Category: Transport

MIL-OSI Russia: Robotic surgeons, transplantation and research. How Botkin Hospital became a scientific and clinical center

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

More than 90 clinical departments, a flagship emergency center, minimally invasive surgery, innovative equipment, organ transplantation, scientific research and implementation of advanced technologies. This is what it looks like today City Clinical Hospital named after S.P. Botkin. It recently received a new status – Moscow Multidisciplinary Scientific and Clinical Center (MMNCC). This is a natural result of the evolution that the hospital has undergone over the past 10 years. A mos.ru correspondent spoke with doctors about its key transformations.

What specialized medical centers have opened in renovated buildings, how are cancers treated at stage zero, what surgeries are performed by robots, how innovators create cutting-edge technologies, and why is city recognition important to them – in our article.

From emergency care to bone marrow transplants

The transformation of the Botkin Hospital began about 10 years ago, since then 11 buildings have been built and renovated. Specialized medical centers are being opened in them, where they provide a full cycle of care – from diagnostics to treatment and dynamic monitoring.

In 2024, the hospital will celebrate 114 years since its foundation. All these years, it has been providing emergency medical care in various areas. We maintain centuries-old traditions and introduce new technologies into our work. We create unique specialized centers, use innovative equipment, develop minimally invasive surgery, train doctors, conduct scientific research and develop advanced treatment methods. Thanks to the achievements of recent years, the hospital has received the status of a scientific and clinical center Dmitry Grekov Deputy Director for Clinical Work of the Moscow Multidisciplinary Scientific and Clinical Center named after S.P. Botkin

In 2019, the only city ophthalmology center in the capital began operating — one of the largest and most modern specialized centers in Russia and Europe. It treats any eye pathologies. Later, the hematology building was modernized, where courses of chemo-, immuno-, and targeted therapy, as well as bone marrow transplantation, are now conducted. In the outpatient oncology care center, under the supervision of one team of doctors, you can undergo pathomorphological examinations, receive radiation and surgical treatment. The interdistrict nephrology center specializes in the treatment of kidney pathologies: hemodialysis, replacement therapy, transplantation. Another transformation of the Botkin Hospital is the launch in 2021 of the first high-throughput endoscopic center in Moscow for the early diagnosis of oncological diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Patients from the risk group are referred here.

“Every fourth patient in the capital has neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract. But they can be avoided if screening is performed in time. The center conducts gastro- and colonoscopy under intravenous anesthesia, and if polyps are detected, endoscopists remove them immediately. Sometimes we already see tumor cells in the removed polyps, this is stage zero cancer. After the procedure, the patient does not need medications or operations – only regular examinations. Over three years of work, the center has conducted almost 130 thousand studies and removed about 15 thousand formations. That is, we have already prevented oncology in so many people,” Dmitry Grekov emphasized.

Last year, the Botkin Hospital opened a flagship emergency medical care center; during the first 24 hours of hospitalization, patients undergo diagnostics, surgical treatment, and intensive care. That same year, the Moscow City Urology Center opened, which became the largest in Russia.

Sergei Sobyanin spoke about the comprehensive modernization of the Botkin Hospital Thanks to nephrology centers in Moscow, the number of emergency hospitalizations for kidney diseases has decreased The capital reported on the results of the work of endoscopic centers over three years Operations of any complexity and high technology: a tour of the flagship and urological centers of the Botkin Hospital

Laparoscopes, surgical robots and neuronavigators

The S.P. Botkin MMNCC is a leader in the number of high-tech surgeries performed. Innovative equipment has made it possible to develop minimally invasive surgery. During laparoscopy, the doctor does not make large incisions, but inserts an endoscope with a camera transmitting an image to the screen and instruments through punctures into the organ. With the endovascular method, vessels are operated through punctures.

“Minimally invasive surgery has become commonplace for us. We are also pioneers in robotic technologies. In 2013, the first Da Vinci robot appeared in the hospital in Moscow, now we have six of them. They operate following the surgeon’s commands. Their “hands” can perform complex manipulations, as they rotate 540 degrees. Robots remove tumors in the liver, lungs, stomach, mediastinal tumors (this is an anatomical space in the middle sections of the chest cavity). They have no equal in narrow places: the rectum, pelvis, prostate gland. With the help of the Da Vinci robot, more than 10 thousand operations have already been performed in our clinic,” said Dmitry Grekov.

The MMNCC has modern CT and MRI machines at its disposal. Angiographs visualize the lumen of blood vessels and heart cavities. In neurosurgery and ophthalmology, intraoperative microscopes are indispensable for detailing deep lesions. The neuronavigator builds a route to the affected area of the brain so that the surgeon does not touch functionally significant areas.

“Our center has one of the largest experience in Russia in using minimally invasive methods to treat people with complicated malignant neoplasms. We have almost all medical specialties, which has allowed us to form multidisciplinary teams and make decisions at a single consultation. For example, we have already performed more than 10 operations for kidney tumors, when the tumor thrombus grows along the inferior vena cava and reaches the heart. In such a situation, the operating team consists of urologists, cardiac surgeons, vascular and abdominal surgeons,” the doctor said.

A place where medical work is inseparable from scientific work

Treatment should go hand in hand with science – this is the principle of the S.P. Botkin MMNCC. Since its foundation in 1910 to the present day, the institution remains an innovator. All scientific staff are practicing doctors.

Our goal is to improve treatment methods and medical technologies based on our experience. We see a weak point and try to find a solution. We start by analyzing the results. We performed surgery on 300 people, and 10 percent had postoperative complications. What factors influenced the procedure — age, smoking, diabetes? Statistics indicate the cause, and the team begins to create a medicine, a new treatment strategy, or a device. The development is tested at the center, and then the database is collected again. One study takes an average of three years. In emergency surgery, the results are immediately visible: on the 10th day after the operation, it is clear whether there are complications or not. In oncology, you have to wait for years for the results Pavel Drozdov Deputy Director for Science, S.P. Botkin Moscow Multidisciplinary Scientific and Clinical Center

If the effectiveness is proven, the new technology is “broadcast” to the capital’s medicine. In 2015, the city’s first simulation center opened in the hospital. There are simulators for endovascular and maxillofacial surgery, neurosurgery, and endoscopy. For example, Moscow doctors are taught to perform laparoscopic surgeries on organ dummies. Some simulators recreate acute cholecystitis and appendicitis, and intestinal obstruction.

The MMNCC team has repeatedly received the Russian Federation Government Prize in Science and Technology. Success was achieved in the treatment of pancreatic necrosis, a condition in which part of the pancreas becomes necrotic, causing its juice to digest nearby tissues. The team determined the types of this pathology (the tail, head, or entire gland died) and treatment tactics for each of them, for which they were awarded.

Doctors were also awarded for developing minimally invasive methods of surgical treatment of abdominal tumors: they wrote instructions on how to use laparoscopy and robots for interventions on the liver, stomach, and intestines. Doctors were also encouraged for creating a technology for machine perfusion of donor kidneys and liver. In order for organ cells to function while waiting for a transplant, they began to be enriched with a solution saturated with oxygen. This way they take root faster in the recipient.

“Awards are not the goal of our work, but they are recognition of our contribution to the development of medicine. We managed to prove that we are not just a hospital, and as a result, we received the status of a scientific and clinical center. We plan to expand the staff of scientific employees and continue to improve the quality of care,” added Pavel Drozdov.

Scientific work has been carried out in neurology, cardiology, neurosurgery, hematology and other areas, many projects receive grants from the city. The endoscopic method of operating on ulcers complicated by bleeding comes from the MMNCC. Within the walls of the center, a synthetic prosthesis-loop with a tension control mechanism for people suffering from urinary incontinence has been developed, as well as a program based on artificial intelligence, which helps diagnose prostate cancer, select therapy, and predict the course of the disease.

Currently, doctors are working on an algorithm for performing different types of keratoplasty (surgery to restore the cornea). MMNKTs has something to share: it is the only city clinic that performs corneal transplants.

Moscow doctors have introduced the latest method of treating a common disease in men Neural networks helped the capital’s radiologists process 13 million studies Technologies on guard of health: what high-precision equipment is used in Moscow hospitals The era of technology. Doctors spoke about new standards in the capital’s healthcare Saving Hearts. Moscow’s Chief Cardiac Surgeon on Minimally Invasive Techniques and Disease Prevention

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145005073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Develop emotional intelligence and become a master of producing: what will be taught in Technograd

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In October, the Technograd Innovation and Educational Complex at VDNKh invites everyone to face-to-face intensive courses for media industry experts. The meetings will be useful for those who want to get acquainted with creative techniques in producing and advertising, as well as master techniques for developing emotional intelligence. The events are designed for beginners and experienced representatives of the media and creative industries and for entrepreneurs who want to promote their business with the help of advertising and media content.

The meetings will be held by the creative producer of the Gazprom-Media Holding group of companies Georgy Ryumin and the creative director of the ManaMake comics production studio Artem Zhukov.

The events are free, but pre-registration is required. All meetings start at 6:00 PM.

First intensive “Producing as a lifestyle” will take place on October 18. Georgy Ryumin will tell guests about the secrets of a producer’s work, key competencies of a specialist, reveal the basics of dramaturgy and teach how to look for ideas for a project. At the end of the meeting, visitors will learn interesting facts from the expert’s personal professional experience.

The next lesson is called “Advertising, Original Content and Attention Management” will take place on October 24. Artem Zhukov will discuss with the audience the role of unusual ideas in advertising, methods of managing the audience’s attention and the latest trends in marketing. The audience will learn how advertising is created, information products are developed in companies of different levels and what tools are used to promote them.

Third intensive “Emotional Intelligence, or How to Learn to Understand People” is scheduled for October 31. Artem Zhukov will help guests develop communication skills and gain confidence in communication. Participants will be told how to recognize other people’s emotions and influence them, how to avoid thinking errors and increase personal effectiveness.

All intensive courses will be held in person at the Art. Technograd pavilion at the following address: Moscow, Prospekt Mira, Building 119, Building 318. Each meeting will last two hours. The number of places is limited.

The Technograd Innovation and Educational Complex is a unique venue at VDNKh, offering a new format of career guidance, training and educational leisure for residents and guests of the capital. The Career Development Center is one of the Technograd divisions. Its specialists help with training, choosing a profession and career planning. The project is supervised by Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow.

Read more on the project website.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145011073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Steps taken to ensure food security

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

China has outlined detailed policy measures to underpin its “all-encompassing approach” to food and to build a diversified food supply system, which analysts said will contribute to ensuring food security and building up the country’s strength in agriculture.
The guideline on speeding up the building of a diversified food supply system, issued by the General Office of the State Council in September, said the country will take measures to effectively promote the development of new food varieties, fields and technologies.
Efforts will be made to expand food resources through multiple channels, boost sci-tech innovation to improve the quality and effectiveness of food development, and enhance the entire industrial chain, in particular the value chain of the food industry, according to the document.
Both the report of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and the No 1 document of 2024 proposed an all-encompassing approach to food and the expansion of food resources, which analysts said indicates the strong emphasis China has put on the issue.
“The adoption of an all-encompassing approach to food can not only better meet people’s growing diversified food consumption needs, but also constitute an inevitable choice to address food security challenges confronted by China,” said Tang Wei, an associate professor at Sichuan Agricultural University’s Law School.
According to official data, last year China’s total meat production was 97.48 million metric tons, its milk production was 42.81 million tons, and poultry and egg production reached 35.63 million tons. Tang said these figures reflect changes in people’s diets and that there should be higher requirements for the diversity of food supply.
The all-encompassing approach to food emphasizes moving beyond traditional staple crops to address food security, and instead expanding to a broader category that includes meat, eggs, dairy, fruits, vegetables, fish, mushrooms and bamboo shoots.
Despite having only nine percent of the world’s arable land and six percent of its freshwater resources, China feeds nearly 20 percent of the global population.
“In the context of increasing constraints on resources and the environment, embracing the approach will help ensure food security and sustainable development,” Tang said.
The document issued last month called on expanding from arable land resources to encompass the entire territory’s resources under the premise of protecting the ecological environment, encouraging exploring new food resources from natural resources, including forests, grasslands, rivers, lakes, seas and facility-based agriculture.
“Expanding the spatial scope of agricultural production and diversifying supply channels can reduce the pressure on arable land, further consolidating the foundation of food security,” Tang added.
Zheng Fengtian, a professor at the School of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development at Renmin University of China, underscored the necessity to fully tap resources in accordance with local conditions and highlighted the importance of substantial investment in scientific and technological innovation in boosting agricultural modernization.
He gave the example that the vast majority of western China, which may not be suitable for large-scale farming, is endowed with abundant forest resources. The region can support the development of the understory economy and the cultivation of various cash crops, he said.
The understory economy refers to the development of industries under the forest canopy such as animal husbandry and planting suitable crops.
Official data shows that beyond arable land, China has over 267 million hectares of forest, a similar amount of grassland, and abundant rivers, lakes and seas.
More importance should be attached to these resources, and research and development into corresponding varieties and technologies to foster diversified food supply channels, Zheng said.
Expanding agricultural production space does not mean unlimited extraction, rather, it is about the reasonable use of natural resources, he added.
Zheng warned that the sources of China’s grain imports and transportation capacity of import channels are relatively concentrated, making the country susceptible to geopolitical and shipping risks.
Adopting an all-encompassing approach to food could enhance the resilience of China’s food supply chains, allowing it to actively respond to external instability and uncertainty, he said.
“If China can achieve significant agricultural technological breakthroughs, it will not only facilitate addressing its food security but also set an example for other developing countries,” Zheng said, calling for shoring up innovation in areas including breeding technology and strengthening the leading role of enterprises.
Sheikh Ahaduzzaman, a representative for China at the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, said at an event held last year he expects China’s food industry to become more powerful, upgraded, innovative and sustainable. “This will not only benefit the Chinese people, but also make a significant contribution to the positive progress of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” he said.
According to the State Council’s September document, China will accelerate breeding innovation to cultivate high-yield, high-quality and stress-resistant new varieties, and encourage enterprises to collaborate with universities and research institutes in a bid to develop and promote new technologies and equipment.
Sun Shujing, a senior agriculture researcher at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, highlighted the significant roles of scientific and technological innovation in nurturing competitiveness in agricultural products and industries.
Sun has previously researched white fungus, with the aim of improving production technologies and increasing yields. “Influenced by the all-encompassing approach to food, research priorities will be given to innovation across the entire industry chain to promote the healthy development of the industry,” she said.
The document specifically mentions developing and expanding the edible mushroom industry, and creating edible mushroom products, which Sun said will strengthen researchers’ confidence in engaging in the industry and motivate them to meet the significant national demand for the product.
Zhong Yu, a researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Economics and Development of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said efforts should be made to achieve a virtuous cycle of mutual adaptation between demand and production to promote the high-quality development of agriculture and better meet the people’s aspiration for a better life.
“We should accelerate the establishment of a comprehensive food safety standard and inspection system, proactively align domestic standards with international standards, and expedite the construction of a traceability system for the entire agricultural product supply chain to effectively reduce food safety risks,” he said.
Zhong underscored the need to match supply with demand, saying technologies such as big data should be fully leveraged to understand what consumers want in a timely manner so that production can be adjusted effectively.
As the all-encompassing approach to food emphasizes nutritious and healthy consumption, he said China should keep improving its system for nutritional health standards while continuing to promote food saving and reducing food waste.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Environmental education programs funded by NSW Government
Source: New South Wales Environment and Heritage

Educating young people on how to preserve Western Sydney woodland habitat, care for marine animals and help threatened species are among the 7 projects sharing an investment of almost $1 million.

The educational projects, which are designed to develop skills, encourage and inspire involvement in environmental protection, have been awarded funding under the 2023–24 round of the NSW Environmental Trust’s Environmental Education Grants Program.

The Environmental Education grants program supports projects that broaden the community’s knowledge, skills and participation in the protection of the environment.

The funded projects include:
- Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary – awarded $59,775 for the Eco Rangers program to engage young people in conservation activities including marine animal care, habitat clean-up and animal rescue and release events.
- Murrumbidgee Landcare Incorporated – awarded $60,000 for the Linking Generations for Threatened Species Conservation project which teaches students about local species and links them with experts and older community members, including Wiradjuri Elders.
- Cumberland Council – awarded $60,000 for Creating change one seed at a time which will protect native endemic species for future generations by encouraging private landowners and residents to become stewards of threatened species and communities.
- Tweed Shire Council – awarded $60,000 for Cultivating Tomorrow which will empower farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture practices.
- Western Sydney Parklands Trust – awarded $249,960 for Guardians of the Park, which will educate young people by providing hands-on learning experiences in restoring, connecting and monitoring threatened habitats.
- Mid Coast 2 Tops Landcare Connection – awarded $247,583 to deliver on-ground ecological fire management workshops to landholders via the Eco Burn Education project.
- Hunter Region Landcare Network – awarded $243,220 for the Dry Rainforest Revival project which will engage the community in learning and restoring large areas of Hunter region Dry Rainforest.
Quotes attributed to Laura Purcell, Contestable Grants Manager, NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

‘It is encouraging to see a wide variety of grantees and projects awarded funding under one of the Environmental Trust’s flagship annual contestable grant programs.

‘The Environmental Trust looks forward to working with the grantees to support them in pursuing their unique environmental education opportunities.’

MIL OSI News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: OCI Holdings Accelerates Its Presence in Malaysia: Implementing a Targeted Localisation Strategy, including Sponsorship of Sports and Cultural events
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SEOUL, KOREA, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OCI Holdings just announced on October 7 that it has made significant strides in strengthening its relationships with key figures and local residents in Sarawak, Malaysia, the production hub for its solar PV polysilicon.
- To develop stronger relationships with key figures and local residents in Malaysia, a running event and badminton class were held in late September.
- Announcing a new slogan ‘Envisioning a healthier future through life science and clean energy’
- Online and offline training on Malay language and culture were provided for Korean employees in Seoul in late August.
OCI Holdings plans to enhance its ties with the local community and conduct environmental, social, governance (ESG) activities in Malaysia to support its subsidiary OCI M. These initiatives aim to navigate the challenges posed by global economic uncertainties in the second half of this year, including the potential impact of the U.S. presidential election and U.S. tariffs on China, as well as a potential temporary slowdown in demand in the solar PV industry.

Fostering stronger relationships with localresidents, led by sports star Lee Yong-dae

OCI Holdings hosted a one-day badminton class at the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Bintulu Campus on September 29. The purpose of the event was to nurture young sports talents and promote health among local residents and featured Korean badminton legend Lee Yong-dae from the Leeyongdae Badminton Foundation.

In the morning, Lee provided one-point lessons to 30 young players recommended by the Bintulu Badminton Association. He focused on various game situations and fundamental techniques, including the serve, smash, forehand step-in, and backhand return. In the afternoon, he engaged in friendly matches with badminton club members and local residents.

The popular badminton legend drew a crowd of more than 300 spectators who filled the gymnasium with excitement. His star power rivals that of top idols with his widespread appeal.

Given the widespread popularity of badminton in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and India, OCI Holdings partnered with Lee in consideration of his influence and expertise.

Lee Yong-dae, a leading badminton star from Korea who won gold in mixed doubles at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and bronze in men’s doubles at the 2012 London Olympics, was an active player in Indonesia near Sarawak in 2015.

On September 27, Lee met with young players from Persatuan Badminton Bumiputra Sarawak (PBBS) comprised of ethnic Malays, and provided one-on-one coaching to support their aspirations.

Joint eco-friendly running event organized with key Sarawak organizations

OCI Holdings co-hosted the Kuching Green Run 2024 in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia on September 28.

The Kuching Green Run 2024, an inaugural eco-friendly cultural event held to raise community awareness of sustainable renewable energy and climate protection, was organized by the local social enterprise Green Generation in collaboration with OCI Holdings, Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU), and Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC).

Several local companies, including the Malaysian national petroleum company PETONAS and China Communications Construction Company, participated as sponsors.

The opening ceremony was attended by OCI Holdings Chairman Woo Hyun Lee, OCI M President Seong Gil Choi, and more than 20 key figures from Sarawak, including Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Husain and State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting Yew.

Despite the hot and humid weather, Chairman Lee, who had traveled from Seoul for the event, visited every area of the venue, encouraging participants along the way.

He remarked, “It is meaningful for us to promote a healthy lifestyle with sports and engage with the local community. In line with our motto, ‘Envisioning a healthier future through life science and clean energy,’ OCI M, as a prominent company in Sarawak, will actively participate in various ESG initiatives including cultural events and scholarship programs.”

On September 30, OCI M donated an ultrasound machine, valued at tens of millions of won, to Sarawak General Hospital in partnership with Sarawak Badan Amal Tenaga Isteri-Isteri (SABATI), a nonprofit charity organization led by the spouses of prominent figures in Sarawak, contributing to healthcare and well-being in the local community.

In Korea, staff are learning the Malaysian greeting “Salam.”

OCI Holdings organized a special lecture on Malaysian culture and history for its employees at the headquarters in Jung-gu, Seoul, in late August.

Professors Ummi Hani Binti Abu Hassan and Kim Dong-hun from the Department of Malay-Indonesian Studies at Hankook University of Foreign Studies conducted the lecture to 100 employees.

The lecture encompassed Malaysia’s history, its multicultural nature, and business etiquette with sessions streamed online for employees of domestic and international subsidiaries.

Professor Ummi, a Malaysian, demonstrated the Muslim greeting “salam,” which involves raising the right hand to the left breast and lowering one’s head. Employees followed her example and learned the meaning behind the gesture: “I greet you with my heart.”

Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, Malaysia is a multicultural state composed of various ethnic groups including Malays (57.9%), Chinese (22.6%), and Indians (6.6%). With this lecture, employees gained valuable insights into these cultural differences. For instance, only Malaysian Muslims have the word “Islam” on their identification cards.

Yong-sun Cho, team manager of the Strategy Team I of OCI Holdings, who participated in the lecture, said, “It was a valuable opportunity to gain knowledge about Malaysia’s history and cultural nuances that I was previously unaware of. Thanks to the Malaysian lessons I have attended, I can now communicate more effectively with local Malaysians.”

OCI Holdings has also offered a three-month basic Malaysian conversation course to employees at the team manager level and above starting in June.

Media Contact

Brand: OCI Holdings Company Ltd.

Contact: +82-10-5591-8126

Email: yunhs@ocihc.co.kr

Website: https://www.oci-holdings.co.kr/en

SOURCE: OCI Holdings Company Ltd.

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: DPRK to cut off roads, railways connected to S. Korea

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) said Wednesday that it will completely cut off roads and railways connected to South Korea beginning Wednesday, reported DPRK’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with dangerous driving following Bridgewater incident

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with dangerous driving following Bridgewater incident

Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – 2:33 pm.

Police today arrested and charged a 32-year-old man with dangerous driving, evade police (aggravated circumstances), driving while disqualified, breach of bail and some other traffic matters following an investigation by Bridgewater CIB into an incident which occurred on 25 September 2024.Police allege about 2pm, the man drove more than 4.5km into oncoming traffic at high speed along the Brooker Highway at Granton after evading police in Bridgewater.Police investigations to date which included obtaining multiple eyewitness accounts, surveillance CCTV and dash camera recordings which detail and depict the man weaving in and out of oncoming traffic that resulted in multiple members of the travelling public taking evasive action to prevent a head on collision.The man is expected to appear in an after hours session in the Hobart Magistrates Court session later this evening.Anyone with information about this incident should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: How do you stop elephant herds from trashing crops and trees? Target sensitive nostrils with a ‘scent fence’

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Patrick Finnerty, Postdoctoral research fellow in conservation, University of Sydney

Elephant numbers are surging in southern Africa, with fewer natural predators, reduced hunting pressure and feeding by farmers and tourist operators.

While this is good for elephants, it’s making life harder for humans who live near them. These huge herbivores can raid crops and destroy large trees in national parks with impunity, causing problems for farmers and land managers alike.

Traditional solutions aren’t ideal. Culling is controversial, and building fences strong enough to deter elephants is very expensive.

But there’s another option: a fence made of scent. We have explored how specific plant scents can stop wallabies from eating native seedlings. The technique works on Australian herbivores. Would it work for southern Africa’s much larger elephants?

Our new research put this idea to the test. We mimicked the scent of a shrub known as common guarri (Euclea undulata), which elephants avoid eating, and built a Y-shaped maze for elephants. We placed the scent on one side of the Y and left the other side scent-free.

The results were clear – our elephants voted with their trunks and avoided the stinky side. This suggests scent could play a useful role in fending off hungry pachyderms.

How can elephants be a problem?

The world has three species of elephant. The small Asian elephant is endangered while the even smaller African forest elephant, which lives in rainforests in West Africa and the Congo Basin, is critically endangered.

But the largest species, the African savannah elephant, is bouncing back in southern Africa from decades of poaching and habitat loss.

This is great on a conservation front. But it brings fresh problems. As elephant herds expand, they increasingly come into conflict with people – especially farmers. Losing a year’s crop to hungry elephants is devastating. When farmers try to stop them, the elephants can attack and even kill.

In large numbers, elephants can damage the natural environment like other herbivores – but even more so. In South Africa’s Kruger National Park and other wild places, their enormous appetites have reshaped whole plant communities. The plants elephants like disappear, while those they don’t spread. Elephants also destroy large trees and prevent the growth of new ones.

Oranges unable to be sold by Zimbabwean farmers are dumped, which attracts elephants and fuels population growth.

As elephant numbers grow, desperate farmers and land managers have scrambled for solutions. Killing problem elephants has been a common fix. But the practice now faces strong public opposition. Fencing is costly and usually impractical for lower-income farming areas. Other deterrents, such as using flashing lights and annoying sounds to scare off the pachyderms have had mixed success.

Curiously, elephants are scared stiff of bees. This knowledge has been used effectively by Kenyan farmers, who install beehives around their fields. Studies have shown the technique deters up to 80% of elephants. This method has limits, though, as there are only so many bees an area can sustain and maintaining hives takes work.

The scent defence

To deter an elephant, it helps to think like an elephant. We’ve long known carnivores rely heavily on scent to find prey. But scent is very important to herbivores too, as our team has explored. Herbivores rely on smell to tell them which plants to eat and which to avoid.

In Australia, we have used this knowledge to artificially replicate the scent of boronia pinnata, a flowering shrub which swamp wallabies avoid. These wallabies are the local native equivalent of deer in their eating habits – they eat many different plants, including tree seedlings land managers would rather they did not.
When we put vials of boronia scent next to vulnerable native seedlings in Sydney’s Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, we found these seedlings were 20 times less likely to be found and eaten by pesky wallabies.

Researchers have found similar scent “misinformation” tactics substantially reduced how many eggs from threatened birds were eaten by invasive predators such as ferrets, cats and hedgehogs in New Zealand, while others have found it can reduce losses of wheat grain to house mice in Australia.

But would this approach work on elephants? We were hopeful. We know elephants can smell water from afar. Better still, elephants have the strongest sense of smell of any land animal.

We went to South Africa to test it out.

Our entire research team, including humans and elephants.
Patrick Finnerty, CC BY-NC-ND

A proof of concept

We set up our experiment at the Adventures with Elephants tourism and research centre north of Johannesburg, which is home to six semi-tame elephants.

Here, we built a large maze shaped like a Y to let us test our idea in a controlled and safe environment. This is essential when working with temperamental animals weighing up to six tonnes.

From almost ten meters away, elephants had to choose which path through the Y to follow using only their sense of smell. Plants and odour vials were hidden down each arm of the maze, ensuring the animals were not using vision to choose. Both exits to the maze contained lots of leaves and stems of the jacket plum (pappea capensis), a tree elephants love to eat. On one side of the Y, we placed a single glass vial containing just 1 millilitre of a mixture mimicking the smell of common guarri.

It took just 1 ml of this scent to nudge elephants to go elsewhere.
Patrick Finnerty

The results were exciting. Time and time again, the elephants avoided the side where the artificial odour was present.

An elephant stands at the top of the Y maze, scents the unpleasant plant on the right arm, and chooses to walk down the left arm.

Scaling up

Our results suggest using scent could provide a practical way we could avoid human-elephant conflicts and help people protect crops and national parks at a larger scale.

Combining artificial odours with existing control measures such as fencing or beehives could offer more accessible and cost-effective methods to live alongside elephants.

What’s next? We aim to scale up this research in the hope of creating a practical, versatile and cheap tool which people in elephant territory can use to protect crops, trees, and houses from these giant herbivores.

We acknowledge our research co-authors, Clare McArthur and Peter Banks (University of Sydney) Adrian Shrader (University of Pretoria) and Melissa Schmitt (University of North Dakota), and Paul Finnerty for help designing and constructing the maze. We also thank Sean Hensman and the staff at Adventures With Elephants, South Africa, for allowing us to conduct our study on their premises.

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

– ref. How do you stop elephant herds from trashing crops and trees? Target sensitive nostrils with a ‘scent fence’ – https://theconversation.com/how-do-you-stop-elephant-herds-from-trashing-crops-and-trees-target-sensitive-nostrils-with-a-scent-fence-239593

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Dual U.S. and Iranian Citizen Arrested for Unlawful Scheme to Violate and Evade U.S. Sanctions Against Iran

Source: United States Attorneys General

Kambiz Eghbali, also known as Cameron Eghbali, 50, of Los Angeles, was arrested yesterday pursuant to a now-unsealed indictment charging him, along with Hamid Hajipour and Babak Bahizad, both Iranian nationals, with violations of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Bahizad and Hajipour remain at large.

According to the indictment, from March 2014 through September 2019, Eghbali and others conspired to unlawfully send digital and physical gift cards loaded with U.S. dollars to Iran. Eghbali would list his company, a U.S.-based purported videogame wholesaler and distributor located in the Central District of California, as the seller of the gift cards, and would provide cards to Bahizad for the benefit of his Iran-based gaming company, and to Hajipour for the benefit of his mobile software application service company. Bahizad and Hajipour would then pay Eghbali for the cards by transferring money from Iran to Eghabli’s U.S.-based bank accounts using third parties in other countries to conceal the transfer from U.S. regulators.

The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR) impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, reexport, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services, including financial services, to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.

If convicted, the defendants face the following maximum penalties: 20 years in prison for violations of IEEPA, 30 years in prison for bank fraud violations, and 20 years in prison for money laundering violations. The indictment also notifies defendants that the United States intends to forfeit all property alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Martin E. Estrada for the Central District of California, and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch made the announcement.

The FBI is investigating the case, with support from Homeland Security Investigations.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Boylan and Mark Takla for the Central District of California and Trial Attorneys David J. Ryan and Leslie Esbrook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: More than 190 thousand real estate objects have received addresses since the beginning of the year

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In the first three quarters of this year, 191.2 thousand city real estate properties have received addresses. A third of them are located in the Troitsky and Novomoskovsky administrative districts (TiNAO). This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

“Over nine months, 12 thousand capital construction projects in Moscow — buildings and structures, as well as 78.5 thousand apartments, almost 50 thousand non-residential premises, 27 thousand parking spaces and 23.5 thousand land plots — received addresses. The largest number of addresses — almost 70 thousand — appeared in TiNAO. Also, among the districts, the northeast of the capital is in the lead, where 17 thousand addresses were assigned in three quarters,” said Maxim Gaman.

The Department of City Property provides services for assigning, changing and canceling addresses for all objects, except for the Skolkovo Innovation Center, on the territory of Moscow free of charge. The technical part of the work is performed by specialists of the Moscow City Bureau of Technical Inventory (MosgorBTI).

Addressing is carried out both at the initiative of the city and at the request of the owner – an individual or legal entity, an individual entrepreneur. To do this, you must submit an application on the mos.ru portal.

“In addition to maintaining the capital’s address register, MosgorBTI specialists also ensure the transfer of address data to the Federal Information Address System (FIAS). This is a resource that collects information about the addresses of real estate objects throughout the country. Despite the largest number of records, Moscow ranks first in terms of filling and updating FIAS information. For more than 97 percent of the capital’s real estate, up-to-date data from the Unified State Register of Real Estate – cadastral numbers – have been added to the database,” said Dmitry Tetushkin, General Director of MosgorBTI.

In addition to addressing real estate, MosgorBTI offers Moscow residents a wide range of services, including cadastral and geodetic work, technical inventory, preparation of design documentation and approval of apartment redevelopment.

You can see the full list of services and documents on the official website and in the MosgorBTI client centers.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145013073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Pumpkin latte and zucchini tortilla: what else will visitors of the Golden Autumn festival be treated to

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Special gastronomic chalets have been organized at the venues of the Golden Autumn festival, which is taking place in Moscow from October 4 to 13. In the center of the capital and in the districts, you can try both traditional seasonal dishes and new items from unique set menus.

In the center of gastronomic pleasure

Several such venues are located in the center of the capital. For example, on Tverskaya Square they grill juicy trout steaks in a citrus marinade, as well as crispy eggplants with tomatoes, cauliflower in batter with nut sauce, pumpkin bowl with chicken and feta cheese, and spicy pumpkin soup that warms you up on cold days.

Those with a sweet tooth can try buckwheat wafers with various variations of chocolate, juicy apple pie and cheesecake with figs. The menu of drinks includes traditional autumn currant punch, caramel apple latte and Rafaello raf.

At Revolution Square, guests can try pancakes with honey, baked apples, pine nuts and whipped cream. In addition, there are fillings of fried chanterelles, pine cone jam. And here they offer pumpkin pancakes with cottage cheese.

In addition to flour and sweet dishes, the menu includes grilled veal with new potatoes and vegetables, as well as a juicy burger with Murmansk cod.

The range of drinks is also varied: the chalet offers dried fruit infusion, autumn pumpkin latte with cinnamon and ginger, and honey sbiten with cranberries brewed according to an old Russian recipe.

Products from more than 65 regions will be presented at the Moscow festival “Golden Autumn”

Lavender Cocoa and Pumpkin Raf

At the Golden Autumn festival, seasonal set menus from various restaurants are also presented in the capital’s districts.

In the Brigantina Park on Koptevsky Boulevard, festival visitors are offered smoker dishes: delicious pork ribs with baby potatoes and brisket. In addition, the menu includes a fresh bun with pulled pork.

On Teply Stan Street (building 1b) they make several types of tortillas – with zucchini and grilled peppers or with pumpkin and pine nuts. Here you can also try the unusual-tasting lavender cocoa.

On Svyatoozerskaya Street (building 1) guests will also find a varied menu. Here you can try pumpkin and pine nut pie, pumpkin and orange raf, and hot ice cream.

In the park near Golyanovsky Pond, guests are offered rich meat solyanka and skoblyanka with mushrooms. In addition, you can buy aromatic tea with sea buckthorn or lingonberry, as well as a traditional autumn drink with spices.

And on Matveyevskaya Street (building 2), festival visitors will be treated to traditional meat dishes: potatoes with cracklings and Gorinsky lard, shashlik from Belgorod pork with Surkov garlic, and Slavic-style shashlik with Strigunovsky onions.

The Golden Autumn Festival is part of a cycle of major city events “Moscow Seasons”. Residents and guests of the capital can visit fairs, exhibitions, festivals and concerts that take place throughout the year. Along with the Golden Autumn, the Moscow Seasons also include the festivals Journey to Christmas, Moscow Spring, Moscow on the Wave. Fish Week and Times and Epochs. They are based on fair trade, a cultural program and decorative design of the city. Particular emphasis is placed on seasonal products and handicrafts.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145012073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: An engineering building with a physical education and health block was built in Nagatino-Sadovniki

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

An engineering building with physical education and health facilities with a total area of over 16,000 square meters was built on the territory of the Newton Plaza technology park, a multifunctional complex that includes high-tech enterprises. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Moscow Department of Urban Development Policy Vladislav Ovchinsky.

The building is located at the address: 1st Nagatinsky proezd, building 10. It was built in the style of modern minimalism, so it blends in organically with the adjacent buildings of the technology park thanks to the use of similar facade materials.

“The multifunctional complex consists of seven above-ground, two underground and one basement floors. It includes laboratories, sports and fitness and administrative premises. The complex building is connected to the existing building of the innovation and industrial complex by an above-ground passage at the level of the first floor and an underground passage at the level of the minus second floor. In addition, an underground passage to the prospective development near the northern border of the site is provided,” said Vladislav Ovchinsky.

The engineering block contains laboratory and administrative premises, a control room, laboratories, laboratory utility rooms, technical rooms, a shared use center (coworking area), acoustic office cabins, auxiliary and technical rooms, and a balcony with a usable terrace.

The laboratories will conduct tests of electronic systems of cars and issue conclusions based on their results. They also plan to check the acoustic systems of cars and motorcycles for compliance with sound quality and noise level certificates.

The physical education and health block houses martial arts halls, functional training, group classes, fitness, a massage room and a hammam, as well as various service and administrative departments, tennis courts and a gym.

Based on the results of the comprehensive final inspection, the Committee for State Construction Supervision of the City of Moscow (Mosgosstroynadzor) issued a conclusion on the compliance of the facility with the design documentation.

“The engineering building was erected in five years, and throughout all stages of construction the committee monitored the progress of the work – a total of 29 on-site inspections were conducted at the site. Now the developer can prepare documentation to obtain permission to put the building into operation,” added the chairman of Mosgosstroynadzor

Anton Slobodchikov.

Earlier Sergei Sobyanin reportedon the completion of the construction of the first stage of the ZIL technology park, an investment priority project for the capital.

Technoparks to be built in 10 districts of the capital under the integrated territorial development program A technology park will be built in Maryina Roshcha Ecological laboratory, city farm and chocolate studio. How the children’s technopark of food production Rosbiotech is organized

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145004073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: On October 12, traffic will be temporarily closed on several embankments

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

In connection with the 10-kilometer Moscow Marathon, traffic will be temporarily closed on several embankments and streets in the Khamovniki district on October 12.

Thus, from 08:00 to 12:00 it will be impossible to drive on the section of Luzhniki Street – from house 24, building 9 to Luzhnetskaya Embankment. And from 08:00 to 13:30 traffic will be closed on Luzhnetskaya, Novodevichy, Savvinskaya, Rostovskaya and Frunzenskaya Embankments.

In addition, from 09:00 to 12:15, the outer side of Smolensky Boulevard will be closed to traffic, and from 09:00 to 12:30, the outer side of Zubovsky Boulevard will be closed to traffic.

In areas where traffic will be restricted, parking will also be prohibited from 00:01 on October 12 until the end of the marathon.

Drivers are asked to plan their route in advance, taking into account temporary traffic restrictions. Detailed information is available aton the website of the Traffic Management Center.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145008073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: The Australian government has introduced new cyber security laws. Here’s what you need to know

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer in Applied Ethics & CyberSecurity, Griffith University

gerardaskes/Shutterstock

The Albanese government today introduced long-awaited legislation to parliament which is set to revolutionise Australia’s cyber security preparedness.

The legislation, if passed, will be Australia’s first standalone cyber security act. It’s aimed at protecting businesses and consumers from the rising tide of cyber crime.

So what are the key provisions, and will it be enough?

What’s in the new laws?

The new laws have a strong focus on victims of “ransomware” – malicious software cyber criminals use to block access to crucial files or data until a ransom has been paid.

People who pay a ransom do not always regain lost data. The payments also sustain the hacker’s business model.

Under the new law, victims of ransomware attacks who make payments must report the payment to authorities. This will help the government track cyber criminal activities and understand how much money is being lost to ransomware.

The laws also involve new obligations for the National Cyber Security Coordinator and Australian Signals Directorate. These obligations restrict how these two bodies can use information provided to them by businesses and industry about cyber security incidents. The government hopes this will encourage organisations to more openly share information knowing it will be safeguarded.

Separately, organisations in critical infrastructure – such as energy, transport, communications, health and finance – will be required to strengthen programs used to secure individuals’ private data.

The new legislation will also upgrade the investigative powers of the Cyber Incident Review Board. The board will conduct “no-fault” investigations after significant cyber attacks. The board will then share insights to promote improvements in cyber security practices more generally. These insights will be anonymised to ensure the identities of victims of cyber attacks aren’t publicly revealed.

The legislation will also introduce new minimum cyber security standards for all smart devices, such as watches, televisions, speakers and doorbells.

These standards will establish a baseline level of security for consumers. They will include secure default settings, unique device passwords, regular security updates and encryption of sensitive data.

This is a welcome step that will ensure everyday devices meet minimum security criteria before they can be sold in Australia.

A long-overdue step

Cyber security incidents have surged by 23% in the past financial year, to more than 94,000 reported cases. This is equivalent to one attack every six minutes.

This dramatic increase underscores the growing sophistication and frequency of cyber attacks targeting Australian businesses and individuals. It also highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive national response.

High-profile cyber attacks have further emphasised the need to strengthen Australia’s cyber security framework. The 2022 Optus data breach is perhaps the most prominent example. The breach compromised the personal information of more than 11 million Australians, alarming both the government and the public, not to mention Optus.

Cyber Security Minister Tony Burke says the Cyber Security Act is a “long-overdue step” that reflects the government’s concern about these threats.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also acknowledged recent high-profile attacks as a “wake-up call” for businesses, emphasising the need for a unified approach to cyber security.

The Australian government wants to establish Australia as a world leader in cyber security by 2030. This goal reflects the government’s acknowledgement that cyber security is fundamental to national security, economic prosperity and social well being.

Broader implications

The proposed laws will enhance national security. But they could also present challenges.

For example, even though the laws place limitations on how the National Cyber Security Coordinator and Australian Signals Directorate can use information, some businesses might still be unwilling to share confidential data because they are worried about damage to their reputation.

Businesses, especially smaller ones, will also face a substantial compliance burden as they adapt to new reporting requirements. They will also potentially need to invest more heavily in cyber security measures. This could lead to increased costs, which might ultimately be passed on to consumers.

The proposed legislation will require careful implementation to balance the needs of national security, business operations and individual privacy rights.

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

– ref. The Australian government has introduced new cyber security laws. Here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/the-australian-government-has-introduced-new-cyber-security-laws-heres-what-you-need-to-know-240889

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

Headline: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

Blackhawk, a leader in IoT and real-time digital transformation for remote and mobile assets, has signed a contract with Far North District Council (FNDC) to supply vehicle telematics systems, as well as a pool booking software solution, aiming to streamline FNDC’s fleet management across its range of vehicles.

The post Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council first appeared on PR.co.nz.

– –

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Child rights organisation ChildFund, launch global online safety app

Source: ChildFund

Child rights organisation ChildFund have joined forces with The Girls and Boys Brigade to launch ChildFund’s global online safety app – Swipe Safe. ChildFund acknowledge the rapidly changing digital landscape and build an app that puts the power back in the hands of children and their parents.

(Sydney, Australia). In the countries in which ChildFund Australia works, the digital transformation of children’s lives has presented acute risks such as scams, cyberbullying, online grooming, and sexual, sexist, racist, or violent content. ChildFund has responded with the creation of the Swipe Safe program and app. The app serves to immediately strengthen children’s knowledge, skills and behaviours keeping them safe online.

Swipe Safe has been beta tested in five separate phases, directly involving face-to-face training and app testing with tens of thousands of children in Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Fiji and the Solomon Islands. The organisation has now teamed up with the Boys and Girls Brigade to launch the app in Australia.

They have also been testing the app with families at the Girls and Boys Brigade who have provided local insights into the app. Stephanie Fett the Family Support Coordinator at the Boys and Girls Brigade spoke about how technology is transforming the lives of families the centre supports.

“We’re seeing young people using phones from about eight years on and they haven’t developed that rational thinking until they reach 24 or even 25 [years of age]. So they are really unaware of the risks online, the natural reaction of parents is to take the phone away. This however struggles to build trust and openness with the parent making it exceedingly more difficult for them to protect their children online.”

Stephanie elaborated that the app helped build greater trust between parents, carers and children, which is key to helping keep children safer online.

“Parents need to work to build an open online relationship with children so they are comfortable with talking about their experiences online. The Swipe Safe app is a great tool to help facilitate this communication” [Click here for more on Swipe Safe].”

ChildFund Chief Development Officer Corinne Habel was thrilled to launch the app in Australia and bring the insights that they have learned in overseas to home soil.

“The Swipe Safe app is a unique online safety app that has been developed by global child protection specialists. Reports indicate that the volume of child sexual abuse material has increased by 87% in the last 5 years.

SwipeSafe helps parents, caregivers, children and young people navigate an increasingly risky online space. The online world is an exciting place for children to learn, play and connect, and we need to give them the tools to stay safe and understand and feel comfortable reporting harmful situations.

ChildFund Australia

ChildFund Australia is an independent international development organisation that works to reduce poverty for children in many of the world’s most disadvantaged communities.

We partner to create community and systems change which enables vulnerable children and young people, in all their diversity, to assert and realise their rights.

ChildFund Australia is a member of the ChildFund Alliance – one of the world’s oldest and most experienced child-focused development agencies. With a global network of 11 organisations, the ChildFund Alliance assists nearly 32million children and families in 70 countries.

As a member of the Australian Council for International Development, and a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct and the ACFID Fundraising Charter, ChildFund Australia must meet high standards of corporate governance, public accountability and financial management.

In addition, ChildFund Australia is fully accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade which manages the Australian Government’s overseas aid program. Accreditation is a stringent process in which all operational activities – financial, managerial, fundraising and program – are analysed. This not only requires that ChildFund demonstrate that funds are distributed to community projects, but that they are spent effectively in those communities for the benefit of children.

About Corinne Habel

Corinne is a highly experienced director and executive with diverse expertise across a variety of not-for-profit sectors including humanitarian, hospitals, education, environmental, the arts and faith-based. Originally from the US, Corinne brings over 20 years’ experience in implementing effective global strategies. Her diplomatic approach is key in her ability to negotiate and influence effectively at all levels of corporate, foundation, government and the community.

The Girls and Boys Brigade

Since 1882, The Girls and Boys Brigade have provided a welcoming, safe place for children and youth, aged 5-18, who need a helping hand. Based in Surry Hills, our programs are open to children, youth and their families living within the City of Sydney local government area. The families who access our services experience a wide range of financial, social, educational and housing challenges.

About Stephanie Fett

Stephanie has 38 years of frontline experience in the community sector as well as a Masters in International Social Work and Community Development.

Stephanie’s experience has taken her to NSW regional areas, remote Aboriginal communities, Victoria Queensland, as well as urban Sydney – city and west. She has worked in disability, addiction, mental health homelessness, youth, children and family, Out of Home Care, Juvenile Justice, unemployment, assessment and projects to increase access to services and decolonise systems.

She believes the key to her work is relationship building which builds trust, working alongside people in a trauma informed way.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin: Social coordinators provided 250 thousand services to hospital patients and their relatives

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The unique Moscow service “Social Service in Hospitals” has turned three years old. During this time, social coordinators have provided patients and their relatives with more than 250 thousand services. About this in his blog Sergei Sobyanin said.

“When we launched this project, we had no doubt that it would definitely be in demand. There is little pleasant about going to the hospital: hospitalization, even planned, disrupts the usual way of life. Worrying about one’s own health is often mixed with other worries. When it comes to emergency cases, it is very easy to get confused,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

Hospitalized Muscovites face many questions. For example, how to tell relatives what happened if you don’t have your phone with you or it’s dead? Who will look after a small child? How to cope with household chores after discharge if you live alone? Hundreds of other questions arise.

Previously, nurses and doctors had to deal with their solution. This took a lot of time, distracting them from their direct responsibilities. Now, in every Moscow adult and children’s hospital, specialized specialists – social coordinators – have taken on the solution of non-medical problems. They come to the aid of elderly or lonely people, patients with disabilities and low-mobility Muscovites, as well as everyone who, due to various circumstances, finds themselves in a difficult life situation.

To contact social coordinators, you do not need to write an application. The specialists themselves meet new patients every morning, delve into their problems and begin to help. If necessary, they involve other departments and organizations of the city.

“If necessary, social coordinators will help with home care services or round-the-clock care in the city’s social inpatient institutions. In children’s hospitals, they primarily provide consultations on various social protection services. For example, they advise how to contact the early assistance service if developmental peculiarities are detected,” Sergei Sobyanin noted.

Despite typical situations, each case of helping patients is unique. Over the years of work, social coordinators have accumulated many successful stories.

Stories of Help

Thus, an elderly patient Antonina Ivanovna was admitted to the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care. Due to poor health, she did not have time to inform her relatives that she was hospitalized, and she did not have a mobile phone. And the woman did not take the necessary things with her. Social coordinators immediately came to the rescue: they connected her with her beloved grandson. The news that his grandmother was in the hospital took him by surprise, but the young man immediately said that he would bring everything necessary and would definitely visit Antonina Ivanovna. Now she is at home, and her relatives regularly come to visit.

A patient named Valeria was admitted to the shock resuscitation department unconscious. She had been in a coma for a long time. When Valeria came to, the doctors asked social coordinators for help: they needed to establish her identity and find her relatives. At that time, the girl could not speak. The coordinators selected simple words and short questions, used letters of the alphabet, city maps, and caught her every move. In this way, they managed to find out the patient’s name and date of birth. After that, the coordinators began studying social networks, involved the police and the LizaAlert squad in the search. A week later, they found Valeria’s father, who had already lost hope of finding out where his daughter was.

Tatyana Viktorovna came to the emergency room on her own. Doctors examined the elderly woman and, finding no reason for hospitalization, asked social coordinators to talk to her. During the conversation, it turned out that Tatyana Viktorovna had a passport, money, keys to the apartment and a train ticket from St. Petersburg. She assured that she had come to Moscow to see her children, but could not give either their address or phone numbers, and confused events and dates. Specialists came to the conclusion that the woman suffered from dementia. People with cognitive impairments often get lost. Social coordinators contacted the LizaAlert search service and with their help found Tatyana Viktorovna’s son, who, like her, lives in St. Petersburg. The man immediately went to Moscow to pick up his mother.

Young mother Olga was walking with her two-year-old son on the playground when she suddenly began to lose consciousness. The woman was taken to the hospital with her child, but she did not have time to tell anyone about it. While doctors were providing Olga with the necessary medical care, social coordinators looked after the baby and contacted the woman’s husband. He came to the hospital and took his son.

Help in alarming situations: social coordinators are now working in four more children’s city hospitals Attention and care: social coordinators have been helping patients in the capital’s hospitals for two years

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11867050/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: TomTom provides enhanced navigation to IVECO commercial vehicles
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- TomTom and IVECO renew their multi-year collaboration, with TomTom’s navigation, maps, and traffic data powering IVECO’s commercial vehicles
- Leveraging TomTom’s expertise, IVECO provides its customers with an enhanced navigation solution to make logistics safer and more efficient
AMSTERDAM, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TomTom (TOM2), the location technology specialist, has been selected by IVECO, a brand of Iveco Group and a market-leading manufacturer of light, medium, and heavy commercial vehicles, to power its navigation solution in vehicles globally.

IVECO’s new light commercial vehicle Daily, the electric eDaily, and heavy-duty S-Way truck will come equipped with TomTom’s full stack navigation, featuring maps, custom truck routing, real-time traffic information, and connected services. The solution is further enhanced with advanced connectivity, designed to maximize uptime and enable over-the-air updates, ensuring navigation updates, maintenance, and repair operations are efficient and convenient for drivers and operators. The result is a solution that improves routing accuracy, reduces travel times, and enhances the user experience.

“We’re excited to expand our collaboration with IVECO to develop new solutions that cater to the ever-evolving needs of fleet drivers and operators, and the logistics industry at large,” said Mike Schoofs, Chief Revenue Officer, TomTom. “By providing businesses with seamless access to up-to-date and precise location data, we enable enhanced navigation for fully electric, mixed, or gas-powered fleets to help optimize their activities.”

“At IVECO, we continually strive to enhance our service offering to provide complete mobility solutions that cater to our customers’ specific needs,” said Lorenzo Marangio, Head of Service Solutions, IVECO. “By leveraging TomTom’s industry-leading maps, navigation software, and traffic insights, we can offer an advanced navigation solution tailored to better optimize fleet deliveries, improve the driver experience, and increase our customer’s overall business productivity.”

About TomTom:

Billions of data points. Millions of sources. Thousands of communities.

We are the mapmaker bringing it all together to build the world’s smartest map. We provide location data and technology to drivers, carmakers, businesses and developers. Our application-ready maps, routing, real-time traffic, APIs and SDKs empower the dreamers and doers to move our world forward.

Headquartered in Amsterdam with 3,700 employees around the globe, TomTom has been shaping the future of mobility for over 30 years.

http://www.tomtom.com

For further information:

Media Relations

mediarelations@tomtom.com

Investor Relations

ir@tomtom.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2e5d7189-7035-4b6e-892b-d8502c756a35

The MIL Network –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
***************************************************************************

The Transport Department (TD) today (October 9) announced that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held on October 27 (Sunday) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. “A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html,” a department spokesman said. The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price. People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction should take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed. Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser. “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman added. For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.

Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 14:30

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: In September, the capital approved the implementation of three KRT projects

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Three integrated territorial development projects (ITD) are being implemented in the east, northeast and south of the capital. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

“In September, the implementation of three projects for the integrated development of territories on sites with a total area of over nine hectares was approved. They plan to build 229 thousand square meters of various real estate. Investments in the projects are estimated at 51.9 billion rubles, and the annual budget effect is 1.1 billion rubles. As a result, over 2.6 thousand jobs will be created,” said Vladimir Efimov.

The site in the Ivanovskoye district will be put up for auction. The owner of the rights will be engaged in the reorganization of the site in Nagatino-Sadovniki, and the operator KRT has been appointed for the redevelopment of the territory in the Sviblovo and Rostokino districts. The project implementation periods vary from four to five years.

“According to the projects for the integrated development of territories approved in September, residential and business quarters will be built on inefficiently used sites. In total, 122.8 thousand square meters of modern housing will appear there, including for participants in the renovation program, as well as 106 thousand square meters of public and business real estate, including an ambulance substation, a sports and fitness center and hotels,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

Maxim Gaman.

According to the program of integrated development of territories, multifunctional city quarters are created, where roads, comfortable housing and all necessary infrastructure are designed on the site of former industrial zones and inefficiently used areas. Currently, 236 KRT projects with a total area of more than 3.1 thousand hectares are at various stages of implementation in Moscow. Their development is being carried out on the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144996073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: “Time of Kindness. Autumn”: more than 5.2 thousand volunteers participated in the project’s events

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The volunteer project “Time of Good” helps Muscovites to do hundreds of important good deeds during the week. In the fall, it united about 100 organizations, including non-profit, charitable foundations, social institutions, schools, secondary specialized educational institutions and universities. The program consisted of events of different themes and formats, so that everyone could find a suitable direction for themselves.

“More than 5.2 thousand Muscovites took part in the autumn season of the “Time of Goodness” project. Together with our partners, we showed city residents various opportunities for regular volunteer assistance in the funds and social organizations of the capital. In the variety of useful events, everyone will find a direction that will become a calling and a great good deed throughout their lives,” noted

Ekaterina Dragunova, Chairman of the Committee for Public Relations and Youth Policy of the City of Moscow.

This year the project “Time of Goodness” is held in the capital four times, by season. The next week of good deeds will be in winter.

Master classes, gifts for children and assistance to SVO fighters: how the autumn season of the “Time of Goodness” project will go More than four thousand Muscovites took part in the summer season of the project “Time of Goodness”Sobyanin invited residents and guests of the capital to the volunteer project “Time of Goodness”

Sports, ecology and animals: volunteer actions of the project “Time of Kindness”

“Mosvolonter” together with the “Pyat Verst” project opened the useful program of the autumn season with morning runs in 25 parks. More than 400 volunteers helped organize the starts, and more than 780 participants covered the distance. The most numerous was the run in the “Severnoye Tushino” park.

During the inclusive training, volunteers helped athletes with disabilities, wards of the More Than You Can Foundation, perform exercises to strengthen their muscle corset and improve their motor skills.

With the support of the animal aid foundation “Giving Hope”, volunteers visited the Solnechnogorsk shelter. Each of them managed to communicate with three four-legged animals, for whom they brought special walking bibs with the inscription “Looking for a home. Volunteers of Moscow”.

In the Sborka eco-center and the recycling museum, volunteers were told about the peculiarities of recycling fractions of secondary raw materials. After that, they applied their knowledge in practice and helped sort plastic caps, pens, and felt-tip pens. In the Dobroe Mesto. SAO, volunteer ecologists made feeders for birds that will fly to the capital in winter. And in Druzhby Park, volunteers removed 450 kilograms of garbage.

During the clean-up day at the Bykovo estate, Muscovites helped to tidy up more than two thousand square meters of territory. In the Kotelniki cultural complex and the A.S. Neverov library No. 90, volunteers participated in sorting out the library archive.

Capital funds and NGOs invite Muscovites to charity runs Friendship Paw: Muscovites are invited to help the wards of animal shelters A cat museum, a dog shelter and an ornithological station: where the capital’s zoo volunteers visited during their internship in Zelenogradsk

Help together with the wards of foundations and social institutions

Together with partners of the social direction, Mosvolonter held master classes, creative activities and games. Children with disabilities from the boarding house and volunteers learned various drawing techniques and together created two colorful panels. “Silver” volunteer masters helped the participants of the lesson master the technique of knitting therapeutic products for premature babies, which were donated to the departments of perinatal centers of the capital.

The wards of the MnogoMama help center and volunteers competed in a board game tournament. It was held by ambassadors of the Volunteers of Moscow community.

Volunteers made clay figures for the wards of the foundation for helping people with mental disabilities and their families “Unity”. The participants made their own products, which they sell at charity fairs.

In the social house “Obruchevsky” volunteers together with its residents painted T-shirts and made crafts from epoxy resin. And in the center for assistance to family education “Vertical” – helped children weave decorative baskets from jute rope.

For the first time in the autumn season, volunteers tried their creative powers in making a popular puzzle “Fifteen” in a new version. The children made puzzles from pictures cut into 15 parts. Students from the family center “Consent” made fifteen puzzles that will be sent to the teenage club “Territory of the New Generation” in the city of Mariupol. And the children from school No. 1542 created works with images of their favorite animals, they will be donated to a charity fund.

Together with the social project

At the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center, students from four art schools and colleges, under the guidance of experienced artists, created 102 paintings on canvas. They were donated to the children’s city clinical hospitals No. 9 named after G.N. Speransky and Morozovskaya.

Kindness unites: why Muscovites participate in the volunteer movement with their entire families Caring for “sunny” people: how charities help wards with Down syndrome Optimism and responsibility: what the capital’s “silver” volunteers do

Events for rescuers and volunteers of patriotic orientation

Volunteer rescuers from the Moscow City Branch of the All-Russian Student Rescue Corps taught Muscovites how to use special mountaineering equipment.

Together with the Moscow regional branch of the All-Russian public movement “Volunteers of Victory”, volunteers participated in a patronage campaign to care for monuments, memorial plaques and burial sites of participants in the Great Patriotic War, heroes of the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation. In addition, volunteers learned to weave multifunctional nets to camouflage structures. They will be given to soldiers in the special military operation zone.

“Memory Watch”, “Streets of Heroes” and the Victory Parade: How Patriotic Volunteers Help Moscow How to become a health volunteer and help the city Sergei Sobyanin spoke about the development of the volunteer movement in Moscow

Good week in schools

Employees of the volunteer centers “Good Place” and ambassadors of the community “Volunteers of Moscow” held useful events in schools.

Young volunteers learned about directions and functions at city events and practiced teamwork thanks to the board game “Volunteers in the City”. It was attended by 1,605 students from 37 schools.

The schoolchildren also tried their hand at making soft toys and made fabric items, eco-friendly wax candles, and feeders made of orange peels, which will be useful for city birds in winter. The master classes were attended by 419 children from 20 capital schools. All items will be donated to charity funds.

Time for Good Deeds: You Can Become a Volunteer at Any Age Under the Sign of Good: How Young Muscovites Are Getting Involved in Charity

“Time for Kindness” in the “Good Place” centers

Visitors to the volunteer centers “Good Place” took part in the campaigns “Feed a Friend”, “Recycle Correctly”, “Help People” and “For the Little and Brave”, which were held simultaneously in eight districts of the capital.

Muscovites brought more than 180 kilograms of food and accessories, medicines and toys for animals – all of this will be sent to Belgorod shelters. In addition, volunteers donated 440 kilograms of waste paper, plastic and bottle caps.

Children’s toys and developmental sets were collected for the small and brave patients of the capital’s hospitals. The action boxes were also installed in the city’s parks at the time when the morning run was held there on the first day of the useful program, as a result of which the participants collected more than 150 toys.

Media volunteers helped preserve the memory of the brightest and most touching moments at the volunteer events of the useful program. They captured warm memories of the project in more than 2.5 thousand videos and photos.

You can find out more about volunteer activities and assistance to the city on the website resource center “Mosvolonter”“, as well as on the social network “VKontakte” and in telegram channel.

Organizing volunteer activities and involving young people in city events correspond to the objectives of the national project “Education” and the federal project “Social Activity”. More information about this and other national projects implemented in the capital can be found Here.

Recruitment is open for Mosvolonter internships in the areas of zoo- and inclusive volunteering Sergei Sobyanin: More than 1.27 million Muscovites are involved in volunteer work 30 active residents of the capital were awarded the “Volunteer of Moscow” badge of distinction

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145006073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: In the center of science: 12 thematic festivals have been prepared for the capital’s schoolchildren

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

This autumn, city science festivals for students in grades 7–11 will be held at Moscow schools as part of the “In the Center of Science” project. Schoolchildren will communicate with young scientists and employees of leading Russian universities and companies, and will also try to conduct research under the guidance of experienced mentors. This was reported by Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development.

“Moscow education opens up endless horizons of opportunities for Moscow schoolchildren, allowing them to find themselves and discover their talents at a young age. This academic year, schools will host 12 scientific festivals, which will become a powerful catalyst for passion for science and research. The prepared programs cover four key areas: engineering, natural science, social science and humanitarian science, and information technology,” noted Anastasia Rakova.

According to her, during the festivals, schoolchildren will take part in popular science lectures, master classes and discussions. This will create a unique atmosphere for exchanging knowledge and ideas. Games and competitions will add dynamism and interest, attracting more than four thousand participants.

Moscow education is not only an educational process, but also an inspiration for future scientists, researchers and innovators. Such events allow students to confidently step into the world of science and new achievements, added Anastasia Rakova.

Schoolchildren interested in engineering will take part in lectures on radiation, the connection between music and mathematics, preparing astronauts for flight, and will be able to try their hand at conducting physical experiments, creating complex electrical circuits, and working with large volumes of data. Those who chose the natural sciences will attend lectures on chemistry, biology, and ecology, and will also take part in master classes on the basics of perfumery.

Participants in the social and humanitarian track will immerse themselves in linguistics, journalism, literature, economics and attend classes on methods of sociological research, features of translating foreign films. Schoolchildren will discuss the phenomenon of quality journalism with their mentors, and participation in workshops will help them acquire skills in writing original texts.

Young programmers will attend lectures on big data in a metropolis, reliable encryption of information and metrics for assessing the quality of model performance. For schoolchildren interested in digital technologies, there will be a career guidance class and lectures from experts. The knowledge gained can be applied in master classes on creating a computer game and a voice assistant, practical training in robotics and financial security.

The festivals will last until December. To participate, you need to choose a convenient venue and date, and also register on the website of the project “In the Center of Science”. Besides, on the page on the social network VKontakte An online broadcast of the main lectures will be available.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144992073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Rushing or delaying decisions is linked to anxiety and depression in young people – study
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Eugene Lee Davids, Associate Professor, University of Pretoria

Each day we make thousands of decisions, starting with what to have for breakfast and what to wear. We make so many decisions that we don’t keep count.

But it’s important to understand the way we make choices. This is because the approach we take can influence our mental health.

Over the last eight years, I’ve been researching how young people (15-25) make decisions – especially decisions that have an impact on their mental health. Mental health is a major health and social concern, shaping the lives of young people globally.

In a recent study, I looked at whether decision-making styles contribute to anxiety and depression among young adults in South Africa.

One style of making decisions is to evaluate all the possible options and choose the one that would lead to the best outcome. This is called vigilant decision-making.

The second approach is to make “rushed” decisions, or to put off making a decision.

I found that vigilant decision makers typically had lower anxiety and depression symptoms. Young adults who put off or rushed their decisions had more anxiety and depression symptoms.

In the total study group, 37.3% were at risk of a diagnosis for major depressive disorder and 74.2% were at risk for anxiety disorder. These risks were high because rushed or delayed decision makers made up a big share of the total group.

Understanding the impact of decision-making on mental health helps us recognise whether our choices support or undermine emotional well-being.

High stress levels

My research study included 1,411 young South Africans from eight of the country’s nine provinces. They each completed an online questionnaire which measured how they made decisions together with their levels of anxiety and depression symptoms. The types of questions asked included how they would rate statements such as “I like to consider all the alternatives” or “I put off making decisions”.

The young people in the study were in a stage of development called “emerging adulthood” – between the ages of 18 and 29. Young people in this age group experience high levels of stress and uncertainty, often because of their changing role in society. They are deciding which career path to follow or taking on more adult-like roles.

Participants in the study were at a stage of life when they could easily develop a disorder. Many mental health disorders start to develop by the age of 15. But it is estimated that by age 25 close to 63%-75% of mental health disorders would be present.

When a person has to make a decision, time plays a big role. It can influence whether the person uses a vigilant style or a rushed approach. And that approach, in turn, can reduce or create anxiety.

For example, if a young person needs to decide what contraceptive to use, and they have the time do a thorough search of all the possible contraceptive options and are optimistic about finding the best one, they can arrive at a decision which will be the best for them. The young person is able to evaluate all the possible options without any stress or concern about time.

But when a concern about time arises and it results in a more rushed decision, or when a decision is delayed for a later stage because of the pressure, it is likely to lead to an increase in anxiety and depression symptoms. The decision of what degree to pursue at university, while the deadline for applying is looming, is an example.

In the study, an advanced statistical analysis technique was used to look at the links between styles of decision-making and anxiety and depression symptoms. Using this analysis technique I was able to predict which of the styles of decision-making were linked with the anxiety and depression symptoms among the young people in the study.

Steps to take when making decisions

Having time on your side often allows for better choices. So it’s worth looking at some useful steps when making decisions:
1. Identify the problem or situation clearly.
2. Brainstorm all the possible solutions or options available.
3. Research the pros and cons of each solution or option.
4. Determine which of the solutions or options would result in the best outcome for you, based on the problem or situation.
5. Then, if you are still uncertain, you could consult someone you trust and who has made good decisions previously.
These five steps are similar to the vigilant decision-making style.

Looking forward

Globally, there is a gap in our understanding of mental health among young people. Studying how they make decisions allows researchers to better understand how their choices shape their mental health. It’s then possible to develop programmes that support decision-making that leads to positive mental health outcomes.

It’s even more important today, when big trends such as the impact of climate change and the (unsafe) digital world are affecting mental health.

– Rushing or delaying decisions is linked to anxiety and depression in young people – study
– https://theconversation.com/rushing-or-delaying-decisions-is-linked-to-anxiety-and-depression-in-young-people-study-237516

MIL OSI Africa –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Rushing or delaying decisions is linked to anxiety and depression in young people – study
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Eugene Lee Davids, Associate Professor, University of Pretoria

Each day we make thousands of decisions, starting with what to have for breakfast and what to wear. We make so many decisions that we don’t keep count.

But it’s important to understand the way we make choices. This is because the approach we take can influence our mental health.

Over the last eight years, I’ve been researching how young people (15-25) make decisions – especially decisions that have an impact on their mental health. Mental health is a major health and social concern, shaping the lives of young people globally.

In a recent study, I looked at whether decision-making styles contribute to anxiety and depression among young adults in South Africa.

One style of making decisions is to evaluate all the possible options and choose the one that would lead to the best outcome. This is called vigilant decision-making.

The second approach is to make “rushed” decisions, or to put off making a decision.

I found that vigilant decision makers typically had lower anxiety and depression symptoms. Young adults who put off or rushed their decisions had more anxiety and depression symptoms.

In the total study group, 37.3% were at risk of a diagnosis for major depressive disorder and 74.2% were at risk for anxiety disorder. These risks were high because rushed or delayed decision makers made up a big share of the total group.

Understanding the impact of decision-making on mental health helps us recognise whether our choices support or undermine emotional well-being.

High stress levels

My research study included 1,411 young South Africans from eight of the country’s nine provinces. They each completed an online questionnaire which measured how they made decisions together with their levels of anxiety and depression symptoms. The types of questions asked included how they would rate statements such as “I like to consider all the alternatives” or “I put off making decisions”.

The young people in the study were in a stage of development called “emerging adulthood” – between the ages of 18 and 29. Young people in this age group experience high levels of stress and uncertainty, often because of their changing role in society. They are deciding which career path to follow or taking on more adult-like roles.

Participants in the study were at a stage of life when they could easily develop a disorder. Many mental health disorders start to develop by the age of 15. But it is estimated that by age 25 close to 63%-75% of mental health disorders would be present.

When a person has to make a decision, time plays a big role. It can influence whether the person uses a vigilant style or a rushed approach. And that approach, in turn, can reduce or create anxiety.

For example, if a young person needs to decide what contraceptive to use, and they have the time do a thorough search of all the possible contraceptive options and are optimistic about finding the best one, they can arrive at a decision which will be the best for them. The young person is able to evaluate all the possible options without any stress or concern about time.

But when a concern about time arises and it results in a more rushed decision, or when a decision is delayed for a later stage because of the pressure, it is likely to lead to an increase in anxiety and depression symptoms. The decision of what degree to pursue at university, while the deadline for applying is looming, is an example.

In the study, an advanced statistical analysis technique was used to look at the links between styles of decision-making and anxiety and depression symptoms. Using this analysis technique I was able to predict which of the styles of decision-making were linked with the anxiety and depression symptoms among the young people in the study.

Steps to take when making decisions

Having time on your side often allows for better choices. So it’s worth looking at some useful steps when making decisions:
1. Identify the problem or situation clearly.
2. Brainstorm all the possible solutions or options available.
3. Research the pros and cons of each solution or option.
4. Determine which of the solutions or options would result in the best outcome for you, based on the problem or situation.
5. Then, if you are still uncertain, you could consult someone you trust and who has made good decisions previously.
These five steps are similar to the vigilant decision-making style.

Looking forward

Globally, there is a gap in our understanding of mental health among young people. Studying how they make decisions allows researchers to better understand how their choices shape their mental health. It’s then possible to develop programmes that support decision-making that leads to positive mental health outcomes.

It’s even more important today, when big trends such as the impact of climate change and the (unsafe) digital world are affecting mental health.

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

– ref. Rushing or delaying decisions is linked to anxiety and depression in young people – study – https://theconversation.com/rushing-or-delaying-decisions-is-linked-to-anxiety-and-depression-in-young-people-study-237516
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Six Ivolga trains purchased for MCD-3 as part of infrastructure budget lending

MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

This year, the city purchased six Russian Ivolga trains for the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD), including the most modern three-door Ivolga 4.0 trains. Infrastructure budget loans were used for these purposes, Maria Bagreeva, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Head of the Moscow Department of Economic Policy and Development.

The infrastructure budget lending program is being implemented within the framework of the federal project “Infrastructure Menu”. Funds are provided for a period of up to 15 years at a preferential rate of three percent per annum. The program is aimed at financing the creation of infrastructure facilities in the regions.

“Loans are issued for important infrastructure development projects that help create conditions for business operations, improve the quality of life for citizens, and promote economic growth both in the regions and throughout the country. Moscow is using the opportunities of preferential infrastructure lending to upgrade the rolling stock of the Big Circle Line of the metro and the Moscow Central Diameters — the largest transport projects in the capital. Their implementation has increased the attractiveness of the city’s districts, contributed to the influx of investment into the Moscow economy, and created additional jobs,” said Maria Bagreeva.

The total volume of infrastructure loans approved for Moscow is 106.72 billion rubles. The 2022–2024 limits have already been fully used. These funds were used to purchase 26 trains for the Moscow Central Diameters and 468 carriages for the Big Circle Line of the metro.

“A modern and comfortable train is an important component of a comfortable trip. On the instructions of Sergei Sobyanin, we continue to gradually update the rolling stock on new diameters. From Zelenograd to Ramenskoye on MCD-3, only Ivolga trains are already running, we will fully complete the renewal of the train fleet on this diameter by the end of the year, and on MCD-4 we plan to do so in 2025,” said Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry

Maxim Liksutov.

Moscow is the country’s largest customer of trains. Concluding long-term contracts for the supply of modern rolling stock allows machine builders to plan work for several years ahead.

About 50 thousand employees of 600 enterprises across the country are involved in the production of Ivolga 4.0. This composition is a domestic flagship, the localization level of which has reached 97 percent.

The new generation train “Ivolga 4.0” has entered service on the MCD line – Sobyanin

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/144991073/

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 4 of 4]

Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

Issued by: on

SINGAPORE (October 3, 2024) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC), left, presents a Flag Letter of Commendation (FLOC) to Yeoman 2nd Class Jasilynn Lopez, temporarily assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation (SNI), Oct. 3, 2024. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

Date Taken: 10.02.2024

Date Posted: 10.09.2024 02:07

Photo ID: 8686908

VIRIN: 241003-N-ED646-1181

Resolution: 8256×5504

Size: 8.4 MB

Location: SG

Web Views: 1

Downloads: 0

PUBLIC DOMAIN

This work, COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 4 of 4], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

GALLERY

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 1 of 4]

Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

Issued by: on

SINGAPORE (October 3, 2024) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC), left, presents the award of the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal to Yeoman 1st Class Jamal Thompson, assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation (SNI), Oct. 3, 2024. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

Date Taken: 10.02.2024

Date Posted: 10.09.2024 02:07

Photo ID: 8686905

VIRIN: 241003-N-ED646-1126

Resolution: 7622×5081

Size: 6.63 MB

Location: SG

Web Views: 1

Downloads: 0

PUBLIC DOMAIN

This work, COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 4 of 4], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

GALLERY

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Paid Family and Domestic Violence leave helping workers cope in crisis

Source: Australian Ministers for Social Services

9 October 2024

Joint with:

Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher
Minister for Women
Senator for the Australian Capital Territory

The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
Minister for Social Services
Member for Kingston

Senator the Hon Murray Watt
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations
Senator for Queensland

An independent statutory review of the Albanese Government’s paid family and domestic violence leave has found the program is succeeding in supporting the financial security of those escaping or experiencing violence.

The Government has today tabled the review of the Fair Work Amendment (Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave) Act 2022 in the Parliament. This was the first of several pieces of legislation passed by the Albanese Government to increase the wages and conditions of working Australians.

Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave entitles all employees experiencing family and domestic violence to 10 days of paid leave each year. This includes full-time, part-time and casual employees.

The review found that of the workers who had taken paid family and domestic violence leave, 91 per cent surveyed said it helped them maintain their income, and 89 per cent said it helped them to retain their employment.

The reform particularly supports women, who are overrepresented as victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.

The 2021-22 Personal Safety Survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that 1 in 4 women in Australia have experienced violence by an intimate partner, compared to 1 in 14 men.

The review, conducted by Flinders University, found the legislation was “life changing” for those who accessed it and that there was broad stakeholder support from both employers and unions.

A total of 12 findings and five recommendations resulted from the review. The most notable, was there should be a focus on increasing awareness and understanding of the leave entitlement through communities and workplaces.

Flinders University found that further work is needed to ensure all employers and employees are aware of the entitlement to family and domestic violence leave.

It also found that ongoing stigma around family and domestic violence was a barrier to workers accessing the leave.

The Albanese Government will now carefully consider the review’s final report and recommendations, as part of our ongoing work to deliver secure jobs, better pay and safer workplaces for all Australians.

The full report can be viewed here.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher:

“Australian women experience unfathomably high rates of domestic, family and sexual violence, and this is something the Albanese Government is determined to change.”

“We legislated 10 days of paid family and domestic violence leave because no one should have to choose between their job and their safety.

“We want to ensure that women are not trapped in a violent relationship because they can’t afford to leave.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth:

“No one should ever be put in a situation where they must choose their financial security or their safety.”

“We know the experiences of those who are escaping or experiencing family and domestic violence can be absolutely crippling. Legislating paid leave for those in the midst of violence, undoubtedly has saved lives.

“Along with states and territories, our Government is committed to ending violence against women and children within a generation. It’s something I as Minister have worked on every day since coming to Government.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Murray Watt:

“The review has shown that the legislation is acting as intended – ensuring workers do not have to choose between their safety and their pay cheque.”

“Financial independence is critical in helping women to leave or respond to violence, and this entitlement saves lives, plain and simple.

“This leave entitlement is one of a number of measures taken by the Albanese Government to ensure Australians have secure jobs, better pay and safer workplaces.”

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: Australia’s TPG Telecom Taps Mavenir to Boost Voice Security For Mobile Users and Block AI-Driven Scam Calls

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RICHARDSON, Texas, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mavenir, the Network Software Provider building the future of networks with cloud-native solutions that run on any cloud, today announces that its advanced machine learning (ML) technology is being used by TPG Telecom to protect mobile users from the increasing scourge of AI-driven scam and spam voice calls – resulting in a 280 per cent increase in the number of fraudulent calls being blocked before they reach TPG Telecom customers’ mobile phones.

The Australian telco is already benefiting from Mavenir’s intelligent SpamShield technology protection for SMS messaging for several years. Mavenir is now supplying its robust, real-time CallShield solution –to protect TPG Telecom’s customers across its Vodafone, TPG, iiNet and felix brands from the nuisance and threat of automated and deepfake voice calls initiated by fraudsters.

In the first six months of this year, Mavenir’s CallShield technology has blocked almost 19 million fraudulent mobile calls from reaching TPG Telecom’s customers. This equates to blocking 103,000 illicit calls from reaching customers per day, and more than triple the 4.9 million calls blocked in the first half of 2023. This represents some of the highest scam and spam call prevention figures in the industry.

TPG Telecom also uses Mavenir’s SpamShield platform to stop fraudulent SMS from reaching its mobile users. In the first six months of 2024, Mavenir’s technology blocked more than 59.6 million fraudulent text messages from reaching TPG Telecom’s customers.

Communication Service Providers (CSPs) globally are facing a constantly evolving flow of unsolicited spam and fraud traffic – across both data and voice services – which is increasingly driven by sophisticated AI techniques, making it very difficult to detect and control. In addition to creating a poor experience for users and significant revenue losses for operators, a 2022 report by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission highlighted that phone scams cost Australians a concerning A$141 million in losses. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the regulator of the country’s telecommunications system, is spearheading industry action to crack down on spam and scam calls and ensure that consumers are adequately protected – enforcing regulatory compliance from operators and supporting the roll-out of effective security solutions from technology vendors. Mavenir’s CallShield solution uses real-time machine learning technology to carry out automated security analysis and proactive defense across voice services – helping operators to stay one step ahead of the scammers. The CallShield solution provides CSPs with 360-degree control to effectively address specific situations within their networks with unrivalled speed and flexibility. While traditional detection and prevention techniques are based on deterministic rules that can be easily detected and bypassed, CallShield’s ML detection algorithms with built-in intelligence adapt to current network conditions and subscriber behavior to continually detect and block attempted activity from spammers and fraudster.

TPG Telecom Chief Technology Officer Giovanni Chiarelli said: “Our business is built on the trust of our customers. We are committed to embracing new technologies that provide the best possible protection against the nuisance and threat of malicious harm posed by these spammers and scammers. We are pleased Mavenir’s CallShield technology is providing real-time, automated security analysis and effective security for customers across our voice services.”

Jan Schaar, Asia Pacific Regional Vice President for Mavenir, added: “The speed and sophistication of the techniques being employed by scammers and fraudsters means that a reactive security approach based on purely “reporting” spam is no longer enough. To offer mobile users the assurance and peace of mind they need today, we need to work harder and smarter, and remain one step ahead at all times – continuously learning from and anticipating the scammers’ next move. Our SpamShield platform, with its powerful ML-driven engine, is already delivering state-of-the-art, proactive security and protection across TPG’s messaging services. We are happy to now be extending the solution span by providing our robust CallShield technology – ensuring that TPG’s mobile customers can now enjoy the same superior protection from nuisance and malicious threats that arrive in the form of unwanted voice calls.”

Notes to editor:

TPG official Press Release – TPG Telecom stops spams and scams from reaching customers with new call blocker

CallShield – Mavenir

SpamShield / Messaging Fraud – Mavenir

About TPG Telecom

TPG Telecom is an Australian telecommunications company which is home to some of Australia’s most-loved telecommunications brands including Vodafone, TPG, iiNet, AAPT, Internode, Lebara and felix. As the second largest telecommunications company listed on the ASX, TPG Telecom has a strong challenger spirit and a commitment to delivering the best services and products to its customers. http://www.tpgtelecom.com.au.

TPG Telecom PR Contact:
media@tpgtelecom.com.au

About Mavenir:

Mavenir is building the future of networks today with cloud-native, AI-enabled solutions which are green by design, empowering operators to realize the benefits of 5G and achieve intelligent, automated, programmable networks. As the pioneer of Open RAN and a proven industry disruptor, Mavenir’s award-winning solutions are delivering automation and monetization across mobile networks globally, accelerating software network transformation for 300+ Communications Service Providers in over 120 countries, which serve more than 50% of the world’s subscribers. For more information, please visit http://www.mavenir.com

Mavenir PR Contacts:
Emmanuela Spiteri
PR@mavenir.com

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK’s world-class film sector handed major jobs and growth boost by tax reliefs
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Film and the creative industries to form key part of government’s mission to grow the economy in all parts of the UK
Independent film productions costing up to £15 million to benefit from an increased tax relief of 53%

Move will empower UK filmmakers to create more independent films and co-produce with other countries

The next generation of indie films have been handed a major boost by the government with the introduction of a tax relief uplift, which will create jobs and drive growth by making more British hits like Aftersun and Billy Elliot possible.

The Independent Film Tax Credit (IFTC), confirmed today by the Chancellor and Culture Secretary as the London Film Festival gets underway, will mean that for the first time productions with a budget up to £15 million will be eligible for a relief of 53% on qualifying expenditure. Films with a budget up to £23.5 million are also eligible for the IFTC and the relief will be tapered.

The creative industries are a key part of the economy, generating £125 billion a year, and form a central part of the Government’s mission to grow the economy. The UK film sector is already worth £1.36 billion and employs more than 195,000 people, with the potential to grow further thanks to these reliefs.

British indie films like Rye Lane, Rocks, Bait and Pride tell award-winning stories about our country, celebrating parts of our culture that often get less exposure. This relief will allow more stories like these to be told, enabling more people to see their lives and experiences reflected on screen.

To support the Government’s commitment on more distinctly home-grown content and talent, for films to meet the criteria for this new relief, they must have a UK writer or director, or be certified as an official UK co-production.

The announcement comes ahead of the government’s International Investment Summit next Monday which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to discuss how we can deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth, including in the creative industries.

The new measures are the latest in a series of interventions from the government to drive growth, which is creating the conditions for confident investment and trusted partnership with business. From major investment in carbon capture to securing billions in investment from Blackstone and Amazon Web Services, this government is committed to working hand in hand with business to drive growth and investment across many sectors.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:

The UK’s first-class independent filmmakers have a track record of creating cult classics and surprise hits that are enjoyed by millions. Their films showcase British culture and creativity to the world while also supporting thousands of jobs and driving economic growth in all parts of the UK.

These reliefs will pay dividends both culturally and economically, inspire the next generation of talent across the country, deliver more great British content, and sustain a world-leading industry here in the UK.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:

The creative industries are a crucial part of our economy, and this change will help strengthen them further.

By supporting growth in this vibrant sector, we can create jobs and continue to show Britain at its best around the world.

Faye Ward, producer, Rocks, Suffragette, Stan & Ollie, Wild Rose, said:

We have a tremendous history of filmmaking and talent in Britain. The indie sector is the main pathway for new and original voices and talent to enter into the industry. It’s imperative that we continue telling and making UK stories for which this enhanced tax relief is vital for our industry.

Amy Jackson, producer of Oscar-nominated Aftersun, The Outfit and The End We Start From, said:

This is a vital intervention for the UK industry, which I wholeheartedly welcome. Making British indie films is tough, but this enhanced tax relief means that as a producer I now have crucial support to explicitly focus on bringing incredible stories by British talent to the big screen while building out exciting co-production opportunities. The IFTC will make UK indie film a more attractive investment prospect for international partners and co-producers facilitating more creative collaboration and bringing much needed backing to the independent sector across the board.

BFI Chair Jay Hunt said:

The speed with which the Government has turned this around shows how vital this intervention is for independent film. It will have a game changing impact across the whole UK screen sector – creatively and economically.

Ben Roberts, BFI Chief Executive, said:

This is great news for UK film and is already having a positive impact across our industry. More films can now be made in the UK that audiences at home and internationally will get to enjoy. Independent filmmaking is vital to our cultural expression and creativity, it builds careers for talent in front of and behind the camera, and also showcases UK creative excellence on a world stage. We’re grateful to Government, the DCMS and the industry for working together to establish this transformative tax relief uplift where it is most needed.

Andrew M Smith, Corporate Affairs Director, Pinewood Group, said:

Pinewood is synonymous with great filmmakers of the past and present and independent film has been at our heart since the Studios opened in 1936. This tax relief is fantastic news for the industry as a whole and will bring an injection of support to further nurture the groundbreaking talent of the future and bring a greater diversity and range of stories to our screens.

Elizabeth Karlsen, producer, Living, Carol, Colette and The Crying Game, said:

Based on three decades working in independent film in the UK I can say with absolute confidence that this new support for British independent film will be felt far and wide; it will help us nurture new talent, support established talent, and ensure our global reputation for producing outstanding cinema. The creative and economic benefits will be felt through the industry and beyond.”

Hakan Kousetta, executive producer, Slow Horses, Hijack and The Essex Serpent, said:

Delighted to welcome this vital support for the British independent sector. A thriving independent film sector is a key part of the industry’s ecology. It’s where myself and many others started our careers and is essential if we are to continue to produce some of the world’s best screen talent both behind and in front of the camera.”

While the last few years have been challenging, in part because of the end of the pandemic streaming boom and US writers’ strikes halting productions, in recent decades the UK’s film industry has enjoyed strong growth. Tax incentives for film, first introduced in 2007, helped to bring the production of blockbusters to Britain, but the government is ambitious that it can grow further.

While major film production has flourished, smaller independent films have not received sufficient support. The tax credits uplift announced today will help the independent film sector reach its full potential, creating jobs and contributing to driving economic growth across the country.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Productions qualifying for the relief must have started principal photography on or after 1 April 2024, and only expenditure incurred on or after 1 April 2024 can be claimed.

The statutory instruments will be laid on 9 October and will take effect from 30 October, which is the date from which the BFI certification unit can begin accepting applications.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 9 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025

Date Taken:	10.02.2024
Date Posted:	10.09.2024 02:07
Photo ID:	8686908
VIRIN:	241003-N-ED646-1181
Resolution:	8256×5504
Size:	8.4 MB
Location:	SG

Web Views:	1
Downloads:	0

Web Views:	1
Downloads:	0

Category: Transport

From emergency care to bone marrow transplants

Laparoscopes, surgical robots and neuronavigators

A place where medical work is inseparable from scientific work

Quotes attributed to Laura Purcell, Contestable Grants Manager, NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

How can elephants be a problem?

The scent defence

A proof of concept

Scaling up

In the center of gastronomic pleasure

Lavender Cocoa and Pumpkin Raf

What’s in the new laws?

A long-overdue step

Broader implications

Stories of Help

Sports, ecology and animals: volunteer actions of the project “Time of Kindness”

Help together with the wards of foundations and social institutions

Events for rescuers and volunteers of patriotic orientation

Good week in schools

“Time for Kindness” in the “Good Place” centers

High stress levels

Steps to take when making decisions

Looking forward

High stress levels

Steps to take when making decisions

Looking forward

PUBLIC DOMAIN

GALLERY

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024

PUBLIC DOMAIN

GALLERY

MORE LIKE THIS

CONTROLLED VOCABULARY KEYWORDS

TAGS

Flag Asset

COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher:

Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth:

Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Murray Watt:

Share this page

Updates to this page