, was urgent.

    General recommendation 41 presented a decisive opportunity to dismantle gender stereotypes at their core.  The year 2025 marked 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.  It was also the final stretch toward the expiration date of the Sustainable Development Goals, which pledged to end harmful practices against women and girls. General recommendation 41 was a critical tool for transformation that needed to be acted on immediately.

    BANDANA RANA, Committee Expert and Co-Chair of the Committee Working Group on Gender Stereotypes, said the Committee, at its eighty-fourth session, had agreed to start the elaboration of a general recommendation on gender stereotypes.  Harmful gender stereotypes were one of the biggest stumbling blocks to gender equality.  They contributed to unequal representation in workplaces and policies, and contributed to gender-based violence. 

    The Convention called on States to challenge traditional norms that limited women’s’ representation in all areas of society.  The general recommendation would dismantle discriminatory stereotypes and provide guidance on addressing these stereotypes and creating a more just society.  Together, they could create more equitable societies, as envisioned by the Sustainable Development Goals.  Ms. Rana called on all stakeholders to actively contribute to the general recommendation, dismantle gender stereotypes, and build a future where everyone could thrive without barriers.

    RHODA REDDOCK, Committee Expert and Co-Chair of the Committee Working Group on Gender Stereotypes, said gender stereotypes were based on ideas, attitudes, belief systems and patriarchal structures that existed in all societies.  They reflected the notion of women being inferior to men. The Convention called on all States parties to modify social patterns and cultural practices that were based on stereotyped roles of men and women.  Stereotypes often changed, and new ones were regularly created.  Women’s structured inferiority moved with them to all activities where they predominated.  This issue was central to the equal valuing of women and men.  Ms. Reddock called on all stakeholders for support as the Committee developed the general recommendation.

    Summary of Statements by Panellists

    After the introductory remarks, the Committee held a panel discussion on gender stereotypes, hearing presentations from Adriana Quinones, Head, Human Rights and Development, United Nations Women; Joni van de Sand, Global MenEngage Alliance; Paola Daher, Women Deliver; Alexandra Xanthaki, United Nations Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights; and Marwa Sharafeldin, Musawah.

    Many speakers expressed concern that currently, women’s rights were under threat from those with immense power.  There was a mounting backlash against diversity, inclusion and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex rights, and new policies and platforms for discrimination were emerging.  Stereotypes between men and women were becoming more apparent and legitimised.

    Speakers said gender stereotypes were key pillars of patriarchal domination and power. They did not emerge in a vacuum; they were used to determine roles and behaviours that conformed to power relations, and they became stubbornly resistant over time.  They had a negative impact on the full realisation of the rights of women and girls, including their rights to work, education, and sexual and reproductive health.  Persons who challenged traditional notions of the family faced discrimination.  Gender stereotypes often intersected with stereotypes related to race, class and other aspects. 

    Speakers expressed national measures implemented to address gender stereotypes and promote gender mainstreaming, and offered the Committee support in addressing gender stereotypes.

    One speaker said an increasing number of young men in the world thought that gender equality had gone too far.  Transforming stereotypes against men was crucial in advancing gender equality.  A key strategy in this regard was to promote masculinity rooted in concepts of care and environmental protection, they said. The general recommendation needed to elaborate on how transforming gender stereotypes was relevant to men and masculinities.

    Another speaker said the Committee needed to recognise that stereotypes were not perpetuated by the abstract concept of “culture”.  The general recommendation needed to recognise that women’s rights and agency came from culture.  The general recommendation needed to recognise that it was how culture was being used by elites that made it harmful. 

    The rights enshrined in the Convention belonged to all women, including lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women, one speaker said.  Womanhood needed to be recognised through self-identification.  The Committee needed to continue to eradicate stereotypes in international law regarding the definition of a woman.

    One speaker said that religion, law and the family were fields where transformative change was possible to dismantle gender stereotypes.  Religion was a source of law and it affected social norms and stereotypes.  There was patriarchal religious discourse and religious discourse that promoted gender equality.  States needed to make a choice about the religious discourse used in law and practice. The speaker noted efforts to combat gender stereotypes by changing interpretations of religious texts. 

    Several speakers gave recommendations regarding the content of the general recommendation.  One speaker said it needed to have a multi-layered institutional approach that was cognisant of power relations, while another called for the general recommendation’s scope to be expanded to promote counter narratives to gender stereotypes.  Another recommendation was for full effective and meaningful participation of women and girls to be captured in the general recommendation.

    Panel Discussion

    Representatives of States, United Nations agencies and civil society then took the floor, with speakers, among other things, expressing support for the elaboration of a general recommendation on gender stereotypes that would contribute to eliminating gender stereotypes and their adverse effects on women and girls, and to promoting the rights of all women and girls.

    Many speakers said gender stereotypes impeded the participation of women in all areas of public and private life and subconsciously affected how all behaved.  Stereotypes led to the subordination of women and girls, wage gaps, discrimination and gender-based violence.  They limited the potential of women globally and progress toward Sustainable Development Goal Five.  Women and girls continued to bear the brunt of conflict and climate change.  States had a responsibility to combat these stereotypes.

    Speakers said that in many countries, there was a pushback against feminism, which was misinforming the public and slowing progress. It was imperative to prevent backsliding.  In this context, the United Nations and other international bodies needed to expand, not restrict, definitions of gender, one speaker said.

    Some speakers said that in the digital world, harmful messaging and sexist discourse were affecting women and girls.  Online pornography and prostitution promoted violence against women and perpetuated stereotypes, while online hate speech reinforced gender stereotypes, silenced women’s voices, and limited their political participation.  The Committee needed to examine how gender stereotypes permeated online discourse. Some speakers said that artificial intelligence was perpetuating and amplifying harmful gender stereotypes against women.  Measures needed to be implemented to eliminate gender biases in artificial intelligence.  One speaker called for the promotion of women’s participation in the technological sector.

    Speakers expressed support for the elimination of all harmful stereotypes against women and girls.  All parties needed to cooperate to build a fair and equitable society for women and girls.  Governments needed to recognise the crucial role of civil society organizations in protecting women’s rights and countering stereotypes.  Stereotypes needed to be recognised and countered.  Stakeholders needed to reshape restrictive masculinities and reinforce positive gender norms.  International regional frameworks, including the Convention, needed to be implemented to build a more prosperous future for all.  Encouraging social awareness of stereotypes was crucial in combatting discrimination and promoting equality.

    Some speakers said gender stereotypes were cross-cutting, affecting various marginalised groups.  Intersectionality was a necessary lens for addressing gender stereotypes.  Speakers also called on the Committee to adopt a decolonial approach and embrace indigenous approaches to women’s rights, and consider the rights of lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex women and girls.  One speaker said the Committee needed to oppose the patriarchy and contribute to dismantling it.

    The Committee needed to elaborate on biases in gender-based roles and their impact on society, one speaker said.  Another speaker called for the general recommendation to consider the link between stereotypes and women’s unpaid care work. The Committee needed to note the importance of awareness raising campaigns in breaking down stereotypes. One speaker said the general recommendation needed to challenge how gender stereotypes influenced security systems.

    Some speakers said the general recommendation needed to consider the cultural sensitivities of all States parties. Actions and decisions needed to align with States’ unique customs, they said.  One speaker called on the Committee to reflect on the positive influences of culture and religion on promoting women’s rights.

    Speakers presented legislative and policy initiatives to counter gender stereotypes and address intersectional discrimination; promote women’s participation in the workforce, political bodies and education, including in science, technology, engineering and maths education; revise textbooks to remove gender stereotypes; promote the access of women and girls to health and reproductive rights; combat human trafficking; repeal discriminatory laws; collect data on the prevalence of gender discrimination; promote the use of parental leave and the participation of men in care work; and empower vulnerable women.

    One speaker asked the Committee whether the general recommendation would consider the connection between unilateral coercive measures and gender stereotypes.

    Closing Remarks

    ANTTI KORKEAKIVI, Chief, Human Rights Treaties Branch, United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed gratitude to all speakers for their invaluable contributions.  The dialogue had demonstrated how deeply gender stereotypes affected women and girls in all aspects of life.  The general recommendation had the potential to dismantle gender stereotypes and help women and girls to realise their potential.  The inputs of all stakeholders would inform the Committee’s efforts to elaborate the general recommendation.  The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights looked forward to the positive impact that the general recommendation would have on the lives of women and girls globally.

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said all stakeholders’ inputs had been very valuable.  This general recommendation needed to ensure that no one was excluded from protection. The Committee would consider the Convention’s perspective on intersectionality, which was captured in the Committee’s general recommendation 28.  The current general recommendation needed to meet the requirements of women and girls all over the world.  Speakers had expressed a diversity of views on the subject, and the Committee would consider all these views.  In closing, Ms. Haidar thanked all speakers that had participated in the meeting, including more than 40 States parties.

    ___________

    CEDAW.25.052E

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the information media; not an official record.

    English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Provides Updates as North Carolina Prepares for Winter Weather

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Provides Updates as North Carolina Prepares for Winter Weather

    Governor Stein Provides Updates as North Carolina Prepares for Winter Weather
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Stein provided updates as North Carolina prepares for winter weather this week. Governor Stein is advising North Carolinians to plan ahead for snow, ice, and strong winds, and to follow safety guidance from local officials.  

    “As North Carolinians brace for another winter storm this week, we encourage all North Carolinians to listen to their local weather forecast and have a plan to stay safe,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We are monitoring the situation closely and have activated the State Emergency Response Team. I am mobilizing the Department of Transportation, the North Carolina National Guard, and the State Highway Patrol. Our utilities and local officials are also preparing. Our most important goal is to keep North Carolinians safe this week.” 

    “This winter storm will affect much of the state with winter weather, which will impact roadways and possibly cause power outages in areas where significant ice accumulates,” said Director of Emergency Management Will Ray. “The State Emergency Response Team remains in close coordination with our local communities, state agencies, and utility partners to quickly address any needs. Please limit your travel and stay off the roads to allow NCDOT and first responders to work safely.” 

    The State Emergency Response Team is activated this morning and is ready to respond. The State Emergency Operations Center and Regional Coordination Centers remain in close communication with local emergency management officials to ensure that all resources are available and ready to quickly respond to any needs that arise.    

    The North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) remains a ready force, prepared to support our state in times of need. NCNG leadership has communicated to the force the possibility of inclement winter weather in the coming days, and our Soldiers and Airmen are actively preparing to respond when called. 

    Officials with the N.C. Department of Transportation are preparing for potentially hazardous travel. Maintenance crews in NCDOT highway divisions from the mountains to the coast have started spreading a saltwater mixture called brine on interstates and plan to continue with other highways and primary routes before moving to secondary roads throughout Monday and Tuesday. Brine helps prevent ice from bonding to the pavement. The agency has about 2,500 specially trained employees and contract crews, and hundreds of trucks that can be equipped with plows and spreaders used to pretreat roads and remove snow and ice after a storm hits.  

    The probability is increasing that a winter storm will impact much of North Carolina Wednesday and into Thursday. The eventual track and strength of a low-pressure system will determine precipitation types and amounts. With the current forecast, the best chance for accumulating snow is across the mountains and northern portions of central and eastern North Carolina. Impactful ice accumulations may be possible for portions of central and eastern North Carolina. With any ice accumulations of a quarter of an inch or greater, tree limbs can snap, and power outages may occur. It is important that all North Carolinians remain weather aware over the next day as the forecast will change and be fine-tuned as we get closer to Wednesday.  

    To prepare for winter weather, North Carolina Emergency Management officials recommend these tips: 

    • Pay close attention to your local forecast and be prepared for what’s expected in your area. Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or a weather alert app on your phone to receive emergency weather alerts.  

    • Stock up on water and non-perishable food. 

    • Keep cell phones, mobile devices, and spare batteries charged. 

    • Stay home and off the roads if you can. 

    • Dress warmly if you go outside. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.  

    • Store an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you must travel. Include scraper, jumper cables, tow chain, sand/salt, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, and road map.  

    • Gather emergency supplies for your pet including leash and feeding supplies, enough food for several days, and a pet travel carrier.  

    • Do not leave pets outside for long periods of time during freezing weather.  

    • Check in on your friends and neighbors, especially the elderly, during winter weather. 

    If your power goes out: 

    • Only operate generators outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.  

    • Never burn charcoal indoors or use a gas grill indoors. 

    • Properly vent kerosene heaters. 

    • Use battery-powered sources for light, instead of candles, to reduce the risk of fire. 

    Feb 17, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Recycling old Radium into Cancer Drugs

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    An IAEA expert mission was deployed to Suva, Fiji, to support the recovery and transportation of radium-226 to the USA, where the sources will be used as a feedstock to produce actinium-225, an alpha-emitting isotope which is increasingly used in targeted cancer treatments. IAEA supports countries in managing legacy radium-226 sources under the IAEA’s Global Radium Management Initiative.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Singapore/Malaysia: Imminent execution of Pannir Selvam Pranthaman must be halted

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International Malaysia is greatly alarmed at the scheduling of the execution of Malaysian Pannir Selvam Pranthaman in Singapore on Thursday 20 February.

    The violations of human rights protections seen in his case would render the execution arbitrary and unlawful under international law and standards. We join his family and many others in urging the authorities of Singapore to immediately halt plans to carry out the execution; and the Government of Malaysia to make every effort to intervene and help spare Pannir Selvam Pranthaman’s life. 

    Chiara Sangiorgio, Amnesty International’s death penalty expert, said: “The alarming pace of executions carried out in Singapore since October shows a chilling determination on the part of the Government to pursue hangings. This includes for offences, such as transporting drugs in Pannir’s case, that must not be punished by death under international restrictions on the use of the death penalty. This is beyond reproachable and leaves Singapore among a handful of countries known to have executed for drug-related offences in recent years.

    “We urge the Singapore government to immediately end its unlawful resort to the death penalty and immediately establish a moratorium on all executions as a first critical step towards abolition.

    “We also urge the international community to step up pressure on the government of Singapore and help prevent yet another unlawful execution from taking place. There is still time to change course and prevent this cruel and senseless execution from happening.”

    Pannir Selvam Pranthaman was convicted of importing into Singapore 51.84g of diamorphine (heroin) and was sentenced to the mandatory death penalty in 2017. The judge found that he was a “courier”, involved only with the transport of the prohibited substance. While under sentence of death in Singapore, Pannir has shown great resilience and channeled his energy into creativity, writing heartfelt songs and poems that speak of the anguish, hope, and prayers of those on death row, many of which have been shared with the public through the Sebaran Kasih NGO founded by his sister, Angelia Pranthaman.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Focus on fighting anti-social behaviour as cabinet approves budget plans | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    More City Inspectors are being hired to spearhead the fight against anti-social behaviour alongside hundreds of new CCTV cameras being rolled out across the City.

