NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Banking: From the Slopes of Kibuka: How women are building a better future

    Source: African Development Bank Group
    The road to Kibuka clings to the mountainside, a winding ribbon of gravel and red clay cutting through misty forests. There are no guardrails—just sheer drops into a sea of green. Occasionally, a weathered pickup or motorbike emerges from the fog, making a careful descent from the village above.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • PM Modi to distribute over 51,000 appointment letters under Rozgar Mela

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly appointed youth in various government departments and organisations on Saturday. The distribution will take place via video conferencing at around 11 am.

    During the event, the Prime Minister will also address the new recruits.

    The Rozgar Mela is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to give top priority to employment generation. The initiative aims to create meaningful opportunities for the youth and to encourage their active participation in nation-building.

    According to official data, more than 10 lakh appointment letters have already been handed out through Rozgar Melas held across the country.

    The 16th edition of the Rozgar Mela will be organised at 47 locations nationwide. New recruits will join various ministries and departments including the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Posts, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others.

    The appointees have been selected from across the country and will take up roles in different sectors, further strengthening the government workforce and contributing to the country’s development goals.

    The Rozgar Mela was launched by Prime Minister Modi on October 22, 2022, as part of his commitment to generate more employment opportunities in a mission mode. The initiative has helped speed up the recruitment process in various government departments and organisations.

    It has also improved citizen services in schools, hospitals, railway stations, police stations and tax offices, and has strengthened the defence and security forces through timely recruitment to safeguard the nation’s borders and strategic interests.

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IAEA Mission Reviews China’s Regulatory Framework for Nuclear Safety

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts today said China had made significant progress in further strengthening its regulation of nuclear safety, benefiting from the innovative use of digital tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the country continues to rapidly expand its nuclear energy programme.

    Noting the importance of the regulatory body’s staffing levels keeping up with China’s fast-growing nuclear industry, the peer review team also encouraged additional improvements in regulations and guidelines in some areas, including nuclear safety inspections and emergency preparedness and response.

    The Integrated Regulatory Review Service  (IRRS) team concluded a 12-day mission to the People’s Republic of China on 11 July, a full-scope review covering all facilities, activities and exposure situations. The 24-member expert mission was conducted at the request of the Government and hosted by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (the National Nuclear Safety Administration), which regulates nuclear safety in China.

    With the world’s second largest operating nuclear fleet after the United States, China is currently operating 59 units generating around 5% of its electricity. In addition, it is building 32 units and planning the construction of another 21 units. The previous IRRS mission to China – a follow-up review – was carried out in 2016, when it had 32 units in operation.

    “Over the past decade, China has made impressive headway in establishing a capable and independent regulatory body and promoting a healthy nuclear safety culture. China has a strong, competent and trusted national regulator that works effectively to ensure the safety of the public and environment,” said IRRS team leader Mark Foy, former Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector of the United Kingdom’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).

    Using IAEA safety standards and taking advantage of international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure, while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety.

    The IRRS team comprised 20 senior regulatory experts from 17 IAEA Member States: Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Mexico, the Netherlands, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The mission team also included four IAEA staff members and an observer from Japan.

    The team reviewed areas including: responsibilities and functions of the government and the regulatory body; the activities of the regulatory body including authorization, inspection and enforcement processes; development and content of regulations and guides; emergency preparedness and response; radiation sources; research reactors; nuclear power plants; fuel cycle facilities; radioactive waste management facilities; transport of radioactive material; decommissioning; occupational exposure; control of medical exposure and public exposure; and interfaces with nuclear security. 

    Two policy issues were discussed during the mission: the impact of the rapid development of AI on regulation and the shortage of human resources due to the surge in the number of operating reactor units in China.

    “The fast growth in China’s nuclear power programme will require the recruitment and training of a significant number of additional nuclear professionals in the regulatory field in the coming years. Its use of technology to support the effectiveness of its national regulator is an exemplar for all of us to learn from,” Foy, the mission team leader, said.

    During the mission, the team conducted interviews and discussions with staff of the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) and its leadership. Team members also met senior representatives from the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), which oversees the nuclear industry in the country, as well as the National Health Commission (NHC) and the China National Energy Authority (NEA).

    They observed regulatory oversight activities at: a nuclear power plant, a research reactor, a nuclear fuel cycle facility, a radiation sources facility, a radioactive waste management facility, a transport facility and a hospital.

    They identified several good practices by the regulatory body, including:

    • Unique advances in developing, adopting and exploiting the benefits of AI-based tools to significantly improve the efficiency of its decision-making, safety oversight and knowledge management.
    • Arrangements for regular, high-level exchanges with all senior industry stakeholders on domestic and global nuclear safety developments, ensuring a common understanding on nuclear safety priorities and required improvements across China’s nuclear industry.

    Recommendations and suggestions for further improvement of the overall effectiveness of China’s regulatory system included:

    • Clarifying protection strategies in the case of a nuclear or radiological emergency.
    • Providing a documented process for developing inspection plans for nuclear facilities.
    • Establishing and implementing a comprehensive safety culture oversight programme.
    • Enhancing its processes to ensure that updates to department rules, guides, and standards are completed to appropriately align with the latest IAEA safety standards.

    The mission team viewed China’s invitation of an international peer review as part of the second IRRS cycle as a sign of openness and transparency.

    “China has demonstrated a commendable commitment to continuous safety improvement by inviting this comprehensive full-scope IRRS mission,” said Karine Herviou, Deputy Director General and Head of the IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “The team of senior regulatory experts recognized the Government’s unequivocal support to ensure a strong national safety regulator, including the provision of human and financial resources, while also proposing specific actions for further enhancements.”

    Baotong Dong, MEE Vice Minister and NNSA Administrator, said the IRRS peer review team had positively acknowledged China’s nuclear and radiation safety regulatory framework and practices and stressed that these would be further enhanced in future.

    “China has established a regulatory system that aligns with international standards while meeting national conditions. The Government will further enhance its regulatory capabilities, accelerate the development of a modern nuclear safety regulatory system, and promote a virtuous cycle of high-level nuclear safety and high-quality development in the nuclear sector,” Vice Minister Dong said. “China stands ready to contribute to strengthening global nuclear safety governance and elevating worldwide nuclear safety standards.”

    The final mission report will be provided to the Government of the China in about three months. The Government plans to make the report public. China will consider inviting an IRRS follow-up mission at a later stage.

    IAEA safety standards

    The IAEA safety standards provide a robust framework of fundamental principles, requirements and guidance to ensure safety. They reflect an international consensus and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Traditional industries bloom anew in China’s modernization push

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    From steel mills adopting AI-powered systems to textile factories deploying cutting-edge automation, China’s traditional industries are undergoing a significant transformation.

    Spearheaded by President Xi Jinping, this drive is injecting fresh vitality into traditional sectors that underpin the country’s modern industrial base.

    Under Xi’s watch, China is doubling down on boosting the competitiveness and sustainability in these sectors, which generate about 80 percent of the country’s manufacturing output and play a vital role in supporting employment and broader economic growth.

    “The real economy should not be neglected. Nor should the traditional industries within it. And industrial transformation and upgrading must be realized through sci-tech innovation,” Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, said while visiting Yangquan Valve Co., Ltd., a century-old enterprise, during an inspection tour in north China’s Shanxi Province this week.

    By focusing on innovation and boosting investment in research and development, the company has earned the designation of a “little giant” enterprise, a title for outstanding specialized, high-tech small and medium-sized firms. It has obtained dozens of patents and expanded its global footprint through exports to countries including the United States, India and Pakistan.

    During this visit to the company, Xi emphasized that traditional manufacturing is an important part of the real economy, and called for efforts to respond to market demand and enhance sci-tech innovation to breathe new life into traditional industries.

    Boosting the development of traditional industries has been high on the agenda of Xi.

    During his domestic inspections in recent years, Xi has regularly visited enterprises and factories. He inspects production lines and engages in conversations with frontline workers, gaining a firsthand understanding of the products and the progress involving transformation and upgrading.

    These on-the-ground surveys have reinforced China’s push for transformation and upgrading tailored to regional strengths, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

    This emphasis was highlighted during an inspection tour of southwest China’s Yunnan Province in March, where Xi urged all regions to pursue industrial transformation and upgrading based on local conditions, in line with economic principles, while making full use of their unique strengths.

    “Old enterprises can also pursue high-end, smart and green transformation. It is crucial not to dismiss traditional industries as uniformly ‘low-end’ or ‘backward’ and simply phase them out, as doing so could lead to a disruption in the transition from old to new growth drivers, cause a loss of momentum, and exacerbate the pains of structural adjustment,” Xi said during an inspection tour in Liaoning Province in January.

    Since introducing the concept of new quality productive forces in 2023, Xi has consistently highlighted that traditional industries are the cornerstone for developing advanced productive capabilities.

    During a deliberation at the annual national legislative session last year, Xi noted that developing new quality productive forces “does not mean neglecting or abandoning traditional industries.”

    This point was further reiterated in May last year when he visited Shandong Province and commended Rizhao Port for its successful transformation from a traditional port into a modern one. “The port has not only achieved top-tier cargo throughput nationwide but has also gained valuable insights into fostering new quality productive forces through the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries,” Xi said.

    Guided by his vision, China has made significant progress in accelerating the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, steering them toward more advanced, intelligent and greener development.

    Technologies like industrial internet, 5G and AI have been extensively applied in traditional industries. In 2024, investment in technological upgrades in the manufacturing sector increased by 8 percent year on year, outpacing the overall investment growth.

    In key energy-consuming industries such as chemicals, building materials, steel and non-ferrous metals, energy consumption per unit of value-added output fell in 2024 from the previous year.

    Looking ahead, China will take comprehensive measures, including pushing technological advances as well as large-scale equipment renewal projects in the manufacturing sector, and accelerating the digitalization of manufacturing, to promote traditional industry transformation and upgrading, according to this year’s government work report.

    “In the past, Chinese workers made arduous manual efforts to hammer away at the country’s industrial development. Today, it must be upgraded through advanced technologies and equipment,” Xi said, stressing that the real economy makes the country prosperous and solid work makes it flourishing.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Shubhanshu Shukla and Axiom-4 crew to begin journey back to Earth on July 14: NASA

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is expected to begin his journey back to Earth on July 14, Axiom Space announced on Friday.

    Shukla, along with three other crew members — Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu — will undock from the Harmony module’s space-facing port inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for their return to Earth.

    “The #Ax4 crew is scheduled to undock from the @Space_Station no earlier than Monday, July 14, at 7:05 a.m. ET (4:35 pm IST),” Axiom Space said in a post on social media platform X.

    A splashdown is expected several hours after undocking, near the coast of California in the Pacific Ocean.

    “We are working with the station programme, watching the Axiom-4 progress carefully. I think we need to undock that mission, and the current target to undock is July 14,” Steve Stitch, Manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said at a press conference.

    IAF Group Captain Shukla is on a 14-day mission to the ISS. He is the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut in space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew in 1984.

    During his time aboard the orbital outpost, Shukla carried out seven India-specific experiments, marking an important step for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. His experiments focused on topics such as decoding muscle loss in microgravity, developing a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space.

    Shukla also interacted with students from Kerala and Lucknow via video conferencing from the ISS. The students asked him about life in space — from what astronauts eat and how they sleep, to what happens if someone falls sick.

    They also wanted to know about the benefits of India’s space programme and which part of the mission he found most enjoyable.

    Describing the launch experience of Axiom Mission 4, Shukla told the students it was “amazing” and “dynamic”.

    “It is fun actually, because in space there is no floor and no ceiling. So if you were to visit the station, you would find someone sleeping on the walls and someone on the ceiling,” he told them with a smile.

    —IANS

  • Amarnath Yatra: Over 1.45 lakh devotees have ‘darshan’ in eight days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over 1.45 lakh devotees have undertaken the Amarnath Yatra in the first eight days, with another batch of 6,482 pilgrims leaving for the Kashmir Valley from Jammu on Friday.

    According to officials, more than 1.45 lakh pilgrims have had ‘darshan’ at the holy cave shrine.

    “Another batch of 6,482 Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in two escorted convoys for the Valley today. The first convoy, comprising 107 vehicles and carrying 2,353 Yatris, departed at 3:20 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and carrying 4,129 Yatris, left at 4:04 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” officials said.

    The Bhumi Pujan of the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday.

    The Chhari Mubarak was brought to Pahalgam by a group of sadhus led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its traditional seat at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.

    In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was first taken to the Gauri Shankar Temple, where the Bhumi Pujan was performed. It was then carried to the Martand Sun Temple, where another puja was held, followed by a ceremonial dip in the holy spring at the temple.

    The Chhari Mubarak will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of this year’s Yatra.

    In addition to those arriving at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, many pilgrims are also reporting directly at the Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camps for on-the-spot registration.

    Authorities have made extensive multi-tiered security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, especially in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack.

    To ensure safety, an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to strengthen the presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

    All transit camps en route to the two base camps, as well as the entire stretch from Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu to the holy cave shrine, are under strict security coverage.

    This year, the Yatra began on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

     

  • Planned parenthood vital for maternal, child health: JP Nadda on World Population Day

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Planned parenthood is essential for achieving better maternal and child health outcomes, Union Health Minister JP Nadda said on Friday, marking World Population Day.

    Observed every year on July 11, World Population Day aims to raise awareness about population-related issues. This year’s theme is “Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancy for the Health and Well-being of Mother and Child.”

    “World Population Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about family planning and renew our commitment to addressing population-related challenges,” Nadda said in a post on X.

    “This year’s theme highlights the importance of planned parenthood for healthy outcomes for mothers and children,” he added.

    Nadda also underlined this year’s slogan: “माँ बनने की उम्र वही, जब तन और मन की तैयारी सही,” which translates to “The right age to become a mother is when both mind and body are ready.”

    He said the message underscores the need for informed and empowered decisions about parenthood, with adequate physical and emotional readiness.

    Highlighting government efforts, the Minister said that through public health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, the Centre is delivering essential family planning services nationwide.

    “These centres are empowering families and paving the way for a healthier India,” he said.

    With a population of over 1.46 billion, India is now the world’s most populous country, surpassing China.

    Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director of the Population Foundation of India, told IANS that the conversation must shift from numbers to women’s empowerment.

    “India’s population story is not one of crisis, but of possibility—if we invest in women, young people, and address the needs of our growing elderly population,” Muttreja said.

    Pointing to India’s declining fertility rate, she stressed the need to focus on quality healthcare, education, skills development, and job creation.

    “True development and economic growth don’t come from forcibly influencing reproductive decisions, but from empowering individuals—especially women—to make informed choices about their bodies and lives,” she said.

    Muttreja also called for shared responsibility, gender equality, and reproductive autonomy to be central in all population policies and programmes.

    –IANS

  • MIL-OSI China: Elyn MacInnis: Building bridges of friendship between China and US

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Tucked away in the quiet hills above Fuzhou in southeastern China’s Fujian province was a village called Kuliang. Once a tranquil summer retreat for foreign residents in China, it is now a powerful symbol of enduring friendship between the East and the West. At the heart of this transformation is Elyn MacInnis, a cultural researcher, educator, and tireless advocate for China-U.S. people-to-people ties.

    For decades, MacInnis has devoted herself to uncovering and sharing the history of Kuliang, where diplomats, educators, doctors, and their families from the foreign community lived with the Chinese on the mountain as neighbors in the late 1800s and the early 1900s. Their children played together, families shared meals, and without realizing it, they built a cross-cultural bond that would resonate across generations, MacInnis said.

    Elyn MacInnis (2nd L) attends a story-sharing session at the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Photo by Guo Shasha/China Pictorial]

    At the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing on Thursday, MacInnis recalled one of the most moving stories of the Kuliang community: Milton Gardner, an American who spent his childhood in Kuliang and kept the village in his mind throughout his life. In 1992, then-Fuzhou Party Secretary Xi Jinping invited Gardner’s widow to visit the village, transforming Milton’s memories into a shared story of friendship that now touches people around the world.

    Over the years, MacInnis has collected more than 200 historical photographs, over 100,000 words of archival materials, and built the first English-language website dedicated to Kuliang. She also helped identify people in old photographs using AI technology, and reconnected descendants of families who once lived in the village — reviving a legacy of goodwill, cooperation, and shared humanity.

    Guests pose for photos before attending the opening ceremony of Kuliang Families Story Museum in Kuliang, Fuzhou, southeastern China’s Fujian province, June 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    “There were doctors who turned their summer homes into clinics on the weekends for local villagers; there were educators who spent their vacations teaching the mountain children to read and write; and the local villagers of Kuliang helped their foreign friends build strong houses of stone and wood and provided them with food and warmly welcomed them,” recalled MacInnis.

    “These are stories of respect, of care, of shared life together. That’s what the Kuliang spirit is. And it’s exactly what the Global Civilization Initiative calls for — friendship through understanding, and peace through people-to-people connection.”

    Elyn MacInnis receives the Friendship Envoy Award of the 2025 Orchid Awards in Beijing, July 10, 2025. [Poster designed by Song Xiucheng/China.org.cn]

    In recognition of her contributions, MacInnis was honored with the Friendship Envoy Award of the 2025 Orchid Awards in Beijing on Thursday.

    Upon receiving the award, she said, “I have spent much of my life building bridges of friendship between China and the United States. The bridges are not made of steel or stone — they are built from warm, kindhearted people, and the stories of their lives in China that I have had the privilege to share.”  

    “My joy and my passion is finding the small details in the stories of people from different cultures who’ve come to China over time and become deep, deep friends — some of whom have been friends for four or five generations,” MacInnis added. 

    Looking ahead, MacInnis said she sees the younger generation as the key to sustaining this spirit. “As we walk together along the road of friendship — the flowers will bloom,” she said, quoting Bing Xin, a prominent writer from Fuzhou.

    Through every story told, every photo restored, and every connection rebuilt, MacInnis said she hopes the “Kuliang spirit” will grow — like the centuries-old cypress tree atop the mountain in Kuliang — getting stronger with every story that is shared.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Trump to Make Major Statement on Russia as U.S. Approves New Weapons Package for Ukraine via NATO

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday the United States would supply weapons to Ukraine via NATO and that he would make a “major statement” on Russia on Monday.

    In recent days, Trump has expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the lack of progress towards ending the war sparked by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

    “I think I’ll have a major statement to make on Russia on Monday,” Trump told NBC News, declining to elaborate.

    Trump also told NBC News about what he called a new deal between the U.S., NATO allies and Ukraine over weapons shipment from the United States.

    “We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%. So what we’re doing is the weapons that are going out are going to NATO, and then NATO is going to be giving those weapons (to Ukraine), and NATO is paying for those weapons,” Trump said.

    “We send weapons to NATO, and NATO is going to reimburse the full cost of those weapons,” he added.

    For the first time since returning to office, Trump will send weapons to Kyiv under a presidential power frequently used by his predecessor, two sources familiar with the decision said on Thursday.

    Trump’s team will identify arms from U.S. stockpiles to send to Ukraine under the Presidential Drawdown Authority, which allows the president to draw from weapons stocks to help allies in an emergency, the sources said, with one saying they could be worth around $300 million.

    Trump on Tuesday said the U.S. would send more weapons to Ukraine to help the country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    The package could include defensive Patriot missiles and offensive medium-range rockets, but a decision on the exact equipment has not been made, the sources said. One of the people said this would happen at a meeting on Thursday.

    The Trump administration has so far only sent weapons authorized by former President Joe Biden, who was a staunch supporter of Kyiv. The Pentagon and the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Trump had pledged to swiftly end the war but months into his presidency, little progress has been made. The Republican president has sometimes criticized U.S. spending on Ukraine’s defence, spoken favorably of Russia and publicly clashed with Ukraine’s leader. However, sometimes he has also voiced support for Kyiv and expressed disappointment in the leadership of Russia.

    $12 BILLION PLEDGED FOR UKRAINE

    Russia unleashed heavy airstrikes on Ukraine on Thursday before a conference in Rome at which Kyiv won billions of dollars in aid pledges, and U.S.-Russian talks at which Washington voiced frustration with Moscow over the war.

    Two people were killed, 26 were wounded, according to figures from the national emergency services, and there was damage in nearly every part of Kyiv from missile and drone attacks on the capital and other parts of Ukraine.

    Addressing the Rome conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction after more than three years of war, Zelenskiy urged allies to “more actively” use Russian assets for rebuilding and called for weapons, joint defence production and investment.

    Participants pledged over 10 billion euros ($12 billion) to help rebuild Ukraine, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said. The European Commission, the EU’s executive, announced 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion) in support.

    At talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov while in Malaysia, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he had reinforced the message that Moscow should show more flexibility.

    “We need to see a roadmap moving forward about how this conflict can conclude,” Rubio said, adding that the Trump administration had been engaging with the U.S. Senate on what new sanctions on Russia might look like.

    “It was a frank conversation. It was an important one,” Rubio said after the 50-minute talks in Kuala Lumpur. Moscow’s foreign ministry said they had shared “a substantive and frank exchange of views”.

    ‘NIGHTLY TERROR’

    Zelenskiy said Thursday’s assault by Russia had involved around 400 drones and 18 missiles, primarily targeting the capital.

    Explosions and anti-aircraft fire rattled the city. Windows were blown out, facades ravaged and cars burned to shells. In the city centre, an apartment in an eight-story building was engulfed in flames.

    “This is terror because it happens every night when people are asleep,” said Karyna Volf, a 25-year-old Kyiv resident who rushed out of her apartment moments before it was showered with shards of glass.

    Air defences stopped all but a few dozen of the drones, authorities said, a day after Russia launched a record 728 drones at Ukraine.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Mission Reviews China’s Regulatory Framework for Nuclear Safety

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts today said China had made significant progress in further strengthening its regulation of nuclear safety, benefiting from the innovative use of digital tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the country continues to rapidly expand its nuclear energy programme.

    Noting the importance of the regulatory body’s staffing levels keeping up with China’s fast-growing nuclear industry, the peer review team also encouraged additional improvements in regulations and guidelines in some areas, including nuclear safety inspections and emergency preparedness and response.

    The Integrated Regulatory Review Service  (IRRS) team concluded a 12-day mission to the People’s Republic of China on 11 July, a full-scope review covering all facilities, activities and exposure situations. The 24-member expert mission was conducted at the request of the Government and hosted by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (the National Nuclear Safety Administration), which regulates nuclear safety in China.

    With the world’s second largest operating nuclear fleet after the United States, China is currently operating 59 units generating around 5% of its electricity. In addition, it is building 32 units and planning the construction of another 21 units. The previous IRRS mission to China – a follow-up review – was carried out in 2016, when it had 32 units in operation.

    “Over the past decade, China has made impressive headway in establishing a capable and independent regulatory body and promoting a healthy nuclear safety culture. China has a strong, competent and trusted national regulator that works effectively to ensure the safety of the public and environment,” said IRRS team leader Mark Foy, former Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector of the United Kingdom’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).

    Using IAEA safety standards and taking advantage of international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure, while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety.

    The IRRS team comprised 20 senior regulatory experts from 17 IAEA Member States: Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Mexico, the Netherlands, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The mission team also included four IAEA staff members and an observer from Japan.

    The team reviewed areas including: responsibilities and functions of the government and the regulatory body; the activities of the regulatory body including authorization, inspection and enforcement processes; development and content of regulations and guides; emergency preparedness and response; radiation sources; research reactors; nuclear power plants; fuel cycle facilities; radioactive waste management facilities; transport of radioactive material; decommissioning; occupational exposure; control of medical exposure and public exposure; and interfaces with nuclear security. 

    Two policy issues were discussed during the mission: the impact of the rapid development of AI on regulation and the shortage of human resources due to the surge in the number of operating reactor units in China.

    “The fast growth in China’s nuclear power programme will require the recruitment and training of a significant number of additional nuclear professionals in the regulatory field in the coming years. Its use of technology to support the effectiveness of its national regulator is an exemplar for all of us to learn from,” Foy, the mission team leader, said.

    During the mission, the team conducted interviews and discussions with staff of the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) and its leadership. Team members also met senior representatives from the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), which oversees the nuclear industry in the country, as well as the National Health Commission (NHC) and the China National Energy Authority (NEA).

    They observed regulatory oversight activities at: a nuclear power plant, a research reactor, a nuclear fuel cycle facility, a radiation sources facility, a radioactive waste management facility, a transport facility and a hospital.

    They identified several good practices by the regulatory body, including:

    • Unique advances in developing, adopting and exploiting the benefits of AI-based tools to significantly improve the efficiency of its decision-making, safety oversight and knowledge management.
    • Arrangements for regular, high-level exchanges with all senior industry stakeholders on domestic and global nuclear safety developments, ensuring a common understanding on nuclear safety priorities and required improvements across China’s nuclear industry.

    Recommendations and suggestions for further improvement of the overall effectiveness of China’s regulatory system included:

    • Clarifying protection strategies in the case of a nuclear or radiological emergency.
    • Providing a documented process for developing inspection plans for nuclear facilities.
    • Establishing and implementing a comprehensive safety culture oversight programme.
    • Enhancing its processes to ensure that updates to department rules, guides, and standards are completed to appropriately align with the latest IAEA safety standards.

    The mission team viewed China’s invitation of an international peer review as part of the second IRRS cycle as a sign of openness and transparency.

    “China has demonstrated a commendable commitment to continuous safety improvement by inviting this comprehensive full-scope IRRS mission,” said Karine Herviou, Deputy Director General and Head of the IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “The team of senior regulatory experts recognized the Government’s unequivocal support to ensure a strong national safety regulator, including the provision of human and financial resources, while also proposing specific actions for further enhancements.”

    Baotong Dong, MEE Vice Minister and NNSA Administrator, said the IRRS peer review team had positively acknowledged China’s nuclear and radiation safety regulatory framework and practices and stressed that these would be further enhanced in future.

    “China has established a regulatory system that aligns with international standards while meeting national conditions. The Government will further enhance its regulatory capabilities, accelerate the development of a modern nuclear safety regulatory system, and promote a virtuous cycle of high-level nuclear safety and high-quality development in the nuclear sector,” Vice Minister Dong said. “China stands ready to contribute to strengthening global nuclear safety governance and elevating worldwide nuclear safety standards.”

    The final mission report will be provided to the Government of the China in about three months. The Government plans to make the report public. China will consider inviting an IRRS follow-up mission at a later stage.

    IAEA safety standards

    The IAEA safety standards provide a robust framework of fundamental principles, requirements and guidance to ensure safety. They reflect an international consensus and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A new exhibition is a thoughtful examination of the lasting relationship between Asia and Australia

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanna Mendelssohn, Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Culture and Communication, The University of Melbourne

    Jacky Cheng, Imaginary Homelands, 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025. Image courtesy and © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    Almost 60 years after former prime minister Harold Holt began to dismantle the White Australia Policy, The Neighbour at the Gate at Sydney’s National Art School Gallery presents a thoughtful examination of the consequences when good neighbours become good friends.

    Street posters promoting the exhibition feature an image of a magpie. Advertising always distorts. Pardu (Tirritpa) by James Tylor, who has Kaurna and Mãori heritage, is a series of groupings of exquisite small bird daguerreotypes. Their shadowed silver surface gives the impression of antiquity, which is Tylor’s intention.

    In Kaurna, the names of birds come from the songs they sing. This is also how birds are named in many Asian languages. Onomatopoeia makes a bridge between cultures. A QR code on the wall next to each grouped images of birds allows the viewer to hear blends of birdsong with human music.

    James Tylor, Pardu (detail), 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025.
    Image courtesy the artist and the National Art School © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    Remembering the past

    The visitor enters the exhibition through Imaginary Homelands, Jacky Cheng’s installation in the shape of a traditional Chinese paifang (牌坊).

    The 1,110 strips of paper, with fragments of Chinese characters, represent a poem she learnt as child in Kuala Lumpur. But some of the language has been lost by the distortions of time. She now lives on Yawuru country (Broome), an Australian town with close links to many South East Asian cultures.

    In remembering her past, she grasps elements of her Malay Chinese heritage.

    Dennis Golding’s Bingo is possibly as fragmented a memory as Cheng’s. Golding, a Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay man, has made a tribute to the community space his Nan and Aunty created in an abandoned terrace house in the Block at Redfern, where at night they would play bingo.

    Dennis Golding, Bingo, 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025.
    Image courtesy and © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    Each of the etchings scattered across the wall is the size of brick; each quotes small details of community life in Redfern before it was “discovered” by the gentrifiers. The exquisite etchings appear to be scattered at random, but a careful look will show the word “Bingo” in white in the spaces on the wall.

    Elham Eshraghian-Haakansson’s God of War is a beautiful and sensual video on love, rage, reconciliation and the emotional journey of being a refugee.

    Elham Eshraghian-Haakansson, God of War, 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025.
    Image courtesy and © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    Eshraghian-Haakansson is a second generation Iranian-Australian whose work is shaped in part by the experience of her mother and grandmother, whose Baha’i faith placed them in peril in 1979 after the Ayatollahs seized power. The different segments of this elegant video are deliberately broken by rough insertions, giving it a sense of a work reclaimed from history.

    Along the water

    Jenna Mayilema Lee’s complex installation in three parts is both a universal statement on the integration that is the long-term consequence of the meeting of cultures, and a personal statement on her own circumstances.

    Each component – the photographic mural, the video and the billabong sculpture – can be seen as an independent work, but when combined they form magic.

    Lee is truly a modern Australian, descended from Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman, KarraJarri people as well as having Japanese, Filipino, Chinese and Anglo ancestors.

    Jenna Mayilema Lee, Portal to the Bangarr (billabong), 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025.
    Image courtesy and © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    The lotus sculptures in the billabong are constructed from copies of immigration documentation. Her Chinese ancestors were living in Australia well before the White Australia policy of 1901. When they needed to travel, bureaucracy demanded multiple forms.

    She has layered the forms with a hand print from one of her Japanese ancestors which, much to her pleasure, she discovered is the same size as her own hand.

    The billabongs of northern Australia, especially in Larrakia country, are filled with lotus plants. The ancestors of the lotus plants of northern Australia floated across the narrow seas from Asia many years ago, in much the same way as people.

    Water does not always bring life. James Nguyen’s Homeopathies_where new trees grow, is a reminder of another consequence of colonisation.

    James Nguyen, Homeopathies_where new trees grow (detail), 2025, installation view, The Neighbour at the Gate, National Art School Gallery, Sydney, 2025.
    Image courtesy the artist and the National Art School © the artist, photograph: Peter Morgan

    As with many other Vietnamese Australians, his family lives near the Parramatta and Duck rivers, west of central Sydney. One of the horrors of the Vietnam war was the way Agent Orange, destroyed both the jungle and the lives of people who came into contact with it.

    Agent Orange was made by Union Carbide, near the Parramatta River. When the factory closed the contaminated site was not properly sealed and the poison seeped into the river.

    Nguyen’s giant floating textile is of made of raw cotton and silk strips, dyed with mud and weeds contaminated by dioxin and Agent Orange. The evil of contamination is countered by clay pinchpot incense holders which line the stairs and entrances to the exhibition.

    The cleansing smoke of incense is another link between the cultures of Asia and those of Australia’s First Nations people.

    The Neighbour at the Gate is a generous and inclusive exhibition, a reminder of a common humanity. Clothilde Bullen, who heads the curatorium with Micheal Do and Zali Morgan, sees art as a way of countering divisions in society.

    She told me:

    If we are to work as a society and if we are to work as a community then we have to call people in, and we have to be prepared to embrace that difference. And so that is really what this show is all about.

    The Neighbour at the Gate is at the National Art School Galleries, Sydney, until October 18.

    Joanna Mendelssohn has in the past received funding from the Australian Research Council

    – ref. A new exhibition is a thoughtful examination of the lasting relationship between Asia and Australia – https://theconversation.com/a-new-exhibition-is-a-thoughtful-examination-of-the-lasting-relationship-between-asia-and-australia-259040

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA Mission Reviews China’s Regulatory Framework for Nuclear Safety

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts today said China had made significant progress in further strengthening its regulation of nuclear safety, benefiting from the innovative use of digital tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the country continues to rapidly expand its nuclear energy programme.

    Noting the importance of the regulatory body’s staffing levels keeping up with China’s fast-growing nuclear industry, the peer review team also encouraged additional improvements in regulations and guidelines in some areas, including nuclear safety inspections and emergency preparedness and response.

    The Integrated Regulatory Review Service  (IRRS) team concluded a 12-day mission to the People’s Republic of China on 11 July, a full-scope review covering all facilities, activities and exposure situations. The 24-member expert mission was conducted at the request of the Government and hosted by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (the National Nuclear Safety Administration), which regulates nuclear safety in China.

    With the world’s second largest operating nuclear fleet after the United States, China is currently operating 59 units generating around 5% of its electricity. In addition, it is building 32 units and planning the construction of another 21 units. The previous IRRS mission to China – a follow-up review – was carried out in 2016, when it had 32 units in operation.

    “Over the past decade, China has made impressive headway in establishing a capable and independent regulatory body and promoting a healthy nuclear safety culture. China has a strong, competent and trusted national regulator that works effectively to ensure the safety of the public and environment,” said IRRS team leader Mark Foy, former Chief Executive and Chief Nuclear Inspector of the United Kingdom’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).

    Using IAEA safety standards and taking advantage of international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure, while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety.

    The IRRS team comprised 20 senior regulatory experts from 17 IAEA Member States: Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Mexico, the Netherlands, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The mission team also included four IAEA staff members and an observer from Japan.

    The team reviewed areas including: responsibilities and functions of the government and the regulatory body; the activities of the regulatory body including authorization, inspection and enforcement processes; development and content of regulations and guides; emergency preparedness and response; radiation sources; research reactors; nuclear power plants; fuel cycle facilities; radioactive waste management facilities; transport of radioactive material; decommissioning; occupational exposure; control of medical exposure and public exposure; and interfaces with nuclear security. 

    Two policy issues were discussed during the mission: the impact of the rapid development of AI on regulation and the shortage of human resources due to the surge in the number of operating reactor units in China.

    “The fast growth in China’s nuclear power programme will require the recruitment and training of a significant number of additional nuclear professionals in the regulatory field in the coming years. Its use of technology to support the effectiveness of its national regulator is an exemplar for all of us to learn from,” Foy, the mission team leader, said.

    During the mission, the team conducted interviews and discussions with staff of the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) and its leadership. Team members also met senior representatives from the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), which oversees the nuclear industry in the country, as well as the National Health Commission (NHC) and the China National Energy Authority (NEA).

    They observed regulatory oversight activities at: a nuclear power plant, a research reactor, a nuclear fuel cycle facility, a radiation sources facility, a radioactive waste management facility, a transport facility and a hospital.

    They identified several good practices by the regulatory body, including:

    • Unique advances in developing, adopting and exploiting the benefits of AI-based tools to significantly improve the efficiency of its decision-making, safety oversight and knowledge management.
    • Arrangements for regular, high-level exchanges with all senior industry stakeholders on domestic and global nuclear safety developments, ensuring a common understanding on nuclear safety priorities and required improvements across China’s nuclear industry.

    Recommendations and suggestions for further improvement of the overall effectiveness of China’s regulatory system included:

    • Clarifying protection strategies in the case of a nuclear or radiological emergency.
    • Providing a documented process for developing inspection plans for nuclear facilities.
    • Establishing and implementing a comprehensive safety culture oversight programme.
    • Enhancing its processes to ensure that updates to department rules, guides, and standards are completed to appropriately align with the latest IAEA safety standards.

    The mission team viewed China’s invitation of an international peer review as part of the second IRRS cycle as a sign of openness and transparency.

    “China has demonstrated a commendable commitment to continuous safety improvement by inviting this comprehensive full-scope IRRS mission,” said Karine Herviou, Deputy Director General and Head of the IAEA Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. “The team of senior regulatory experts recognized the Government’s unequivocal support to ensure a strong national safety regulator, including the provision of human and financial resources, while also proposing specific actions for further enhancements.”

    Baotong Dong, MEE Vice Minister and NNSA Administrator, said the IRRS peer review team had positively acknowledged China’s nuclear and radiation safety regulatory framework and practices and stressed that these would be further enhanced in future.

    “China has established a regulatory system that aligns with international standards while meeting national conditions. The Government will further enhance its regulatory capabilities, accelerate the development of a modern nuclear safety regulatory system, and promote a virtuous cycle of high-level nuclear safety and high-quality development in the nuclear sector,” Vice Minister Dong said. “China stands ready to contribute to strengthening global nuclear safety governance and elevating worldwide nuclear safety standards.”

    The final mission report will be provided to the Government of the China in about three months. The Government plans to make the report public. China will consider inviting an IRRS follow-up mission at a later stage.

    IAEA safety standards

    The IAEA safety standards provide a robust framework of fundamental principles, requirements and guidance to ensure safety. They reflect an international consensus and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Announces Tom Green and San Saba Counties Added to the Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance Support from FEMA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    SAN ANGELO, TX — Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) announced that Tom Green and San Saba counties have officially been added to President Trump’s Major Disaster Declaration for individual assistance support from FEMA. The list now includes Burnet, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson Counties for Individual Assistance. In addition, Kendall, Kimble, Menard, and San Saba Counties were added for Public Assistance, including direct Federal assistance.

    You can read the amended declaration HERE.

    “Texas has experienced unimaginable tragedy over the past week from these floods,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Several counties were hit especially hard, and while they face a long road to recovery, thankfully, they no longer have to face it alone. I am grateful that President Trump has officially added Tom Green and San Saba counties to the Major Disaster Declaration, allowing them to receive the critical assistance they need. My team and I have worked closely with local leaders and officials throughout the week to gather the necessary data to secure this support. I’m always proud to be a Texan—especially in moments like this, when I see our community come together in the moments that matter most.”

    “I’m so grateful for President Trump including Tom Green County in his major disaster declaration,” said Tom Green County Judge Lane Carter. “All of our efforts in formulating the data needed from our citizens are finally coming to fruition. We owe a huge thanks to Congressman August Pfluger and his office for assisting with this and moving the ball down the field. With the declaration, our citizens will now have the possibility of applying for federal funds to aid in their recovery. Without the declaration, this wouldn’t be possible. We owe a tremendous amount of thanks to the volunteers who assisted our citizens in this effort. The recovery efforts are one step at a time, but at this rate, we will overcome! Tom Green County Strong!”

    “San Saba County expresses its gratitude to President Trump and his administration, with a special thanks to US Rep. August Pfluger, for helping us through this disaster. It is a privilege to have a President who cares about our great state of Texas and even a small population county like San Saba,” said San Saba County Judge Jody Fauley.

    “Citizens of San Angelo and Tom Green County, with this newly announced FEMA IA disaster declaration, the efforts of our citizens over the past six days have truly paid off,” said San Angelo Mayor Tom Thompson. “This means that residents of San Angelo may now be eligible to apply for individual assistance through FEMA. This IA declaration will also potentially open up additional federal recovery funding programs for our citizens & businesses. On behalf of the City, I want to sincerely thank every person who completed a disaster assessment and every volunteer who stepped up to help. This is a great step forward towards the road of recovery for our community. We will continue to share recovery program information updates as they become available. To every citizen of San Angelo—you should be proud of what you’ve accomplished. Thank you. A special thank you to President Trump, Rep. August Pfluger, Sen. Charles Perry, Rep. Drew Darby, Sen. Ted Cruz, and Sen. John Cornyn for their assistance in getting this designation for our community.”

    If you have been impacted by the floods, please visit the FEMA website to request support: www.DisasterAssistance.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Sensex, Nifty open lower amid uncertainty around Trump tariffs

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian equity market indices opened lower on Friday amid lingering uncertainty over US President Donald Trump’s trade policies, as he continues to threaten higher tariffs across various sectors and countries.

    At 9:20 am, the Sensex was down 224 points, or 0.27 per cent, at 82,965, while the Nifty shed 65 points, or 0.26 per cent, to trade at 25,289.

    Marginal buying was seen in midcap and smallcap stocks. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was up 60 points, or 0.10 per cent, at 59,220, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index rose 11 points, or 0.06 per cent, to 18,967.

    According to analysts, given the current environment marked by uncertainty and heightened volatility, traders are advised to adopt a cautious “wait and watch” approach, especially with leveraged positions. Booking partial profits during rallies and using tight trailing stop-losses is recommended.

    In the Sensex pack, HUL, Asian Paints, Axis Bank, NTPC, Power Grid, Tata Steel, SBI, Adani Ports, Sun Pharma, and ITC were among the major gainers. TCS, Infosys, M&M, Tech Mahindra, HCL Tech, Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finserv, and Trent were the prominent losers.

    On the sectoral front, PSU banks, financial services, pharma, FMCG, and metal stocks were trading in the green, while auto, IT, realty, and media sectors were in the red.

    In Asia, stock markets traded mixed. Japan’s Nikkei 225 and South Korea’s KOSPI were trading flat, while China’s Shanghai Composite and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng gained over one per cent.

    Overnight in the US, Wall Street’s major indices, the S&P 500 and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite, closed at record highs. The Dow Jones climbed 0.43 per cent and the S&P 500 rose 0.27 per cent.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought equities worth Rs 221 crore on July 10, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased shares worth Rs 591 crore on the same day.

    President Trump has announced 35 per cent tariffs on Canada and warned of higher levies if Ottawa retaliates. These tariffs will come into effect on August 1. Recently, Trump also threatened to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Brazilian imports unless Brazil halts legal proceedings against former President Bolsonaro.

    —IANS

  • Shubhanshu Shukla to begin journey back to Earth on July 14: Axiom Space

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), is expected to begin his journey back to Earth on July 14, Axiom Space announced on Friday.

    Shukla, along with three other crew members — Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Tibor Kapu — will undock from the Harmony module’s space-facing port inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for their return to Earth.

    “The #Ax4 crew is scheduled to undock from the @Space_Station no earlier than Monday, July 14, at 7:05 a.m. ET (4:35 pm IST),” Axiom Space said in a post on social media platform X.

    A splashdown is expected several hours after undocking, near the coast of California in the Pacific Ocean.

    “We are working with the station programme, watching the Axiom-4 progress carefully. I think we need to undock that mission, and the current target to undock is July 14,” Steve Stitch, Manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, said at a press conference.

    IAF Group Captain Shukla is on a 14-day mission to the ISS. He is the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut in space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew in 1984.

    During his time aboard the orbital outpost, Shukla carried out seven India-specific experiments, marking an important step for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. His experiments focused on topics such as decoding muscle loss in microgravity, developing a brain-computer interface, and sprouting green gram and fenugreek seeds in space.

    Shukla also interacted with students from Kerala and Lucknow via video conferencing from the ISS. The students asked him about life in space — from what astronauts eat and how they sleep, to what happens if someone falls sick.

    They also wanted to know about the benefits of India’s space programme and which part of the mission he found most enjoyable.

    Describing the launch experience of Axiom Mission 4, Shukla told the students it was “amazing” and “dynamic”.

    “It is fun actually, because in space there is no floor and no ceiling. So if you were to visit the station, you would find someone sleeping on the walls and someone on the ceiling,” he told them with a smile.

    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU developed a board game “Startup Race”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    NSU Startup Studio developed a board game “Startup Race”, which simulates the actions of a startup in a real market. The game includes all stages of a startup’s life – from developing an idea to exiting the project. It allows you to show students and anyone interested in and planning to engage in entrepreneurship in a simple form what awaits them in the market. The game is implemented in a rare genre of “strategic puzzle”, at the moment there are no analogues on the market. In the near future, a boxed version of the game will appear, which will be available for pre-order. Anyone can buy it.

    The game is structured as follows: participants roll dice in accordance with the stage of the startup’s life, which is announced in advance by the game host. They draw cards from the deck, presented as Tetris figures. The figures build a line, which, in essence, reflects the entire life cycle of the project. Cards or figures are opportunities (for example, fundraising) or risks.

    The first stage of startup development is the idea, when the project is just emerging. It is the easiest for players, since at the very beginning, participants have the most cards and it is easiest to lay the foundation for further development of the project. The next stage is MVP (Minimum Viable Product), that is, the creation of a minimum viable product. At this stage, some obstacles to the development of the project appear, for example, the idea has not come true or the participant cannot achieve certain technical indicators. The number of figures decreases.

    The next stage is Product-Market Fit (PMF), i.e. checking the product’s compliance with the market. At this stage, players develop a concept taking into account the real market situation, a marketing plan, and the project gets its first real clients. At the same time, risks arise that can destroy the project.

    Next comes the scaling stage, when the project can already attract fundraising funds, which is also reflected in the game. Fundraising funds are special cards that provide a significant boost to the further development of the project. The last stage is exiting the project, which is associated with the greatest risks for the creator. Investments can also be attracted at this stage, but the opportunities for scaling are limited. This is one of the longest stages for the project and its founder. Possible exit strategies include selling the business, shares, public offering of shares (IPO), etc.

    — A player can develop several projects simultaneously and build different strategies on several markets — tracks. It is very important that your main project, on which you place a high bet, has repeating figures. There are risks — these are cards that can remove one of the figures within the entire chain, which can lead to the collapse of the project. There are specialized cards — fundraising, which, on the contrary, give you additional opportunities. In terms of Tetris, these are the most “favorable” figures — for example, a long straight line. You can simultaneously invest in several projects or develop only one, but in any case, your task is to successfully develop the project, go through all the stages and bring the startup to the final stage as quickly as possible, — explained Konstantin Kravtsov, an employee of the NSU Startup Studio.

    The game simulates market competition, so within its framework you can hinder or, conversely, help your rivals. Also here are such mandatory elements of entrepreneurial activity as risk assessment and diversification, choice of development strategy – conservative or risky. Thus, the game in a simplified mechanical form simulates the actions of a person who develops his startup on the market.

    The game is designed for different groups of people, including those who are not very knowledgeable about the startup market; children also actively play it.

    — The Startup Race is not just entertainment, but a tool for involving the general public in entrepreneurship. It helps to understand that a startup is not just a “cafe”, but an innovative, fast-growing business that scales. The NSU Startup Studio team plans to replicate the game. At first, it will be packaged in a boxed version, and then it will be available for pre-order. The possibility of creating an elite version of the game, which can be used as representative gifts, is also being considered, — emphasized Alexey Starostin, a representative of the NSU Startup Studio.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: MEDIA RELEASE: ‘Same job same pay’ orders for BHP coal mines

    Source:

    Statement by Steve Knott AM, Chief Executive
    Australian Resources & Energy Employer Association (AREEA)

    The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has today granted “same job same pay” orders covering Operations Services (OS) employees working at three BHP Queensland coal mines, finding OS employees were supplied to BHP Coal for their labour rather than to provide services.

    The decision is considered an important test case of the same job same pay laws, marking the first time an employer has sought to rely upon provisions that prevent the FWC from making orders where arrangements are for the provision of services rather than the supply of labour.

    Known as the “service contractor exemption”, these provisions were negotiated into the same job same pay laws by AREEA when it became clear in late 2023 that the Albanese Government had enough support in the Senate to legislate their long-held policy.

    To determine whether an arrangement is for the provision of a service or for the supply of labour, the FWC must consider several criteria including how involved the employer is in the performance of work, who supervises or controls employees, and which entity supplies the systems, equipment and structures of work.

    Today’s decision reflects the FWC’s considerations of how work is performed at the relevant BHP sites and its view that the BHP-OS arrangements do not satisfy the service contractor exemption.

    Having carefully reviewed the Full Bench’s conclusions, it’s clear the FWC is prevented from making orders covering genuine service contracting arrangements.

    This exemption will apply to any service business – from specialist mining contractors to cleaning and catering companies – where they demonstrate they supervise their own employees, control their performance of work, supply them with equipment, and other factors.

    As stated by the Full Bench:

    Subsection (1) confers the power, and obligation, to make a regulated labour hire arrangement order. That section is rendered inoperative unless the Commission is positively satisfied that the performance of work is not or will not be for the provision of a service, rather than the supply of labour.
     – Paragraph 23, [2025] FWCFB 134

    AREEA intervened in this important FWC matter to reaffirm the commitments made by the Government at the time of our negotiations that it did not intend for the same job same pay laws to cover genuine service contracting arrangements.

    We note it is open to the affected employers to appeal the FWC’s decision to the Federal Court should they believe jurisdictional or factual errors have been made.

    With the Federal Government focused on national productivity, it’s also important to consider the wider commercial ramifications of such decisions.

    Increasing labour costs at some of Australia’s most productive mining operations, in this case to the tune of some $1.3 billion, will fundamentally impact long-term investment and employment decisions.

    This will be to the detriment of the mining sector workforce, regional communities, and all the small and medium businesses that service large project operators along the supply chain.

    AREEA’s position is amendments are needed to ensure the ‘same job same pay’ is targeted at clear cases where there is evidence that labour hire is being used to undermine, undercut or avoid the payment of enterprise agreement wages.

    Businesses that supply labour to clients via legitimate and lawful above-award arrangements provide an invaluable service to the economy, and they must be allowed to do so with certainty and confidence.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China indicts 21 members of organized crime group that ran telecom fraud in northern Myanmar

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Xinhua | 11.07. 2025

    Keywords: China, crime, telecommunications fraud

    Source: Xinhua

    China indicts 21 members of organized crime group that carried out telecom fraud in northern Myanmar China indicts 21 members of organized crime group that carried out telecom fraud in northern Myanmar

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two killed, 27 injured after bus plunges into ravine in southern Philippines

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    MANILA, July 11 (Xinhua) — A bus plunged into a ravine in Zamboanga del Sur province in the southern Philippines on Thursday, killing two people and injuring 27 others, local authorities said.

    The accident occurred around 8 a.m. local time. The bus carrying the students was heading to a military training camp, said Ronnie Villanueva, an official with the provincial disaster risk reduction and management agency.

    One student died at the scene, and another elderly passenger died later at a local hospital, he said. Twenty-seven people received various injuries.

    An initial police investigation revealed that the bus’s brakes failed as it made a turn, causing it to fall off the cliff.

    College students were sent to a training camp to participate in preparation for military service in case of emergency. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Anti-discrimination champion from India and global network of population scientists receive the 2025 United Nations Population Award

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    UNITED NATIONS, New York, 11 July 2025 – The laureates of the fortieth edition of the United Nations Population Award are Ms. Varsha Deshpande, Founder, Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal of India in the individual category, and the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP) in the institution category. 

    Ms. Varsha Deshpande is a pioneering women’s rights activist with more than 35 years of experience working on gender-based violence, discrimination and gender. She founded the Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal in 1990 to advance women’s rights and gender justice. She tirelessly works to empower grassroots women by building their vocational skills, connecting them to vital resources and services, and fostering their financial independence. 

    At the helm of Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, Ms. Deshpande has spearheaded numerous programmes, including ones addressing child marriage through the empowerment of adolescent girls and engagement with men and boys; safeguarding the rights of women in the informal sector; and promoting joint property registration to boost women’s access to assets. She is a respected member of various statutory bodies established by the Government of India and state-level governments, and has provided instrumental support for the law aimed at preventing gender-biased sex selection in India.

    The International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP), founded in 1927, has played a pivotal role in advancing population science and policy. It has been instrumental in addressing critical population challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, by fostering collaborative research, building capacity among early-career and mid-career demographers, and providing platforms for knowledge exchange. 

    The IUSSP helped establish regional population associations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and tackles key global issues relating to reproductive health, gender, migration, climate change, and the linkages between population dynamics and sustainable development. IUSSP’s work bridges the gap between research and policy, and ensures that population issues remain at the forefront of global development agendas.

    About the UN Population Award

    Each year, the Committee for the United Nations Population Award honors an individual and/or institution in recognition of outstanding contributions to population and reproductive health issues and solutions. The Award was established by the General Assembly in 1981, in resolution 36/201, and was first presented in 1983. It is now in its fortieth year. It consists of a gold medal, a diploma and a monetary prize. The Committee for the United Nations Population Award is composed of a quorum of 8 UN Member States, with United Nations Secretary-General and UNFPA Executive Director serving as ex-officio members. Nominations for the award are accepted through 31 December of each year. UNFPA serves as its Secretariat. 

    For more information, please contact: media@unfpa.org 

    About UNFPA

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

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Driver stumped after crash and court

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A lead foot motorist who attempted to branch out and hide from Police has been caught up a tree in Haruru.

    At about 8am yesterday, a vehicle travelling on Puketona Road sped away after noticing a nearby Police car.

    Far North Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Richard Garton, says the vehicle was not signalled to stop and a short time later the driver lost control and crashed.

    “Officers then observed the man get out of the vehicle and flee on foot.

    “The Police Dog Unit was contacted and managed to track the man, who was located a short distance away hiding up a tree.”

    The man was taken into custody without further incident.

    “Thankfully no one was injured, however these types of situations are extremely concerning for our staff and I hope our quick response reassures the community that we have absolutely no tolerance for incidents like these.”

    A 36-year-old man appeared in Kaikohe District Court charged with dangerous driving and driving while disqualified.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Experienced police express posted to the frontline

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A former UK Soldier turned police officer, a sexual offences investigator, and a counter terrorism specialist are just some of the backgrounds of the experienced overseas and interstate officers graduating from the South Australia Police (SAPOL) Academy today.

    Course 4 of the SAPOL 15-week transition program includes 20 experienced officers from across the UK, Republic of Ireland, and interstate. Collectively, this course brings over 130 years of policing experience to South Australia.

    The majority have transferred from general patrol and road policing positions with others bringing specialist policing expertise across areas such as Domestic Abuse, Neighbourhood Response, and Organised Crime.

    Among the graduates is Lewis, who previously served as an emergency response officer with Gloucestershire Constabulary and spent nearly nine years as a frontline soldier in the British Army.

    “I’m just very proud to be able to call Australia our home after trying to get here for 10 years,” he said.

    “To be able to do the same job I loved in the UK but for such a great organisation in a truly stunning place – it’s changed our lives.”

    Amy, who served as a Police Constable with Police Scotland for 15 years across a range of investigative and specialist roles –which include the Divisional Rape Investigation and Domestic Abuse Investigation — is graduating alongside her husband, Cameron, who is also bringing 12 years’ experience.

    “We had never visited Australia before moving here, and we are looking forward to exploring our new country as a family,” Amy said.

    “SAPOL offers so many opportunities – from good career progression to better salary and working conditions. Although the procedures are different, the skills we gained back home will help us to proudly serve and support our new communities.”

    Today’s graduates will be posted across metropolitan and regional South Australia, including the Limestone Coast, Murray Mallee and the Eyre and Western regions.

    Alongside domestic recruiting, SAPOL continues to actively recruit experienced officers from interstate and overseas jurisdictions, offering competitive salaries, six weeks’ annual leave, and a supportive transition program.

    STP4 Graduates Lewis and Amy

    STP4 Graduates Amy and her husband Cameron

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Egypt vow to deepen strategic ties, promote mutual benefit

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    CAIRO, July 11 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang wrapped up a two-day official visit to Egypt on Thursday, reaffirming stronger bilateral ties and pledging deeper cooperation between the two countries.

    During his visit, the Chinese premier underscored the enduring strength and strategic depth of China-Egypt relations, highlighting the two nations’ longstanding friendship, shared values as ancient civilizations, and growing partnership.

    Since the establishment of diplomatic ties nearly 70 years ago, the two countries have remained close friends who support each other and strategic partners with a shared future, Li said upon his arrival.

    Together, the two countries have set a model for solidarity, unity, self-reliance, mutual benefit, and mutual support among major developing countries, he added.

    China-Egypt relations have flourished, with their traditional friendship growing stronger over time, political mutual trust deepened, fruitful results yielded through practical cooperation, and multilateral coordination becoming closer and more effective, the premier said.

    Applauding the steady growth of bilateral ties, Assem Hanafi, former Egyptian ambassador to China, wrote in a recent article that the relations in the last decade “have become a model for a comprehensive partnership built on respect, trust, understanding and shared interests.”

    Such ties “have gained unprecedented momentum, marked by deepening political cooperation and robust economic engagement,” he said.

    China is a major trade and investment partner for Egypt. Bilateral trade exceeded 17 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, and Chinese investments in Egypt have surged, especially in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, hosting 185 companies, has become a model for industrial cooperation.

    Cooperation dominated the agenda during the Chinese premier’s talks with Egyptian leaders. During their meetings, Li stressed the importance of economic synergy and investment facilitation.

    When meeting with Speaker of the Egyptian House of Representatives Hanafy Ali Gebaly, Li outlined a comprehensive vision for cooperation, saying that China and Egypt, aiming for a higher level of mutual benefit and win-win results, should cooperate in the sustainable operation of bilateral landmark projects, continuously improve the level of two-way trade and investment facilitation, strengthen industrial docking and market connectivity.

    In his meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly, Li said that China is willing to work with Egypt to optimize the development of bilateral trade and create more highlights of cooperation as well as new drivers of economic growth.

    “Chinese investments in Egypt can be classified as a win-win model, as Egypt benefits from Chinese technology, job creation and more. The Chinese-Egyptian product is also exportable, making these investments mutually beneficial,” former Egyptian Prime Minister Essam Sharaf told Xinhua.

    “The cooperation between developing countries and China cannot be underestimated,” said Sharaf, also a member of the Advisory Council of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. “If fully activated, it would create tremendous power and form a strong synergy for the Global South.”

    China and Egypt will celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year, with leaders from both sides expressing optimism over the future growth of bilateral relations.

    Li told Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi during their meeting that China is ready to work with Egypt to take the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries next year as an opportunity to carry forward the traditional friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests.

    Egypt was the first Arab and African country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, making China-Egypt relations transcend bilateral scope with remarkable regional and global significance.

    Li also emphasized the broader strategic dimension of China’s engagement with the Arab world during a meeting with Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, describing China and Arab countries as “trustworthy friends and good partners,” depicting China-Arab relations as in their best shape ever.

    Li also called for deeper coordination on the international stage, saying that China is ready to enhance communication and coordination with Arab countries on platforms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the World Trade Organization and the Group of 20, demonstrate the common will and speak in a common voice, so as to promote a more just and equitable global governance system.

    Echoing Li’s remarks, Gheit called China “a good friend and good partner of Arab countries,” while Sisi, when receiving Li, called China “a sincere friend of Egypt” and their relations having reached “the highest level in history.”

    Egypt highly appreciates China’s just and fair stance on Mideast issues and stands ready to strengthen coordination with China within the United Nations, the BRICS and other multilateral frameworks to safeguard common interests and uphold regional peace and stability, Madbouly said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Israeli strike kills 10 children near Gaza clinic with no immediate truce in sight

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An Israeli airstrike hit Palestinians near a medical centre in Gaza on Thursday, killing 10 children and six adults, local health authorities said, as ceasefire talks dragged on with no immediate deal expected.

    Verified video footage from the strike in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip showed the bodies of women and children lying in pools of blood amid dust and screaming. One clip showed several motionless children lying on a donkey cart.

    “She didn’t do anything, she was innocent, I swear. Her dream was for the war to end and that they announce it today, to go back to school,” said Samah al-Nouri, sitting by the body of her daughter who was killed in the blast.

    “She was only getting treatment in a medical facility. Why did they kill them?” she said, with other bodies laid out around her at a nearby hospital.

    Israel’s military said it had struck a militant who took part in the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack that triggered the war. It said it was aware of reports regarding a number of injured bystanders and that the incident was under review.

    U.S.-based Project HOPE said the strike had hit right outside its Altayara health clinic. “Horrified and heartbroken cannot properly communicate how we feel anymore,” the aid group said in a statement.

    The Deir al-Balah missile strike came as Israeli and Hamas negotiators hold talks with mediators in Qatar over a proposed 60-day ceasefire and hostage release deal aimed at building agreement on a lasting truce.

    A senior Israeli official said on Wednesday that an agreement was not likely to be secured for another one or two weeks, however, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday he was hopeful of a deal.

    “I think we’re closer, and I think perhaps we’re closer than we’ve been in quite a while,” Rubio told reporters at the ASEAN summit in Malaysia.

    Several rounds of indirect talks between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas have failed to produce a breakthrough since the Israeli military resumed its campaign in March following a previous ceasefire.

    Repeated attacks by Israeli forces in recent weeks have killed hundreds of Gazans, many of them civilians, and injured thousands, according to local health authorities, putting an enormous strain on the enclave’s few remaining hospitals.

    Dwindling fuel supplies risk further disruption in the semi-functioning hospitals, including to incubators at the neonatal unit of al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, doctors there said.

    “We are forced to place four, five or sometimes three premature babies in one incubator,” said Dr Mohammed Abu Selmia, the hospital director, adding that premature babies were now in a critical condition.

    An Israeli military official said that fuel destined for hospitals and other humanitarian facilities was let into the enclave on Wednesday and on Thursday.

    However, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that far more fuel was needed to keep essential life-saving and life-sustaining services operating.

    TALKS

    U.S. President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week to discuss the situation in Gaza amid reports that Israel and Hamas were nearing agreement on a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal after 21 months of war.

    Netanyahu said that if the two sides reach agreements on the U.S.60-day truce plan, Israel will begin negotiations on a permanent ceasefire.

    In a statement from Washington, he reiterated Israel’s terms for ending the war, including Hamas disarming and no longer ruling Gaza. Hamas has rejected calls to lay down its weapons.

    “If this can be achieved through negotiations – that’s good. If it’s not achieved through 60-day negotiations then we will achieve it by other means, by use of force,” Netanyahu said.

    A Palestinian official said the talks in Qatar were in crisis and that issues under dispute, including whether Israel would continue to occupy parts of Gaza after a ceasefire, had yet to be resolved.

    The two sides previously agreed a ceasefire in January but it did not lead to a deal on ending the war and Israel resumed its military assault two months later, stopping all aid supplies into Gaza for 11 weeks and telling civilians to leave the north of the tiny territory.

    Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has now killed more than 57,000 people, according to Palestinian health authorities. It has destroyed swathes of the territory and driven most Gazans from their homes.

    The Hamas attack on Israeli border communities that triggered the war in 2023 killed around 1,200 people and the militant group seized 251 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. At least 20 are believed to still be alive.

    There has also been repeated violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. An Israeli man was killed at a shopping centre in the territory on Thursday by two Palestinian militants, who were then shot dead, police said.

    In a separate incident, a Palestinian man was shot dead after he stabbed and injured a soldier, the army said.

  • 3rd Test: Root lifts England to 251-4 vs India on tense first day at Lord’s

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Joe Root’s patient unbeaten 99 led England to 251-4 on an attritional and compelling first day of the third test against India at Lord’s on Thursday.

    With the series level at 1-1 after two high-scoring matches, England won the toss in good batting conditions but they lost Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley cheaply and with pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah back in their attack India sensed a big chance.

    Root and Ollie Pope, however, adopted a risk-free approach, a far cry from the aggressive Bazball style of cricket England have adopted in recent years, to rebuild the innings, and Ben Stokes made 39 not out to leave the match finely poised.

    “We want to be a team that is positive and entertaining, but we want to play to the situation,” Pope said.

    “Our order is pretty fast scoring on our good days, we all know we can score hundreds off 120 balls, but we need to dig in off this sort of surface.”

    Earlier, Stokes won the toss under clear skies and would have expected his top order to take full advantage.

    India won the second test by 336 runs to level the series without Bumrah and he bowled a probing opening spell as the touring side rode the momentum of their excellent performance at Edgbaston.

    Crawley drove Akash Deep sweetly to the cover boundary before greeting Mohammed Siraj to the attack with another crisp hit through the off side but neither he nor Duckett looked comfortable on a slow pitch.

    Immediately after the drinks interval, Nitish Kumar Reddy struck in his first over when Duckett fell for 23, playing a loose stroke to a ball down the leg side and feathering a catch to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.

    Pope was dropped off his first ball, a very hard chance to Shubman Gill at gully, before Reddy squared up Crawley with a fine delivery and he edged it to Pant to depart for 18.

    STUNNED SILENCE

    A packed crowd at the home of cricket was stunned into near silence as India celebrated wildly and Reddy continued to extract movement off the pitch as England laboured to 83-2 at lunch.

    Root reached his 67th test half century to go with 36 hundreds for England’s leading all-time runscorer, the milestone coming off 102 balls and including seven fours.

    India suffered a blow when the free-scoring Pant was forced off the field with a finger injury but Pope was out for 44 to the first ball after tea, driving loosely at spinner Ravindra Jadeja and nicking the ball to stand-in keeper Dhruv Jurel.

    When Bumrah speared in a rapid ball that clipped the top of Harry Brook’s off stump to send the in-form batter back to the pavilion for 11 with England on 172-4 India sensed they were back in the ascendancy.

    But Root continued to bat smoothly and found a reliable partner in Stokes, the experienced pair defying the tiring Indian bowlers and keeping the scoreboard ticking over in the evening sunshine.

    Root tried to complete his 37th test century before the close but was unable to do so, and he will return on Friday when England will bid to put pressure on India by posting a commanding first-innings total.

    “Joe Root has inspired everyone in the changing room and in this country,” Pope said.

    “His work ethic and the way he goes about his cricket is inspirational over such a long career. Fingers crossed he can make it a massive one tomorrow.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Cambodia: Revocation of citizenship would be heinous violation of international law – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International

    Responding to a National Assembly-approved amendment to the Cambodian Constitution that allows for the revocation of Khmer citizenship, Amnesty International’s Regional Research Director Montse Ferrer said:

    “As the proposal moves closer to becoming reality, anyone who speaks out against or opposes the ruling party will be at risk of having their citizenship revoked. We are deeply concerned that the Cambodian government, given the power to strip people of their citizenship, will misuse it to crackdown on its critics and make them stateless.

    “Revoking citizenship can violate many rights, including the rights to a nationality, to enter your own country and to take part in the conduct of public affairs. Without citizenship, people may not be able to access healthcare, get a job, go to school, migrate or get married. Stateless individuals often face social exclusion, discrimination and are at risk of exploitation and abuse. For many Cambodians, their Khmer citizenship is akin to their identity.  

    “Despite this repressive amendment moving forward, it comes against a backdrop where the Cambodian authorities have completely failed to safeguard the independence and integrity of the country’s courts – a failure further compounded by the Constitutional Council stating an amendment was possible. Judicial independence is key to safeguarding people’s rights including the right to nationality and reversing a culture of impunity. This has enabled the government’s authoritarian practices to continue unchecked, such as its persecution of opposition leaders, activists and independent journalists.

    “Revoking citizenship often violates human rights, and when done in a way that renders people stateless is a dangerous step that is prohibited under international law. Revoking a person’s citizenship must not become a political tool to silence and intimidate critical voices, and Cambodian authorities must immediately reverse the amendment, end their authoritarian practices and uphold their international human rights obligations and the rule of law. The international community should publicly condemn the Cambodian government’s heinous proposed amendment to the constitution.”

     

    Background

    On 11 July, an extraordinary session of the National Assembly was convened in which a draft amendment to the Constitution that would allow for the revocation of Khmer citizenship was debated and approved.

    President of the Senate, Hun Sen, had previously called on Cambodia’s Minister of Justice to consider the proposal to amend the Constitution. On 27 June, he said in a speech that this proposal was to “revoke citizenship from Cambodians who side with foreign nations to harm our country”.

    The National Assembly-approved amendment to the constitution adds in new language to the effect of “[r]eceiving and losing and revoking Khmer nationality shall be determined by law.”

    The Constitutional Council of Cambodia said on 2 July that a proposed amendment to Article 33 of the Cambodian Constitution was possible. Article 33, before amendment, stated that: “Khmer citizens shall not be deprived of their nationality … [and] Khmer citizens residing abroad enjoy the protection of the State. The acquisition of Cambodian nationality is determined by law.”

    Cambodia has been ruled for decades by the Cambodian People’s Party, which controls the judiciary and military.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Come to Ordos to have a fun summer holiday!

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Looking for an interesting place to spend your summer vacation? Come to Kangbashi District, Ordos, Inner Mongolia! Fireworks, drones, musical fountain – the “three-piece set” will appear at the same time. Car stunts, lawn concerts, new energy car sales, housing subsidies and other surprises, from cultural performances to consumer benefits… Check out the complete entertainment guide that will ensure you have a fun summer vacation!

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on World Population Day [scroll down for French version]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    On this World Population Day, we celebrate the potential and promise of the largest youth generation ever.

    They are not only shaping our future; they are demanding one that is just, inclusive, and sustainable.

    The theme — “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world” – reaffirms the promise of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development:  that every person has the right to make informed choices about their lives and futures.

    Many young people today face economic uncertainty, gender inequality, health challenges, the climate crisis and conflict.

    Still, they are leading – with courage, conscience and clarity.  And they are calling for systems that uphold their rights and support their choices. 

    I urge countries to invest in policies that ensure education, healthcare, decent work, and the full protection of their reproductive rights.

    Let us stand with young people and build a future where every person can shape their destiny in a world that is fair, peaceful and full of hope.

    ***

    En cette Journée mondiale de la population, nous célébrons le potentiel et la promesse que porte en elle la jeune génération, laquelle n’a jamais été aussi nombreuse.

    Les jeunes ne se contentent pas de façonner notre avenir ; ils exigent de surcroît que celui-ci soit juste, inclusif et durable.

    Le thème choisi (« Permettre aux jeunes de fonder la famille de leurs rêves dans un monde de justice et d’espoir ») se fait l’écho de la promesse formulée lors de la Conférence internationale sur la population et le développement de 1994 : chaque personne a le droit de faire des choix éclairés concernant sa vie et son avenir.

    Beaucoup de jeunes se heurtent aujourd’hui à l’incertitude économique, aux inégalités de genre, aux problèmes de santé, à la crise climatique et aux conflits.

    Or, ils montrent l’exemple avec courage, conscience et clairvoyance. Ils veulent des systèmes qui défendent leurs droits et les appuient dans leurs choix.

    Je demande instamment aux pays d’investir dans des politiques garantissant l’éducation, les soins de santé, le travail décent et la pleine protection des droits en matière de procréation.

    Restons aux côtés des jeunes pour bâtir un avenir de justice, de paix et d’espoir où chaque personne a la possibilité d’être maître de sa destinée.

    ***

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ACT wants dog owners to spend 3 hours a day with their pet. But quality, not quantity, matters most

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Hazel, Associate Professor, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide

    Photo by Anna Tarazevich/Pexels

    Authorities in the ACT have released draft regulations for the welfare of dogs. One inclusion getting attention is a guideline “requiring all dogs to have a minimum of three hours of human contact daily”.

    The purpose of this code is to help dog owners meet their obligations under existing animal welfare laws in the ACT, which see dogs as sentient animals. This recognises that dogs can experience pleasure and pain, and that these feelings matter.

    If we accept dogs are sentient then we must think about their welfare and how to provide for them the best life possible. So, will three hours of human contact guarantee a good life?

    Three hours across a 24-hour period is probably achievable for many people, once you factor in walks, pats, feeding time and some attention at home.

    But just mandating a certain number of hours isn’t the answer, in my view.

    What matters most is what you do when you’re with your dog to meet their specific emotional and physical needs – and how long you’re leaving them alone.

    Human contact is a good thing for dogs

    Countries around the world are taking more notice of the needs of dogs.

    In Germany, the law requires owners to walk their dogs twice a day for at least an hour each time.

    Swedish rules require that “dogs must have their need for social contact satisfied”.

    Dogs are descended from the grey wolf – an animal which would certainly not integrate easily into a human group.

    But over thousands of years, humans have selectively bred dogs so they want, and even depend on, human contact.

    We’ve genetically selected dogs to want to be with us, and unfortunately this has led to many not coping well when they’re alone.

    The ACT’s new draft code recognises this, noting that “dogs are social animals and must not be kept alone for long periods of time”.

    An estimated 14–29% of dogs have problems related to separation from their owners.

    Signs of separation-related problems may include:

    • barking
    • escaping
    • destructive digging
    • destructive chewing.

    Other problems for inactive dogs might include being overweight, feeling bored or even getting depressed.

    Dogs have been genetically shaped to want and even depend on human contact.
    Photo by Helena Lopes/Pexels

    Quality time matters most

    It is likely the quality of time spent with our dogs is more important than the quantity.

    Some dogs like lying on the sofa bingeing the latest series with you. Others might prefer long walks, or a strenuous game of fetch.

    And dogs have different needs. A one-year-old dog might love going for a big walk, but a 12-year-old dog with arthritis may find that painful. Some dogs love chasing balls, and others would rather watch grass grow.

    What’s more, the amount of time a dog can handle alone will depend on the animal. For some, only five minutes away from their human would be long enough to send them into total meltdown.

    What’s important is what you do with your dog when you’re together, to meet their needs.

    Complicating matters further, dog owners vary in how they want to spend time with their pet.

    That’s why this guideline may struggle to find community acceptance. Good dog owners realise that what you do with your dog is most important, and needs to be tailored to the dog’s emotional needs, rather than just mandating a certain time goal.

    That said, the draft code may prompt all dog owners (including not-so-conscientious ones) to consider whether they spend enough time with their dogs.

    And it may prompt people considering buying a dog to think about whether they can commit three hours a day.

    The regulation may also encourage people to think more about fun things to do with their dog, such as develop (or continue) a play routine. Creative play can help boost attachment between dog and human.

    An easy bonus we can give our dogs is to be present with them.

    If you can’t manage three hours, just aim for what you can and try to carve out special time with them (perhaps by reducing your screen time where possible).

    The most important part is to see if you can observe what happens when they’re alone (you could set up a camera). Try to make changes and seek professional advice if you can see their welfare is at risk.

    An easy bonus we can give our dogs is to be present with them.
    Photo by Haberdoedas Photography/Pexels

    An important discussion

    Effective rules also need to be enforceable.

    It is highly unlikely sufficient resourcing would be available in the ACT to check the time all dog-owners spend with their dogs each day. How this would be calculated and recorded remains unclear.

    But even if this three-hours-a-day guideline is dropped in the ACT’s final code, it’s prompted an important discussion and will overall improve the welfare of dogs.

    Susan Hazel is affiliated with the RSPCA South Australia and the Dog & Cat Management Board of South Australia.

    – ref. The ACT wants dog owners to spend 3 hours a day with their pet. But quality, not quantity, matters most – https://theconversation.com/the-act-wants-dog-owners-to-spend-3-hours-a-day-with-their-pet-but-quality-not-quantity-matters-most-260694

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Hendra virus has killed a horse in Queensland. Should we be worried?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vinod Balasubramaniam, Associate Professor (Molecular Virology), Monash University

    CJKPhoto/Getty

    The death of an unvaccinated horse from Hendra virus this week in southeast Queensland is the state’s first reported case in three years.

    Before that, Australia’s last case was in July 2023, when another unvaccinated horse died in New South Wales.

    The new incident is a stark reminder that, while rare, this persistent virus poses a deadly threat to both animals and humans.

    So, what is Hendra virus? And how is it passed on? Here’s what you need to know.

    What is Hendra virus?

    Hendra virus is found only in Australia. It is named after the Brisbane suburb Hendra, where it was first identified in 1994 – an outbreak that killed 13 horses and one human.

    Hendra is a highly pathogenic virus, meaning it causes severe, often fatal illness.

    It is a kind of henipavirus, which belongs to the large family of Paramyxoviridae. Henipaviruses such as Hendra are zoonotic, which means they occur naturally in animals but can also be passed on to humans.

    Australia’s native flying foxes or fruit bats (the genus Pteropus) are Hendra’s natural “reservoir host”. They carry the virus without symptoms.

    Outbreaks occur when the virus is transmitted to horses and occasionally to humans through infected horses. It is not known to affect other animals.

    Can humans get Hendra?

    Although alarming, human cases of Hendra virus remain exceedingly rare. Only seven confirmed cases have been reported since 1994, resulting in four deaths.

    Each human case occurred after close contact with an infected horse or horses.

    Those who contracted Hendra were typically veterinarians or horse trainers exposed to blood, mucus or other bodily fluids while caring for the horse or determining its cause of death.

    Direct transmission of Hendra from bats to humans, or between humans, has not been documented.

    How does it spread?

    Hendra exists year-round in flying fox populations, who shed virus particles in bodily fluids, but don’t get sick themselves.

    Horses mainly become infected through grass, feed or drinking water that has been contaminated by flying fox saliva, urine or feces. Although horse-to-horse transmission is possible, it is not common.

    An infected horse will show rapid symptoms including:

    • fever
    • breathing difficulties
    • nasal discharge
    • increased heart rate
    • neurological signs, such as muscle twitching, loss of coordination, and disorientation.

    The infection progresses rapidly. In around 75% of cases, death follows within 48 to 72 hrs of symptoms beginning.

    How dangerous is Hendra for horses?

    Cases are infrequent but severe. Hendra has killed over 100 horses since it was identified in 1994.

    Around 75–80% of infected horses either die naturally or are euthanised due to welfare concerns. This high death rate underscores the need for preventive measures.

    Vaccination is the main way to prevent infection in horses. No vaccinated horses have developed the disease since a highly effective vaccine became available in 2012.

    Veterinary authorities strongly recommend vaccination for horses, especially in Queensland and northern New South Wales, regions historically affected by the virus.

    Other preventive measures include: placing feed and water containers away from areas frequented by flying foxes, regular stable cleaning, and keeping horses in stables overnight during months when bats are most active.

    This is typically May to October, sometimes known as “Hendra season”. But there are signs climate change and habitat destruction may be changing when and where flying foxes roost and potentially worsening the risk of outbreak.

    How to prevent human infection

    There is no vaccine for humans against Hendra virus.

    Preventing virus transmission from horses to humans requires strict biosecurity and hygiene protocols.

    People who work with potentially infected horses must use personal protective equipment, including gloves, masks, eye protection and disposable gowns.

    Rigorous hand hygiene practices – such as thorough washing with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitisers after horse contact – are vital.

    If you suspect your horse is sick, avoid direct contact and get veterinary help straight away.

    Vinod Balasubramaniam receives funding from the Ministry of Higher Education and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation in Malaysia.

    – ref. Hendra virus has killed a horse in Queensland. Should we be worried? – https://theconversation.com/hendra-virus-has-killed-a-horse-in-queensland-should-we-be-worried-260586

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –