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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the 72ndPlenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addresses the 72ndPlenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has brought the Northeast into the focus of development with his vision and sensitivity

    Modi government stands with the northeastern states for resolving their all problems

    NEC is working to identify the needs and challenges of various sectors and provide effective solutions, playing a crucial role in determining the direction of development

    The goal of the Modi government is to accelerate the pace of development in the Northeast and bring this region at par with the rest of India

    Modi government is implementing the mantra of ‘Act East, Act Fast, and Act First’

    Efforts should be made to change the approach, training and focus of the police in every state of the Northeast, transforming the culture and direction of the police force

    In last 10 years, 71% reduction in violent incidents and 86% decrease in civilian deaths in the Northeast has been registered and 10,574 insurgents have surrendered

    Modi government has achieved success in establishing peace in the Northeast through various peace agreements

    Time has come for every citizen of the Northeast to be given their constitutional rights of protection of property, dignity and their family, which are imbibed in the three new criminal laws

    Modi government has attracted investors and worked towards opening global markets for the region,to accelerate the development of the Northeast

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah addressed the 72nd Plenary Session of North Eastern Council (NEC) in Agartala, Tripura today. Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Governor, Tripura, Shri Indrasena Reddy Nallu, Chief Minister, Tripura, Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha and Union Home Secretary, Shri Govind Mohan were present on the occasion. The meeting was also attended by the Governors of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim, as well as the Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim, along with the Minister of Community and Rural Development of Meghalaya, and several other dignitaries.

    In his address, Union Home Minister said under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi past 10 years have been very important for the North East Region. He said that the way Prime Minister Modi has brought this region into the focus of the world is transformative for the entire Northeast. Shri Shah said that for a long time this region was mere an issue of speeches for Delhi, but Prime Minister Modi has brought this area into the focus of development with his vision and sensitivity. He said that in the last 10 years, due to the unprecedented development of infrastructure in the Northeast, not only has the physical distance been reduced, but Prime Minister Modi has also worked to bridge the distance of hearts between the people of this region and Delhi.

    Union Home Minister said that when Prime Minister Modi gave priority to the Northeast himself, it naturally became the priority of the entire central government.He said that today our Northeast region is on the path of development despite much diversity. He said that 10 years ago, more than 200 tribal groups and more than 195 dialects and languages of the region had become our weakness in a way, causing different kinds of conflicts. Shri Shah said that today, when we look back, it is Prime Minister Shri Modi ji who has done the work of converting that weakness into strength and power.He said that today, more than 200 tribal groups, due to their cultural diversity, have become the center of attraction for the entire world, and over 195 dialects and languages have contributed to making the Northeast one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots in the world.

    Union Home Minister said that there are more than 7,500 species of flowers in the Northeast alone, along with various types of wildlife and water resources. The Modi government has made significant efforts over the past 10 years to preserve these natural diversities and transform the region into a preferred tourist destination.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has accomplished the most important task of establishing peace in the Northeast. In the past 10 years, several peace agreements have been signed and about10574 armed youths have surrendered and joined the mainstream, bringing peace to the Northeast and laying the foundation for development. He also mentioned the entire country and the world are now accepting Modi ji’s concept of ‘Ashtalakshmi’

    Union Home Minister said that today the entire country wants the prosperity for every individual and states of the Northeast so that the Northeast continues to contribute to the development of the country. He said that in the 10 years of the Modi government, efforts have been made to build all kinds of foundational structures to move forward on the path of development with such diversity. Union Home Minister added that now, it is time to build a strong, tall, and inclusive structure of development on this foundation. He said that the government has always given priority to the Northeast, and the goal of the Modi government is to bring this region on par with the rest of India by accelerating the pace of its development. Shri Shah mentioned that during former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government, the Ministry of DONER (Development of North Eastern Region) was established.Modi Ji urged the entire Cabinet to visit the Northeast and stay overnight there, resulting in central ministers’ spending over 700 nights in the region. He added that Prime Minister Modi himself has visited the Northeast 65 times, and during each visit, he has brought developmental gifts for the region.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi government has left no stone unturned in preserving the culture of the Northeast. He mentioned that it was the Modi government that worked to include the most languages from the Northeast in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.Shri Shah said that in various peace agreements, the central government has not only empowered and preserved the different dialects of the Northeast but has also advocated for primary education to be provided in the local languages of the region. This has greatly benefited the preservation of our cultural heritage. He noted that now, it is time to give a big push to the country’s efforts to become a 5 trillion dollar economy through the development of the Northeast. He mentioned that for this, the ministries of DONER and the North Eastern Council (NEC) are working to implement the mantra of “Act East, Act Fast, and Act First.”

    Union Home Minister said that over the past 50 years, the NEC has served as an important platform for discussing the aspirations, needs, and potential solutions to challenges, and has worked to become the blueprint for the development of the Northeast.He said that the NEC has played a crucial role in harmonizing the policies of the Government of India and the states of the Northeast, ensuring that development reaches the grassroots level. He added that the NEC has been responsible for formulating development plans, connecting various tribal groups with development, and outlining the development of the Northeast by viewing the entire region from a unique perspective.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has created a positive ecosystem and on the basis of this, the states and the Ministry of DoNERmust improve the investment ecosystem. He said that connectivity from the region is no longer a problem and in some time connectivity with the world will also no longer be a problem.ShriShah said that Prime Minister Modi has created a positive ecosystem, and based on this, the states and the DONER Ministry must improve the investment ecosystem. He stated that connectivity is no longer a problem, and connectivity with the world will also no longer be an issue.He said that after the Bangladesh Enclaves Exchange, our goal of connecting the Northeast with the world will be achieved very soon. He mentioned that this will strengthen the industrial ecosystem in the Northeast, and will also open up global market for those investing here. Shri Shah emphasized that for this, each state must strengthen its efforts. He also stated that the Government of India encourages all investors to invest in the Northeast.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that recently, the Union Cabinet has decided to establish three semiconductor units in the Northeast for the development of the semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem. He mentioned that one of these units, Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Private Limited, will be set up in Assam with an investment of approximately ₹27,000 crore, which will be the largest investment so far. He added that this will create 20,000 direct jobs and 60,000 indirect job opportunities. Shri Shah further added that keeping this future potential in mind, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, is preparing courses in collaboration with universities in the Northeast to equip the youth with relevant education and knowledge. He emphasized that this will generate a large number of jobs for the youth in all eight states of the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that it is crucial for the Northeast region to attract industrial investment, and efforts to accelerate this need to be intensified. He mentioned that the Northeast cannot remain peaceful solely through the development of the region and states; there needs to be a balance in the development of individuals, villages, and states. He emphasized that for the development of individuals, the development of villages must be ensured, and to achieve this, along with industrial development, the region must become self-reliant in the production of milk, vegetables, eggs, fish, and meat. He said that organic products, milk, vegetables, eggs, and such items are what can drive individual development in the region, and until every individual is prosperous, the vision of a prosperous Northeast cannot be realized.

    Union Home Minister said that organic farming naturally takes place throughout the Northeast. He urged all the governors, chief ministers, and chief secretaries present at the meeting to join the National Cooperative OrganicsLimited (NCOL) established by the Government of India. The objective of NCOL is to connect all farmers engaged in cooperative organic farming and build infrastructure for packaging, marketing, and export. He emphasized that all states should enter into agreements with NCOL and link their farmers to it, so that their organic products can reach the global market. Shri Shah further stated that the Modi government has decided to establish an organic certification lab in every state of the Northeast, and in larger states like Assam, one in each district. This will ensure reliable organic certification for both soil and agricultural products. He added that through brands like Amul and Bharat, our products will be able to reach global markets.

    Shri Amit Shah said that every type of connectivity in the Northeast is a priority for the Modi government. He mentioned that the Mission Palm Oil has the potential to become a significant pathway for the development of all the states in the Northeast. He highlighted that the production of oilseeds in the country is low, and we are still not self-reliant in the edible oil sector, but Mission Palm Oil can make us self-reliant in this area. Shri Shah added that so far, there is a proposal to develop 10 new oil mills in the Northeast.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Modi government has adopted a multi-dimensional approach in the field of security, and by creating a specific strategy for each state, we have made progress over the last 10 years. He mentioned that as a result of this strategy, the police, army, Assam Rifles, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have successfully established a very good system in the Northeast. Shri Shah stated that in the last 10 years, violent incidents in the Northeast have reduced by 71%, and civilian deaths have reduced by 86%. He added that nearly 10,574 insurgents have surrendered, and due to several peace agreements, the Government of India has succeeded in establishing peace throughout the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Modi has launched a campaign for a drug-free India, in which the Northeast has a special responsibility, as a major route for narcotics entering India passes through the states of the Northeast. He mentioned that significant work has been done in the last 6 years in this direction, but our pace is still not sufficient. Home Minister urged all the governors and chief ministers present at the meeting to emphasize organizing district-level meetings of the District Monitoring Committees and to ensure their effective monitoring. He stated that drug addiction destroys future generations, and our goal is to make India completely drug-free, with the Northeast playing a significant role in this campaign.

    Union Home Minister said that preparations are underway to fully implement three new criminal laws across all the states in the Northeast. He mentioned that after the complete implementation of these laws, justice will be delivered within three years, even in the most complex cases, including those reaching the Supreme Court. He pointed out that for years, the focus of the police in all states was solely on combating insurgency and violence. However, now that violence has almost ceased in the Northeast, it is time to ensure that every citizen in the region is granted their constitutional rights to property, honor, and family protection, which are included in these three laws.

    Home Minister emphasized that it is time to change the culture and direction of the Northeast police. He said that with peace prevailing in the region, the focus should now be on ensuring citizens receive their rightful entitlements. For this, a change is needed in the approach, training, and focus of the police in every state of the Northeast. He mentioned that the prerequisite for achieving this change is the complete implementation of these three new laws across all states in the region.

    Shri Amit Shah urged all the governors present at the meeting to personally monitor this process, as it is crucial to establish the belief in the Northeast that citizens can obtain justice through filing an FIR. He said that for four decades, the police forces in all the states of the Northeast were entirely focused on combating insurgency, and now that insurgency is no longer a major issue, the focus must shift to providing citizens with their rights. He said that if this is achieved, the constitutional rights granted to citizens across the country will also be granted to the citizens of the Northeast.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the allocation for the PM-DevINE scheme was approximately ₹6600 crore, but it will soon be increased to ₹9000 crore. He mentioned that for the development of the Northeast, there are more than 111 projects, including roads, power, education, healthcare services, sports infrastructure, and tourism projects. He added that from 2014-15, the budget for the Northeast has increased by 153%, and through the Bamboo Mission, the government has set an ambitious goal to make the entire Northeast prosperous. Shri Shah emphasized that the Modi government will provide all possible support for every type of connectivity in the Northeast, and there will be no shortage of budget for this purpose.

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that plans worth ₹81,000 crore have been made for rail connectivity and ₹41,000 crore for road connectivity. He mentioned that 64 new air routes have been launched, and the remaining work will be completed in the next three years. Shri Shah emphasized that the states of the Northeast should make the most use of NESAC (North Eastern Space Applications Centre). He stated that until technology is utilized for the development of the eight northeastern states with challenging geographical conditions, the focus on development cannot be properly defined.

    Regarding the flood problem in the Northeast states, the Home Minister said that by using technology to create pathways in the natural course, the budget for constructing roads could be reduced by at least 30%. He added that by diverting floodwaters and creating large ponds, all three objectives—flood prevention, agriculture, and tourism—could be achieved. He mentioned that Assam has created 15 large ponds on an experimental basis, and all states should use this method for flood relief and water storage. Shri Shah also stated that the use of technology reduces corruption and helps in advancing Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).

    Shri Amit Shah said that a peaceful and prosperous Northeast alone is not enough. He emphasized that preserving the cultural diversity, arts, literature, and languages of the Northeast, and ensuring their existence, is important not only for the Northeast but for the entire country. He mentioned that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India stands with the states of the Northeast to solve every issue they face. He expressed confidence that by 2047, when India becomes fully developed, the Northeast will be the country’s most prosperous region.

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    RK/VV/ASH/PS

    (Release ID: 2086818) Visitor Counter : 15

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda holds meeting with Chief Ministers on the 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Health Minister Shri JP Nadda holds meeting with Chief Ministers on the 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign

    Urges support of Chief Ministers to monitor the progress of the campaign, involve other ministries and departments, and encourage the support of Members of Legislative Assemblies and Councils, as well as PRIs to ensure community mobilization

    Rate of TB decline in India has doubled from 8.3% in 2015 to 17.7% which is much ahead of the global average: Shri JP Nadda

    “Deaths due to TB have reduced significantly in India by 21.4% in the last 10 years”

    “States already have nearly two months stock of TB medicines, Centre is working towards ensuring advance stock of at least 6 months of TB medicines available in the states”

    The 100-day campaign is being implemented across 347 identified priority districts where comprehensive and novel patient-centric services are being provided

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda held a meeting with Chief Ministers/LGs and State Health Ministers of States/UTs, requesting their support toward the ongoing 100-day Intensified TB Elimination Campaign via video conference, here today. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav joined the meeting virtually. The Chief Ministers/LGs and Health Ministers were provided an overview of the campaign, its objectives, the key strategic activities being undertaken, and the role of states/UTs in ensuring the successful implementation of the campaign. 

     

     

    State Ministers who were present in the meeting included Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh; Dr Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh; Shri Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister, Gujarat; Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister, Rajasthan; Shri Manik Saha, Chief Minister, Tripura; Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister, Uttrakhand; Shri Satya Kumar Yadav, Health Minister (Andhra Pradesh); Shri Biyuram Wahge, Health Minister (Arunachal Pradesh); Shri Ashok Singhal, Health Minister (Assam); Smt. Arti Rao, Health Minister (Haryana); Smt. Sakeena Itoo, Health Minister (Jammu & Kashmir); Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Health Minister (Himachal Pradesh); Shri Vishwajit P. Rane, Health Minister (Goa); Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Health Minister (Karnataka); Shri P. Paiwang Konyak, Health Minster (Nagaland); Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Health Minister (Odisha); Dr. Balbir Singh, Health Minister (Punjab); Smt. Veena George, Health Minister (Kerala); Shri Ma. Subramanian, Health Minister (Tamil Nadu); Shri Irfan Ansari, Health Minister (Jharkhand); Shri Damodar Rajanarasimha, Health Minister (Telangana); Smt. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Health Minister (Meghalaya) and Shri Ramakant Goswami, Labour Minister (Delhi);

    Shri Nadda urged the States/UTs to monitor the campaign at the state level and ensure the same is done by the political and administrative leadership at the district levels. He suggested that to ensure a whole-of-government approach, other ministries and departments can be roped in to support campaign activities, similar to the approach taken at the national level. He also requested the Chief Ministers to involve elected representatives, especially Members of Legislative Assemblies and Councils, as well as Panchayati Raj Institutions and encourage their active participation to help mobilize communities.

     

     

    Shri Nadda highlighted that the rate of TB decline in India has doubled from 8.3% in 2015 to 17.7% which is much ahead of the global average. He also informed that deaths due to TB have reduced significantly in India by 21.4% in the last 10 years.

    Crediting the state ministers for the achievements made towards TB eradication, the Union Minister thanked them for their support towards the campaign. He highlighted the importance of test, track and diagnostics for active TB testing, screening and diagnosis of patients and urged the dignitaries to actively monitor the campaign in the identified districts in their respective states. Underlining the support that state ministers can provide on the TB campaign, he requested them to promote the campaign in their meetings and rallies and also urged them to come forward as Ni-Kshay Mitras to adopt TB patients.

    The Union Health Minister noted that states already have nearly two months stock of TB medicines and stated that the Centre is working towards ensuring advance stock of at least 6 months of TB medicines available in the states. He concluded his address by encouraging all the stakeholders to reiterate their commitment to end TB.

    An overview of the 100-day campaign which aims to reduce TB incidence and mortality due to TB in 347 priority districts across the country was presented at the event. It was informed that to increase detection, intensified case finding drives will be conducted using advanced screening and diagnostic technologies to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation. Parallelly, to reduce mortality due to TB, the programme will expand access to novel initiatives such as the Differentiated TB Care to provide specialised care for high-risk patients and increased nutritional support through Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana.

    The State Ministers were also informed about the various community mobilization activities that should be undertaken during the campaign, including over 80,000 Ni-kshay Shivirs to monitor progress. Building on the Jan Bhagidaari approach, the campaign aims to mobilize community members to undertake Ni-kshay Shapaths, urge community leaders, individuals, NGOs and corporates to become Ni-kshay Mitras. Alongside, TB Vijaetas (TB champions) and Ni-kshay Mitras will be recognized for their contributions that will further inspire collective action. Lastly, involvement of Panchayati Raj Institution members will be critical and regular Gram Sabhas on TB will be organized to raise community awareness while ensuring the uptake of essential TB services.

     

     

     

    The Chief Ministers expressed their appreciation for the Union Government’s intensified efforts in the TB campaign and pledged their support toward achieving the goal of TB elimination. The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh shared details about the state’s Jan Jagrukta Abhiyan, aimed at raising awareness about TB, and highlighted its leadership role in providing food baskets to TB patients. Chief Ministers from Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh also discussed their progress in enhancing TB testing and screening services. The dignitaries further shared their experiences with the TB campaign and offered valuable feedback and suggestions.

    Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary; Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Addl. Secretary, Union Health Ministry; senior officers of the Union Health Ministry and Mission Directors (NHM) from states were present on the occasion.

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    MV

    HFW/HFM 100 Days TB Meeting with States/21 December 2024/1

    (Release ID: 2086809) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri George Kurian, MoS expresses sincere thanks to Railway Minister for granting special train services for Kerala on the occasion of Christmas and Sabarimala pilgrimage

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri. George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying expresses his sincere thanks to Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Electronics and Information Technology and Information & Broadcasting, for granting approval based on his request, for granting special train services for Kerala on the occasion of Christmas and Sabarimala pilgrimage.

    The Ministry of Railways, Government of India has announced the operation of 10 special trains to specifically cater to the increased travel demand to and from Kerala during the Christmas Festival in 2024 and 149 special train trips across various Railway Zones for Christmas. Further, 416 special train trips to and from Kerala have been announced for smooth travel for the Sabarimala pilgrims.

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways has granted approval for the special train operations for Kerala based on the request of Shri George Kurian Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. These announcements have been made to enhance convenience for the people during the festive season and are an embodiment of responsive and effective governance under the visionary leadership of  Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.

    A total of 149 special train trips across various zones have been announced for Christmas Festival 2024. The details of the train services are as follows:

    ● South Western Railway (SWR): 17 trips

    ● Central Railway (CR): 48 trips

    ● Northern Railway (NR): 22 trips

    ● South East Central Railway (SECR): 2 trips

    ● Western Railway (WR): 56 trips

    ● West Central Railway (WCR): 4 trips

    The details of the 416 special train trips for Kerala for Sabarimala pilgrimage is as follows:

    ● South Western Railway (SWR): 42 trips

    ● Southern Railway (SR): 138 trips

    ● South Central Railway (SCR): 192 trips

    ● East Coast Railway (ECOR): 44 trips

    These trains aim to ensure smooth and convenient travel for passengers while addressing the surge in demand during the holiday season.

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    SS/PRK

    (Release ID: 2086800) Visitor Counter : 58

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Key stakeholders from NPS ecosystem to come together with the launch of Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Key stakeholders from NPS ecosystem to come together with the launch of Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) today

    Necessary to plan early for pension, ANI may create awareness about it: Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Government of India

    ANI to strengthen & redouble efforts to expand pension coverage in India through collective efforts and feedback mechanism: PFRDA Chairperson Dr. Deepak Mohanty

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 3:34PM by PIB Mumbai

     

    : Mumbai, December 21, 2024

    The Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI) was officially launched today at a conference titled “Securing Tomorrow, With Pension” held at the Insurance Institute of India, Mumbai today. On the occasion, the association’s logo was also unveiled by the Chairperson of PFRDA, Dr. Deepak Mohanty.  This landmark initiative brings together key stakeholders from the National Pension System (NPS) ecosystem to foster collaboration, strengthen subscriber welfare, and promote the continued growth of NPS as a critical retirement planning tool for the citizens of India.

    The Secretary, Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, virtually delivered the keynote address on the occasion. DFS Secretary congratulated the newly formed Association of NPS Intermediaries. It was emphasised that, with the changing demographics, rapid urbanisation and changes in family structure, early planning for the pension product by an individual is a necessity. In this regard, he urged advocacy by the newly formed association. The association was assured that any feedback from them will be examined with utmost care and urgency.

    Speaking at the conference, PFRDA Chairperson Dr. Deepak Mohanty, emphasized,
    “The launch of the Association of NPS Intermediaries is a significant milestone for the pension sector. I am confident it will further strengthen & redouble our efforts in creating awareness to expand pension coverage in India through collective efforts and feedback mechanism. The Association will lead the charge, with guidance from its members and regulators, to become a global benchmark for financial security.”

    Dr. Mohanty stated, National Pension System (NPS) has seen tremendous growth in recent years, establishing itself as a cornerstone for long-term retirement planning in India. With assets under management (AUM) exceeding ₹13.8 lakh crore, both Atal Pension Yojana (APY) and NPS, having a total subscriber base of 8 crores, has emerged as one of the most efficient, tax-advantageous, and low-cost retirement solutions available today. This remarkable growth underscores the increasing acceptance of pension schemes and the vital role it plays in securing the future of India’s working population, he added.

    Dr. Mohanty also said that the NPS industry is expanding rapidly, driven by growing awareness, government initiatives through PFRDA and NPS Trust and support from a robust network of intermediaries. The system’s flexibility, transparency, and ability to cater to a wide range of investors—from salaried employees to self-employed individuals—have made it a preferred choice for retirement planning across the country. The steady rise in subscribers and growing assets reflect the confidence Indian citizens place in NPS as a trusted retirement product, said the PFRDA Chairperson.

    Speaking about the important role to be played by ANI, Dr. Mohanty said, as the NPS ecosystem evolves, the formation of the Association of NPS Intermediaries marks a significant milestone. This association unites various stakeholders, including Pension Fund Managers.

    The conference titled “Securing Tomorrow, With Pension” featured an insightful address by Shri Siddhartha Mohanty, Chairperson of LIC of India, who focused on the pivotal role of increased pension assets in the development of the financial sector in India. Shri Rama Mohan Rao Amara, MD of State Bank of India, and Shri Amitabh Chaudhry, MD & CEO of Axis Bank Ltd., shared their perspectives on the critical role financial institutions play in driving the adoption and growth of the NPS. Shri Animesh Mishra, Additional Central Provident Fund Commissioner, EPFO, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the lack of advocacy about the need for sustainable pension and EPF alone will not be sufficient to reach the desired replacement rate.

    A panel discussion on “Pension Society in Viksit Bharat@2047”, moderated by Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Anand, Whole-Time Member (Finance), PFRDA, with participation of experts from the Government, Industry and Academia.  During moderation, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Anand, Whole-Time Member (Finance), PFRDA in its opening remark highlighted on the increased longevity, need for financial literacy and long-term sustainable investment options focussed on ESG. Shri Pankaj Sharma, Joint Secretary, DFS emphasized that Government is taking adequate steps to increase the penetration and the young generation should be sensitised the saving for pension. Dr Ritu Anand, Thought Leader, Human Resources stated that lot of work has to be done by the HR Community to introduce NPS starting from the top management of the corporates. Sh. Dhirendra Kumar, CEO, Value Research mentioned that Pension Funds should aim to make investment provisions for the longer term considering the longer investment horizon of the product. Smt Bahroze Kamdin, Partner, Deloitte Haskins & Sells informed that NPS is a tax efficient product and at the same time ensures that the investments are safe and secure with decent returns. Prof S.V.D. Nageswara Rao, Prof and Head, SJM School of Management, IIT Bombay mentioned that Financial Literacy is most important step to ensure better penetration of pension across the society.

    About Association of NPS Intermediaries (ANI)

    The Association of NPS Intermediaries is a collective platform representing all stakeholders in the NPS ecosystem. It is committed to enhancing the effectiveness of the system, strengthening subscriber welfare, and collaborating with policymakers to shape the future of retirement planning in India. The ANI stakeholders are Points of Presence (Bank and Non-Bank), Central Record Keeping Agencies, Trustee Banks, Custodians, Aggregators, Annuity Service Providers, Pension Agents, Retirement Advisors, and other industry participants.

    The primary objectives of the association are to:

    • Promote NPS as a reliable, flexible, and tax-efficient retirement product.
    • Focus on subscriber welfare by ensuring smooth and transparent processes within the system.
    • Collaborate with regulators and policymakers to improve the NPS framework and contribute to developing the pension market in India.

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    Sriyanka Chatterjee/ Edgar Coelho/P.Kor

     

     

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    (Release ID: 2086770) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Bhupender Yadav Releases India State of Forest Report 2023

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 1:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav released the ‘India State of Forest Report 2023 (ISFR 2023) today at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. The ISFR is brought out by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) on a biennial basis since 1987. FSI carries out in-depth assessment of the forest and tree resources of the country based on interpretation of Remote Sensing satellite data and field based National Forest Inventory (NFI), and the results are published in the ISFR. The India State of Forest Report 2023 is 18th such report in the series.

    The report contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangrove cover, growing stock, carbon stock in India’s forests, instances of forest fire, Agroforestry, etc. To present a detailed picture of the forest health at country level, special thematic information on forest cover and important characteristics of forests have been reported in the ISFR. As per the present assessment, the total Forest and Tree cover is 8,27,357sq km, which is 25.17 percent of the geographical area of the country. The Forest Cover has an area of about 7,15,343sq km (21.76%) whereas the Tree Cover has an area of 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%).

    The Minister expressed happiness over the fact that as compared to 2021, there is an increase of 1445 sq km in the total forest and tree cover of the country. He also highlighted the near real time fire alerts and forest fire services provided by FSI using advance technology.

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    MAJOR FINDINGS

    ● The Forest and Tree cover of the country is 8,27,357 sq km which is 25.17 percent of the geographical area of the country, consisting of 7,15,343 sq km (21.76%) as forest cover and 1,12,014 sq km (3.41%) as tree cover.

    ● As compared to assessment of 2021, there is an increase of 1445 sq km in the forest and tree cover of the country which includes 156 sq km increase in the forest cover and 1289 sq km increase in tree cover.

    • Top four states showing maximum increase in forest and tree cover are Chhattisgarh (684 sq km) followed by Uttar Pradesh (559 sq km), Odisha (559 sq km) and Rajasthan (394 sq km).
    • Top three states showing maximum increase in forest cover are Mizoram (242 sq km) followed by Gujarat (180 sq km) and Odisha (152 sq km).
    • Area wise top three states having largest forest and tree cover are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km) followed by Arunachal Pradesh (67,083 sq km) and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).

    ● Area wise top three states having largest forest cover are Madhya Pradesh (77,073 sq km) followed by Arunachal Pradesh (65,882 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55,812 sq km).

    • In terms of percentage of forest cover with respect to total geographical area, Lakshadweep (91.33 percent) has the highest forest cover followed by Mizoram (85.34 percent) and Andaman & Nicobar Island (81.62 percent).
    • The present assessment also reveals that 19 states/UTs have above 33 percent of the geographical area under forest cover. Out of these, eight states/UTs namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, A & N Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur have forest cover above 75 percent.

    ● The total mangrove cover is 4,992 sq km in the country.

    • The total growing stock of India’s forest and trees outside forests is estimated as 6430 million cum, of which 4479 million cum is inside the forests and 1951 million cum outside the forest area. There is an increase of 262 million cum of total growing stock as compared to the previous assessment which includes an increase of 91 million cum inside the forest and 171 million cum outside the forest area.
    • The extent of bamboo bearing area for the country has been estimated as 1,54,670sq km. As compared to the last assessment done in 2021 there is an increase of 5,227 sq km in bamboo area.
    • The total annual potential production of timber from trees outside forest has been estimated as 91.51 million cum.
    • In the present assessment total carbon stock in country’s forest is estimated to be 7,285.5 million tonnes. There is an increase of 81.5 million tonnes in the carbon stock of country as compared to the last assessment.
    • Regarding status on achievement of target under NDC related to carbon sequestration, the current assessment shows that India’s carbon stock has reached 30.43 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent; which indicates that as compared to the base year of 2005, India has already reached 2.29 billion tonnes of additional carbon sink as against the target of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes by 2030.

    Besides providing vital information for monitoring the country’s forest and tree resources, the data given in the ISFR serves as a useful source of information for the policy makers, planners, State Forest Departments, research organisation, line agencies involved in various developmental works, academicians, civil society and others interested in natural resource conservation and management.

    *****

    VM/GS

    (Release ID: 2086742) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

    Source: Government of India

    BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

    From Remote Villages to Smart Communities

    Posted On: 21 DEC 2024 9:55AM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction to BharatNet

     

    In a world increasingly driven by digital innovation, internet connectivity has become a cornerstone for economic growth, education, healthcare, and governance. Digital divide was significant challenge, especially in rural India, and to address this, the government of India launched BharatNet in October 2011, an ambitious project aimed at providing affordable high-speed internet access to every Gram Panchayat in the country. This initiative, under the Ministry of Communications, seeks to empower rural India, fostering inclusive growth and bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. BharatNet is not merely an infrastructure project; it is the backbone of India’s journey towards a truly digital nation.

    Amended BharatNet 2023

     

    In August 2023, the government approved the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP). The program provides for internet access by Optical Fibre (OF) connectivity to 2.64 lakh GPs in ring topology and also to provide OF connectivity to the remaining non-GP villages (approx. 3.8 lakhs) on demand basis. The design improvement, at a cost of Rs. 1,39,579 crores, in ABP is aiming at:

    • Optical fiber connectivity from Block to GP in Ring topology
    • IP- MPLS network with Routers at Blocks and GPs
    • Provision of optical fiber connectivity to non-GP villages on demand basis
    • Provision for Operation and maintenance for 10 years, including monitoring of network uptime through Centralized Network Operating Centre (CNOC) and payment to Project Implementation Agency (PIA) as per Service Level Agreement (SLA)
    • Provision of Power backup of adequate level at GPs and Blocks
    • Provision of Remote Fibre Monitoring System (RFMS) at Block for fibre monitoring

     

    Digital Bharat Nidhi: Funding BharatNet

     

    Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is a fund that aims to improve the quality and accessibility of telecommunications services in India. It was established by the government of India as a replacement for the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). The DBN’s goals are to:

    • Provide affordable and high-quality mobile and digital services in rural and remote areas
    • Ensure equitable access to knowledge and information
    • Promote economic growth by increasing digital connectivity and services
    • Narrow the digital divide and remove barriers to access

    Working of BharatNet

     

    BharatNet operates as the world’s largest rural broadband connectivity program. The project is being executed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), which has been incorporated on 25.02.2012. On 30.04.2016, the Telecom Commission approved to implement the project in three phases:

    1. Phase I: Focused on laying optical fiber cables to connect 1 lakh Gram Panchayats by utilizing existing infrastructure. Completed in December 2017, this phase established the foundational network.
    2. Phase II: Expanded the coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using optical fiber, radio, and satellite technologies. This phase incorporated collaborative efforts with state governments and private entities.
    3. Phase III: Aims at future-proofing the network by integrating 5G technologies, increasing bandwidth capacity, and ensuring robust last-mile connectivity. This phase is ongoing, with a focus on improving accessibility and reliability.

    The network’s core relies on optical fiber cables, satellite links for remote regions, and wireless technologies for last-mile connectivity. Implemented under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), BharatNet adopts a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure efficient execution and maintenance.

     

    Impact of BharatNet

     

    BharatNet has had a transformative impact on rural India, contributing to socioeconomic development in multiple ways:

    1. Digital Inclusion: The project has connected remote villages to high-speed internet, enabling access to e-governance services, online education, and telemedicine. Initiatives like the Digital India program thrive on BharatNet’s infrastructure.
    2. Economic Opportunities: With internet access, rural communities can participate in digital commerce, access financial services, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. This has significantly boosted income generation in underserved areas.
    3. Education and Healthcare: BharatNet has enabled digital classrooms and telehealth services, bridging the resource gap in rural areas. Students and patients now have access to quality education and medical expertise from urban centers.
    4. Empowering Local Governance: Gram Panchayats use BharatNet to implement e-governance projects, improving transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement in public services.

     

    Key Achievements and Milestones

    Internet Inclusivity in India

    Internet access is available in the country including rural areas through the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) through wireless mobile and fixed wireline broadband. Government has taken numerous initiatives to enhance internet connectivity in India through mobile connectivity and optical fiber rollout. As a result, as of October, 2024:

    • Number of 4G Base Transceiver Station (BTS) have reached 24,96,644, spread across 783 districts.
    • India has seen the fastest rollout of 5G services in the world with 4,62,084 BTS deployed across 779 districts.
    • The cost of data has reduced drastically from Rs 269 per GB (in March 2014) to Rs. 9.08 per GB.
    • The Median mobile broadband speed has increased from 1.30 Mbps in March 2014 to 95.67 Mbps.
    • The average wireless usage of data per subscriber has increased to 22.24 GB per subscriber per month.
    • Out of 6,44,131 villages, 6,15,836 number of villages are having 4G mobile connectivity in the country.

     

    Conclusion

     

    BharatNet holds the promise of transforming rural India into a digitally empowered society. By addressing these challenges and maintaining its momentum, the initiative can pave the way for a more inclusive and connected future. BharatNet is more than an infrastructure project; it is a lifeline for millions of rural Indians aspiring to connect with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings. With robust execution and sustained efforts, BharatNet will continue to bridge the digital divide and empower every corner of India with the transformative power of the internet.

     

    References

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AS329_R1XIRX.pdf?source=pqals

    https://usof.gov.in/en/usof-dashboard

    https://usof.gov.in/en/home

    https://pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=151993&ModuleId=3&reg=3&lang=1

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2077908

    https://usof.gov.in/en/bharatnet-project

    https://bbnl.nic.in/

    BharatNet: Bridging the Digital Divide

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2086701) Visitor Counter : 129

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days highlights Japan’s Role in Africa’s agricultural and energy revolution

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina painted a compelling picture of the potential of Africa’s agricultural and energy transition during a plenary session at the Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days, highlighting the deepening Japan-Africa partnership, emphasizing how Japanese technology and innovation could help unlock them.

    He spoke on 9 December as part of two panel discussions on Africa’s agriculture and energy transition, that brought together 100 Japanese investors, showcased how digital solutions , innovative technologies and business models are transforming Africa’s business  landscape.

    “Agriculture is the place to be,” declared Dr. Adesina, highlighting Africa’s possession of 65% of the world’s remaining arable land. “You may like oil and gas, that’s fine. But nobody drinks oil, and nobody smokes gas. But everybody eats food three times a day.” With the global food and agricultural market in Africa projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, the continent presents unprecedented opportunities for investment and innovation.

    Digital Revolution in Agriculture

    Space Shift Inc. demonstrated their groundbreaking use of satellite technology for crop monitoring in Nigeria. Chief Business Officer Tamao Tada presented how their AI-powered system combines optical and radar satellite data to provide continuous monitoring of crop growth, harvest timing predictions, and historical farming activity records – even through cloud cover. This technology is enhancing credit scoring for farmers and improving agricultural decision-making.

    AAIC Partners Africa Limited, through Director Hiroki Ishida, shared their success story in Rwanda and Tanzania, where they’ve implemented smart agriculture projects covering 1,700 hectares. Their work demonstrates how Japanese technology can transform large-scale agricultural operations in Africa through IoT solutions and satellite technology optimization.

    VunaPay’s COO, Koya Matsuno, addressed one of agriculture’s most pressing challenges through their digital platform that enables instant payments to farmers upon produce delivery. “Imagine working hard for a month and your boss tells you that you’re not going to get paid for another six months,” Matsuno illustrated, highlighting how their solution is transforming agricultural finance.

    Green Carbon Inc.’s Manager, Ryo Harada, introduced innovative approaches to generating carbon credits in agriculture. Their projects, including biochar and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) in rice fields, can reduce methane emissions by 30-50% while generating valuable carbon credits for farmers.

    Strategic Partnership Framework

    The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), represented by Jin Wakabayashi, Deputy Director General for Private Sector Investment Finance, outlined their comprehensive support for agricultural development, emphasizing three key pillars for private finance window: Climate-resilient agriculture; Food security enhancement and financial inclusion facilitation.

    The African Development Bank’s Director of Private Sector Operations, Richard Ofori-Mante, highlighted successful collaborations with Japanese institutions, including a $600 million of the Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for Africa (EPSA) facility with JICA and ongoing partnerships with major Japanese corporations like Mitsubishi.

    “What I see here is what Executive Director Nomoto and I envisioned,” reflected Dr. Adesina, describing the creation of a comprehensive ecosystem supporting Japanese investment in African agriculture. This ecosystem spans agricultural technology and innovation; infrastructure development; financial services; private equity and venture capital and government support mechanisms.

    The Bank’s collaboration with MasterCard on the Community Pass program, aiming to provide 100 million African farmers with digital access to financial services and agricultural information, exemplifies this ecosystem approach.

    Green Transition and Digital Solutions

    Uncovered Fund specializes in supporting start-ups in Africa, including climate technology company and electric vehicle (EV) battery service provider, through their funds to support net zero in the continent. “Not just financing, the Uncovered Fund also provides Japanese technology to the start-ups”, explained Mr. Takuma Terakubo, CEO & General Partner.

    Hitachi Energy is also working towards clean energy transition and carbon neutral. Through its technologies and partnerships, Hitachi is implementing infrastructure projects which deliver reliable renewable energy to cities and rural areas, contributing to electrification of Africa. Mr. Bekim Tahiri, Executive & Global Sales Manager, emphasizes the importance of digitalization to make all the information visible to identify any issues to maintain their power supply and critically of investing into the Electrical Grid to successfully integrate clean energy whilst supporting access to power for the African continent.

    Mizuho, one of the global systemically important banks, has been a bridge between Africa and Asia through strong partnerships with African financial institutions. In his presentation, Mr. Junaid Belo-Osagie, Executive Director, focused on two sectors: hydrogen and clean cooking. “In terms of clean cooking, four in five Africans are exposed to harmful gases, and only 4 billion USD are required to move towards clean cooking scenario”, he added.

    The mission of the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) is to ensure a stable and affordable supply of energy and mineral resources. Ms. Yuri Uchida, Deputy General Manager of JOGMEC, underscored that in terms of hydrogen and ammonia sector, JOGMEC has a support system that focuses on the price gap, where they try to promote low-carbon hydrogen society.

    Nippon Export and Investment Insurance’s (NEXI) business in Africa has been growing in the past 20 years at an annual growth rate of 18%. Mr. Yuichiro Akita, General Manager, illustrated several cases including two wind power projects in Egypt and one solar power project in Kenya, where they underwrote insurances to facilitate green energy transition. “We have projects pipeline worth 5 billion USD in the coming years”, Mr. Akita emphasized.

    Catalyzing Action

    Ken Shibusawa, Vice-chairperson of Africa Project Team, Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives), brought urgency to the discussions. Moderator of the second session, he challenged his Japanese peers to move from interest to action, emphasizing that beyond the commonly discussed “cost of inaction” in sustainability, there was another critical cost: Japan’s missed opportunities in Africa. “In Japan, we have the technology, we have the people, we have the money, but what we lack is the Action,” Shibusawa noted, urging Japanese businesses to realize the cost they’re paying for future generations by not acting in Africa.

    Japan’s Long-term Commitment to Africa

    In closing remarks, Deputy Vice Minister of Finance of Japan, Daiho Fujii, underscored Japan’s long-standing commitment to African development, dating back to the country’s first participation in the African Development Fund in 1973. He highlighted Japan’s pioneering role in private sector mobilization, notably through the establishment of the EPSA at the Bank in 2006, which has provided around $9 billion to date.

    “Africa undoubtedly has huge potential to attain high growth, create jobs and build a solid economic structure for future generations,” Fujii emphasized. He particularly noted how the day’s focus on agricultural innovation and green growth addresses critical development challenges while respecting African ownership of its development path.

    The Deputy Vice Minister stressed that “it is time for us to co-create innovative solutions together with Africa,” highlighting how Japanese solutions and innovative business models presented during the session could be “real game-changers” in addressing the continent’s challenges and unleashing its potential.

    Looking ahead to TICAD 9

    With Japan’s upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), set to take place in Yokohama in August 2025, and the African Development Fund’s 17th replenishment negotiations on the horizon, the partnership between Japan and Africa in agricultural innovation and green growth is poised for further expansion. This momentum is evidenced by Executive Director Takaaki Nomoto’s successful mobilization of 100 Japanese participants for the Forum, up from 80 investors last year.

    Looking toward TICAD 9, Deputy Vice Minister Fujii reaffirmed Japan’s commitment: “Japan respects African ownership and will continue to encourage sustainable development driven by Africa… I believe if we work together, we can see an Africa where all people enjoy healthy and productive lives.”

    The convergence of Japanese technology, investment, and Africa’s agricultural and energy transition potentials is creating unprecedented opportunities for sustainable development and food and energy security, marking a new chapter in Japan-Africa relations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ’s Z Energy renames stations with ‘correct’ kupu

    By Emma Andrews, Henare te Ua Māori Journalism Intern at RNZ News

    The New Zealand fuel company Z Energy is swapping out street names for “correct” kupu on service stops around the country, with the help of local hapū.

    When Z took over 226 fuel sites from Shell in 2010, the easy solution was to name the respective stations after the streets they were on, or near.

    But when it named the Kahikatea Drive station in Kirikiriroa Z — K Drive, the company’s Māori advisor questioned the abbreviation.

    “Kahikatea is the correct name. That led to a bigger conversation about where are we with our knowledge as we start to learn a bit more about te reo Māori and acknowledging interconnected-ness of all things, like, where else are there opportunities to do it,” Z Energy customer general manager Andy Baird said.

    After 12 months of whakawhanaungatanga (relationship building), the company was guided by Te Hā o te Whenua o Kirikiriroa on changing the name of Z Dinsdale to Z Tuhikaramea.

    That led to two other stations being renamed — New Plymouth’s Z Courtenay Street became Z Huatoki, while Hamilton’s Five Cross Roads station became Z Te Papanui.

    “This is not about ticking a box per se, this is about a bigger sort of commitment that we have to te reo Māori and obviously to the communities that we operate in, so it’s a much bigger broader long-term programme,” Baird said.

    Z Energy . . . an internal drive to incorporate more use of te reo Māori. Image: RNZ

    Internal te reo drive
    There had also been an internal drive to incorporate more use of te reo, kicking off each day with karakia, Baird said.

    It added more of a connection between the company and Māori traditions.

    “We’ve been adding bilingual language inside the sites but we have equally taken the time to make sure that we’re getting the right dialects as the regions as we go through it.

    “Part of the project this year was to sort of understand the process that we go through in terms of engagement with mana whenua and how they want things to happen and occur, and how we can come together to make that really a great outcome for local communities we operate in.”

    The company could have changed the station names off the bat, but Baird said consulting with local hapū and iwi was the right thing to do.

    “The opportunity to meet them, to start to engage with mana whenua and to build a relationship with them and to do something that they’re just as proud of as we are, was just as important as the actual name.”

    Each site’s name was gifted by the hapū, with careful consideration of the history of the whenua.

    Facebook community included
    Ngāti Te Whiti hapū in Ngāmotu was thrilled to play a big part in renaming the Courtenay Street petrol station and included its Facebook community in making the decision.

    It had a kete of three names that went to a vote — the name Huatoki was favoured.

    Julie Healey of Ngāti Te Whiti said it was only fitting to have the name Huatoki, as the awa flowed just around the corner from the petrol station.

    “Huatoki is probably all the life essence of New Plymouth at the beginning. We have the pā Puke Ariki at the front and then we have the other pā around, I think there’s about five or six different pā in that area.”

    The hapū was in its rebuilding phase and was working towards a Huatoki restoration plan with the New Plymouth District Council, so when Z approached it at the start of the year, the timing could not have been better, she said.

    “When we were approached, I just thought straight away ‘this is going to work brilliantly with our Huātoki’, and I was hoping whānau would vote that way, and they did. It just made sense, it was consistent.”

    A plaque on the left-hand side of entrance has a brief mihi and the meaning of the word. Image: RNZ/Emma Andrews

    She praised Z for taking the right steps to engage with locals.

    “One of our whānau, Damon Ritai, met the people outside Puke Ariki Museum, talked to them about the museum, the designs, the cultural expression on the museum, the meaning of the different things of whakapapa on the ceremonial doors, all the names that were in the foyer, and explained everything about those.”

    Cultural induction hīkoi
    The cultural induction hīkoi ended at Te Whare Honanga (Taranaki Cathedral) where they had refreshments.

    Then, the hapū worked on the dialect, something Healey triple-checked before giving the nod of approval.

    “This is about reclaiming our language and culture, not as a political act, but as a celebration.

    “It’s always a good opportunity for hapū to try and get those names, you know, renaming before the colonial names, taking things back to language and culture.”

    Z Energy aimed to rename more petrol stations but first, more whakawhanaungatanga, Baird said.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Boorloo Bridge now open for pedestrians and cyclists

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    One of the most iconic structures ever delivered in Perth is now open, with thousands of walkers, runners and cyclists heading across the new Boorloo Bridge today.

    The bridge has been constructed 90 metres downstream of the existing heritage-listed Causeway Bridge, and measures six metres wide and one kilometre long.

    Stretching from Victoria Park to Point Fraser in Perth’s CBD via Heirisson Island, the new bridge will significantly enhance connectivity, safety, and amenity for approximately 3,000 pedestrians and cyclists that currently use the significantly constrained path on the Causeway Bridge.

    Despite only opening today, the iconic design of the bridge has already positioned the structure as one of the most defining landmarks on the Swan River and Perth skyline.

    The bridge features a 52-metre-high boomerang pylon on the city side and two 46-metre-high digging stick pylons on the Victoria Park side. A total of 64 steel cables help to suspend the bridge from the three pylons.

    Around 17,000 LED lights have been installed around the 64 steel cables, turning the bridge into a stunning lighting feature over the Swan River.

    The lighting will turn the bridge into a digital canvas using colour, movement, and imagery, and promote Perth and Western Australia to local, national, and global audiences.

    The area around the bridge has also been transformed with significant landscaping, including around 100,000 new plants, trees and shrubs. New seating and rest areas, as well as public art on the bridge abutments have also been completed.  

    The project has provided a critical source of local jobs, with the entire bridge structure being manufactured in Western Australia. During the construction phase, an estimated 700 local jobs have been created.

    Boorloo Bridge recognises Boorloo as the Noongar name for Perth and the design has embedded Whadjuk Noongar cultural recognition, acknowledging the Aboriginal heritage significance of Heirisson Island and the Swan River.

    Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “Today is a historic day for Perth, with the new Boorloo Bridge creating a more vibrant, liveable, and connected city.

    “Our Government is proud to have been a partner in such an extraordinary project and we’ll continue to invest in the infrastructure projects that help drive the economy, create jobs and set Western Australia up for the future.”

    Quotes attributed to Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “This was a once in a generation opportunity to not only deliver a desperately needed piece of critical infrastructure, but to also create an iconic structure that Western Australians can be proud of.

    “We’ve never seen a structure like this in Perth and I think the community will be blown away when they see it for the first time.

    “Not only do we have a new bridge that will serve the community for many decades to come, but we also now have a stunning new light feature that will be an iconic landmark on the Swan River.

    “Our Government will continue to invest in the infrastructure our State needs, helping drive the economy, create jobs and set Western Australia up for the future.”

    Quotes attributed to Western Australian Lands Minister and Perth MLA John Carey:

    “It is brilliant to mark the completion and opening of the new Causeway Bridge, recently named Boorloo Bridge, and this iconic infrastructure project will now provide a new gateway and entrance to Perth.

     “People that travel on the existing Causeway Bridge path know how challenging it can be, and the new Boorloo Bridge will significantly enhance connectivity, safety, and amenity.

    “The Causeway Bridge project is part of the Cook Labor Government’s revitalisation of our city, and we’re investing hundreds of millions of dollars to build new infrastructure, create jobs and support economic growth to attract more people to Perth.”

    Quotes attributed to the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister and Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman:

    “The Albanese Government is delivering to make Perth a more family-friendly and beautiful city, just some of the things I know that are important to my community.

    “The 17,000 LED lights adorning the 64 steel cables, reflected on the surface of the Swan River is such a beautiful addition to our city.

    “I am so pleased to see our local values achieving national results for our community.”

    Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas:

    “This project has also been a testament to the local manufacturing capabilities in Western Australia, with the entire bridge structure built and manufactured here,

    creating an estimated 700 local jobs along the way.”

    Quotes attributed to Victoria Park MLA Hannah Beazley:

    “Delivery of this spectacular piece of infrastructure is a game changer for our community, ensuring Victoria Park, Matagarup (Heirisson Island) and Boorloo (Perth City) are more connected than ever before. 

    “Not only will the improved safety and amenity of Boorloo Bridge encourage more people to walk, wheel and ride across the Swan River but the structure is set to become a defining landmark that we can all be proud of. 

    “Significant landscaping works have also transformed the public areas around the bridge with about 100,000 new plants, trees and shrubs added, as well as new seating, rest areas and public art creating welcoming spaces for the community to enjoy.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police crack multi-suburb crime spree, recover stolen cars, and arrest teen

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are seeking assistance from the public following a number of break ins, attempted break ins and stolen cars.

    Saturday 21 December at 2.30am: Police received reports of a house being broken into on Maria Street at Findon. Offenders broke into the house through the garage door while the occupants were at home. The occupant’s wallet and car keys, as well as the car the keys belonged to a brown Ford Focus sedan were stolen from the property.

    Sunday 22 December at 2.15am: Occupants of an Arcoona Avenue address at Rostrevor woke to find an unknown person trying to break into a vehicle parked in their driveway. The occupant observed the unknown person approach their front door, before fleeing when the security lights came on. The suspect and other unknown people fled in a Honda Civic and a brown Ford sedan, believed to be the vehicle stolen from Findon the night before.

    Sunday 22 December at 2.20am: Occupants of Buchanan Drive address at Woodforde woke to find someone had attempted to break into their house. No entry was gained to the property, and the suspects fled the address on foot. Police conducted enquiries in the street, which revealed the neighbour’s property had also been broken and there grey Hyundai sedan had been stolen. This vehicle was recovered a short distance away.

    Sunday 22 December at 3am: Occupants were asleep in their Knox Terrace, Skye home, when an unknown man unsuccessfully attempted to break into the property through the front door. When entry couldn’t be gained, the suspect then broke into the victim’s vehicle on the driveway and stole property before running away.

    Sunday 22 December at 3.20am: Police were called to Caloroga Street at Wattle Park after reports of people trying door handles on cars. As patrols arrived in the area, a grey Honda Civic sedan was seen travelling towards police at speed in company with the stolen brown Ford Focus. Police conducted a short pursuit of the vehicles west along Kensington Road. The Honda was seen to turn right into East Street, Kensington Gardens, however police-maintained pursuit of the stolen Ford which continued on Kensington Road, before turning into May Terrace, and then last seen in Park Road where police terminated for safety reasons.

    Police conducted enquiries at the Honda’s registered owners address in Hambledon Road Campbelltown, and identified that whilst the occupants were asleep, someone had broken into their house and stole a wallet and a set of keys to the car, before making off in the Honda.

    Sunday 22 December at 7pm: Eastern District Volume Crime Section and Operation Mandrake attended an Albert Park address where they found numerous stolen items from the crime series. They arrested a 16-year-old boy and located the stolen Honda on Grace Street in Albert Park. The Ford focus has not been located.

    The 16-year-old boy from Albert Park has been charged with two counts of aggravated serious criminal trespass, two counts of illegal use of a motor vehicle, three counts of theft, one count of unlawfully on premises and one count of breach of bail. He has been refused bail and will appear in the Adelaide Youth Court today.

    Police are continuing to investigate the involvement of other people involved in the crime series. Anyone who may have information relating to this investigation or may know the whereabouts of the stolen Ford Focus, South Australian registration S403AYX, are asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Doorstop interview, Wollongong City Centre

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    STEPHEN JONES:

    I want to start by expressing on behalf of the Albanese government our deepest sympathy for the people of Germany who have lost their lives or suffered terrible injury in a terrible tragedy overnight. The mind boggles what might lead somebody to drive a car into a crowded market in the days before Christmas. It’s a tragedy and I know all Australians share their sympathy to the people of Germany. And, of course, our consular officials are busy to ensure that all Australians are safe and there’ll be more information on the matter in the course of the day. But, first and foremost, our message of sympathy goes out to the German people, particularly the families of those involved.

    Now Christmas time and particularly in the few days before Christmas, everybody is out there trying to do their Christmas shopping and get a bargain. Whenever something big like this is going on, the criminals, the fraudsters and the scammers are out as well. So the government’s sending a message to all Australians just to be careful, particularly when shopping online. We know that the scammers like to take advantage of people in a rush, spending their money, people going online perhaps for the first time and making a purchase. Scammers like to take advantage of people going online for the first time to make a purchase. So a few quick tips. Never press those blue links that you’re getting in an email or an SMS. That’s how scammers drag you off to a fake website. If something looks too good to be true, then it probably is too good to be true. Just stop, check, protect your information. Don’t give your information out to people who are calling you with unsolicited calls and just be careful online over the Christmas period.

    We know a lot of people are shopping online but a message for all of our shoppers. Bear in mind your local retailers. They’ve been doing it tough this year. If you’ve got a few dollars to spend, do some shopping at one of your local shops to ensure that we’re spreading the love around. Happy to take questions.

    JOURNALIST:

    Thank you, Stephen. Just on Germany before I go to retail spending, if that’s okay. I know that the government’s put out a travel warning for Australians in Germany and they’ve labelled this a suspected terrorist incident, what’s your message to Australian travellers in Germany right now and would you go as far as calling this out as a terrorist incident?

    JONES:

    We’re not going to get ahead of ourselves. I’ll leave it to the authorities in Germany who are doing the investigation for them to determine the motivation behind this terrible tragedy. And any Australians who are travelling in Europe, particularly in Germany at the moment, just check in with the consular information. Smartraveller is always up‑to‑date on the latest advice for people travelling in that region, but we won’t get ahead of ourselves before we start labelling the motivation behind this terrible tragedy.

    JOURNALIST:

    Thank you. Now, on retail spending, there’s the new data out that Australians are tipped to spend 2.7 per cent more this Christmas than they did last Christmas. Good news for retail outlets but definitely not for an interest rate cut. Is this extra spending what Labor really wants right now, especially heading into an election?

    JONES:

    Our thoughts are with the retailers who’ve had a really tough year and we want to ensure that they can continue to keep their doors open into next year. So, for Aussie shoppers who are bagging a bargain over the next few weeks, don’t forget your local retailers. Shop locally. Sure, you’re going to shop online as well but we want you to spread some love around your local retailers. Good news for retailers who’ve been doing it tough. But, of course, when it comes to the independent Reserve Bank, we know they tend to look through these seasonal periods. We know that every year there’s an uptick in consumption around Christmas time, as there should be. People have had a tough year. They’re looking forward to taking some time out with family and celebrating with their loved ones. We welcome that and want to ensure that people can have a great Christmas. And, as far as the Australian Government’s concerned, we’re doing our job to ensure that we’re providing cost‑of‑living support while we can while responsibly managing our spend through the Budget.

    JOURNALIST:

    Even though people are spending more this Christmas, they are doing it tough and there’s some concerns that it means they could be – if they’re not being savvy and looking at, you know, savings and sales, they could be cutting out on other things like essentials. And it’s yeah, obviously clear that Australians are still doing it tough. What would your response be to how people are feeling right now in this climate and any criticism that Labor is to blame for particularly inflation?

    JONES:

    Well, look, I think the government has really tried to balance this right to ensure that we provide cost‑of‑living support and tax relief support where we can. Had we followed the advice of Peter Dutton, we’d be in recession today. We know that Australians have saved up over the course of the year to spend a little more with their family and loved ones over Christmas time and that’s a great thing. We won’t be taking the advice of Peter Dutton who would have seen Australian retailers in an even tougher position today, Australia in recession and those million people who are in a job today who wouldn’t have been, would be out of work. And that’s not a price that we’re willing to pay for a few headlines. We want to ensure that we’re responsibly managing the economy, keeping Australians in jobs and keeping the economy out of recession and that’s been our priority.

    JOURNALIST:

    And as far as, is this the burst that businesses need right now who are struggling with, you know, rising energy costs, wages, the increasing costs everywhere they look.

    JONES:

    Look, after a tough year with retailers, I know a lot of businesses in my area and around the country are hoping to make some good money over Christmas so they can even things out a bit and keep trading in the new year, but we acknowledge it’s been a really tough time for Australian business, particularly retailers and small businesses, which is why we hope they’re going to have a profitable time over the next month or so.

    JOURNALIST:

    I understand there’s more details on the cash mandate you’re pursuing and there’s carve‑outs for bottle shops, cafés, jewellers, takeaway food and hairdressers. Can you talk me through the reasoning behind this?

    JONES:

    We know that the majority of Australians, for the majority of their purchases are using some form of tap‑and‑go digital payment but around about 13 per cent of retail transactions are still using cash and around 1.5 million Australians are using cash for over 80 per cent of their purchases. We’ll protect their right to do so, and that’s what the cash mandate’s all about. But we also know that it does impose some costs on small businesses. Most small businesses, in fact close to 99 per cent of businesses, are still accepting cash. We want to ensure that it stays that way for essential transactions. We’re consulting. We’ve put some proposals out overnight on what we think the right balance is. But what’s our objective? Ensuring that those Australians who want to use cash can. But there’s another reason for it as well. Every Australian’s had the experience where they’ve got to the cash register, the machine’s not working, their tap‑and‑go won’t work, so we need cash as a backup for when digital payments aren’t working. So whether you’re an Australian who loves using cash or you’ve got an insurance that you’ve got a payment method when electronic payment systems go down, we’ve all got an interest in ensuring this works properly.

    JOURNALIST:

    Why not have a blanket rule? Why carve out some businesses? For example, a person might be able to go to a pharmacist and have cash accepted and they could go to the next shop which is a café or a bottle shop and the business might say, ‘Sorry, we don’t accept cash.’

    JONES:

    This is a genuine consultation. We’ve put some proposals out there around where we think the boundaries are for essential versus non‑essential goods. We’re not going to have a situation where every online purchase or every small marketplace in the country is required to go back to accepting cash when they’ve been digital from the very beginning. We want to get the balance right. It’s about essential purchases. It’s about protecting the right of Australians to use cash for those essential purchases if they choose to do so.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Protect your consumer rights during post-Christmas sales

    Source: Government of Victoria 2

    It’s a great time of the year for a post-Christmas shopping bargain, but Victorian shoppers are being reminded of their consumer rights if they end up with a faulty product. 

    Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich said a great post-Christmas deal should save shoppers money, not their rights. 

    More than 6,600 people contacted Consumer Affairs Victoria in 2023–24 with refund and return questions or problems – the top shopping rights issue reported. 

    We remind consumers they may be entitled to a refund, repair or replacement under law if there is a problem with an item, whether it was bought on sale or received as a present. 

    Keeping receipts for products you buy as well as gift receipts for presents you receive can make it easier to claim your rights where something goes wrong. 

    Traders can face penalties if they misrepresent consumer rights, such as those around refunds.

    Shoppers, however, do not have the automatic right to return a product if they simply change their mind, order the wrong product, or find a better product elsewhere. 

    Consumers jumping online to beat the Boxing Day crowds are entitled to the same rights as someone shopping in store. But these same rights do not apply to purchases from private sellers, such as individuals selling pre-loved goods on eBay, Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace.

    Gift cards are an increasingly popular gift that come with specific rights. Consumers have a minimum of three years to use a gift card and it must clearly show the expiry date. If a gift card has an earlier expiry date at the time of purchase, consumers are still entitled to the mandatory three-year period. 

    Traders are also encouraged to understand their rights and obligations when dealing with customer returns. Consumer Affairs Victoria provides a range of business resources to support traders.

    Penalties for breaching the Australian Consumer Law are serious, with maximum penalties ranging from $2.5 million for a person to $50 million for businesses.

    “Christmas is a time for cheer and celebration, and we want all Victorians to have a stress-free festive season,” said Ms Rich. 

    “Consumers should know their rights and feel empowered to speak up if they think these rights have been compromised.”

    “Traders who aren’t sure of their obligations can access our business resources to help them set up good policies and practices and avoid any issues or disputes after the busy festive trading season.”

    For more information, go to Products and services.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Stanley Point

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A cyclist has died following a crash in Stanley Point last week.

    The crash, on Calliope Road, was reported to Police at 10.30am on Friday 20 December.

    There were no other vehicles involved in the incident.

    Sadly, the cyclist received critical injuries and has since died in hospital.

    Police extend our condolences to their family and friends at this time.

    An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public asked to check properties as search for Maia Johnston continues

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are continuing to search for 19-year-old Maia Johnston, who is still missing from Totara Park, Upper Hutt.

    Maia was last seen leaving a family home in Totara Park at around 8.30pm on Saturday 21 December.

    We are continuing to ask those who live Totara Park as well as surrounding areas of Harcourt Park and Brown Owl to check any CCTV footage for sightings of Maia.

    We are now also asking anyone in these suburbs to check their properties including any outbuildings such as sheds or sleep outs to see if Maia might have gone in there.

    We believe that Maia was wearing a black cardigan or light top, short shorts, and black and white converse shoes.

    Police have received a number of calls from members of the public, which we thank them for. We have assessed each bit of information and followed up where relevant. Unfortunately this has not led us to Maia and we, along with her family, would like to find her and make sure she is safe.

    If you have any information or CCTV footage that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 241222/0237.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Eighty-five local treasures to be saved and restored

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    An additional £36 million of funding to rescue and restore 85 local treasures including community centres, pubs, parks and sport centres.

    • Government funding will save at least 35 community centres, helping fix the foundations of our communities as part of the Plan for Change
    • Money will boost opportunities and help grow local economies, supporting the government’s drive for national renewal
    • This will help kickstart economic growth and rebuild Britain in a decade of renewal

    Cherished community centres are among the 85 local venues across the UK that are set to receive government support to stay open, helping to fix the foundations of our communities.

    An additional £36 million of funding has been provided to back local communities, including the rescue of at least 35 community centres, protecting vital local services, boosting opportunities for working families and supporting local economies.

    As set out in its Plan for Change, the government is committed to kickstarting economic growth and raising living standards. Thriving communities lie at the heart of a thriving economy, and the support provided by the Community Ownership Fund will inject funding where it is most needed, making change happen and bringing people together in the process.

    The projects will support the government on its path to national renewal, helping realise our regions’ huge potential while creating safer and happier streets by restoring community pride.

    Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner said:

    “We are delivering on our Plan for Change by saving these vital community assets to provide important opportunities for working people and their families.

    “These projects represent what is so special about communities across the UK – bringing people of all ages together, providing vital support and giving them a sense of purpose and belonging.

    “Every project will support social causes in the community, keeping widely used services open and thriving to improve people’s health and wellbeing.”

    Minister for Local Growth, Alex Norris said:

    “These are all multi-functional spaces that do so much for local people and most of us will have fond memories in treasured places like these.

    “We’ve prioritised these grants to help preserve and upgrade what these vital places offer to their communities – whether that’s improving access to sport and education, tackling loneliness or boosting family services for parents and children.

    “This is just the start of our work to support communities and give them greater control of their assets and we’ll be setting out our full strategy next year.”

    Action4Youth, a youth charity in the South East, has been given £300,000 to refurbish the George Amey Centre in Milton Keynes, securing its future as a centre for outdoor education and supporting the charity’s work to tackle knife and gang crime.

    Chief Executive of Action4Youth, Jenifer Cameron said:

    “We are so grateful to have funding which will enable us to complete our renovation project and to ensure the future of the outdoor centre which benefits 15,000 children and young people each year.

    “We can now look forward with optimism and hope to support many more young people in future.”

    Nineteen sports clubs and leisure facilities across the country will be saved, including four historic swimming pools. These include the 1960s Portishead Lido in North Somerset – where funding will also be used to renovate the café, supporting the local economy – and one of the last tidal pools left in the country, the Victorian Shoalstone Pool in Devon.

    On the Isle of Wight, the Isorropia Foundation will receive more than £1m to purchase and renovate the Medina Valley Centre so it can provide a range of community services including mental health support, training and educational opportunities. And Elmfield Hall in Accrington will be renovated to secure its future as a location for counselling, mentoring and employment courses.

    The MacMillan Hub in Edinburgh will be backed with £1.7m so it can continue to promote culture, learning and training opportunities, work and well-being in and around the town centre, and expand its café. And more than £1m will be used to restore the Higher Woodhill Viaduct so the East Lancashire Railway can continue to deliver a heritage railway experience, boosting the local tourism industry in the process.

    To tackle loneliness and support rural communities, £3.8 million will go to eight parks and eight pubs, including £300,000 to help buy back a popular village pub in North Yorkshire – The Punch Bowl Inn. £300,000 will also be used to renovate a 200-year-old countryside pub in Gwyned, Wales – Tafarn y Plu. This funding will back local businesses, create jobs and drive growth while restoring community pride.

    The government is also developing proposals for delivering on its manifesto commitment to introduce a stronger ‘Right to Buy’ and take over important community assets so they can determine their future in a meaningful way. This will be a genuine shift so local people feel far more control, power and agency in the places they live.

    Further information

    In Scotland, £5 million will be awarded to 11 projects including over £1.7 million to refurbish and expand a community arts centre in Edinburgh – the MacMillan Hub.

    In Northern Ireland, £3.7 million will be awarded to 10 projects including £800,000 to expand the building and outdoor spaces of an autism and additional needs charity in Belfast – Sólás. This will help host more after-school clubs and youth programmes.

    In Wales, £2.1 million will be awarded to 7 projects including £400,000 to create a museum for the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, built in 1903 to link farming communities to the town.

    In England, almost £25.5 million will be awarded to 57 projects including:

    • 11 projects in the South West worth £4.7 million
    • 8 projects in the North West worth almost £4.6 million
    • 10 projects in the East Midlands worth almost £3.9 million
    • 4 projects in London worth almost £3.2 million
    • 8 projects in the South East worth almost £3 million
    • 6 projects in Yorkshire and the Humber worth almost £2.2 million
    • 5 projects in the West Midlands worth over £1.6 million
    • 3 projects in the East of England worth over £1.7 million
    • 2 projects in the North East worth over £675,256

    These projects were applicants to the now closed Community Ownership Fund.

    The government has also implemented new High Street Rental Auction regulations, providing local communities and businesses with a right to rent premises that have long sat vacant, casting a cloud over the local area. The power will help to provide new shops and community spaces, supporting businesses and communities to access the high street and create vibrant, bustling spaces they can be proud of.  

    The government will also support high streets by strengthening Business Improvement Districts which have helped to improve town and city centres across the United Kingdom for 20 years, while ensuring they operate to high standards and are accountable to their communities. 

    The English Devolution White Paper published on 16 December set out ambitious plans which demonstrate this commitment to communities and we will announce more details in 2025, including on the community ownership of assets.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local treasures in Wales to be saved and restored

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Over £2 million will be awarded to seven local treasures in Wales including community centres, music venues and leisure centres.

    • Seven local treasures in Wales including community centres, music venues and leisure centres will be saved and restored thanks to prioritised funding from the UK Government 
    • UK Government funding will protect local amenities that keep communities thriving, helping fix the foundations of our communities as part of the Plan for Change 
    • This will help kickstart economic growth and rebuild Britain in a decade of renewal

    Over £2 million will be awarded to 7 much-loved local places in Wales, so they can stay open to keep their communities thriving. 

    This includes £1 million to save 4 spaces in Wales, including the Tafarn y Plu pub in Gwynedd, The Bunkhouse music venue in Swansea, a museum in Powys and a community shop in Gwynedd. This funding will be used to refurbish, renovate and secure the future of each of these buildings, allowing them to offer a diverse programme of events and activities including live music, well-being sessions and educational opportunities. 

    As set out in its Plan for Change, the UK government is committed to kickstarting economic growth and raising living standards. Thriving communities lie at the heart of a thriving economy, and the support provided by the Community Ownership Fund will inject funding where it is most needed, making change happen and bringing people together in the process.  

    The highest single award in Wales – £400 thousand – will also go to saving Llanfair Light Railway station and Cloverlands car model museum. This project will host a museum, archives, and a shared community space for residents and visitors to use. The funding will allow the community building to provide a visitor centre in which tours will learn the context to the railway station and its operations.  

    Minister for Local Growth, Alex Norris said: 

    “These are all multi-functional spaces that do so much for local people and most of us will have fond memories in treasured places like these. 

    “We’ve prioritised these grants to help preserve and upgrade what these vital places offer to their communities – whether improving access to sport, tackling loneliness or boosting family services for parents and children.”  

    Projects also set to receive money in Wales include: 

    • £300,000 to renovate Eveswell Community Centre in Newport. The centre will provide new and improved facilities for local families to host more activities like family groups, play groups, a Lego club, craft classes and after school youth groups. 

    • £300,000 to refurbish the Pentre Comrades club. The transformed building will provide the community a central hub to use for socialising and learning with facilities including a pub, shop, café, community garden, and kitchen spaces. 

    • £299,000 to renovate and refurbish Caerphilly Rugby Football Club. The space will provide new and improved facilities for their rugby development programmes as well as space to host events like fundraisers, local festivals and educational workshops. 

    Welsh Secretary, Jo Stevens said:

    “Congratulations to these fantastic community projects in Wales. Over £2 million is being spent by the UK Government to make sure that these special places are refurbished and improved so they can provide facilities for local people to come together. 

    “All across Wales there are brilliant people who give back to their communities. I’d like to thank them for all that they do and the UK Government is proud to be able to support them.”  

    This UK-wide funding prioritised by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government will help protect these cherished places from closure and disrepair, preserving popular spots for local people and visitors. 

    Altogether £36 million has been awarded to 85 projects across the UK.  

    The projects will support the government on its path to national renewal through its missions in the Plan for Change – from breaking down barriers to opportunity to kickstarting economic growth and creating safer streets by restoring community pride.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British soldiers successfully test drone killer radiowave weapon for first time

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    British soldiers have successful trialled for the first time a game-changing weapon that can take down a swarm of drones using radio waves for less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.

    RFDEW demonstrator on truck.

    • Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapons (RFDEW) can take down a swarm of drones for less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.  

    • Systems are capable of hitting targets up to 1km away and costs just 10p per shot   

    • The programme supports more than 135 highly-skilled jobs across UK industry 

    British soldiers have successfully trialled for the first time a game-changing weapon that can take down a swarm of drones using radio waves for less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.  

    The Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) development system can detect, track and engage a range of threats across land, air and sea.  

    RFDEWs are capable of neutralising targets up to 1km away with near instant effect and at an estimated cost of 10p per shot fired, providing a cost-effective complement to traditional missile-base air defence systems.  

    The RFDEW is different from Laser Directed Energy Weapons – such as DragonFire – because it uses a radio frequency to disrupt hostile threats, rather than a laser beam of light energy.   

    The weapon uses high frequency waves to disrupt or damage critical electronic components inside devices such as drones, causing them to be immobilised or fall out of the sky. It can also be used against threats on land and at sea.   

    The British Army successfully trialed a demonstrator version of the RFDEW. The development system has been produced by a consortium led by Thales UK and including sub-contractors QinetiQ, Teledyne e2v and Horiba Mira and supports up to 135 high-skilled jobs in the UK.   

    This progress helps deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change by rapidly advancing technologies and building on the strong foundation of national security.       

    Its high level of automation means the system can be operated by a single person and could be mounted onto a military vehicle, such as a MAN SV, to provide mobility.    

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:  

    The successful firing by the British soldiers of our Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon is another step forward for a potentially game-changing sovereign weapon for the UK.   

    It’s great to see defence experts and industry working collaboratively to put cutting-edge equipment in the hands of our Armed Forces.  

    This is demonstration of the UK remaining at the forefront of directed energy weapons and developing a crucial advantage against the emerging threats we face.

    A live firing trial was recently completed by the Army’s Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit and 7 Air Defence Group at a range in West Wales, where they successfully targeted and engaged Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), in a first for the British Armed Forces.   

    The user experimentation trials completed in recent months have enabled Army air defence personnel to explore and exercise the capability’s potential in different configurations across a variety of range environments, threat types and engagement scenarios.    

    This activity follows the development process announced back in May and delivered by Team HERSA – a joint enterprise between UK MOD’s Defence Equipment & Support and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).   

    Dstl Programme Lead, Matt Cork said:   

    Getting this technology into the hands of our service personnel is hugely rewarding.    

    Dstl has worked collaboratively with DE&S and industry which has meant the rapid evolution of radio frequency technology.  

    Nigel MacVean, Managing Director, Thales IAS, said:    

    I am thrilled with the successful RFDEW firing trials. Thales has been at the forefront of this pioneering technology for over 40 years and our continued research and development in this sector, along with our partners in Government, paves the way for a strong future in this field.

    This latest trial marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s ongoing efforts to enhance the future operational capabilities of the Armed Forces and offers a precise, powerful, and cost-effective means to defeat multiple aerial threats.     

    The trials programme will continue to enable further development and experimentation, while Team HERSA continues to work with operators to develop RFDEW requirements, doctrine and technology, shaping the next generation of mission-optimised RFDEWs.  

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai metro line suspends services after falling crane damages tracks

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Services were suspended on a Shanghai metro line on Sunday after its tracks were damaged by a falling crane, according to local authorities.
    The incident happened at about 8 a.m. when a crawler crane collapsed onto the tracks of the No. 11 metro line. Passengers in the train were soon evacuated, with no casualties reported.
    A work team has been dispatched to the city to guide local authorities in handling the incident, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management. The cause of the incident is being investigated.
    While the tracks are being repaired, the local government has arranged buses to transport the passengers in need. It is not known when services on the line will be resumed.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Houthis claim striking US aircraft carrier, downing warplane

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Yemen’s Houthi group said it attacked a U.S. aircraft carrier with eight cruise missiles and 17 drones and downed a U.S. fighter jet on Sunday.

    The group successfully struck aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman and its escorts, thwarting the joint U.S.-British attack on Yemen, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement, aired by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV.

    “Our forces shot down an American F/A-18 fighter jet during the operation as it attempted to intercept our missiles and drones,” Sarea added.

    Earlier on Sunday, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that two U.S. Navy pilots ejected safely after their fighter jet was shot down over the Red Sea in an apparent “friendly fire” incident.

    “The guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, which is part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, mistakenly fired on and hit the F/A-18,” CENTCOM said.

    The incident came the same day U.S. forces conducted airstrikes on a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility reportedly operated by the Houthis within Sanaa, and shot down multiple Houthi one-way attack drones and an anti-ship cruise missile over the Red Sea, according to a separate statement by CENTCOM.

    Since November 2023, the Houthis have been carrying out rocket and drone attacks on Israeli cities and disrupting “Israeli-linked” shipping in the Red Sea.

    In response, the U.S.-led navy coalition stationed in the area has been conducting regular air raids on Houthi targets since January in a bid to deter the armed group.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Report highlights China’s endeavor in preventing misconduct, corruption

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Supervisory and judicial authorities across China have dealt with 768,000 cases of misconduct and corruption that occurred among the people since the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, according to a report submitted on Sunday for review to the ongoing session of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee.
    During this period of time, a total of 628,000 people involved in these cases were punished, with 20,000 people transferred to procuratorial organs, according to the report by the National Commission of Supervision (NCS).
    Since the beginning of 2024, the NCS has directly investigated or overseen the investigation and resolution of 2,633 cases, the report stated.
    To address the safety of school meals, the NCS has urged relevant departments to conduct an assessment of canteens and meals in primary and secondary schools nationwide.
    The NCS guided supervisory and judicial organs at all levels to investigate and address 38,000 cases of embezzlement of students’ meal funds, interference in bidding and procurement, and acceptance of kickbacks, in accordance with the law, resulting in the punishment of 23,000 individuals.
    To combat corruption in the management of rural collective funds, assets and resources, the NCS has guided supervisory and judicial authorities at all levels to investigate 153,000 cases of embezzlement and illegal disposal of collective assets, resulting in the punishment of 132,000 individuals.
    The NCS has launched a one-year special operation to rectify corruption and misconduct in the funeral services sector across the country, starting from November this year, the report noted.
    Next year, it will also launch special campaigns focusing on the supervision of fund usage for rural revitalization, management of medical insurance funds, and prominent issues in elderly care services. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: All of Victoria now in Fire Danger Period ahead of hot Christmas

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Grampians National Park photo by Hamilton Fire Brigade

    Fire restrictions are now in place across Victoria with the weather heating up for Christmas and Boxing Day with Extreme fire dangers predicted and the potential for further escalation to Catastrophic across parts of the state.

    While CFA is ready to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires. 

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it is important ahead of what is expected to be a hot Christmas period that people plan ahead.   

    “We are already seeing in parts of the state if fires break out, they’re likely to burn intensely this summer period,” Jason said.  

    “We can’t get a fire truck into every driveway so we are asking Victorians to know their fire risk, plan ahead and make sure we are doing our part to keep each other safe. 

    “Monitor fire danger ratings daily via the VicEmergency App and CFA website and know what your plan is should a fire event arise.”  

    “The Bureau of Meteorology’s four day weather forecast currently predicts a catastrophic fire day on 26 December for the Wimmera and as we get closer to Thursday these forecasts will become more certain. We may see a reduction in the level of rating, but what is certain it will remain an extreme fire day.” 

    Fire Danger Period information:  

    • A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au. It can also be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office.   

    • Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment. For a full list of conditions, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can. 

    • To find out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit  www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.  

    Submitted by CFA Media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Holidaymakers urged to take care with fires in Coromandel this summer

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand urges caution around any activity involving flames, heat or fire on the Coromandel Peninsula over the summer months.
    Waikato District Manager Daryl Trim says conditions in the Coromandel do not require any changes to the current open fire season, but this is constantly being assessed.
    “We are monitoring our local conditions closely as we see the devastating fires happening all over the motu,” he says.
    “To stay informed and up to date on the current conditions, and check if there are any restrictions in place, head to www.checkitsalright.nz.
    “Our beautiful Coromandel Peninsula attracts around 300,000 visitors in summer, and we urge caution regarding any fire activity – remember, it only takes one spark. 
    “We appreciate visitors and residents taking as much care as possible, to keep our people, property, environment and wildlife safe this summer.
    “Remember, check it’s alright before you light.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children 2024 IN REVIEW: Why three child killer diseases rose globally this year

    Source: Save the Children

    Three child-killer diseases – dengue, cholera, and mpox – witnessed major resurgences in 2024 fuelled partly by climate crises and conflict, with these illnesses likely to cause significant strains on communities in 2025 without more focused global attention, said Save the Children.
    More than 13,600 people, including children, are suspected or confirmed to have died from these three diseases this year, with cases of dengue and mpox reaching record highs. While there was a slight global decline in cases of cholera, the number of fatal cases of the virus jumped 126% from 2023.
    It was a horror year for dengue fever in 2024, with cases of the mosquito-borne virus reaching the highest number on record at 13.3 million – more than double the 6.5 million cases in 2023 which was itself a record high [1]. Increased urbanisation and changes in climate and temperatures have fuelled the mosquitoes that spread the virus. The World Health Organization estimates that 4 billion people are currently at risk of dengue and related viruses and this will rise to 5 billion by 2050.
    There were nearly half a million cases of cholera this year, with 3,432 deaths recorded by the end of September, when most recent data was available [2]. While the number of cases in 2024 is 16% lower than last year, there has been a 126% spike in deaths, according to the WHO. The increase in mortality is likely due to the location of the outbreaks in conflict-affected areas where access to healthcare is severely compromised, and regions experiencing flooding that has damaged critical infrastructure.
    This year saw a major increase in cases and fatalities from the mpox virus, which was declared a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024 by both the World Health Organization and the Africa Centre for Disease Control. This followed a surge of mpox infections in the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries in Africa, with a major portion of cases and deaths being children, and a new circulating variety (known as a ‘clade’) of mpox a particular concern to children.
    Beauty, 17, lives with her sister and her parents in an informal settlement in Lusaka, Zambia. Her community was hit by a major cholera outbreak earlier this year. Beauty said:
    “Cholera, this current outbreak, has really impacted me and my family because my father had to stop work because of the outbreak, and my mother – she’s a teacher – she also had to stop work for the same issue. It was challenging for us in terms of finances and surviving, but, to God’s grace, we’re surviving. It’s important to have access to clean water because most of the diseases that happen, they happen because people drink contaminated water. So, if you drink clean water…then you can prevent yourself from getting diseases like cholera.”
    Dr Revati Phalkey, Global Health and Nutrition Director, said:
    “Currently, about half of the world’s population is not fully covered by essential, quality, affordable health services – denying them their right to health committed as part of universal health coverage ambitions. Health systems are under enormous pressure to deliver universal health coverage with the majority of countries experiencing worsening or no significant change in service coverage since the launch of the sustainable development goals in 2015.
    “We need greater global investments to build strong health systems that are able to deliver essential health services especially vaccines and essential medicines while responding to global health emergencies, including emerging issues like mpox.
    “It is time for governments and the international community to step up and ensure all children are protected against disease and have access to adequate health services when they need them and where they need them. Every child has the right to survive and thrive and it is our collective responsibility to deliver on this.”
    While these headline grabbing illnesses saw rapid increases in cases or death rates in 2024, pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death among children under 5, killing about 500,000 children a year.
    However, new estimates from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) show that the number of children dying from pneumonia dropped sharply from 693,000 in 2019 to 502,000 in 2021, the lowest number ever recorded. This 28% reduction is being attributed to the impact of COVID-19 restrictions and underscores the power of preventing the spread of infection. That said, the impact of the climate crisis is likely to increase respiratory diseases such as pneumonia once again, affecting children the most impacted by inequality and poverty.
    Meanwhile, children are particularly vulnerable to dengue fever because their immune systems are weaker than adults and they tend to play outside where there is less protection against the mosquitos. Children under five are at particular risk of developing dehydration and shock from dengue if they contract the illness, and children are most impacted if the illness incapacitates or kills their parents and other caregivers.
    Mpox causes fever, rash and lesions all over the body, severe headaches and fatigue, with some children developing respiratory problems and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, mpox can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection that requires immediate specialist medical attention.
    Cholera takes a heavier toll on young children, especially those under the age of 5 who are at higher risk of severe dehydration and death during cholera outbreaks.
    Around the world, Save the Children provides public healthcare for children and their families, including treatment for diseases like dengue, cholera and mpox, and works with schools and communities to improve awareness on how to prevent infection.
    • [1] Total number of dengue-related deaths globally in 2024 – 9600 see [2]; Total number of cholera and acute water diarrhea deaths in 2024 – 4018 see [3]; Total number of Mpox deaths in 2024 – 57 see [4]; Total number of deaths of the three diseases in 2024 – 13,675.
    • [2] According to the WHO Global Dengue Surveillance, since the beginning of 2024, over 13.3 million dengue cases and over 9600 dengue-related deaths have been reported globally. https://worldhealthorg.shinyapps.io/dengue_global/
    • [3] According to the WHO, from 1 January to 27 October 2024, a cumulative total of 486 760 cholera and acute watery diarrhoea cases and 4018 deaths were reported from 33 countries across five WHO regions. While the number of cases reported in October 2024 is 42% lower than the same period in 2023, the number of deaths has increased by 54% – reflecting severe response challenges in outbreak settings [ https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/multi-country-outbreak-of-cholera–external-situation-report–20—20-november-2024]
    • [4] According to the WHO, as of 1 December 2024, in Africa there were 13 171 confirmed cases of Mpox, including 57 deaths reported by 20 countries. https://worldhealthorg.shinyapps.io/mpx_global/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Christmas day weather – MetService

    Source: MetService

    It’s a wet start to Christmas week as showers persist for most areas of Aotearoa/New Zealand today (Monday), especially in the east of the South Island where a Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued. A quieter, brighter and drier day of weather arrives on Christmas Eve. For Christmas Day the best of the weather is likely to be first thing ahead of cloudier skies and wetter weather moving in from the west.

    For Monday, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for the eastern half of the South Island, continuing the trend observed over the past weekend, where afternoons have seen areas of thunderstorms with localised downpours. There is also a moderate risk for afternoon thunderstorms over Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay. Showers over the country are expected to ease late this evening or in the early hours of Christmas Eve.

    Christmas Eve is looking like the pick of the week, with sunny spells expected over much of New Zealand on Tuesday.  Late in the day, rain is forecast to arrive in Fiordland with an approaching front from the Tasman Sea. But what does this spell for the big day?

    MetService Meteorologist Oscar Shiviti says: “A warm and sunny start is expected for most of the country on Christmas Day. Rain then spreads north along the western half of the South Island during Christmas morning and extends eastwards in the afternoon”. In the North Island, a dry Christmas morning is expected ahead of rain reaching the western half of the island during the afternoon, with Northland most likely to receive the first drops of rain. The rest of the North Island can expect rain later in the day.

    “The east of the North Island, particularly Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay, looks best placed to stay dry for much of Christmas Day and will also see some of the highest temperatures of the day. However, a few showers are expected to squeeze through the Manawatu Gorge during the afternoon, affecting parts of the Wairarapa,” Shiviti says.

    “It is also looking like a good Christmas day weatherwise for New Zealanders in the far south of the North Island, namely Wellington and Kapiti, as rain is only expected to move onto these areas in the evening, if at all” continues Shiviti.

    Rain is expected to persist over parts of Aotearoa/New Zealand on Boxing Day as a low-pressure system moves over northern areas. The wet conditions are expected to clear from the south of the South Island during the evening.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: At least 9 killed in small plane crash in S Brazil

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    At least nine people were killed on Sunday morning after a small plane crashed in the tourist city of Gramado in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, authorities said.

    The plane, with 10 people onboard, took off from Canela Airport near Gramado and crashed in the city of Gramado a few minutes later, the local civil defense department confirmed.

    The plane first struck the chimney of a building, before crashing into a furniture store. The accident also injured 15 others on the ground, according to authorities.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 23 Palestinians killed by Israeli airstrikes across Gaza

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Children wait to receive food relief at a food distribution center in the city of Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, on Dec. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 23 Palestinians were killed by Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Sunday, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported.

    At least nine people, including three children and two women, were killed, and some others were injured as a result of the Israeli bombing of the Musa bin Nusayr School, which houses displaced people in the Al-Daraj neighborhood of Gaza City, WAFA said.

    Four more people were killed when the Israeli army bombed a vehicle on the Al-Jalaa Street in Gaza City, it added.

    Five citizens, including four children, were killed on Sunday morning in Israel’s shelling of the Jabalia town, north of Gaza City, WAFA said in a separate report.

    In the southern Gaza Strip, two people were killed when the Israeli army bombed their apartment west of Khan Yunis, and three others died in the Israeli bombing of the city of Rafah, WAFA said.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Sunday that with the direction of intelligence, the air force conducted a “precise strike” on Hamas militants who were operating inside a command-and-control center in the Gaza Strip.

    The command-and-control center, which was embedded inside a compound that previously served as the Musa bin Nusayr School, was used by the militants to plan and execute attacks against IDF troops and the State of Israel, it added.

    Israel has been on a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage.

    The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,227, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Saturday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More than $2.5m worth of assets restrained in undeclared tobacco case

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A discovery of undeclared tobacco by the New Zealand Customs Service has resulted in the restraint of more than NZ$2.5 million worth of assets by New Zealand Police under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009.

    This case shows crime doesn’t pay, and profiting from criminal activities will eventually catch up with people, say the agencies.

    In November 2023, Customs intercepted 110 kilograms of loose tobacco and over 230,000 cigarettes (or approximately 10,000 packets) concealed in Chinese tea packets destined for residential and business addresses in Napier and Gisborne.

    No importation permits were held for the seized tobacco and cigarettes, and no excise equivalent duties were paid, amounting to around $645,000 in defrauded revenue.

    Further investigations identified previous similar consignments had been successfully imported into New Zealand and were being sold by a restaurant in Gisborne to the public.

    In March 2024, Customs carried out search warrants in Gisborne and located $10,000 cash in a bedroom, $106,371.20 cash inside a vehicle parked outside the restaurant, and over a kilogram of loose tobacco along with 11,000 cigarettes inside the restaurant.

    The Customs investigation resulted in the seizure of 306,200 cigarettes in total, and charges were laid against four people for various offences under the Customs and Excise Act 2018.

    With court proceedings still underway, the Police Asset Recovery Unit applied to the court and was granted restraint of the cash seized in the investigation along with further money from bank accounts, as well as four residential properties in Gisborne.

    In total, over $2.5m in assets has been restrained, and a forfeiture of the money and residential properties will be sought by the Police Asset Recovery Unit at the conclusion of the criminal charges.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Fischer from the Central Asset Recovery Unit said this investigation shows the reach of the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act, and how closely Police are working with other government organisations to disrupt the flow of illicit funds.

    “Funds sourced from any type of illegal activity can form the basis of criminal proceeds action. In this case, the blatant disregard of the law for personal gain has helped Customs and Police uncover a large-scale fraud generating a high amount of income, from an activity that is unfortunately becoming more and more common,” he said.

    Chief Customs Officer, Nigel Barnes, said that illicit tobacco is not a victimless crime.

    “It takes money out from our communities and puts it in the pockets of organised crime groups that then go on to use the money for other crimes,” Mr Barnes says.

    “The motive for this offending is you can make a lot of money with low risk – but it’s not actually low-risk, and this is a prime example of how criminals can expect to lose their ill-gotten gains.”

    If you know or suspect someone may be involved in illegal smuggling, call Customs on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768), a 24-hour confidential hotline, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Situation of two months after adaptation period of regulation on disposable plastic products

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Situation of two months after adaptation period of regulation on disposable plastic products
    Situation of two months after adaptation period of regulation on disposable plastic products
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​The six-month adaptation period of the new regulation on disposable plastic products has been concluded for two months since October 21 this year. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) will continue to promote going “plastic-and-disposable-free” and follow up incompliant cases, to join hands with different sectors of the community to promote green and low-carbon living culture in Hong Kong.     A spokesman for the EPD said today (December 23) that since the implementation of the new regulation, the trade has generally complied with the law and adapted to the new regulatory requirements by making corresponding changes in their businesses. Over the past two months, the EPD has continued its publicity and educational efforts, followed up on complaints and handled the small number of cases that are still incompliant.     To date, the EPD has received 62 relevant complaints and reportings about non-compliance, all of which have been investigated, and 33 of them were still incompliant and had not taken specific actions to rectify after rounds of promotion and education. The EPD has issued written warnings requiring the persons-in-charge to make improvements within 10 working days; otherwise, a fixed penalty notice will be issued. The EPD has followed up 15 cases which written warnings had been issued more than 10 working days and two catering premises were still found persistently incompliant, and the EPD staff have issued fixed penalty notices of $2,000 each to the persons-in-charge. The EPD will follow up other cases again timely.     The spokesman reiterated, “Having reviewed the data in these two months after the adaptation period, most of the non-compliance had been rectified within a short period of time, and only two cases with repeated non-compliance records required the issuance of fixed penalty notices at present. The EPD reminds the trade once again that the adaptation period has concluded for two months. The EPD will on one hand continue our publicity and educational efforts, and on the other hand seriously follow up on incompliant cases with a view to working with the trade and the public to further promote the ‘plastic-and-disposable-free’ culture in the society.”

     
    Ends/Monday, December 23, 2024Issued at HKT 10:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Implementing a minimum tax for multinationals

    Source: Australian Treasurer

    The Albanese Government is continuing to take action so that multinationals pay their fair share of tax in Australia.

    Today the Government has published subordinate legislation in the form of Ministerial Rules as part of Australia’s implementation of a 15 per cent global minimum tax and domestic minimum tax for large multinationals.

    To pay for the things that matter most to Australians like Medicare, pensions and housing, it’s important that multinationals operating in Australia pay their fair share of tax and that’s what these Rules help achieve.

    Multinational companies making a profit in Australia should pay tax on those profits in Australia.

    The publication of the Rules follows the recent passage through Parliament and Royal Assent of the primary legislation to implement the global and domestic minimum taxes.

    Minimum taxes are a key part of a coordinated global approach by the OECD to put a floor on tax competition and establish a fairer domestic and international tax system.

    From 1 January 2024, there will be a 15 per cent global minimum tax and domestic minimum tax for multinational enterprise groups with an annual global revenue of at least EUR 750 million (approximately A$1.2 billion).

    The global minimum tax will enable Australia to apply top‑up tax on a resident multinational parent or subsidiary company where the group’s income is taxed below 15 per cent overseas.

    The domestic minimum tax will enable Australia to apply top‑up tax for any low‑taxed Australian income.

    The Rules provide details on how multinationals should calculate any top‑up tax.

    The Rules will also ensure that future administrative guidance released by the OECD can be incorporated in a timely and efficient manner.

    An international tax system where big multinationals pay their fair share is better for small businesses, better for taxpayers and better for the economy.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New masterplan to future-proof City’s waste services

    Source: Government of Western Australia

    As part of its commitment to sustainability, Council has endorsed a masterplan to guide the development of the Neerabup Resource Recovery Precinct to meet the City’s long-term waste management needs.

    Under the plan, the precinct will include fit-for-purpose facilities to manage recyclables, organics and residual waste from the City of Wanneroo and its neighbouring suburbs.

    The priority projects have been identified as a waste transfer station, material recovery facility, community recycling centre and waste-to-energy facility.

    Mayor Linda Aitken said the approved plan was an exciting step forward as the Neerabup Resource Recovery Precinct plays a crucial role in futureproofing the City’s waste management practices.

    “We now have a clear a roadmap to help us address the lack of waste recovery infrastructure in the northern corridor, while providing a solution to increase recycling, reduce transport costs and emissions, and generate local jobs,” she said.

    “The precinct will not only benefit our City, but our neighbours in the north too, as we share in an increasing focus on resource recovery and sustainability.”

    Mayor Aitken added that funding the development of the Neerabup Resource Recovery Precinct remains a priority for sustainability under the City’s advocacy agenda and will align with the City’s renewed Waste Plan for 2026-2030.

    “It’s more important than ever that we create long-term waste management solutions that benefit both the environment and our local community,” she said.

    “We still a have a long way to go, but the new masterplan shows we are making exciting moves towards a more sustainable waste management future.”

    In the interim, existing infrastructure in Wangara will be redeveloped into a waste transfer station to reduce transportation costs in the north, with construction earmarked for 2025.

    Read more about the Neerabup Resource Recovery Precinct on our website.

    MIL OSI News –