    The recruitment of eight new City Inspectors – council staff who work along with police to help manage community safety – is among a number of budget proposals focused on anti social behaviour formally approved by Westminster City Council’s Cabinet. (Monday Feb 17). The new officers being recruited will concentrate only on tackling anti social behaviour across the city.

    Councillors agreed to double the number of CCTV cameras on the streets to 200, including 40 new cameras in the West End. The new CCTV network is part of an overall £2m for anti-social and city management measures.

    The installation of up to 40 new cameras in the West End – focusing on Soho and Leicester square – is the most significant council security investment in the area in nearly a decade. The roll-out of CCTV – which began last year – has already paid dividends with pictures being used in police evidence.

    The Budget measures approved by cabinet will help relieve pressure on Westminster’s housing waiting list by investing an additional £140 million into buying temporary accommodation.

    A major new investment of £2.6m will go into cushioning the cost of adult social care – meaning hundreds of adult social care users will now not pay for care while hard working care assistants will earn more.

    Despite the scale of new investment, the Council Tax rise equals just 48p a week for a Band D* property, which means Westminster still has one of the lowest Council Tax rates in the country. The Westminster City Council part of the Council Tax rises by 4.99 per cent overall – 2.99 per cent for council services and 2 per cent for the portion set aside for adult social care.

    Headline announcements in the proposed budget include:

    • An extra £1.2m to tackle rough sleeping and help people off the pavements and into safety
    • An additional £1.4m to increase the pay of the personal care assistants (over 400 staff)  who provide care for Westminster residents through direct payments. This will help more people who use adult social care to employ the carer they want as they will now be able to pay a competitive salary.
    • An additional £1.2m to level up the threshold at which people start to pay for their social care costs so that it is the same for everyone regardless of age. This will help over 460 residents aged under 65 to keep more of their income before paying care bills.
    • An extra £1m on cost of living support – for example free school meals during school holidays, supermarket food vouchers, a hardship fund and supporting specialist advice centres.
    • Investing in new Community hubs such as Ernest Harris House opening this Spring and the Pimlico Community hub at site of the Old Pimlico Library opening in 2026

    The Council will also deliver new savings of nearly £30m by 2028 through measures including greater efficiencies in contracts and the switch to an electric cleaning and waste fleet.

    The proposed budget – which will be voted on at full Council on March 5th – sets out detailed spending plans for managing more than 20,000 local authority properties under what is called the Housing Revenue Account. The business plan includes total capital investment of £916m over the next 5 years and a total of £2.5bn over the full 30 years. The budget also sets out the business plan for funding the council’s fairer Westminster programme under its capital strategy. The Council is proposing a gross capital programme up to 2038/39 of £2.5bn, partially offset by nearly £1.2bn of income, giving a net budget of £1.3bn.

    Cllr Adam Hug, leader of Westminster City Council, said:

    Safety and assurance for our residents – whether on the streets, keeping a roof over their heads or with help for the less well-off – is at the very heart of this Budget.

    “Like all London councils, we are facing unprecedented demands on our services with spiralling costs for housing and care. I am proud that we have been able through careful management and savings to target money to those who need it most while keeping a rise in Council tax to the bare minimum.

    “We all know everything is more expensive these days – food, rent, and looking after elderly family members. We are keeping bills down for those who can least afford it, but I am also pleased we can increase the hourly pay of those care assistants who do such a vital job but are often on the lower end of the pay scale.

    “Wherever you live in Westminster, you should be able to enjoy your surroundings without fear of those dealing drugs or committing other crimes and anti-social behaviour that can sometimes blight our neighbourhoods. Our new, redeployable cameras are already helping in court prosecutions and we will deploy them wherever residents need them most.”

    Full details of the proposed budget are available here: Agenda for Cabinet on Monday 17th February, 2025, 6.30 pm | Westminster City Council

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India organized a meeting of the core group in hybrid mode on ‘Recognizing progressive disabilities – Adopting a holistic approach to disability rights’

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India organized a meeting of the core group in hybrid mode on ‘Recognizing progressive disabilities – Adopting a holistic approach to disability rights’

    NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian said that the improvement in disability-related laws, policies and their implementation need to be clearly understood

    Among various suggestions, encouragement for collaborative efforts with the private sector to provide quality employment for PwDs emphasized

    Need to revisit the 40% mark for benchmark disabilities to ensure a wide range of disability-suffering people get access to quality healthcare services

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 9:00PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India organised a core group meeting in hybrid mode on ‘Recognizing progressive disabilities- Adopting a holistic approach to disability rights’ in New Delhi today. It was chaired by NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian in the presence of Member, Justice (Dr) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal, Shri Rajesh Aggrawal, Secretary, Dept. of Empowerment of Persons with Disability, other senior officers from the government and NHRC, domain experts and medical professionals.

    Justice Ramasubramanian noted that it took 30 years for the world to adopt a human rights approach to disability rights. Recalling the evolution of laws and policies related to seeking the welfare of disabled persons in the world, he said that in India, parallel to the international developments included the 1987 Mental Healthcare Act, the 1995 Persons with Disabilities Act, and the 2016 Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.

    However, he said there may be a scope for improvement in disability-related laws, policies and their implementation. For this, he said that all the stakeholders needed to prioritise their suggestions for the improvement in disability-related laws, policies and their implementation requiring the intervention of the Parliament, NHRC and judiciary need to be segregated into three categories to evolve a clear action plan.

    NHRC, India Member, Justice (Dr) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi said that there is a need to strategise and find ways to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. Therefore, all the stakeholders including the Government need to come together and give them moral support to survive in a dignified manner. The issue of medical expenses needs to be taken into consideration and made available to the person.

    NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal while setting the agenda for discussion, said that the Commission engages with many stakeholders including government officials, domain experts, researchers, academicians, and people working on the ground. He gave an overview of the three technical sessions- Defining and classifying progressive disabilities, Legal & policy framework for addressing disabilities and Promoting inclusive & equitable support services.

    Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Dept. of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment said that the 2011 Census reports 2.2% of India’s population as having disabilities. However, at times stigma leads to under-reporting, especially among the elderly, as disabilities in old age are often considered normal. While polio cases are decreasing due to institutional deliveries and improved care, disabilities from accidents and autism are rising, resulting in changes in the nature of disability orders. He said that regarding rights, there is a 4% reservation in government and PSU jobs and 5% in education for persons with disabilities (PwDs). He emphasized the need for better accessibility in buildings, transport, and digital platforms. India lags behind European countries in physical accessibility, though toilet facilities for PwDs have improved. Digital accessibility is relatively better.

    He stressed that education accessibility, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation can help 95% of people, which should be society’s priority. If there is a chance that a disability will improve or progress, a temporary certificate is given to them despite having a 5% or 80% disability. But if the disability remains the same or worsens, a permanent certificate will be given. Presently, more than 70% of certificates in the country are permanent.

    The participants included Dr Sunita Mondal, Additional Director General, Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Rupali Roy, Assistant Director General, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Rajive Raturi, Consultant, Ms. Shivani Jadhav Representative, National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), Dr Satendra Singh, Director-Professor of Physiology, University College of Medical Sciences & GTB Hospital, Ms Purva G. Mittal, Asst. Prof, University of Delhi, Shri Akhil S. Paul, Director, Sense International (India), Dr Vaibhav Bhandari, Founder, Swavlamban Foundation, Shri Vikas Trivedi, Member Secretary Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi, NHRC DG(I), Shri R Prasad Meena, Registrar (Law), Shri Joginder Singh, Director, Lt Col. Virender Singh among others.

    Some of the suggestions emanated from the discussions included:

    1. Encourage collaborative efforts with the private sector to provide quality employment for PwDs;
    2. Need to revisit the 40% mark for benchmark disabilities, as this holds back many beneficiaries from being able to access quality healthcare services and even a disability certificate;
    3. Create adequate healthcare and rehabilitation provisions, particularly for those requiring high support needs, consequently, alleviating the burden of caregivers;
    4. Necessity of establishing a clear and comprehensive definition of progressive disabilities and promoting the development and accessibility of assistive technologies;
    5. Need for more inclusive and comprehensive health insurance regimes and schemes, along with increased attention to financial accessibility;
    6. Need for prenatal and pro-natal diagnosis for early intervention;
    7. Reduce the cost of medical expenses;
    8. Enhance local production of medicines to make them more cost-effective;
    9. Awareness and training for doctors, and community-based workers including ASHA workers needs to be increased for proper care of PwDs;
    10. Ensure the availability of AI products to assist persons with disabilities;
    11. Better healthcare, policies, treatments, screenings, financial aid, psychological support;
    12. Create awareness against workplace discrimination;

    The Commission will further deliberate upon the suggestions and more inputs from different stakeholders to finalize its recommendations ensuring the protection of rights of the persons with disabilities.

    ***

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2104230) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Dharmendra Pradhan attends Hindu College’s 126th Founder’s Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Dharmendra Pradhan attends Hindu College’s 126th Founder’s Day

    Hindu College has carved an unparalleled legacy in shaping India’s intellectual, cultural and national identity – Shri Dharmendra Pradhan

    Students of Hindu College will become wealth-creators, job-creators, deep-tech innovators, policymakers and global citizens of tomorrow

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 8:57PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, attended an event celebrating Hindu College’s 126th Founder’s Day in New Delhi today. Academicians, staff members and students also were present at the event. He engaged with the students and faculty of the college during his visit to the exhibition on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship activities. While exploring ideas, prototypes, and business models, he expressed confidence that they will serve as flag-bearers of innovation, entrepreneurship, job creation, and wealth generation in the times ahead.

     

    While addressing the event, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the esteemed legacy of Hindu College, describing it as a temple of learning and a cradle of educational excellence, innovation, diversity, plurality, democratic ethos, nationalistic spirit, and nation-building.

    He reflected on the college’s founding by Shri Krishan Dass Ji Gurwale, who sought to counter Macaulay’s efforts to dismantle India’s education system and culture. He emphasized how Hindu College has since carved an unparalleled legacy in shaping India’s intellectual, cultural, and national identity. The path of progress and prosperity on which India stands today, he asserted, has been paved by Hindu College.

    Shri Pradhan also remarked that while creating a legacy is easier, sustaining it requires relentless dedication. Congratulating the students, faculty, and staff for their unwavering ‘Sadhna’ in upholding the college’s tradition of excellence, he urged them to continue this commitment, striving to transform the institution into a global hub of solutions.

    He also underscored that Viksit Bharat 2047 is a collective goal for all Indians. The next 22-25 years, he noted, mark the Amrit Kaal, a crucial period for the Hindu College community. He emphasized that as India celebrates the centenary of its independence, Hindu College will also mark its 150th Founder’s Day. During this pivotal phase, the college must aspire to establish itself as an epicentre of research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and solutions to 21st-century challenges, he added.

    Expressing confidence in Hindu College’s role in shaping India’s future, he envisioned it emerging as a ‘Captain’ of India’s transformation in the coming decades. He expressed hope that its students will evolve into wealth-creators, job-creators, deep-tech innovators, policymakers, and global citizens of tomorrow.

    *****

    MV/AK

    MOE/DoHE/17 February 2025/2

    (Release ID: 2104228) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs combats suspected illicit cigarette distribution activities in Sham Shui Po (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hong Kong Customs today (February 17) conducted an anti-illicit cigarette operation in Sham Shui Po to fight against criminals involved in illicit cigarettes distribution in the district. About 5 500 suspected illicit cigarettes, with an estimated market value of about $24,000 and a duty potential of about $18,000, were seized.
          
         This afternoon, Customs intercepted a suspicious non-local man in Pei Ho Street, Sham Shui Po. About 4 500 suspected illicit cigarettes were found from two nylon bags carried by him. The 54-year-old man, who claimed to be unemployed, was immediately arrested.
          
         Subsequently, Customs officers conducted further investigation in nearby illicit cigarettes black spots and further seized about 1 000 suspected illicit cigarettes, thereby disrupting relevant distribution activities.
          
         The arrested man was charged with “dealing with goods to which the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance applies” and will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (February 18).
          
         Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at source as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.
          
         Customs stresses that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
          
         Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ECI bids farewell to Shri Rajiv Kumar, the 25th CEC of India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 8:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The Election Commission of India today bid farewell to Shri Rajiv Kumar who will be demitting the office of Chief Election Commissioner on 18.02.2025.

    Shri Rajiv Kumar had joined ECI as Election Commissioner on September 1st, 2020 and assumed charge as the 25th Chief Election Commissioner of India on May 15, 2022. His tenure spanning 4.5 years in the Commission was characterized by silent yet deep-rooted reforms across various domains spanning structural, technological,        capacity development, communication, international cooperation and administration. Shri Kumar during his tenure has completed one full electoral cycle with conduct of elections in 31 States/UTs, the Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections 2022, Lok Sabha elections 2024 and Rajya Sabha renewals -a rare and monumental feat in electoral management. The elections were conducted peacefully with near zero repolls and incidents of violence.

    In his farewell address, CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar thanked the 15 million polling officials for their dedication to uphold democratic values. He asserted that the trust of close to nearly a billion voters is unfazed by motivated and uncorroborated attacks on India’s democratic institutions. As a proponent of technology, Shri Kumar outlined a path for strengthening conduct of elections while guarding against the threats of cyber-attacks and misinformation on social media. He lauded the voters for their vibrant participation especially women voters and said that the electoral process is marching towards more inclusivity. His full speech is annexed.

    The Election Commissioners Shri Gyanesh Kumar and Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu conveyed their appreciation for the inclusive, transformative and purpose driven leadership of CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar, that has strengthened electoral processes and has raised India’s stature globally in the field of election management.

    CEC Shri Kumar’s tenure was marked by a slew of electoral reforms, including operationalizing four qualifying dates for voter registration with advanced application facility for 17+ youngsters; simplified forms for voter registration; redefining electoral boundaries with delimitation in Assam;

    ensuring voting by polling personnel at Voter Facilitation Centre to avoid any intimidation, delays and wrong doing. These initiatives were aimed at empowering every eligible citizen while modernizing election administration.

    Shri Kumar championed technology-driven electoral reforms to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. Under his leadership, ERONET 2.0, managing largest electoral databases, strengthened voter roll management with multi-layered security, seamless, and real-time application processing. Shri Kumar also established mechanisms to tackle the challenge of misinformation and fake news on social media platforms. A myth vs reality register was launched during Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

    Shri Kumar’s contributions were both systemic and profoundly human. His hands-on leadership was evident in his actions. On the global stage, his efforts amplified India’s voice in advancing democratic values, with the Election Commission spearheading ‘Cohort on Election integrity’ and training officials from many election management bodies.

    Beyond institutional reforms and global leadership, his tenure was defined by deeply personal and compassionate gestures that embodied the human spirit of democracy. He believed every voter, regardless of age or ability, deserved recognition and respect. For an inclusive election, efforts were made to enrol marginalised sections like PVTGs and third genders. While conveying his respect, he wrote personalized letters to over 2.5 lakh centenarian voters for their contribution to democracy. He also called upon Youth and Urban voters to get inspired and engage actively in the electoral process.  He consistently raised and pursued innovative measures like establishment of polling stations in high rise societies to address the rising trend of youth and urban apathy in the election process.

    A passionate trekker, he undertook a strenuous journey to one of India’s most remote polling stations to understand challenges faced by polling personnel, inspired innovations like specially designed EVM carry bags for easier transport in tough terrains. Route rationalization and near removal of P-3 polling stations. Known for his poetic expressions, CEC Kumar used shayari to make complex electoral issues relatable, engaging the public and reinforcing trust in the democratic process. A lover of Indian vocal classical and devotional music, Shri Kumar also practices meditation.

    ***

    PK/GDH/RP

    Annexure

    Farewell speech of Sh Rajiv Kumar, the 25th Chief Election Commissioner on 17 Feb 2025

    Executive summary:

    Unwavering faith in democracy and the wisdom of close to a billion Indian voters is a guarantee that democratic values will only grow stronger. The commitment of 15 million polling personnel ensures free and fair elections, reinforcing public confidence in the system. Motivated and uncorroborated attacks on democratic institutions will not shake their trust, which is paramount and is a legacy built over 75 years. The increasing participation of women voters, surpassing male turnout in many states, marks a historic shift, strengthening democratic engagement. However, urban voter apathy remains a pressing concern despite outreach efforts. For a more inclusive electoral engagement, remote voting mechanisms for migrants and enabling NRIs to vote must be prioritized.

    Technology is transforming conduct of elections. Innovations like biometric authentication and the totalizer system will strengthen the process. AI can revolutionize conduct of elections, but safeguards against cyber threats and disinformation are crucial. Social media companies must introspect and act responsibly by not letting their algorithms propagate fake narratives. Media and social media platforms must ensure that truth prevails over misinformation.

    1. transparency in the functioning of political parties is essential. The Integrated Election Expenditure Management System has been a step forward, but mandatory e-compliance for political party funding and expenditure is necessary. Misuse of Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs) for tax evasion must be curbed with vigilant monitoring. Political parties must ensure that promises in manifestos are backed by clear financial disclosures to prevent fiscal mismanagement and timely court order will facilitate.

    The Model Code of Conduct has upheld electoral fairness, ensuring responsible campaigning without restricting political debate. However, political parties must take accountability for their star campaigners’ rhetoric and strive for constructive, issue-based debates.

    The rising trend of misleading narratives during peak polling or counting hours is a deliberate attempt to distort facts and mislead voters. Casting doubt on outcomes after active and full participation in the process is undesirable. While the Commission exercises constitutional restraint, such tactics are better avoided in the interest of a mature democracy. The judiciary’s role in upholding electoral integrity remains vital. In the course of judicial proceedings, due consideration to election timelines must be maintained.

    India’s expertise in election management system is globally respected and is one of the biggest soft-power of the country. As the leadership transitions, the Election Commission remains committed to strengthening democracy through transparency, innovation, and inclusivity.

    As I bid farewell to this esteemed institution, which has been nothing short of a place of worship, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have been part of this incredible journey.

    First and foremost, my heartfelt thanks to the Indian voters, whose numbers have surged to almost a billion. Their unwavering faith in democracy has been the cornerstone of my strength. It is always inspiring to witness democracy in action, the strength of inclusivity and demographic diversity at the polling stations with diverse mosaic of electors including women, youngsters, PwDs, elderly voters, PVTGs, third genders, etc. This also reflects a profound message of hope in Indian democracy. The very essence of democracy lies in its inclusivity, ensuring that every voice, regardless of age, gender, or ability, is heard and valued.

    The sight of long voter queues in places like Jammu and Kashmir and Left-Wing Extremism-affected areas speaks volumes about the people’s faith in the electoral process.  A peaceful, violence free election in these regions is not just an achievement; it is a testament to the power of the vote in shaping the nation’s future, victory of ballot over bullet.

    Our voters are our biggest asset.  I salute the wisdom and maturity of our voters, who can discern truth from misinformation. Their awareness and commitment to democratic values reflect their readiness to shape a just and progressive future. I firmly believe that our voters’ wisdom and active engagement at all layers of democracy guarantee that our nation will prosper, democratic values will only grow stronger, designed and uncorroborated attacks on democratic institutions will not shake their trust. India will continue to create democratic surpluses for the democracy’s world over.

    I also want to convey my gratitude to the women voters who turned out in large numbers, surpassing male turnout in many states, and finally in 2024 Lok Sabha election as well. They have created a new chapter in electoral history, showcasing their vital role in shaping the future of this nation.

     I thank the young and first-time voters who came out to vote, as they are the future and the true ambassadors of our democracy.  Your participation is not just a right but a responsibility. It can bring change, build a better future, and make a real impact. Exercise your franchise wisely, for every vote contributes to a stronger democracy. It becomes an anxiety if you do not step forward.

    While the nation takes pride in conducting one of the largest elections in the world, the lack of voter participation in major urban center’s raises pressing concerns. The trend of urban voter apathy is highly disconcerting. The vibrant hustle of city life often masks a troubling silence at polling booths reflecting a democracy deficit in making. Despite massive outreach and better access to polling stations, facilities, and even scheduling of elections mid-week, urban voters often neglect their responsibility to vote. Continued engagement with urban voters is a must.

    A heartfelt gratitude to the vast family of polling personnel and security staff, the foot soldiers of the Election Commission of India. Their numbers surged to an incredible 15 million during the last Lok Sabha elections, yet their dedication to upholding democracy has never wavered. Their relentless efforts ensure the seamless conduct of elections, time and again. And I am confident that as long as our foot soldiers continue to perform their duties with transparency and impartiality, engaging political parties and the media at every step, no one can weaken the strong democracy of our country regardless of any insinuations that come their way.

    I extend my gratitude to my fellow Commissioners, past and present, whose wisdom and collaboration have enriched the Commission’s work. To my colleagues at Nirvachan Sadan and Chief Electoral Officers across states, your commitment has been instrumental in carrying forward the mission of free and fair elections. Conducting elections in the world’s largest democracy is no small task, and it has been an honor to work alongside such dedicated and selfless colleagues.

    Internationally, it has been an honour to engage with Election Management Bodies worldwide, exchanging ideas to strengthen democratic processes across borders. I was overwhelmed by the respect that India attracts in conduct of free, and fair elections in the largest democracy in the world and the expectations that global election management community has to learn from the Indian experience.

    Conducting elections in the world’s largest democracy is an immense responsibility, one that requires constant innovation and vigilance. As I pass the baton to my successors, leaving the commission in experienced and competent hands, I acknowledge the evolving challenges ahead. The future of elections will be shaped by a complex and multifaceted blend of technological advancements, voter engagement, influx of fake narratives and the balancing of transparency with privacy. The Election Commission has to remain steadfast in preserving the trust of voters while adapting to these new realities.

    The Model Code of Conduct has played a crucial role in maintaining a delicate balance between allowing robust political debate and ensuring responsible campaigning. While it has been leveraged effectively to uphold electoral fairness, we must remain mindful that any overreach could stifle genuine political expression, just as unchecked violations could undermine the sanctity of elections. The challenge ahead lies in carefully calibrating the MCC’s enforcement, ensuring it remains an effective tool for ethical campaigning without becoming an undue constraint on democratic expression. The Commission on many occasions in the past tread upon a fine line which required the balancing of proactive actions with constitutional wisdom and restraint in the interest of allowing for the fullest and vibrant electoral participation by parties and candidates alike, while not overrun the legal judicial process. Political Parties and their presidents must also take responsibility for the utterance of their star campaigners and leaders.

    Technology has been a powerful enabler in our electoral processes, helping refine voter rolls, streamline operations, and engage citizens more effectively. We are at the forefront of adopting technology in our electoral operations. The suite of more than 20 applications provides the perfect ecosystem for rolling the giant wheel of the electoral system from Registration to Results.

    ERONET is a web-based platform for Electoral officials, supporting 14 languages and 11 scripts to manage the country’s largest electoral database safely. It standardizes form processing, database structure, and E-Roll printing while automating voter registration, verification, and decision support. Used across all States/UTs, it ensures a seamless, integrated electoral roll management system on a national-level infrastructure. Using facial recognition software’s, our electoral rolls have been further purified.

    However, innovations like biometric authentication may further help prevent impersonation and multiple voting, ensuring that every vote belongs to the rightful voter. Additionally, emerging technologies hold great potential for more efficient management of movement of man and material, AI enabled capacity building modules, enhancing transparency and security in elections, etc.

    Presently in the system of counting of votes, the result is retrieved from each EVM, then the votes polled in respect of each candidate is totaled and result is declared. The demerit of this system of counting is that the candidates can know from where they have received how much vote. This leads to the problem of post-election violence, victimization and exclusion of the supporters of opposition parties from developmental activities. To address this, technologies like the totalizer, already developed by the Commission would ensure that the votes polled by each candidate- polling station wise is not disclosed. I believe that this matter should be explored, political consensus attempted and tested on a pilot basis to enhance voter secrecy and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

    The Election Commission has always worked to make elections more inclusive, ensuring that every voter can exercise their franchise. However, with nearly 300 million electors not engaging in the electoral process, due to reasons including migration- domestic and external, it is imperative to move forward with pilot programs for Remote Voting Mechanisms.  ECI has explored the option of using a modified version of the existing model of M3 EVMs to enable voting at remote polling stations i.e. polling stations outside home constituency, for domestic migrants. A Concept Note for on the matter of improving voter participation of domestic migrants using remote voting was also shared with all Recognized National and State Political Parties, ahead of all party consultation held on 16.01.2023. Efforts to build consensus among various stakeholders must continue to bring the ballot closer to those who cannot reach polling stations.

    India’s growing aspirations for its rightful place in world order, require to show deep commitment to Commission’s moto of “ No voter to be left behind”. It is right time to enable our Non-Resident Indians to vote from outside the country. Commission has developed necessary mechanisms required. The Government should take a final decision swiftly to enfranchise those who contribute significantly to our nation from afar.

    Financial transparency in elections remains a vital pillar of democratic integrity and level playing field. The introduction of the Integrated Election Expenditure Management System (IEMS) has been a significant step for an online compliance framework for financial reporting by political parties. However, as the compliance was voluntary, most of the major parties continue to use offline mode, despite IEMS being user friendly with lots of pre-populated data fields and facility to directly upload csv files. Therefore, Commission in future may consider bringing the full political party compliance and engagement ecosystem online and making e-compliance mandatory in future.

    Political parties must uphold transparency in both fundraising and expenditure. Certain RUPPs had become instruments for tax evasion by way of bogus donation rackets and thereby misused enabling provisions of the Income-tax Act and R.P. Act. The Commission while doing the massive verification exercise of RUPPs also verified the financial compliance status of RUPPs. The exercise not only resulted in delisting/ declaring inactive of non-compliant RUPPs, it also flagged the issue of misuse of exemption provision under the income-tax Act. CBDT, since then has been taking necessary enforcement actions to curb this misuse of RUPPs. However, as the RUPPs make their compliance before respective CEOs, the offices of CEOs need to be more sensitized towards various aspects of financial compliances by political parties. Transparency and accountability must remain at the heart of political financing reforms.

    The Commission remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing concerns surrounding unchecked freebies and overpromising manifestos. While the matter related to freebies is currently sub-judice, and I hope for a timely decision from the court, it is imperative in the interim that political promises are backed by clear disclosures on their financial viability and their effect on the fiscal health of the state.  We had also prescribed formats to ensure that political parties transparently display the financial implications of their promises against well-defined, quantifiable parameters like quantum of funds required to fulfill promise, availability of fiscal space, means to fulfill promise by cutting expenditure or augmenting revenue,  revenue deficit, fiscal deficit, requirement of any additional borrowings, impact on fiscal deficit, etc. to let voter know the feasibility of fulfilling the promise within the available State or Union financial space.

    Additionally, emerging technologies hold great potential for more efficient management of polling logistics and operation, AI-enabled capacity building modules and enhancing transparency and security in elections. AI can inter alia be leveraged to ensure that voter information, and voting instructions are available in multiple languages and that voting mechanisms are accessible to all voters.

    While the integration of AI and digital tools holds great promise, we must also guard against their misuse. The rise of cyber threats and disinformation campaigns necessitates stronger safeguards and strategic countermeasures. The unchecked use of bots, fake SM content, and AI-generated content during campaigns can distort public opinion and polarize societies. The Election Commission of India’s has recently issued advisory to political parties mandating the clear labeling of AI-generated content on social media. This is a significant step in the direction of protecting democratic discourse.

    Social media companies must introspect on their role in upholding free speech while ensuring it does not become a casualty of their own algorithmic shortcomings. The very freedom they champion should not be compromised by their failure to detect even the most obvious fake content. Timely detection and labeling of misinformation are crucial before it spreads unchecked.

    We have also seen many digital portals propagating misleading narratives and half-truths. While the Commission is generally restrained in reaction, I urge CEOs of various states to not only respond to such issues but also to preempt and actively dispel such notions.

    As a nation celebrating 75 years of its Republic, it is worth reflecting on the nature of election campaigns. A concerning trend has emerged in recent years, with political discourse increasingly becoming such that scars are left even after campaign period. This not only lowers the quality of debate but also risks disillusioning our youth with the electoral process. Should we not strive for a more constructive and dignified dialogue? Should political parties not focus on issue-based debates? Should political parties not take responsibility for encouraging youth participation through their campaigns? These are the questions political parties must introspect.

    I have observed a pattern in the timing of certain narratives. During peak polling or counting hours, a wave of fake allegations and rumors begins to spread across media and social media, misleading people and creating confusion. Narratives are deliberately set to distort facts. However, the Commission follows a policy of restraint, choosing not to respond while the election process is underway, ensuring that focus remains on the integrity and smooth conduct of the elections. The live reporting of hearing of the long pending cases at critical junctures, sometimes fuel distrust that the petitioner intends to create. It would be beneficial if such proceedings are scheduled with due consideration to the election period, ensuring that the electoral process remains smooth and undisturbed. This is a specific expectation of India’s esteemed constitutional Courts. I say this while recording my gratitude for the higher judiciary of the country which has consistently acted as the guardian spirit of India’s electoral process and system.

    The Commission, as an institution, often finds itself unfairly blamed by those unwilling to accept electoral outcomes. A pressing concern is the growing tendency to target election officials in the aftermath of electoral contests. It is perceived as a convenient scapegoat. All candidates and parties are involved in every stage of the process with utmost transparency. Having participated in each step, without raising objections or filing appeals during the process, then attempting to create doubt afterward is undesirable.  Dialogue should always be the preferred approach and while the Commission reacts with sagacity, stoicism and restraint, this is a disturbing trend and should be abandoned soon. 

    The media is playing a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process. All out efforts must continue to involve them at every stage of electoral cycle so that in the rush to break news first, misinformation and false narratives do not gain undue prominence. 

    India stands as a global beacon of democracy with one of the largest and most transparent election systems, India’s democratic framework has the quality to inspire nations worldwide and thus a soft power to be adequately leveraged.

    Lastly, as I step away, I do so know that the responsibility we carry is greater than of any one individual but is upheld by each of you every day. I hope the Commission continues to strengthen this great institution, uphold its values. I am confident that I am leaving Commission in more competent, committed and professional hands.

    Thank you, and my best wishes to all of you.

    *********

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DoT and ITU Join Hands to Explore Future-Ready Infrastructure Planning with AI- Driven Digital Twin Technologies

    Source: Government of India (2)

    DoT and ITU Join Hands to Explore Future-Ready Infrastructure Planning with AI- Driven Digital Twin Technologies

    Letter of Intent (LoI) signed for collaboration between ITU and the Ministry of Communications, Government of India

    Strengthening India’s Global Digital Leadership: India proposes to host the ITU-Plenipotentiary Conference 2030

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 7:58PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary (Telecom), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, Dr. Neeraj Mittal embarked on an official visit to Geneva today to further strengthen India’s global digital leadership and deepen engagements with key international stakeholders in the telecommunication sector.

    During his visit, Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI), marking the beginning of a new phase of strategic collaboration. Through this LoI, both sides intend to initiate discussions regarding the conditions and modalities for carrying out common initiatives and projects, particularly to

    • drive innovation in digital twins, AI-driven solutions, virtual world technologies, and the transformative potential of IMT-2030 technologies;
    • promote the development of global standards and best practices to ensure seamless interoperability and scalability;
    • advance sustainable development through shared frameworks, capacity building, and cross-sectoral collaboration, and
    • Foster citizen engagement and participatory approaches to urban and infrastructure planning.

     

    Dr Mittal held various meetings with leadership of ITU. In his meeting with Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General, ITU, Dr. Mittal reaffirmed India’s commitment to digital connectivity, inclusion, and innovation. Key focus areas of discussion included India’s leadership in 5G/6G technologies, AI for Digital Transformation, cybersecurity frameworks, and ITU’s Partner2Connect initiative aimed at bridging the global digital divide. India also reiterated its pledge to support ITU’s initiatives by contributing to global connectivity projects and skill development programs.

    Further, with the aim of positioning India as a global hub for policy discourse on telecommunications and ICT regulations, Dr Mittal also proposed to host the ITU-Plenipotentiary Conference 2030 in India. India’s proposal was positively acknowledged, and discussions will continue at the upcoming ITU Council Meeting. India has successfully hosted WTSA -2024 in New Delhi in Oct 2024.

    Next-generation mobile communication technologies are evolving beyond traditional connectivity to become essential platforms for innovative infrastructure planning. By seamlessly integrating AI, Digital Twins, and real-time, ubiquitous connectivity into a unified ecosystem, these technologies generate pervasive intelligence, enabling open, interconnected systems that fundamentally transform how infrastructure is planned, collaborated on, and executed across critical sectors like transport, urban development, and healthcare. These advancements enable infrastructure planning to be more dynamic, adaptive, and sustainable, benefiting all sectors.

    The collaboration through the LoI  marks a significant shift in the telecom sector’s role—evolving from simply providing connectivity to becoming a platform that delivers accurate, reliable, and insightful data for infrastructure planning. It opens up opportunities to explore innovative business models, enabling a new ecosystem to deliver scalable, data-driven, and knowledge- based solutions across industries, driving sustainable growth and shaping the future of infrastructure.

    • Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: Facilitate the exchange of insights from initiatives like DoT’s Sangam and ITU’s Citiverse to improve cross-sectoral data integration and collaborative planning.
    • Global Standards Development: Contribute to ITU-T Study Group 20 on IoT, digital twins, and smart cities to create global standards, APIs, and methodologies ensuring seamless scalability of AI-driven solutions.
    • Sandbox Environments and Demonstrations: Establish sandbox environments to test innovative digital twin technologies, conduct pilot projects, and adapt regulatory frameworks that validate the transformative potential of these technologies.
    • Citizen Engagement and Simulations: Use AI-powered platforms to engage citizens in real-time urban planning and infrastructure development, enhancing participatory governance and collaborative decision-making.
    • Mobile Phone Data (MPD) and Privacy: Exchange insights on privacy-enhancing techniques (PETs) and their use in ICT measurement, particularly in the context of building digital twins for urban planning.
    • AI Model Integration for Digital Twins: Customize AI models using country-specific datasets to deliver context-sensitive solutions for infrastructure development and urban mobility challenges.

     

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    SB

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-Qatar Joint Business Forum on the sidelines of the visit of His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, The Amir of the State of Qatar to Enhance Economic Cooperation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 6:52PM by PIB Delhi

    India and Qatar are set to strengthen their economic and trade ties with the India-Qatar Joint Business Forum, scheduled for February 18, 2025, in New Delhi.Joint Business Forum will be organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, which will convene top business leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore investment opportunities, technological collaboration, and economic partnerships.

    The event takes place on the sidelines of the visit of H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, to India from February 17-18, 2025. The business forum will be graced by H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, State of Qatar, and Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, who will deliver keynote addresses. The high-level Qatari delegation includes leading enterprises from energy, infrastructure, finance, technology, food security, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and innovation.

    The forum will feature three panel discussions on:

    • Investment as a vehicle to build long – term strategic partnership between India and Qatar
    • Cooperating and leveraging competencies in the fields of logistics, advanced manufacturing and food security
    • Promoting and strengthening cooperation in futuristic areas (AI, innovation, sustainability, etc.)

    These discussions will enable Indian and Qatari businesses to explore joint ventures, foreign direct investment (FDI), technology partnerships, and policy-driven collaborations. Representatives from both governments and leading industry players will contribute in shaping a forward-looking trade and investment framework.

    India and Qatar enjoy a robust economic partnership, with bilateral trade expanding across multiple sectors. Qatari firms have invested in India’s technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors, while Indian companies have established a strong presence in Qatar. The forum will highlight strategic investment opportunities aligned with Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and India’s infrastructure growth initiatives. Key areas for investment include logistics, warehousing, ports, airports, railways and highways, semiconductors, food security, tech and innovation, space, biosciences, banking and fintech, smart cities, pharmaceuticals, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. Additionally, the India-Qatar Startup Bridge is fostering innovation-driven partnerships in AI, fintech, and deep tech, strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.

    With India emerging as a global hub for manufacturing, technology, and entrepreneurship, this forum serves as a crucial platform to enhance business-to-business (B2B) and government-to-business (G2B) engagements. It aims to:

    • Deepen industry collaboration between Indian and Qatari businesses.
    • Facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI) and joint ventures.
    • Promote technology transfer and innovation partnerships.
    • Strengthen trade through policy reforms and strategic agreements.

    This forum underscores the shared vision of India and Qatar for long-term economic cooperation, reinforcing their commitment to fostering trade, investment, and innovation across key sectors.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal /  Abhijith Narayanan

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Text of Vice-President’s Address at Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali (Excerpts)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 6:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Good afternoon all of you. If there has been some disruption in your normal activity, because as Vice-President of the country, I take it as my prime obligation to connect with young minds and important institutions. It is from that perspective I solicited this invitation.

    I am grateful that it was accepted. Professor Anil Kumar Tripathi, Director IISER, a man who brings on the table huge experience, commitment, and in his brief address he has revealed the object, the performance and the potential. Professor Renu Vig, Vice-Chancellor, Punjab University, has two distinctions.

    One, she is the first ever woman Vice-Chancellor of the Punjab University, a very prestigious university. I am sure we can applaud her, and, she is the 14th Vice-Chancellor, appointed by a Chancellor, who happens to be the 14th Vice-President of the country, that’s myself. Both of us missed number 13 very narrowly. Professor R.P. Tiwari, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Punjab. Have you noticed something unique here? There are three Vices. So, Professor Anil Kumar Tripathi can be happy and delighted. Unless he says that prefix of Vice does not mean vice as it is defined in the dictionary, I would not reflect upon myself. But I can assure you, Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig and Vice-Chancellor R.P. Tiwari have no Vices.

    This is a unique Institution and 7 being in number. Having been Governor in the State of West Bengal for three years, I am aware of these Institutions and the seminal role they play in the evolution of the heart. Every institution is defined by the faculty, and I greet members of the faculty who are very distinguished and are futuristic in their outlook, whatever little I have gathered. We as a nation can take pride that we have an unparalleled legacy unknown to other nations. That long, and if we traverse our civilisational journey of 5000 years, we will find Bharat had been glory of the world,epicenter of knowledge and culture. People from all over the world flocked in pursuit of knowledge. That is your motto. What a motto you have picked up. Nalanda, Taxila, people came from all over the world in search of knowledge, shared knowledge and wisdom.

    We at the moment are at a very critical juncture, and I say so with some amount of nostalgia. I got into the seat of governance 35 years ago when I was elected to Parliament (Lok Sabha) and had the good fortune to be a Minister. I know the situation there. The mood of the nation. Our worrisome foreign exchange disturbed Jammu and Kashmir. I saw it all around, and our government didn’t last long, not because of me. And what I see now, 180 degree difference. The nation has an environment of hope and possibility. Our global image is very high.

    Leadership of the Prime Minister is globally acknowledged. And we have traversed against heavy winds. Difficult terrain. From fragile five economies to the world’s largest five economies at the moment. Ahead of those who ruled us for centuries, the Great Britain. It is a matter of time. That we will be marching ahead of Japan and Germany also to be the third largest in about a year or so. Such a jump. When I was elected first in parliament I had no courage to dream. Then that was the time, young boys and girls, where a Member of Parliament felt really an authority because he or she could give 50 gas connections or 50 telephone connections in a year. Imagine where we have come. In the shortest possible time, 550 million people of the country benefited from banking inclusions. They never had that account.

    Over 100 million households have toilets. Cooking gas in every house, electricity in every house, internet in every remote corner, health centres and education centres around, road connectivity, everything is happening. World class infrastructure we are seeing of global benchmark, and therefore, as I said this morning also, no nation in the world has grown as fast in the last 10 years as Bharat. This has created a challenge. A challenge of aspirational youth. They want more. They are entitled to more because they have tasted development. They see it on the ground. They know that per capita internet consumption of India is more than that of US and China taken together, that speaks of our access to technology and adaptability of technology.

    When it comes to direct transfers, a service delivery driven by technology, our direct digital transactions are four times the combined transactions of USA, UK, France and Germany. We are a nation where global entities, International Monetary Fund, World Bank are appreciating us. I recall my days in 1990 as a minister.

    Our gold had to be shipped in an aeroplane to be placed to two banks in Switzerland because our foreign exchange was around 1 billion US dollars. Now it is 700 times. And not a cause of concern, and therefore, the challenge is how do we meet aspirations of our young minds and my message to young minds. Seriously, look around, the opportunity basket which for you is getting larger and larger by the day. Come out of these silos and groove that are defined jobs only with the government or working in a corporate.

    Startups, unicorns are doing wonders. Let me tell you, IITs and IIMs have given these unicorns. But about 50% are from other institutes. I know the potential this country has because I have been to ISRO. Seen for myself. I have seen emerging space economy, there I came to learn for the first time when our rocket had to be put in space. It was not from Indian soil, and now we put rockets of other countries, USA also, developed countries also, Singapore also, from our and make money. Good value for money. Chandrayaan, Gaganyaan – They are defining us.

    I had the good occasion to have discussion with S. Somnathan, ISRO chairman, he was till recently, now V. Narayanan. Their fire, their zeal, their commitment, very different. In Bangalore, Govindan Rangarajan, Indian Institute of Science, and Dr. Clyde Shelby. I had the occasion to see personally what kind of innovations are being done for larger public welfare by scientific and industrial research. I say so because a country’s reputation, image, power is to be defined by research.

    Research is the bedrock of economic supremacy and global distinction. There was a time when we did not bestow attention on research and we thought somebody will give it to us with a price. And that someone will decide how much to give, on what terms to give but now, we have changed that. Nations that lead in research have global respect in economy, in strategy. And countries depend on them. Just imagine how far we have gone when it comes to meteorological predictions. We are one of the best in the world. As Governor-General of West Bengal, and the state is prone to cyclones, super cyclones, there was no mortality on high seas. The prediction was very accurate. Scientific prowess defines strategic prowess. Conventional wars are gone.

    And we have an ancient legacy of having been researchers, discoverers, giving to the world right from zero in arithmetic or mathematics. Aryabhatta, Brahmagupta laid foundations of global mathematics. Our scientific pantheon, Raman known by Raman effect, Bose, Sarabhai, Chandrasekhar, Shah, Bhatnagar, and our former president, they define India’s research mind, orientation. They exemplify commitment to research. And look at those days, we were in colonial shackles. Raman effect discovered against colonial scepticism.

    It stands as a testament to our Indian scientific beliefs. Cutting edge research is demand of the times. And the research has to correlate to fulfil the needs of the society. A research that is to be put on the shelf, a research that is for the self, a research that embellishes the profile, a research that contributes only to credentials is not the research. A research that only scratches the surface is not the research. The research has to be authentic.

    The research must create a wave. It must have positive, cascading impact on the lives of the people. Industries, business, trade and commerce are driven by research. At the moment, boys and girls, we are living in times we never imagined. You are facing those times as much as I am doing. We call them Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, Machine Learning and the kind. Blockchain for some may be Blockchain. Machine Learning may be Machine Learning only. But look at the power these technologies have.

    And these technologies are known as disruptive technologies. But these technologies come with enormous challenges that can uproot us. But they come also with a basket of opportunities. And we must focus on unleashing opportunity out of these disruptive technologies. Our research has to come up to that mark. It is our good fortune that the government is alive to the situation.

    And we as a nation, home to one sixth of humanity, are at the moment focussing on these technologies. Our quantum computing. There is a reflection by the director. About 6 lakh or 8 lakh jobs will be created out of investment of 6 lakh crores. Quantum computing, there is allocation of 6,000 crores and 18,000 crores for green hydrogen mission. These are the opportunities for you people. Space economy, blue economy. These are the opportunities for you.

    And therefore research has to facilitate life of the ordinary person. To improve our industry, our administration. A nation of 1.4 billion and a rich human resource unrivalled in the world. If it is catalysed and activated by temperament of research, the results will be exponential, geometric and revolutionary. Because now Bharat is no longer a nation with a potential. Our rise is unstoppable for last few years.

    It is incremental. And therefore, there has to be a greater commitment that research in the country is in the big league, in the Platinum category. And for that, the faculty has to brainstorm. We cannot have satisfying moments. As reflected by a Greek philosopher much before Socrates’ era, Heraclitus, Boys and Girls, now we are having change every moment. Paradigm shift.

    We are virtually at an industrial revolution. Unknown to the humanity before. And if nations have to go ahead of others, we have to focus on research. There was a time in Silicon Valley otherwise we could hardly see an Indian. And there is now hardly a global corporate that doesn’t have an Indian man or woman at the peak. Our demographic dividend now requires universalist engineering, mathematics. And that is why, after more than three decades, a game-changing education policy was introduced. And that was to give you enough room so that you can go after your aptitude and distance from the package of just degrees.

    I will take the occasion to appeal to corporates that they must come forward to drive the engines of research. Liberally contribute because ultimately they are the beneficiaries. Alongside the government they should be making liberal contributions beyond their CSR funds. If you look at the global corporates, how much they invest you will be surprised. We take pride in the last five years. We have increased our research fiscal commitment in the corporates to 50% above.

    From 0.89% of their revenue to 1.32% of their revenue. I find it deficient. Investment has to be many times more. We take pride also because earlier things were not moving. Now things are moving. When things are moving, we notice a change. Patents have nearly more than doubled in the last ten years. But our patents must be in consonance with our demographic participation in the world. One-sixth we must have. Because we are one-sixth of humanity. And this one-sixth of humanity qualitatively is very different than one-sixth. And therefore, taking note of technology access and adaptability, we need to be in optimal performance mindset.

    Imagine a country where 100 million farmers, three times a year, get direct banking transfers. Young boys and girls were not aware, there was a time when corruption was the password for opportunity, recruitment or business licence. Power corridors were leveraged by lies and agents. All this neutralised. And neutralised also through technological applications. Because middlemen have been shown the door. So when I look at your institute, Director, science, education and research, the triangle, this defines your role. Pursuit of knowledge. It starts with education. Because education as a transformative vehicle is very powerful. It brings about equality. Any one of you can have unicorn and be in the big league of industry. You don’t have to look to the situation. That yes, my father was in the industry, that’s true. We need to fight by technology. That’s the sin we are facing. So education. In education, science is important.

    Because science unfolds your mind to generate creativity, innovation. And then the next step is research. A combination of these will unlock the enormous potential of Indian mind. Will make available avenues and vistas to our population. Every nation hopes to be self-reliant. But we as a nation are very large. Complex on occasions. When the nation is growing so fast, some of us, the number is very small. The traction is large. Put personal interest, commercial interest, political interest, above national interest. This can’t be allowed. This is unfair to boys and girls.

    This is unfair to everyone, because if in our democracy there is someone as a class more serious, significant stakeholder in democracy and growth, than any one of us sitting here, is the youth of the country. Because as we march for Viksit Bharat after 2047, you are the driving force behind engines of growth. And therefore we have to give new dimension now. Make in India, start up India. And look at technology. It has to get into healthcare.

    Technology has to get into education. Technology can catalyse that quality health and quality education is available to one and all. And if that happens, Bharat will be what it has been for centuries.Our lean period started in 12th century. Then marauders came, invaders came, recklessly destroyed our culture. They sacrileged our religious places to an extent that they put their own at the same place. Then came the Britishers who did not give us the education to rule ourselves. They gave us education and taught us history as suited to them. Now things have changed. We are much ahead of UK in economy. We have a bunch of institutions now all over the country. IITs, IIMs, Institutions like yours, and therefore we must have this ecosystem with ears and eyes on the ground. The litmus test is changing the life of the ordinary man. We all stand committed to that because that is our preamble.

    We the people of India want these things. I conclude for time constraint. What Vivekananda said, “Arise, awake, stop not till the goal is achieved”. A motto which you must have. From my side I can give it to you. Have no tension, Have no stress, Never fear failure. Failure is natural. Sometimes you will be surprised, Oh he has succeeded, he should not have succeeded, take it in stride. System is transparent, there will be aberrations. Sometimes you will find, Oh! my own success is unjustified. These are situations natural to us, and then Dr. Kalam whose heart was always in education. I recollect when he met his maker. He was with the students in the North East, and what he said I quote,

    “Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action” and therefore my ultimate plea with you, If an idea occurs to you don’t allow your mind to be a parking ground for that idea because you fear you may fail. Get rid of it. Failure is a myth because there is no one who has not failed but they never took failure as failure. Chandrayaan 2 was failure for some who are critics, who are recipe for negativity. Chandrayaan II did not fail, It went that far, and Chandrayaan III did the rest. Let your innovations catalyse India’s scientific renaissance, and advance human progress because we are a country that believes in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – One Earth, One Family, One Future, that was our motto to the entire world.

    Once again, I am grateful to the Director for making available this opportunity to me at a very short notice. I understand that there has been some inconvenience, I would urge that you overlook it.
    Thank you so much.

    *****

    JK/RC/SM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Energy Week 2025

    Source: Government of India

    India Energy Week 2025

    Driving Global Energy Innovation and Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    India is driving not only its growth but also the growth of the world, with the energy sector playing a significant role.

    -Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

    A Global Energy Confluence

    India Energy Week (IEW) 2025, held from February 11 to 14, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi, is a premier global event in the energy sector. The event held under the patronage of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and organized by the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) has grown into the world’s second-largest energy conference.

    A Hub of Innovation and Transformation

    The India Energy Week exhibition has grown exponentially to become the world’s new meeting place for energy professionals, with millions of dollars of business conducted onsite, positioning it at the very heart of international business.

    A key facilitator of dialogue between international and regional producers, the event provides international exhibitors with the opportunity to network with key buyers from over 120 countries across the full energy value chain. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase cutting-edge technologies that drive sustainable energy solutions, forge strategic partnerships, and explore opportunities to shape the future of energy.

    Defining Achievements of IEW 2025

     Key Focus Areas of IEW 2025

    • Energy Transition & Green Future: Major focus on biofuels, flex-fuel vehicles, ethanol blending, and green hydrogen. India is steadily progressing toward its goal of producing 5 million metric tons (MMT) of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
    • Exploration & Production (E&P) Reforms: Launch of Open Acreage Licensing Program (OALP) Round X, covering 200,000 sq. km, along with regulatory changes to boost investment in oil and gas exploration.
    • India-US Energy Cooperation: Strengthening LNG supply partnerships and increasing natural gas consumption in India’s energy mix from 6% to 15%.
    • Global Energy Investments: Expanding investments in oil and gas assets across Brazil, Venezuela, Russia, and Mozambique while benefiting from emerging oil sources.
    • Startup & Innovation Recognition: The Avinya’25 – Energy Startup Challenge, led by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, awarded innovative startups for breakthroughs in CO₂ capture, ESG solutions, and renewable energy. The Vasudha – Oil and Gas Startup Challenge recognized overseas startups revolutionizing the upstream oil and gas sector with AI-driven solutions.

    Navigating the Nine Thematic Zones

    IEW 2025 introduced nine thematic zones, each focusing on different aspects of the energy sector:

    1. Hydrogen Zone – Hosted by Oil India Limited, showcasing cutting-edge innovations in hydrogen fuel generation.
    2. Biofuels Zone – Highlighting India’s advancements in Biodiesel, Bioethanol, Compressed Biogas, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
    3. Renewable Energy Zone – Featuring innovations in solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies.
    4. LNG EcoSystem – Hosted by Petronet LNG, focusing on India’s downstream LNG supply chain and eco-friendly fuel solutions.
    5. Make in India Zone – Hosted by Engineers India Limited, highlighting indigenous energy manufacturing capabilities.
    6. City Gas Distribution Zone – Hosted by GAIL, emphasizing India’s rapid progress towards a gas-based economy.
    7. Petrochem Zone – Hosted by ONGC, showcasing advancements in petrochemical technologies and sustainable solutions.
    8. Innovation Zone – Featuring emerging startups and breakthrough technologies in energy.
    9. Digitalisation Zone – Showcasing AI, IoT, and automation in optimizing energy production and distribution.

    India: The Rising Energy Powerhouse

    India, the world’s third-largest energy consumer, is poised for the highest energy demand growth. Under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, the nation is advancing towards a greener future with significant investments in secure, sustainable, and affordable energy. India Energy Week 2025 will serve as a key platform for global collaboration, driving discussions on energy security, innovation, and sustainability.

     

    A dynamic energy landscape

    India’s Path to Sustainability

    As a rapidly advancing economic powerhouse, India faces the twin challenge of surging energy demand while mitigating its carbon footprint. In response, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the concept of “Panchamrit” at COP 26, representing a blend of five essential elements. “Panchamrit” underscores India’s commitment to addressing climate change and fostering sustainable growth on a global scale.

    Panchamrit: India’s Five Point Pledge Towards Climate Change

    1. India will take its non-fossil energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030
    2. By 2030, India will reduce the carbon intensity of its economy by less than 45%
    3. India will meet 50% of its energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030
    4. By the year 2070, India will achieve target of net-zero
    5. India will reduce the total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes till 2030

    Conclusion

    India Energy Week 2025 serves as a pivotal platform for global energy stakeholders to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and witness India’s leadership in energy transition. As Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, highlighted, IEW 2025 will act as a catalyst for groundbreaking projects in green hydrogen, solar advancements, and exploration technologies, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. With a focus on transformative collaboration and investment, the event will shape the global energy agenda, positioning India at the forefront of energy security, technological progress, and a sustainable future.

    References

    Download in PDF

    ***

    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Anchal Patiyal

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister launches Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs in Mumbai today

    Source: Government of India

    Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister launches Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs in Mumbai today

    Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman also inaugurates first ‘Sachal Aaykar Seva Kendra’ virtually

    FM Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman addresses and interacts with stakeholders in a post-budget meeting in Mumbai

    Increased capex, focus on reducing fiscal deficit and boosting consumption, saving and investment by the citizens: Union Finance Minister

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 5:56PM by PIB Mumbai

    : Mumbai, February 17, 2025

    Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman launched the Mutual Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs (MCGS – MSME) for facilitating loans upto Rs. 100 crore to MSMEs for purchase of machinery or equipment without collateral, in pursuance of the Union Budget 2024-25 announcement, at the post-budget stakeholders’ interaction in Mumbai, today.

    The Union Minister also virtually inaugurated the first ‘Sachal Aaykar Seva Kendra’ at Mumbai, to be operational in Navy Nagar Colaba from 18th and 19th February, 2025, and is designed to facilitate access to digital services, provide assistance for grievance redressal and to promote tax awareness.

    At the same function, Smt. Sitharaman also handed over ceremonial keys to the home owners benefitted by the SWAMIH Investment Fund of SBI Ventures Ltd. Union MoS (Finance) Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, Secretary (Finance) Shri Tuhin Kanta Pandey, Secretary (DEA) Shri Ajay Seth, Secretary (Dept. of Expenditure) Dr. Manoj Govil, Secretary (Dept. of Financial Services) Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary (DIPAM) Shri Arunish Chawla, CBDT Chairman Shri Ravi Agrawal and CBIC Chairman Shri Sanjay Kr. Agarwal were also present on the occasion.

    In her keynote address, Smt. Sitharaman stated that Government continues its post-COVID capital and asset-building strategy, with increased allocations for capital expenditure to drive infrastructure development. The Finance Minister outlined the major takeaways from the Budget 2025-26, emphasizing economic growth, responsible fiscal management, and key structural reforms aimed at realising the vision of Viksit Bharat.

    Increased Capital Expenditure

    Government’s emphasis post Covid for public expenditure in asset building continues and hence, capex is 10.2 percent more in Budget 2025-26 than last budget (Vote-on-account 2024-25).  The capex budget has been significantly increased and stands at around Rs. 16 lakh crore, stated the Finance Minister.

    Boost to R& D and STEM

    Highlighting the importance of research and development, the Finance Minister noted that significant steps have been taken to support R&D, especially in STEM fields, with private sector participation being encouraged. She also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ongoing reforms in manufacturing, Ease of Doing Business (EODB), and social infrastructure to strengthen economic foundations.

    Focus on Fiscal Consolidation, Reduction of Fiscal Deficit 

    The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to fiscal consolidation, with a clear roadmap to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5%. Borrowings are focused on capital asset creation, ensuring sustainable economic growth. She assured, “We are on track to bring the Debt-to-GDP ratio down to 50% by FY 2030-31. This reflects our disciplined approach towards financial stability without compromising on education, healthcare, or infrastructure investments.”

    Boosting Consumption, Saving and Investment by the citizens

    “This Budget focuses on boosting consumption while ensuring economic momentum. By providing tax concessions, we are enabling taxpayers to spend, save and invest, giving them the freedom to make financial decisions that best suit their needs.”

    New I-T Act

    The Income Tax Act, 1961, is set to be replaced by the new law which is currently under review by the Select Committee. With 60,000 inputs received, it is one of the most comprehensive tax reform exercises undertaken and reflects the spirit of Jan-bhagidaari. The new law will reduce complexity by consolidating provisions, reducing the number of sections from 800 to 500, and simplifying language for better interpretation. “FAQs The Finance Minister praised the CBDT for completing this monumental task within six months, stating, “This is a landmark effort towards simplification and transparency in taxation. Our aim is to make compliance easier and more efficient for every taxpayer.”

    Opening up newer sectors for investments – Space, Energy, Nuclear Energy, Critical Minerals

    Newer sectors such as space and nuclear energy have been opened up for investments, ensuring global competitiveness and technological advancement. Stressing the importance of energy security, she remarked, “With the rise in data centers and industrial expansion, our energy sector must scale accordingly”, stated the Finance Minister. The MSME Loan Guarantee scheme now extends to critical minerals, with the Government signing MoUs with multiple countries for import of important critical minerals. Additionally, full exemption of Customs Duties on 25 Critical Minerals have been announced in the union budget. This will benefit sectors like space, defence, telecommunications, high-tech electronics, nuclear energy and renewable energy, where these rare earth minerals are critical.

    Education and Health

    Education and health remain key priorities, with more universities being considered for student loan support to enhance accessibility to higher education. The insurance sector has been opened up with necessary safeguards, ensuring broader participation while maintaining financial security. Union Budget 2025 increased the sectoral cap of insurance sector to 100% from 74%.

    PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana for better agricultural productivity

    Addressing food security, the Finance Minister highlighted the introduction of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, which aims to improve agricultural productivity across 100 districts known for low agricultural output. This programme will help 1.7 crore farmers to enhance agricultural productivity, improve irrigation facilities and facilitate long-term and short-term credit “Strengthening food security in rural India is paramount, and this initiative will uplift our farmers and boost productivity where it is needed most,” she said.

    The interaction with stakeholders was followed by a press conference, the proceedings of which may be accessed here. 

     

    Rabee/ Sriyanka /Dhanalaxmi/PM

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: TRAI releases ‘Recommendations on the Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’.

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Communications

    TRAI releases ‘Recommendations on the Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’.

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today released ‘Recommendations on the Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisations to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023’. 

    The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) through a letter dated 26.07.2024 informed TRAI that the Telecommunications Act, 2023 has been published in the Official Gazette of India in December 2023. Section 3(1)(b) of the Act provides for obtaining an authorisation by any person intending to establish, operate, maintain or expand telecommunication network, subject to such terms and conditions, including fees or charges, as may be prescribed. DoT, through the letter dated 26.07.2024, requested TRAI to provide its recommendations under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997 (as amended), on the terms and conditions, including fees or charges, for authorisation to establish, operate, maintain or expand telecommunication networks under section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2024.  Further, through its addendum letter dated 17.10.2024, DoT requested TRAI to consider an authorisation for satellite communication network under section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2024.

    In this regard, TRAI issued a consultation paper on ‘The Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisation to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023′ on 22.10.2024 for seeking comments and counter comments from stakeholders on the issues raised in the consultation paper. The last dates for furnishing comments and counter comments were 12.11.2024 and 19.11.2024 respectively. However, on the request of a few stakeholders, the last dates for furnishing written comments and counter comments were extended to 19.11.2024 and 26.11.2024 respectively.

    In response to the issues raised in the consultation paper, 32 stakeholders furnished their comments, and 11 stakeholders furnished their counter comments. As part of the consultation process, TRAI conducted an open house discussion (OHD) through virtual mode on 17.12.2024.

    Based on the comments received from stakeholders in the consultation process and on its own analysis, TRAI has finalized Recommendations on the Terms and Conditions of Network Authorisation to be Granted Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. These recommendations are aimed at fostering growth and enhancing ease of doing business in the telecom sector. Through these recommendations, the Authority has recommended a network authorisation framework, apart from detailed terms and conditions for various network authorisations to be granted under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Salient points of these recommendations are as given below:

    1. The Central Government should grant network authorisations under section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 instead of entering into an agreement with the entity.
    2. The detailed terms and conditions of each network authorisation should be prescribed through the rules notified under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    3. For any change(s) in the terms and conditions of the network authorisations emanating from these recommendations, except for the reason of the interest of the security of the State, the Central Government should seek TRAI’s recommendations.
    4. The Rules under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 should be organized in the manner given below:
    1. Telecommunications (Grant of Network Authorisations) Rules; and
    2. Separate rules for each network authorisation.
    1. Each network authorisation to be granted by the Central Government under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 should be in the form of an authorisation document, containing the essential elements of the network authorisation.
    2. Infrastructure Provider (IP) Authorisation:
    1. The Central Government should introduce Infrastructure Provider (IP) Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    2. Any entity intending to establish, operate, maintain, or expand dark fibers, right of way, duct space and towers should obtain IP Authorisation from the Central Government.
    3. Main scope of IP Authorisation: To provide dark fibres, right of way (RoW), duct space, towers, and in-building solution (IBS) to the entities authorised under Section 3(1)(a) of Telecommunications Act, 2023
    1. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider (DCIP) Authorisation:
    1. The Central Government should introduce Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider (DCIP) Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    2. Any entity intending to establish, operate, maintain, or expand wireline access network, radio access network (RAN), transmission links, and Wi-Fi systems should obtain DCIP Authorisation from the Central Government.
    3. Main scope of DCIP Authorisation: DCIP authorised entities may provide wireline access network, radio access network (RAN), transmission links, Wi-Fi systems, and In-Building Solution (IBS) to the entities authorised under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. DCIP authorised entities may also provide dark fibers, right of way (RoW), duct space, and towers to the entities authorised under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    1. In-Building Solution (IBS):

    The property manager should be permitted to establish, operate, maintain, and expand in-building solution (IBS) within the limits of a single building, compound, or estate, managed by it. For this purpose, there should be no requirement of obtaining any authorisation from the Central Government under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Here, the term “property manager” means the person who is either the owner of the property or has any legal right to control or manage the property.

    1. Content Delivery Networks (CDN):

    The establishment, operation, maintenance, and expansion of Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) should be authorisation-exempt under Section 3(3) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

    1. Internet Exchange Point (IXP) Authorisation:
    1. The Central Government should introduce Internet Exchange Point (IXP) Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    2. Any entity intending to establish, operate, maintain, or expand Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) in India should obtain IXP Authorisation from the Central Government.
    3. Main scope of IXP Authorisation: To provide peering and exchange of internet traffic, originated and destined within India, amongst the entities authorised to provide internet service under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and Content Delivery Network (CDN) providers located in India
    1. Satellite Earth Station Gateway (SESG) Provider Authorisation:
    1. The Central Government should introduce Satellite Earth Station Gateway (SESG) Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
    2. Any entity intending to establish, operate, maintain, or expand satellite earth station gateway (SESG) in India should be required to obtain SESG Provider Authorisation from the Central Government.
    3. Main scope of SESG Provider Authorisation: To provide its SESG infrastructure to the entities which are authorised under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and which are permitted to use satellite media under their scope of service
    1. Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS):

    The establishment, operation, maintenance, and expansion of the following categories of ground stations (as envisaged in the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Implementation of Indian Space Policy-2023 in respect of Authorization of Space Activities (NGP) issued by IN-SPACe in May 2024) should be authorisation-exempt in terms of Section 3(3) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023:

      1. Satellite Control Centre (SCC)
      2. Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C)
      3. Mission Control Centre (MCC)
      4. Remote Sensing Data Reception Station
      5. Ground Station for supporting operation of space-based services such as Space Situational Awareness (SSA), Astronomical, space science or navigation missions etc.
    2. Cloud-hosted Telecom Network (CTN) Authorisation:
      1. The Central Government should introduce Cloud-hosted Telecom Network (CTN) Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
      2. Any entity intending to establish, operate, maintain, or expand cloud-hosted telecommunication network should obtain CTN Provider Authorisation from the Central Government.
      3. Main scope of CTN Authorisation: To provide cloud-hosted telecommunication network-as-a-service (CTNaaS) to the eligible entities authorised under Section 3(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023
    3. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Provider Authorisation:
      1. The Central Government should introduce Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
      2. Main scope of MNP Provider Authorisation: Establishment, operation, maintenance, and expansion of a telecommunication network for providing MNP to the entities authorised to provide Access Service under the Telecommunications Act, 2023; and provision of location routing number (LRN) update to all entities authorised to provide Access Service, NLD Service and ILD Service under the Telecommunications Act, 2023
      3. The present policy regime of two MNP zones, each comprising of 11 authorised service areas (telecom circles/ Metro areas), and only one MNP Provider authorised entity in each MNP zone should be continued at present. However, in future, the Central Government may, if deemed fit, change the number of MNP zones in the country, amend the composition of authorised services areas within each MNP zone, and introduce more MNP Provider authorised entities in each MNP zone through a competitive bidding process.
    4. TRAI has also recommended a comprehensive framework for permitting smooth migration of existing entities holding Infrastructure Provider Category-I (IP-I) Registration and Mobile Number Portability Service Provider (MNPSP) License to the new network authorisation regime under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 on voluntary basis.
    5. Besides, TRAI, through the recommendations, has expressed the following views:
      1. There is a need for introducing Captive Non-Public Network (CNPN) Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 with the scope of establishing, maintaining, operating and expanding CNPN networks for enterprises. In case the Central Government accepts this recommendation, it may seek the recommendations of TRAI on the detailed terms and conditions for such an authorisation.
      2. Prima facie, there is a need for introducing a cable landing station (CLS) Provider Authorisation with a broad scope of providing access facilitation to the essential facilities at cable landing station, and co-location to facilitate access to the cable landing station to the eligible service authorised entities. In case the Central Government deems it fit, it may send a reference to the Authority for exploring the need for CLS Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and the terms and conditions thereof.

     

    1. The following fees have been recommended for various network authorisations:

    Sl. No.

    Network Authorisation

    Application Processing Fee (in Rs.)

    Entry Fee

    (in Rs.)

    Bank Guarantee

    (in Rs.)

    Authorisation Fee
    1.  

    Infrastructure Provider (IP)

     

    10,000

    Nil

    Nil

    Nil
    1.  

    Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider (DCIP)

     

    10,000

    10,00,000

    Nil

    Nil
    1.  

    Internet Exchange Provider (IXP)

     

    10,000

    Nil

    Nil

    Nil
    1.  

    Satellite Earth Station Gateway (SESG) Provider

     

    10,000

    10,00,000

    Nil

    Nil
    1.  

    Cloud hosted Telecom Network (CTN) Provider

     

    10,000

    10,00,000

    Nil

    Nil
    1.  

    Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Provider

    10,000

    50,00,000

    40,00,000

    1% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)

     

    The recommendations have been placed on the TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in). For any clarification or information, Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum and Licensing), TRAI may be contacted at Telephone Number +91-11-20907758.

    *********

    SB/DP

    (Release ID: 2104157)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India organises a training programme for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers as part of the 14th – Mid Career Course (Phase III) of the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India organises a training programme for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers as part of the 14th – Mid Career Course (Phase III) of the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun

    NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian says, the IFS officers face the challenging task of balancing development needs with the imperative of conservation

    Says, understanding the historical context of forest legislation, the evolving challenges, and the interplay between law, policy, and enforcement is important to effectively discharge their duties

    Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal says, history shows how moments of reflection brings transformation

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 5:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India organised a training programme in New Delhi for the Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers as part of the 14th – Mid Career Course (Phase III) of the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, Dehradun. Addressing the officers, NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V Ramasubramanian emphasised the important role of Indian Forest Service officers in protecting the nation’s natural heritage. He said that they face the challenging task of balancing development needs with the imperatives of conservation. He said that to effectively discharge their duties, they need to understand the historical context of forest legislation, the evolving challenges, and the interplay between law, policy, and enforcement.

    The Chairperson also highlighted the historical evolution of forest legislation from the British era to the present, emphasising the shifting balance between development and conservation. The discussion covered the impact of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act on forest land acquisition, which ultimately led to the 2023 amendment of the Forest Conservation Act.

    He said that the courts have also played a crucial role in shaping forest conservation. The landmark T. N. Godavarman case of 1995, for instance, significantly curbed the timber industry’s impact on forest cover. This case highlighted the need not just for strong laws, but also for effective enforcement mechanisms. The court’s ongoing involvement in the Godavarman case, through the concept of ‘continuing mandamus,’ underscores the persistent challenges in balancing development and conservation.

    NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal in his address said that history shows how moments of reflection can reshape the destiny and bring in transformation. Emperor Ashoka embraced a path of peace after the Kalinga War. Similarly, Gautama Buddha abandoned his privileges, attained enlightenment, and dedicated his life to guiding humanity. Mahatma Gandhi’s expulsion from a train led to a movement world-over that changed destiny of humanity.

    Shri Lal said that human rights are the most basic need and we have to believe in them to protect the rights of everyone, particularly the marginalised. He underscored the collective commitment to the human rights principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution, notably Article 32, which guarantees equal rights irrespective of caste, gender, or religion. He highlighted the importance of leveraging early field experience as a foundation for the strategic development of policies in the later stages of one’s career.

    Shri Lal also gave an overview of the Commission’s constitution as per the PHR Act, 1993 besides its various functions. He urged them to reflect on the knowledge they gained and carry it forward to make meaningful contributions to society. This was followed by an insightful Q & A session. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by NHRC, India Director, Lt Col Virender Singh.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India organises specialised training session for 30 police officers of the Academy for Prison and Correctional Administration Vellore, Tamil Nadu

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India organises specialised training session for 30 police officers of the Academy for Prison and Correctional Administration Vellore, Tamil Nadu

    The training aimed to enhance the officers’ understanding of human rights and legal frameworks within the context of prison administration

    In his address, Shri Bharat Lal, Secretary General urges the officers to see their duties not merely as jobs, but as a chosen dharma ensuring basic human rights for all in their custody

    Posted On: 17 FEB 2025 4:53PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India organised a specialised training session in New Delhi for 30 police officers of the Academy for Prison and Correctional Administration (APCA) Vellore, Tamil Nadu on 13th February, 2025. It aimed to enhancing their understanding of human rights and legal frameworks within the prison administration context, reinforcing correctional officers’ role in upholding justice and dignity.

     

    In his address, NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal emphasised the importance of trainees serving as role models in their profession. He urged the officers to see their duties not merely as jobs, but as a chosen dharma, upholding the law in both letter and spirit while ensuring basic human rights for all in their custody. He also underscored the important role of correctional officers in shaping a humane and rehabilitative prison environment for individuals in their care.

     

    The officers had interactive sessions by senior officials of the Commission, Ms. Vijay Lakshmi Vihan, Presenting Officer gave an overview of the Protection of Human Rights (PHR) Act, 1993, and the functioning of the Commission’s Law Division. Shri Dushyant Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, briefed them on the functioning of the Investigation Division, focusing on addressing human rights concerns in prison administration. Shri Sanjeev Sharma, Senior System Analyst, took a session on the online complaints management system of the Commission, covering login creation, uploading death intimations, submitting action taken reports, etc and utilising available digital tools. The training programme concluded with a vote of thanks by NHRC, India Director, Lt Col Virender Singh.

    The NHRC, India is committed to its mission of upholding and safeguarding human rights across all institutions, ensuring the rights and dignity of every individual is protected.

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH Launches New Map of Lead Drinking Water Pipes

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    As part of the process of replacing all lead service lines in Rhode Island’s public water systems by 2033, the Rhode Island Department of Health has launched a new, interactive map of drinking water service lines (pipes) in the state.

    This new dashboard shows if service lines are made of lead, non-lead, or unknown material. Rhode Islanders can check the material of both the public side of the service line and the private side of the service line on their property. Visit the dashboard (see link below).

    This tool is a follow-up to the notification that public water systems sent to residents and business owners in late 2024 if they receive water through service lines made of lead or unknown material. These notices provided people with recommendations to limit any potential exposure to lead in their drinking water.

    “Just having a lead service line does not mean that there is lead in your drinking water. Public water systems take many steps to keep drinking water safe from lead, including treatment that reduces corrosion and routine testing, with a focus on homes with lead service lines,” said Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD. “However, the replacement of all lead service lines in Rhode Island is an important additional step in making Rhode Island’s drinking water as healthy and safe as possible.”

    While lead exposure from paint remains the most significant public health challenge associated with lead, the Rhode Island Lead Poisoning and Prevention Act requires all lead service lines to be replaced by 2033. It also required public water systems to systematically collect and submit information to RIDOH about the material of all service lines in their distribution systems for the first time. After these inventories were done in 2024, public water systems sent out their notices.

    About lead

    Lead service lines were commonly used in the early 1900s. The use of lead pipes for new construction was banned in 1986. As the plumbing gets old, the material of the pipes can wear away (called corrosion), and lead can get into the drinking water. Public water systems are required to control potential corrosion, which prevents lead from getting into the drinking water. Lead levels are routinely monitored through sampling at residents’ taps, with a focus on homes with lead service lines. This testing is to ensure that what a public water system is doing to prevent lead corrosion is working. Water systems must notify customers of any exceedance of the lead action level.

    There is no safe level of lead, especially for younger children. Talk to your healthcare professional to be sure your child is receiving their routine blood lead screenings. After learning a child has a high blood lead level, RIDOH can provide non-medical case management support and help parents find and remove the source of lead. Learn more about protecting children from lead and lead screenings at health.ri.gov/lead.

    What to do if you have a lead service line or service line of an unknown material

    As was outlined in the notices sent by public water systems, customers with lead service lines or service lines of unknown material can request free water pitchers to filter drinking water for lead. They can also request six months of replacement filters from their public water system. Public water systems are in the process of distributing a free pitcher to people who have requested them. Pitchers with filters are also available at retail stores.

    Public water systems are working with customers with service lines of unknown materials to determine the material and if they need to be replaced. They may need to access a property to inspect the service line. Public water systems will contact property owners and request permission for this work. People who do not have service lines made of lead or unknown materials were not contacted. If you are not sure if you have a lead service line, contact your water system or use RIDOH’s new dashboard to check.

    About Lead Service Line Replacement in Rhode Island

    Replacing all lead service lines in Rhode Island is a complex process that will take several years.

    Under the Rhode Island Lead Poisoning Prevention Act, private side service lines must be replaced at no cost to the customer, provided project funding is available. The Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund (DWSRF) and the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act’s Small, Underserved, and Disadvantaged Communities grant are currently the main sources of funding that water systems may use to replace service lines. For fiscal years 2023 through 2027, the DWSRF has an estimated $302 million available that could be used to replace service lines. Of that amount, approximately $143 million dollars are specifically for service line inventory work and lead service line replacements.

    Contact your public water system to learn about their plans and timelines for lead service line replacement. If you do not know what your public water system is, consult your water bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Commission funding to environmental NGOs to condition the views of Members of the European Parliament – E-000357/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000357/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Carlo Fidanza (ECR), Nicola Procaccini (ECR), Antonella Sberna (ECR), Daniele Polato (ECR), Mariateresa Vivaldini (ECR), Francesco Torselli (ECR), Marco Squarta (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR), Alessandro Ciriani (ECR), Ruggero Razza (ECR), Chiara Gemma (ECR), Sergio Berlato (ECR), Denis Nesci (ECR), Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Giovanni Crosetto (ECR), Pietro Fiocchi (ECR), Elena Donazzan (ECR), Mario Mantovani (ECR), Alberico Gambino (ECR), Paolo Inselvini (ECR), Lara Magoni (ECR), Giuseppe Milazzo (ECR), Francesco Ventola (ECR), Georgiana Teodorescu (ECR), Assita Kanko (ECR), Mariusz Kamiński (ECR), Gheorghe Piperea (ECR), Jaak Madison (ECR), Rihards Kols (ECR), Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Aurelijus Veryga (ECR), Diego Solier (ECR), Bogdan Rzońca (ECR), Jadwiga Wiśniewska (ECR), Nora Junco García (ECR), Adrian-George Axinia (ECR), Adam Bielan (ECR), Marion Maréchal (ECR), Veronika Vrecionová (ECR), Ondřej Krutílek (ECR), Dominik Tarczyński (ECR), Alexander Sell (ESN), Tomasz Froelich (ESN), Erik Kaliňák (NI), Ondřej Knotek (PfE), Katarína Roth Neveďalová (NI), Friedrich Pürner (NI), Susanna Ceccardi (PfE), Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), Gerolf Annemans (PfE), Paolo Borchia (PfE), Raffaele Stancanelli (PfE), Céline Imart (PPE), Aldo Patriciello (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (ECR), Sarah Knafo (ESN), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Jorge Martín Frías (PfE), Hermann Tertsch (PfE), Sebastian Tynkkynen (ECR), Margarita de la Pisa Carrión (PfE), Juan Carlos Girauta Vidal (PfE), Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez (PPE), Alexandr Vondra (ECR)

    According to Dutch press sources, the previous Commission – under the influence of former Vice-President Frans Timmermans – spent at least EUR 700 000 on funding NGOs promoting green policies, with the explicit aim of lobbying MEPs and influencing their freedom of expression.

    On 22 January 2025, Commissioner Serafin declared that ‘it was inappropriate for some services in the Commission to enter into agreements that oblige NGOs to lobby members of the European Parliament’, acknowledging a serious breach of fairness, transparency and loyal cooperation.

    An additional EUR 15 million may have been allocated by other agencies for the same purpose.

    We therefore ask the Commission:

    • 1.Will it disclose a complete list of the NGOs involved, the funds earmarked for lobbying, related expense reports, beneficiaries, and a complete list of officials overseeing these activities?
    • 2.Will it provide complete lists of the legislative measures targeted, the MEPs approached or those who were earmarked to be approached, the intended outcomes of the lobbying, and what actions the Commission plans to take – including referrals to the European Anti-Fraud Office or the European Public Prosecutor’s Office – to investigate and sanction any irregularities in the work of the Commission, the EU agencies or their officials?
    • 3.Is it aware of similar lobbying initiatives, particularly in relation to environmental, agricultural or migration policies?

    Submitted: 27.1.2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Lists Pi Network (PI) with Rewards Worth 150,000 PI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Feb. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced the listing of the trending memecoin Pi Network (PI) on its platform. The listing is now live with trading available under the PI/USDT pair, allowing users to engage with PI through various market activities, including deposits, trading, and a unique airdrop promotion.

    The CandyBomb promotional event offers Bitget users the chance to earn PI through deposits and trading activity. A total of 150,000 PI tokens have been allocated for this campaign, which runs from 16 February, 2025, 04:00 (UTC) to 27 February, 2025, 08:00 (UTC). Participants can join the CandyBomb page, where valid deposit and trading activity will automatically count toward the PI airdrop, divided into net deposits and spot trading pools. The 50,000 PI will be distributed based on net deposits, while new spot traders will have exclusive access to the remaining 100,000 PI, providing a significant incentive for both experienced and new traders alike.

    Pi Network is a smartphone-based mining project launched in 2019, enabling users to earn Pi tokens with the single tap of a button in its mobile app without energy-intensive hardware and a lot of energy. This solution simplifies the mining process and makes crypto accessible to more people. Pi Network’s strong user referral mechanism has led to a large userbase of the ecosystem. Currently, 19 million Pioneers have successfully completed the procedures, while 10 million have migrated to the mainnet.

    This listing positions PI within Bitget’s expanding portfolio of assets available in the Innovation, Web3, and Public Chain Zone, underlining the platform’s commitment to offering users access to the most trending digital assets. As PI gains traction in both centralized and decentralized trading venues, this listing on Bitget will allow a broader audience to participate in its ecosystem. With a vibrant community and large userbase, PI presents an opportunity for users interested in emerging mining and public chain projects in the blockchain space.

    Bitget has consistently expanded its market share in both spot and derivatives trading among centralized exchanges. With an extensive selection of over 800 cryptocurrency pairs and a commitment to broaden its offerings to more than 900 trading pairs, Bitget connects users to various ecosystems, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Base, and TON.

    For more information on PI CandyBomb, users can visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA, and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, users can visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, users can contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, users can refer to the Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6da908c5-8b15-431b-b9c1-801c046b5db0

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Inner city spruce up planned for State Highway 1, Wellington CBD

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 1, Karo Drive in the Wellington CBD will be getting some much-needed TLC next week.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island / Top of the South, say it will be the latest piece of urban State Highway 1 in the capital to feel the benefits of the state highway summer maintenance programme.

    “People heading in and out of the city will have seen the work we have done on the urban motorway. The highway route through the city is another well used road, and that is why the northbound lanes of Karo Drive between Taranaki and Victoria Streets are our next priority.”

    “Over 25,000 use this stretch of highway daily. The more a road is used, the more important maintaining it is,” Mr Owen says.

    Road crews will be on the job on the nights of Sunday, 23 February, and Monday 24 February, between 9 pm and 4:30 am, weather permitting. There will be noise disruption throughout the night, but the noisiest part of the work will be done between 9 pm and 11 pm.

    Mr Owen says the timing of the work is carefully chosen.

    “Traffic volumes in Wellington’s CBD are at their busiest during the day, which is why we do this sort of work at night when fewer vehicles are on the road. It inconveniences fewer people and makes the job easier, and safer, to complete.”

    “We will have to close all the northbound lanes on Sunday night, then run lane closures on Monday night. It means there will be just one night where there will be a full directional closure,” Mr Owen says.

    Local road detours will be available for the Sunday night closure, via Taranaki St, Jervois/Waterloo/Aotea Quay to the Aotea Quay Northbound onramp. This will add to travel times and drivers should allow extra time for their journeys.

    Mr Owen appreciates state highway roadworks in the city will cause disruption and delays.

    We ask drivers to please be patient, follow all traffic management in place, while our contractors work hard to get this job finished.”

    Work schedule and Location:

    • Sunday, 23 February. 9 pm to 4:30 am
      • SH1 Karo Drive CLOSED to all northbound traffic between Taranaki  and Victoria Streets
      • Detour available via Taranaki St, Jervois/Waterloo/Aotea Quay to the Aotea Quay Northbound onramp
    • Monday, 24 February. 9 pm to 4:30 am
      • Northbound lane closures, SH1 Karo Drive, between Cuba Street and Willis Street.
      • Victoria Street will be shut at the SH1 intersection
      • Travel delays can be expected
    • These works are weather-dependent and may be rescheduled at short notice.
    • Access will be available for emergency services and affected residents at all times.

    More Information:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New pipes for Auckland City Hospital

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced funding of more than $14 million to replace the main water supply and ring mains in the main building of Auckland City Hospital.“Addressing the domestic hot water system at the country’s largest hospital, which opened in 2003, is vitally important to ensure reliable water support in Auckland City Hospital and follows recent failures. “The over 20-year-old pipes are in poor condition, and the current design means burst pipes cannot be turned off without also switching off the hot water supply to the whole building.“This system has already failed twice in the past six months, most recently on 26 January 2025, when the entire hot water supply had to be shut off to repair an isolated leak.“Fixing this problem is a priority for me as access to hot water in hospital is a basic necessity for both patients and staff, and the day-to-day running of clinical services.“That’s why I have approved funding to replace the main supply line and ring mains – the first of three stages to replace the existing piping with copper pipes. The first phase of work is expected to take place over 13 months with a carefully planned approach that will minimise disruptions to clinical care.“The Government’s record $16.68 billion in funding for health will help ensure Kiwis have access to timely, quality healthcare in hospitals that have fit-for-purpose infrastructure,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering Social Care reform

    Source: Scottish Government

    Changes proposed to reflect people’s needs.

    Plans to transform the way social care is delivered are being progressed as part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to improve the experience of everyone who accesses social care, social work and community health services.

    Ahead of Stage 2 proceedings of the National Care Service Bill later this month, a number of amendments have been lodged, all of which are subject to Parliament’s agreement.

    As the National Care Service will now be established through both legislative and non-legislative means, with reform of social care at the centre it is proposed the Bill will be known as the “Care Reform (Scotland) Bill”.

    If agreed by Parliament, as amended, the Bill will also bring forward significant reforms to social care, including:  

    • Anne’s Law being enshrined into legislation to uphold the rights of people living in adult care homes to see loved ones and identify an essential care supporter
    • ensuring all those working in or supplying services to the health and social care sector follow the same information standards allowing easier communication
    • the creation of a National Chief Social Work Advisor post, in statute, to bring strategic leadership at a national level.

    The Bill will also retain measures to establish a legal right to breaks for unpaid carers. Ahead of the legislation, the Scottish Government has identified an additional £5 million in the draft 2025-26 Budget to support 15,000 carers to take short breaks from their caring responsibilities.

    Ministers announced in January that legislation to set up a new public body to oversee national improvements would no longer go ahead. However, work to establish a National Care Service Advisory Board is progressing and it is due to meet for the first time in March.

    Social Care Minister Maree Todd said: 

    ”Social care has the power to transform people lives, that is why it is so important that those accessing services receive the highest quality care, delivered consistently across Scotland.

    “The amendments lodged in Parliament offer us the best opportunity to urgently get to work to reform the system and have a transformative impact on people’s lives.

    “Positive progress is being made on establishing an advisory board that puts people with experience of the social care system at the heart of it, helping deliver the changes we all want to see.”

    Background

    • An essential care supporter is someone, for example close relatives or friends, who plays a vital role in providing their loved ones with regular care and support alongside staff. This includes companionship, personal support and advocacy.
    • Additional funding for Short Breaks Fund – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Change in the composition of Capgemini’s Board of Directors proposed to the 2025 Shareholders’ Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Media relations:
    Victoire Grux
    Tel.: +33 6 04 52 16 55
    victoire.grux@capgemini.com

    Investor relations:
    Vincent Biraud
    Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 87
    vincent.biraud@capgemini.com

    Change in the composition of Capgemini’s Board of Directors
    proposed to the 2025 Shareholders’ Meeting

    Paris, February 17, 2025 – The Board of Directors of Capgemini SE, meeting on February 17, 2025, deliberated, based on the report of the Ethics & Governance Committee, on the change in its composition to be proposed to the next Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025.

    The Board of Directors decided to propose to the 2025 Shareholders’ Meeting, i) the renewal of the terms of office of Messrs. Patrick Pouyanné and Kurt Sievers and ii) the appointment of Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry as member of the Board of Directors, for a term of four years. This proposal is in line with the Board’s ambition to enrich the diversity of its profiles and deepen its industry expertise.

    Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry, a French national, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor company at the heart of the Intelligent Industry, committed to manufacturing sustainable technologies and offering its customers innovative solutions. He would also bring to the Board his expertise in technology, artificial intelligence, and industry knowledge, particularly in the automotive and energy sectors.

    The Board considers Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry to be independent pursuant to the criteria of the AFEP-MEDEF Code to which the Company refers.

    Assuming the adoption of these resolutions by the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025, the composition of the Board of Directors would therefore count 15 directors, including two directors representing employees and one director representing employee shareholders. 83% of its members would be independent1, 40% would have international profiles and 42% would be women1.

    BIOGRAPHY
    Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry

    Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry is STMicroelectronics’ (ST) President of the Managing Board and Chief Executive Officer and has held this position since May 2018.

    Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry is a graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers (ENSAM) in Paris.

    He began his career in the Quality department of Matra, the French engineering group. In 1986, he joined Thomson Semiconducteurs, which subsequently became ST, and held various management positions in product planning and manufacturing, rising to lead ST’s silicon wafer manufacturing plant in Tours, France, and later in Rousset, France. In 2005, Mr. Chéry successfully led the company-wide 6-inch wafer-manufacturing restructuring program before taking charge of ST’s Front-End Manufacturing operations in Asia Pacific. In 2008, he was promoted to Chief Technology Officer and assumed additional responsibilities for Manufacturing and Quality (2011) and the Digital Product sector (2012). In 2014, he was appointed ST’s Chief Operating Officer responsible for Technology and Manufacturing operations. In July 2017, Mr. Chéry was appointed Deputy CEO with overall responsibility for Technology and Manufacturing, as well as for Sales and Marketing operations.

    He has sat on the Board of Directors of Legrand since 2021 and has chaired its Commitment & CSR Committee since 2023. He is also a member of France Industrie. He has been chair of the Board of Directors at the Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA) since December 2024. He has served as Chairman of the France – Malaysia Business Council at Medef International since 2018.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    1         The Directors representing employees and employee shareholders are not taken into account in calculating this percentage, in accordance with the provisions of the AFEP-MEDEF Code and the French Commercial Code.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth residents urged to have their say on Government’s Devolution plans

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    We’re urging Portsmouth residents to have their say on the Government’s proposals to establish a new Mayoral Strategic Authority for Portsmouth, Southampton, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.

    The Government consultation can be accessed here Hampshire and the Solent Devolution – GOV.UK until Sunday 13 April 2025.

    On 5 February, the Government announced six areas on to its Devolution Priority Programme (DPP) Those six areas are: Hampshire and the Solent, Cumbria, Cheshire and Warrington, Norfolk and Suffolk, Greater Essex, and Sussex and Brighton.

    The new authority for Hampshire and the Solent will focus on economic growth, investment in infrastructure, skills, strategic transport and planning and will bring significant additional funding and powers from central Government departments to Portsmouth and the region.

    If approved, elections for the new regional Mayor for Hampshire and the Solent will be held in May 2026.

    Additionally, there will be a local election in Portsmouth in 2026; no elections have been postponed in Portsmouth because of the Devolution Priority Programme.

    Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Cllr Steve Pitt, said: “Devolution brings big change for the area and has the potential to provide new opportunities for Portsmouth, with significant decisions around economic growth, infrastructure and transport being made locally, instead of by central Government.

    “It’s hugely important that our residents and businesses are involved in the Devolution process and have their say. We’d encourage residents and businesses to go to the Government’s website to find out more and take part in their consultation to help shape the proposed arrangements for Portsmouth and the region, to benefit our local community.”

    The Government’s Devolution plan is a separate process to their Local Government Reorganisation proposal, which is for neighbouring councils to join to create councils with a population of 500,000 of more.

    Accessing the consultation

    The full consultation document can be found online at the GOV.UK page: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/hampshire-and-the-solent-devolution.

    Responses will be collected through citizenspace using the following link: https://consult.communities.gov.uk/lggc/hampshire-and-the-solent-devolution-consultation.

    Government has yet to notify us of any in-person consultation events in our area.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Bay St. George RCMP investigates vehicle arson in Piccadilly, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay St. George RCMP is investigating an arson that occurred in Piccadilly shorty after midnight today, February 17, 2025.

    Shortly after 12:30 a.m. on Monday, Bay St. George RCMP were called to the parking lot of the Our Lady of Fatima Catholic church on the Main Road in Piccadilly where a truck was on fire. Firefighters attended the scene and extinguished the blaze, which completely destroyed the vehicle. Evidence gathered at the scene suggests that the fire was intentionally set. A set of footprints was observed in the snow that led from the vehicle and continued into a wooded area behind the church. The footprints eventually led back onto the Main Road where it is believed the suspect was picked up by a motorist.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Bay St. George RCMP asks area residents to check for any possible surveillance footage and to report any suspicious activities around the time of the arson. Anyone having knowledge of this crime is asked to contact Bay St. George RCMP at 709-643-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: When a bishop called on Trump to ‘have mercy’, she was following the old Christian tradition of parrhesia

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Morwenna Ludlow, Professor of Christian History and Theology, University of Exeter

    Ambrose.

    When Bishop Mariann Budde closed her sermon at the National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral on January 21 she called on Donald Trump, who was sitting in front of her, “to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now”.

    Trump demanded an apology later the same day from “the so-called Bishop” who he said was “nasty in tone”. Republican congressman Mike Collins even suggested that Budde (a US citizen) should be deported.

    The bishop was building on a long tradition of Christian leaders using bold speech. But the idea of bold speech goes back further – to the concept of “parrhesia” in democratic Athens when every freeborn male citizen had the right to speak freely in public debates.

    French philosopher Michel Foucault highlighted that with the decline of democracy, parrhesia came to mean boldly speaking truth to power. For instance, in the Roman Empire, it meant having the bravery to speak to an emperor, a governor, or one’s master as if one was their equal.

    Early Christians picked up on this use of the term in the New Testament. The Acts of the Apostles describes the arrest of Peter and John for healing and preaching in Jerusalem and recounts that the assembled “rulers, elders and scribes” were amazed to hear such parrhesia from “uneducated and ordinary men”.

    The apostles were so popular that the council released them after vainly threatening them to keep quiet. Peter and John’s own community of followers was even said to be so inspired by their bold example that they prayed to be given parrhesia too, a prayer which was immediately answered by the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:29, 31). Parrhesia here is seen as a powerful divine gift which enables ordinary people to challenge dominant religious authorities.

    Several sermons on martyrs from John Chrysostom (who was apppointed as the archbishop of Constantinople in AD397) close with exhortations to emulate a martyr’s parrhesia. Chrysostom’s Discourse on Blessed Babylas and against the Greeks describes a bishop who reprimanded an emperor for murdering a child hostage. Chrysostom praises Bishop Babylas for moderate parrhesia, guided by reason, keeping anger and other emotions in check. It recalls the advice of the philosopher Plutarch in “How to tell a flatterer from a friend”: parrhesia must be respectful, in due measure and at the right moment.

    Babylas’s moderate parrhesia produces astonished admiration from the crowd, but it provoked the outraged emperor to order Babylas’ execution.

    Such stories set expectations for the behaviour of bishops even under Christian emperors. Scholars have shown how bishops have exploited their educational and social standing to leverage limited influence with governors and sometimes even emperors.

    Gregory of Nazianzus tells how his friend Basil, a 4th century bishop, faced down the rage of an imperial representative who “roared like a lion till most men dared not approach him”, threatening “confiscation, banishment, torture, death”. When Basil refused to back down, the astonished official declared that no-one had spoken to him with such parrhesia. “Perhaps you’ve not met a bishop before,” Basil replied. “Generally, we know our place and we submit to the law. But where the interests of God are at stake, we care about nothing else.”

    Two of the most famous examples of bishops who exercised parrhesia against imperial authority were the aforementioned Chrysostom and Ambrose (who became bishop of Milan in AD374). Both Chrysostom and Ambrose wrote substantial treatises which (among other things) defended the priest’s right to censure whomever was guilty of sin. Chrysostom warns that fear of powerful authorities causes people to flatter them rather than speaking the truth. Ambrose makes a similar point, reminding his audience that John the Baptist did not flatter King Herod, despite having reason to fear him. These comments resonate with Foucault’s observation that a speaker addressing someone more powerful must choose between flattery and parrhesia.

    Bishop Budde speaking at Washington National Cathedral.

    But the point of these examples is that by the 4th century there was a strong belief that part of the job of being a bishop was being prepared to speak boldly against wrongdoing – even if the wrongdoer was an emperor. And the power of their parrhesia was not so much the success (or otherwise) of their requests, but the way their bold speech sent ripples out into the wider community.

    It is here that we can identify resonances with the case of Bishop Budde. First, parrhesia involves a direct, public but personal appeal to someone who could normally expect to be in authority over the speaker (the Jewish council of elders, a Roman governor).

    The appeal is often made respectfully, but it is still risky and disruptive. It challenges the addressee’s declared vision of the truth, setting against it the speaker’s own sources of authority, including appeals to the divine.

    In Budde’s case too we find this tension between respect and challenge. In an interview for the New Yorker, Budde reflected that she “needed to honor the office of the President and the fact that millions of people placed their trust in him”.

    By addressing Trump respectfully, she acknowledged he had the authority to be merciful. But in drawing on the authority of scripture, Christian tradition and her episcopal role, she challenged the president’s moral authority on key questions of public policy.

    Basil’s parrhesia astonished the imperial representative, but gave his friend Gregory a model for his own episcopal ministry. Similarly, Budde had a two-fold audience in mind. She used parrhesia respectfully but firmly to challenge the authority of a powerful person who did not expect to be challenged and was outraged when they were.

    It is evident that Budde’s past experience of criticising Trump (she commented in the New York Times about Trump posing for a photo with a Bible in 2020) left her in no doubt that her “audacious” direct appeal to the president would bring anger on herself. But she also addressed a wider audience, intending that “people overhearing me talk to Trump” would hear words of solidarity and hope for them.

    The power of Budde’s speech does not depend on the success of her appeal for mercy but in the disruptive nature of her challenge to Trump’s moral authority and the way it rippled out into wider audiences, provoking astonishment, anger or praise.

    History prompts us to look harder at the power dynamics that create such varied and highly charged emotional responses. Now, as in the ancient world, it is in the absence of an open hearing for all, when bold speech is needed.

    Morwenna Ludlow will receive funding from the Leverhulme Trust for a project on ‘God and Good Speech’ for two years from September 2025. She is a priest in the Church of England and has an honorary role as Canon Theologian at Exeter Cathedral.

    – ref. When a bishop called on Trump to ‘have mercy’, she was following the old Christian tradition of parrhesia – https://theconversation.com/when-a-bishop-called-on-trump-to-have-mercy-she-was-following-the-old-christian-tradition-of-parrhesia-248494

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Geoengineering is politically off-limits – could a Trump presidency change that?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Hugh Hunt, Professor of Engineering Dynamics and Vibration, University of Cambridge

    One possible plan involves adding clouds in the upper atmosphere to reflect away sunlight. Thiago B Trevisan / shutterstock

    Donald Trump’s second presidential term is likely to mean big changes for those of us interested in geoengineering. The term refers to deliberate large-scale manipulation of the climate, perhaps by blocking out some sunlight or directly removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Sometimes called climate engineering, we prefer the term “climate repair”.

    Trump is not the most natural supporter of climate change interventions. He is set to expand oil and gas production hot on the heels of the most terrible wildfires in California. At some point the US could see hurricanes on scales even more extreme than Katrina or Helene.

    Extreme weather will become harder to ignore. Trump could of course downplay any link to climate change but there’s a chance this might trigger him to decide emergency action is required and demand to know more about climate engineering options.

    After all, Trump is close to certain tech figures who like big technological solutions to global problems. He likes to act fast and is prepared to deal with democratic reactions later. In those circumstances he might feel that we should do whatever it takes to deploy new climate-saving strategies at speed.

    The most effective methods for cooling the planet involve making the Earth more reflective so that it absorbs less heat from the sun. One option, known as stratospheric aerosol injection, involves spraying sulphur dioxide into the upper atmosphere to mimic the cooling effect of volcanic eruptions.

    Clouds could also be altered to become more reflective, an option known as marine cloud brightening. We can even make ice in the Arctic more reflective by thickening it during the winter months so that it lasts longer in the summer, reflecting the sun’s heat back into space.

    The 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines added so much ash to the upper atmosphere the world cooled by about 0.5°C for a year.
    James St John / Flickr

    These technologies sound rather fanciful. Some might find them scary. But with the devastation of hurricanes and wildfires, Trump could potentially instruct the US military to give aerosol injection a go. At present, the technology would rely on high-altitude jets to take millions of tonnes of sulphur dioxide up to the stratosphere above the Arctic, and the US has a lot of these planes.

    Alternatively, Trump might take the opposite path and say “this is just part of the natural cycle of weather”. Climate-change deniers or those who believe reducing emissions alone will work to hit the 1.5°C or even 2°C targets may be given a platform to convince us all that there is no need for geoengineering.

    Geoengineering as an investment

    Maybe there is a middle ground. Trump could decide to support geoengineering research to help the insurance industry. If insurance companies will benefit by having fewer storms and fires, then this would be good for the US economy. So perhaps some expenditure on research right now may be a strategic investment.

    Behind the scenes are deep discussions on geoengineering governance. There are some who argue that geoengineering is so risky for the climate (what if the world cools too much? are we prepared for any unintended consequences?) that it shouldn’t be researched – or at least the research should not be funded by governments.

    Others argue that global governance and democratic issues (who is in charge? who gets a say?) need to be addressed before any research can begin. Then there’s the “slippery slope” argument, that once we start then we’ll never stop.

    Until now these kinds of arguments have slowed the pace of research, but Trump could say that the current position is wrong, as it holds back our knowledge of something which might help the US economy. If Trump decides to unlock geoengineering as an opportunity, then he may not just provide funding but instruct the national labs to get on with research at pace, thereby accelerating our knowledge of the different options. With good data we can make informed decisions.

    How much would this cost? It turns out that geoengineering research is not very expensive and Trump may figure that the potential upside is huge. If he gets excited about it, then geoengineering might suddenly capture the imagination of the US public.

    There is increased interest around the world so the situation in the US is being watched closely. With additional funding and instructions from the new president, geoengineering would soon become established in the mainstream.

    Our team at the Centre for Climate Repair in Cambridge are not the only ones thinking about all of this. This is a hot topic and one which is likely to see significant changes in the coming year.

    Hugh Hunt is affiliated with the Centre for Climate Repair at the University of Cambridge. The centre receives funds from various philanthropic sources.

    Shaun Fitzgerald receives funding from Philanthropists, Trusts and Foundations, and Government grants to work on a range of activities including greenhouse gas removal through and climate engineering.

    – ref. Geoengineering is politically off-limits – could a Trump presidency change that? – https://theconversation.com/geoengineering-is-politically-off-limits-could-a-trump-presidency-change-that-248589

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –