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Category: Transport

  • Cabinet approves ₹2,000 crore grant to NCDC; Amit Shah thanks PM Modi for strengthening cooperative sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on Thursday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Cabinet approved a grant assistance of ₹2,000 crore to the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for the next four years.

    The grant will be disbursed at ₹500 crore per year, with the objective of boosting the cooperative sector, particularly in rural areas. Shah highlighted the move as a step forward in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’ (Prosperity through Cooperation).

    “In line with PM Modi ji’s mantra of ‘Sahkar Se Samriddhi’, the NCDC is playing a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy. This financial support will help cooperatives launch new projects, expand existing infrastructure, and offer loans, thereby benefiting crores of members,” Shah said in a post on X. He added that the initiative would empower women to become self-reliant and generate employment opportunities for the youth.

    In another post, the Home Minister also welcomed the Cabinet’s decision to approve an expenditure of ₹6,520 crore under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana’ (PMKSY), including an additional allocation of ₹1,920 crore. As part of the scheme, 50 multi-product food irradiation units and 100 food testing laboratories will be set up across the country. Shah stated that these facilities will aid in food preservation, ensure better safety and quality standards, and help farmers fetch higher prices for their produce.

    Further, Shah lauded the Cabinet’s approval of four railway multi-tracking projects covering 13 districts in six states from the eastern, central, and western regions. These projects, with a total outlay of ₹11,169 crore, will add 574 km to the country’s railway network. According to the minister, this will not only improve connectivity but also boost trade and industry, while opening up fresh avenues for employment.

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Environmental Justice Caucus Co-Chairs Markey, Duckworth, Booker Slam Trump Administration Plan to Eliminate EPA’s Ability to Protect Public Health from Climate Change

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.)—co-chairs of the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus—issued the following statement after Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin announced his proposal to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding, a landmark determination that requires the EPA to address greenhouse gas emissions and pollution because of the threat that climate change poses to public health and welfare. By rescinding the endangerment finding, the Trump administration will effectively declaw the EPA, giving big businesses a green light to pollute our air and devastate environmental justice communities.

    “Once again, the Trump administration is sacrificing our children’s future to protect polluters in the present. Trump and Zeldin are annihilating the key legal foundation that requires our government to act on climate change because it threatens the health of Americans—their repeal of the endangerment finding is ignorant, runs counter to scientific fact and will put lives at risk. Environmental justice communities are particularly threatened by this wrong-headed decision, since they are most exposed to climate impacts and have the fewest resources to protect themselves. The Trump administration must reverse this decision—it flies in the face of science, the law, and our moral responsibility to protect our future.”

    As co-chairs of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, Markey, Duckworth, and Booker have long pushed to strengthen and defend environmental justice efforts across the country. Earlier this month, the three condemned Republicans’ cuts to environmental justice grants that were included in Donald Trump’s Big, Beautiful Betrayal. Earlier this week, Markey held a press conference outside EPA headquarters to rail against the Trump administration’s plans to rescind the endangerment finding. In March, Duckworth and Booker condemned the Trump administration for shutting down all of EPA’s environmental justice offices and slashing over 30 EPA regulations that have helped protect our nation’s public health and the environment for decades.

    In February, Markey, Duckworth, and Booker—along with Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.)—urged EPA Administrator Zeldin to reopen the EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights (OEJECR), which Duckworth and Booker led the charge to create. Markey, Duckworth, and Booker also helped introduce legislation that would permanently codify the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) in response to Attorney General Bondi’s order eliminating all environmental justice efforts at the DOJ.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley.

    Just before 1.15pm on Friday 1 August, police were called to the intersection of Victor Harbor Road near Hindmarsh Tiers Road after reports of a two-car crash.

    Northbound traffic on Victor Harbor Road is being diverted at Hindmarsh Tiers Road and southbound traffic is diverted at Crows Nest Road.

    Please avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

    August 5, 2025
  • Mission Karmayogi crosses 1.26 crore users, expands digital training across govt

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mission Karmayogi, the central government’s ambitious civil services capacity-building programme, is witnessing robust nationwide adoption. As of July 21, over 1.26 crore govt officials across central and state levels have registered on the iGOT-Karmayogi digital learning platform.

    In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed that all ministries and departments of the central government have been fully integrated with the platform. The digital shift represents a transformative step in government training, moving away from conventional models to a more adaptive, role-based approach.

    The iGOT-Karmayogi portal provides customised training that aligns with the competency frameworks of individual departments. Of the total users, around 41 lakh are central government employees, while 85 lakh belong to various state services. The platform currently offers more than 3,000 live courses covering a range of functional, behavioural, and domain-specific competencies. Together, these courses have seen over 3.8 crore completions, reflecting the growing demand for continuous learning within public administration.

    Designed as a comprehensive digital learning ecosystem, iGOT-Karmayogi has been integrated with key training components such as induction sessions, mid-career programmes, and in-service development. It aims to equip civil servants with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to meet the evolving challenges of governance in the 21st century.

    To measure the initiative’s impact, the Department of Personnel and Training has introduced a Monitoring and Evaluation framework with clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track stakeholder performance and drive service delivery improvements.

    August 5, 2025
  • Nifty, Sensex open lower as new Trump tariffs take effect

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets opened lower on Friday, tracking weak global cues following the announcement of new tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The pharmaceutical sector bore the brunt, with the Nifty Pharma index falling 2.75 per cent.

    At 9:25 AM, the Nifty 50 was down 51 points or 0.21 per cent at 24,716, while the BSE Sensex had declined 179 points or 0.22 per cent, trading at 81,005.

    In the broader market, both the BSE MidCap and BSE SmallCap indices posted marginal gains of 0.05 per cent.

    Among sectoral indices, Nifty FMCG stood out as the sole gainer, rising 1.46 per cent. Meanwhile, Nifty IT slipped 0.80 per cent and Nifty Metal declined 0.99 per cent, in addition to sharp selling in pharma stocks.

    Within the Nifty 50 pack, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) was the top gainer, rising 4.45 per cent, followed by Tata Consumer Products, Hero MotoCorp, Maruti Suzuki, and Trent. On the losing side, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories led with a 1.41 per cent decline, followed by Cipla, ONGC, Larsen & Toubro, and Tata Steel.

    “Despite Nifty’s bounce yesterday, the index remains vulnerable unless it sustains a move above the 24,800 mark. A close above this level could potentially open the path toward 25,000. On the downside, immediate support lies at 24,600, followed by 24,500,” said Hardik Matalia, Derivatives Analyst at Choice Equity Broking.

    “As elevated volatility and conflicting technical signals prevail, traders are advised to follow a cautious ‘sell-on-rise’ approach, especially when using leverage. Book partial profits during rallies and maintain tight trailing stop-losses. Fresh long positions should only be considered if the Nifty sustains above 25,000,” he added.

    On July 31, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing revised “reciprocal” tariffs on several countries including Syria, Laos, South Africa, and Myanmar. The new tariff rates, ranging from 10 per cent to 41 per cent, are set to take effect from August 7.

    Strong earnings from U.S. tech giants Microsoft and Meta Platforms failed to lift Wall Street. The S&P 500 fell 0.37 per cent, marking its third straight day of losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.74 per cent, while the Nasdaq Composite remained flat with a marginal dip of 0.03 per cent.

    “In the near term, markets will be influenced by tariff-related developments. Since the implementation date is August 7, affected countries still have time to negotiate for revisions. Yesterday’s market behavior indicates that investors view the 25 per cent tariff as a short-term issue,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    Asian markets also opened weak. South Korea’s Kospi led the regional decline with a 2.94 per cent fall, followed by Japan’s Nikkei 225, which dropped 0.38 per cent. Shanghai Composite shed 0.10 per cent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index edged up 0.13 per cent.

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) extended their selling streak for a ninth consecutive session, offloading equities worth ₹5,588 crore on July 31. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained net buyers for the 19th straight session, investing ₹6,372 crore.

    -IANS

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 55 drugs added to co-care plan

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The basic-tier drug list under the Chronic Disease Co-care Pilot Scheme has been expanded from 59 items to 114 items starting from today.

    The Health Bureau said the 55 additional drug items cover antidepressants and drugs for the management of chronic hepatitis B, osteoporosis and thyroid disorder. More items have also been included to address health problems associated with episodic illnesses, such as drugs for relieving asthma exacerbation, gout, nausea and vertigo.

    Scheme participants prescribed with drugs on the list need not pay for such medications.

    The expanded list will provide family doctors with greater flexibility to cater for patients’ clinical needs, the bureau added.

    To date, more than 140,000 people have enrolled in the pilot scheme. As of July 23, about 85,000 participants had completed screenings, with around 34,000 being diagnosed with prediabetes, diabetes mellitus, hypertension or hyperlipidaemia, and proceeding to treatment.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Atos – Half-year 2025 results on track. Full Year 2025 targets confirmed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Half-year 2025 results on track
    Full Year 2025 targets confirmed

    • Significant progress in the execution of the Genesis transformation plan
      • Reset of cost base well engaged, already impacting profitability
      • Over 50% of the overall Genesis restructuring target incurred
        at the end of June
      • Growth pillar initial phase achieved to deliver long-term ambition
    • Operating Margin up 80 bps proforma from 2.0% to 2.8%, to €113m (+15.4% yoy) despite the material decline in revenue, as anticipated
      • Atos SBU: +1.7 pts to 5.7% driven by initial benefits from the restructuring plan and tight contract management
      • Eviden SBU: -1.7 pts to -7.9% – consistent with previously announced seasonality
    • Significant improvement in Free Cash Flow1to -€96m (including -€154m cash restructuring) from -€593m in H1 2024
    • H1 revenue at €4,020m, down 17.4% organically due to expected impact of contracts exit and low business traction in 2024.
    • Achieved a 10 pts yoy Book-to-Bill improvement reaching 83% despite soft market environment with:
      • Improved or flat order entry in all regions apart from France
      • Continued strategic deal wins with 11 large multi-year contracts signed vs. 5 in H1 2024. The positive commercial momentum is expected to continue in H2 2025
      • Rolling 12-month pipeline increased by €1.5bn in Q2 including €1.3bn in large deals (over €30m)
    • Full Year 2025 targets and long-term trajectory confirmed   
    • Share Purchase Agreement signed with the French State for the sale of Advanced Computing activities

    Paris, August 1st, 2025 – Atos, a leading provider of AI-powered digital transformation, today announces its half year 2025 financial results.

    Philippe Salle, Atos Group Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer, declared:

    “In a challenging environment, I am very encouraged by the determination of our teams in rolling-out the Genesis transformation plan with no delay. The voluntary optimization of the Group cost base is already starting to show initial benefits as shown through our half-year results: the operating margin is improving by over 15% year-on-year, a positive momentum which we intend to pursue. Our limited cash consumption is reflecting our disciplined approach to cash management, and we notice a sheer increase in enthusiasm among our customers towards the strategic refocusing of the Group.
    We also reached a new significant milestone towards the sale of our Advanced Computing activities with the signature of a share purchase agreement with the French State.
    We are looking ahead to the rest of the year and beyond with confidence and a single focus: executing on our strategy. We remain strongly committed to our 2025 targets and our long-term financial trajectory.”

    H1 2025 performance highlights

    In € million H1 2025 H1 2024 Var.   H1 2024* Organic Var.
    Revenue 4,020  4,964 (944)   4,865 (845) 
    Operating Margin 113  115 (2)   98 +15
    In % of revenue 2.8% 2.3% +0.5 pts   2.0%  +0.8 pts
    OMDA 309  373 (64)      
    In % of revenue 7.7% 7.5% +0.2 pts      
    Net income – Group share  -696 -1,941 + 1,245      
    Free Cash Flow2 -96  -593 + 497      
    Net debt (excl. IFRS 9 adjustment) -1,681  -4,218 + 2,537      

    *: at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    Operational performance

    Group revenue reached 4,020 million euros in the first half 2025, reflecting a 17.4% organic decline compared to the first half of 2024, driven by 2024 contract losses and voluntary contract exits, especially in the Atos Strategic Business Unit (SBU) in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as overall soft market environment. The Atos SBU generated revenue of 3,603 million euros, down 17.9% organically compared to the first half of 2024. The Eviden SBU revenue was down 11.9% compared to the first half of 2024, to 417 million euros in the first half of 2025.

    Group operating margin reached 113 million euros in the first half of 2025, representing an organic 15% increase compared to the first half of 2024 and 2.8% of revenue (compared to 2.0% in the first half of 2024), despite a 845 million revenue decline year-on-year. This performance demonstrates the initial benefits of the cost reduction measures engaged since the beginning of the year, especially in the Atos SBU where the operating margin improved 18% year-on-year. The Eviden SBU profitability was lower than last year, as expected, due to a strong seasonality throughout the year.

    Disclosure in this section represents the revised reporting structure of Atos Group, following the implementation of the new organization in the first half 2025 reporting period. These are those that will be presented in the consolidated financial statements for the first half of 2025, which will be included in the 2025 half year report. Atos has identified Atos France, Atos BNN Benelux & the Nordics, Atos UK&I, Atos USA & CA, Atos GACE, Atos IM, Atos Global Delivery Centers, Eviden and Global Structures as the operating segments, mirroring the internal reporting structure. This reflects the review, management and assessment of the group’s operating results by Group Management following the implementation of the new organization.

    In € million  H1 2025 Revenue H1 2024*   Revenue Organic variation H1 2025 OM H1 2024 OM* H1 2025 OM Organic variation*  
     
    ATOS 3,603 4,391 -17.9% 204 173 5.7% +18.2%  
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe 767 831 -7.6% 1 -11 0.1% ns  
    USA & Canada 695 978 -29.0% 70 92 10.1% -24.4%  
    France 591 663 -10.8% 13 9 2.1% +45.4%  
    UK & Ireland 583 821 -29,0% 50 48 8.6% +4.5%  
    International Markets 561 668 -16.0% 46 39 8.2% +18.8%  
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics 402 425 -5.4% 23 -1 5.6% ns  
    Global Delivery Centers 5 6 -18.7% 2 -3 0.1% ns  
    Eviden 417 474 -11.9% -33 -30 -7.9% +11.5%  
    Global Structures – – – -57 -45 -1.4% +28.8%  
    Group total 4,020 4,865 -17.4% 113 98 2.8% +15.4%  

     *: at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    Atos – Germany, Austria & Central Europe revenue was 767 million euros in the first half of 2025, representing a 7.6% organic decline compared to the first half of 2024 with a significant ramp down from a couple of large clients who implemented insourcing strategies. It also stemmed from managed exits from low profitability contracts. That was partially offset by successful fertilization and cross selling at existing clients.

    Operating margin improved by 140 basis points year-on-year despite the non-recurring treatment of some reorganization expenses in the first half of 2024. It reached breakeven in the first half of 2025 thanks to the restructured delivery of existing contract portfolio and benefits from cost-saving initiatives.

    Atos – USA & Canada revenue decreased by 284 million euros year-on-year on a proforma basis. This was driven essentially by 2024 large contract completions and ramp-downs as well as an uncertain macro and political environment. Churn on small size contracts was more than offset by growing activity at existing clients and new contracts during the period.

    Operating margin improved 60 basis points compared to the first half of 2024 despite the material impact from revenue fall thru, thanks to the Genesis-led margin optimization actions already in place. It stood at 70 million euros in the first half of 2025.

    Atos – France revenue reached 591 million euros in the first half of 2025, down 10.8% organically from the first half of 2024, due to high exposure to the recently muted public sector and the impact of financial restructuring on client perception in 2024.

    Operating margin improved by 80 basis points year-on-year thanks to the benefit of cost-cutting initiatives on indirect costs, an improved billability rate despite revenue decline and improving low profitability contract management, quality of delivery and automation.

    Atos – UK & Ireland revenue reached 583 million euros in the first half of 2025, down 29% organically year-on-year mostly as a result of planned large public sector BPO contracts completion in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Operating margin improved 280 basis points compared to the first half of 2024. In absolute terms, it was stable year-on-year despite the sharp decrease in revenue, thanks to the restructuring of low profitability contracts, successful delivery of new business and an already visible impact from cost-saving initiatives.

    Atos – International Markets revenue was down 16% organically in the first half of 2025, to 561 million euros, mostly driven by softer performance in Asia Pacific, Switzerland and Major events that had benefited from the Olympics in the first half of 2024. That was partially offset by growing revenues in South America.

    Operating margin improved by 240 bps compared to the first half of 2024 and reached 46 million euros in the first half of 2025 (up 7 million year-on-year). The contribution from lost revenue was more than offset by improved productivity, benefits from the Genesis transformation plan and lower one-off costs year-on-year with Olympics-related marketing costs incurred in the first half of 2024.

    Atos – BNN, Benelux and the Nordics revenue stood at 402 million euros in the first half of 2025, down 5.4% organically compared to the first half of 2024 with churn partially offset by growing activity at existing clients.

    Operating margin turned positive in the first half of 2025, to 23 million euros, or 5.6% of revenues. This was driven by the ramp up of higher profitability contracts and positive contribution from the Genesis action plan and continued positive service and project delivery.

    Eviden revenue was 417 million euros in the first half of 2025, down 11.9% organically year-on-year, driven by the anticipated strong seasonality in Advanced Computing (down 10.9% compared to the first half of 2024).
    Operating margin was –33 million euros, compared to -30 million euros in the first half of 2024 again, due to the seasonality in Advanced Computing. Significant revenue and profit recognition is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025. On a full-year basis the business unit is expected to generate positive operating margin.

    Global Structures costs stood at -57 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared to -45 million euros in the first half of 2024, due to the non-recurring treatment of reorganization costs in the first half of 2024 and the UEFA marketing costs incurred centrally in the first half of 2025.

    Update on the Genesis plan execution

    At the Capital Markets Day that was held on May 14, 2025, the Group unveiled “Genesis”, its strategic and transformation plan for the next 4 years. It includes 22 workstreams regrouped under 7 pillars:

    • Growth
    • Human Resources
    • Countries review
    • Portfolio review
    • Gross Margin
    • Cost review
    • Cash

    During the first half of 2025 significant progress was achieved, including the following:

    • Growth transformation: it has now passed the initial phase with a new growth and sales teams operating model deployed in all geographies and centrally. That included the right sizing and upskilling of the teams and sales enablement initiatives as well as prioritization to ensure frontline excellence and support future growth ambition. With that, processes were streamlined and optimized, enabling the sales force to concentrate efforts on meeting client needs. It is anticipated to yield results from the second half onwards
    • Countries review: to sharpen the geographical focus as announced in the Capital Markets Day, the Group exited one country and formally launched disposal processes for additional non-core countries
    • Contract portfolio review: in the first half of 2025, the Group reduced its exposure to low margin contracts (ie contracts with a project margin below 5%) to only three significant ones (vs seven at the end of 2024), and totaling a c.16 million euros negative impact on operating margin compared to c.52 million euros in the first half of 2024
    • Delivery and G&A optimization: the billability rate improved from 76% to 79% during the first half, and the General & Administrative cost base was reduced by 10% compared to the same period last year. Overall, over 50% of the 3-year restructuring envelope of 700 million euros was incurred at the end of June. The total headcount was 69,597 at the end of the period

    Order entry and backlog

    Commercial activity

    Order entry reached €3.3 billion in H1 2025, slightly lower than the reported H1 2024 level, due to:

    • Muted commercial activity in France where significant organizational changes are being implemented to improve commercial efficiency, enrich our offering and secure long term business performance. All other regions delivered roughly flat or growing order entry in the first half of the year
    • The soft market environment observed in the last few months

    Book-to-bill ratio was 83% in the first half of 2025, up from 73% in the same period of 2024. Main contract signatures in the second quarter of 2025 included two 4+ years Digital workplace deals totaling 140 million euros (of which 100 million euros in North America and 40 million euros in the UK), a 5+ years 80 million euros mainframe deal with a North American wholesaler of technology products, a 4+ years 50 million euros Cybersecurity contract in the public sector in Belgium, and two 3+ years digital applications contracts in Europe for a cumulative amount of 90 million euros with a consumer goods player on one side and a public sector body on the other.

    Backlog & commercial pipeline

    At the end of June 2025, the full backlog reached €12 billion representing 1.5 years of revenue.
    The full qualified pipeline amounted to €4.1 billion at the end of June 2025, representing 6.1 months of revenue.

    Net income

    OOI
    Other operating income and expenses amounted to –566 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared to –1,819 million euros in the first half of 2024. It mostly included restructuring and other non-recurring charges in relation to the Genesis transformation plan, as well as litigation provisions.

    Financial income
    Net financial expense was -202 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared to -175 million euros in the first half of 2024, reflecting the new debt structure of the Group and the fair value adjustment of the net debt.

    Tax
    Tax charge stood at -41 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared to -62 million euros in the first half of 2024.

    Net result group share
    As a result of the above net result Group share was a loss of –696 million euros in the first half of 2025, compared to a loss of –1,941 million euros in the first half of 2024.

    Free cash flow

    Free cash flow for the period stood at –96 million euros for the period excluding changes in working capital actions (WCA), reflecting the following items:

    • Operating margin before depreciation and amortization (OMDA) of 309 million euros
    • Capex of –93 million euros, or 2.3% of revenues
    • Leases of –122 million euros
    • Change in working capital requirement (excluding WCA) of 167 million euros, mostly driven by lower activity in the first half of 2025
    • Cash restructuring of –154 million euros, in relation to the Genesis transformation plan
    • Tax paid of -13 million euros
    • Net cash cost of debt of –80 million euros, including 18 million euros of financial income
    • Other items for –109 millions, that included litigation and onerous contracts

    Net debt and debt covenants

    At June 30, 2025, net debt was 1,681 million euros (746 million euros including IFRS 9 debt fair value adjustment), compared to 1,238 million euros as of December 31, 2024 (275 million euros including IFRS 9 debt fair value adjustment), and mainly consisted of:

    • Cash and cash equivalents for 1,364 million euros
    • Borrowings for 3,057 million euros (nominal value, excluding PIK) or 2,186 million euros including IFRS 9 fair value adjustment and PIK

    The new credit documentation requires the Group to maintain:

    • from 31 March 2025, a minimum liquidity level of €650 million, to be verified at the end of each financial quarter
    • from 30 June 2027, as from each half-year end, a maximum level of financial leverage (“Total Net Leverage Ratio Covenant”), which is defined as the ratio of Financial indebtedness (mainly excluding IFRS 16 impacts and IFRS 9 debt fair value treatment) to pre-IFRS 16 OMDA; the ceilings thus applicable will be determined no later than 30 June 2026 with reference to a flexibility of 30% in relation to the Business Plan adopted by the Group at that time; these ceilings will in any event remain between 3.5x and 4.0x.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Group financial leverage ratio (as defined in glossary) was 4.0x.

    Outlook

    The Group confirms its full year 2025 targets:

    • c. 8.5 billion euros revenue3
    • around 4% operating margin
    • net change in cash4 before debt repayment of c. -350 million euros

    The long-term financial trajectory also remains unchanged.

    In 2026, the Group expects to generate positive organic growth and net change in cash4 before debt repayment and M&A.

    In 2028, with the assumption of a disposal of Advanced Computing in FY 2026 and a progressive reduction of its geographic footprint, the Group expects:

    • to grow revenues organically to between 8.5 and 9 billion euros, representing a 5-7% CAGR between 2025 and 2028. Strategic, targeted and disciplined M&A could further increase revenue to up to 9 to 10 billion euros
    • to reach an operating margin of around 10%, supported by cost reduction measures and structural visible growth, partially offset by an acceleration of R&D investments
    • to achieve a leverage ratio below 1.5x net debt/OMDAL5. On the path to an investment grade rating, the Group expects to achieve a BB profile in 2027

    Sale of Advanced Computing

    On July 31, 2025, Atos Group signed a share purchase agreement with the French State for the sale of its Advanced Computing business, excluding Vision AI activities, for an enterprise value (EV) of €410 million, including €110m earn-outs that are based on profitability indicators for fiscal years 2025 (€50 million potential earn-out that should be paid upon closing) and 2026 (€60 million additional potential earn-out). This EV is in line with the confirmatory offer received from the French State on June 2, 2025 which has been approved by Atos Group Board of Directors.

    Atos Advanced Computing business regroups the High-Performance Computing (HPC) & Quantum as well as the Business Computing & Artificial intelligence divisions. The transaction perimeter is expected to generate revenue of circa €0.8 billion in 2025.

    The French State will become the new shareholder of these activities, further supporting the business and its development over the long term.

    Social processes for the signing of the SPA agreement are closed. The transaction is expected to close over H1 2026 once the carveout is completed and relevant authorizations have been received.

    Interim condensed consolidated financial statements

    Atos Group Board of Directors in its meeting held on July 31, 2025, has reviewed the Group interim condensed consolidated financial statements closed at June 30, 2025. The Statutory Auditors have completed their usual limited review of the half-year condensed consolidated financial statements and issued their unqualified report.

    Conference call

    Atos Group’s Management invites you to attend the first half 2025 results conference call on Friday, August 1st, 2025, at 08:00 am (CET – Paris).

    You can join the webcast of the conference via the following link:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/mz677p34

    If you want to join the conference by telephone, please register via this link:

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIc7cb4acc36ee4ddbbe4878cdc98936fa

    Upon registration, you will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call as well as an email confirmation with the details.

    After the conference, a replay of the webcast will be available on atos.net, in the Investors section.

    Forthcoming events

    October 20, 2025 (After Market Close) Third quarter 2025 revenue

    APPENDIX

    H1 2024 revenue and operating margin at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue and OM for H1 2025 is compared with H1 2024 revenue and OM at constant scope and foreign exchange rates. Reconciliation between the H1 2024 reported revenue and OM, and the H1 2024 revenue and OM at constant scope and foreign exchange rates is presented below, by segment.

    H1 2024 revenue H1 2024 published Restatement H1 2024 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects H1 2024*
    In € million
    ATOS 4,259 234 4,493 -3 -85 -13 4,391
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe 779 62 841 0 -11 0 831
    USA & Canada 949 38 987 0 0 -9 978
    France 686 39 725 -4 -58 0 663
    UK & Ireland 791 17 808 0 0 13 821
    International Markets 675 27 702 0 -16 -17 668
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics 375 49 424 1 0 0 425
    Global Delivery Centers 4 2 6 0 0 0 6
    Eviden 705 -234 471 3 0 0 474
    Global Structures –  – – – – – – 
    Group Total 4,964 0 4,964 0 -86 -13 4,865
    H1 2024 Operating Margin H1 2024 published Restatement H1 2024 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects H1 2024*
    In € million
    ATOS 175 -1 174 1 -15 12 173
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe -16 2 -14 -2 -2 7 -11
    USA & Canada 97 0 96 0 0 -4 92
    France 14 -2 12 2 -10 5 9
    UK & Ireland 47 0 47 0 0 1 48
    International Markets 40 0 40 0 -3 2 39
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics -4 3 -1 -3 0 3 -1
    Global Delivery Centers -3 -3 -6 3 0 -1 -3
    Eviden -16 2 -14 -2 0 -13 -30
    Global Structures -44 -1 -45 1 0 -1 -45
    Group Total 115 0 115 0 -15 -2 98

    *: at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    Restatement corresponds to the transfer of Cybersecurity Services from Eviden to Atos.

    Scope effects amounted to €-86 million. They related to the divesture of Worldgrid in France, International Markets (Iberia) and Germany.

    Currency effects negatively contributed to revenue of -13 million. They mostly came from the depreciation of the US dollar, the Brazilian real, the Argentinian peso and the Turkish lira, partially compensated by the appreciation of the British pound.

    Q1 2024 revenue at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue for Q1 2025 is compared with Q1 2024 revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates.

    Q1 2024 revenue Q1 2024 published Restatement Q1 2024 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q1 2024*
    In € million
    ATOS 2,155 118 2,273 -1 -43 22 2,251
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe 385 30 416 0 -6 0 410
    USA & Canada 474 20 493 0 0 15 509
    France 354 20 375 -2 -30 0 343
    UK & Ireland 410 9 419 0 0 10 430
    International Markets 339 14 352 0 -8 -4 341
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics 190 25 215 0 0 0 215
    Global Delivery Centers 2 1 3 0 0 0 3
    Eviden 324 -118 206 1 0 1 207
    Global Structures 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
    Group Total 2,479 0 2,479 0 -44 23 2,458

    * at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    Q2 2024 revenue at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

    For the analysis of the Group’s performance, revenue for Q2 2025 is compared with Q2 2024 revenue at constant scope and foreign exchange rates.

    Q2 2024 revenue Q2 2024 published Restatement Q2 2024 restated Internal transfers Scope effects Exchange rates effects Q2 2024*
    In € million 
    ATOS 2,105 116 2,220 -2 -42 -35 2,140
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe 394 31 425 0 -5 0 420
    USA & Canada 476 18 494 0 0 -24 470
    France 331 18 350 -2 -28 0 320
    UK & Ireland 380 9 389 0 0 2 391
    International Markets 337 13 350 0 -8 -13 327
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics 184 25 209 0 0 0 210
    Global Delivery Centers 2 1 3 0 0 0 3
    Eviden 381 -116 265 2 0 0 266
    Global Structures – – – – – – –
    Group Total 2,486 0 2,486 0 -42 -36 2,407

    * at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    Q1 2025 and Q2 2025 revenue according to the new Group reporting structure

    In € million  Q1 2025 Revenue Q1 2024*   Revenue Organic variation* Q2 2025 Revenue Q2 2024*   Revenue Organic variation*  
     
    ATOS 1,861 2,251 -17.3% 1,742 2,140 -18.6%  
    Germany, Austria & Central Europe 385 410 -6.1% 382 420 -9.1%  
    USA & Canada 370 509 -27.3% 324 470 -31.0%  
    France 304 343 -11.4% 287 320 -10.2%  
    UK & Ireland 302 430 -29.6% 280 391 -28.4%  
    International Markets 290 341 -14.8% 271 327 -17.1%  
    BNN Benelux & the Nordics 206 215 -4.4% 196 210 -6.4%  
    Global Delivery Centers 2 3 -10.6% 2 3 -23.9%  
    Eviden 208 207 0.1% 210 266 -21.3%  
    Global Structures – – – – – –  
    Group total 2,068 2,458 -15.9% 1,952 2,407 -18.9%  

    * at constant scope and June 2025 average exchange rates

    H1 2025 consolidated Profit & Loss Account

    (in € million) 6 months ended June 30, 2025 6 months ended June 30, 2024
    Revenue 4,020 4,964
    Personnel expense -2,115 -2,615
    Non-personnel operating expense -1,792 -2,235
    Operating margin 113 115
    % of revenue 2.8% 2.3%
    Other operating income and expense -566 -1,819
    Operating income (loss) -452 -1,704
    % of revenue -11.3% -34.3%
    Net cost of financial debt -162 -73
    Other financial expense -62 -135
    Other financial income 22 33
    Net financial income (expense) -202 -175
    Net income (loss) before tax -654 -1,879
    Tax charge -41 -62
    Net income (loss) -695 -1,941
    Of which:    
    ▪ attributable to owners of the parent -696 -1,941
    ▪ non-controlling interests 1 0

    H1 2025 Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

    in € million 6 months ended
    June 30, 2025
    6 months ended
    June 30, 2024
    Net income (loss) before tax -654 -1,879
    Depreciation of fixed assets 134 125
    Depreciation of right-of-use 99 138
    Net addition (release) to operating provisions -1 -10
    Net addition (release) to financial provisions 6 28
    Net addition (release) to other operating provisions 199 -55
    Amortization of intangible assets (PPA from acquisitions) 12 29
    Impairment of goodwill and other non-current assets 24 1 570
    Losses (gains) on disposals of non-current assets 3 71
    Net charge for equity-based compensation – 3
    Unrealized losses (gains) on changes in fair value and other – -1
    Net cost of financial debt 162 73
    Interests on lease liability 15 19
    Net cash from (used in) operating activities
    before change in working capital requirement and taxes
    -3 111
    Tax paid -13 -45
    Change in working capital requirement 43 -1 477
    Net cash from (used in) operating activities 28 -1,411
    Payment for tangible and intangible assets -93 -278
    Proceeds from disposals of tangible and intangible assets – 5
    Net operating investments -93 -273
    Amounts paid for acquisitions and long-term investments – -10
    Net proceeds from disposals of financial investments 1 -1
    Net long-term financial investments 1 -11
    Net cash from (used in) investing activities -92 -284
    Common stock issued 1 –
    Purchase and sale of treasury stock – -1
    Dividends paid* – -12
    Dividends paid to non-controlling interests – -2
    Lease payments -122 -159
    New borrowings – 470
    Repayment of borrowings – -10
    Interests paid -80 -53
    Other flows related to financing activities -6 -77
    Net cash from (used in) financing activities -207 155
    Increase (decrease) in net cash and cash equivalents -271 -1,540
    Opening net cash and cash equivalents 1,739 2,295
    Increase (decrease) in net cash and cash equivalents -271 -1,540
    Impact of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents -104 4
    Closing net cash and cash equivalents 1,364 759

    H1 2025 Balance Sheet

    (in € million) June 30,
    2025
    December 31, 2024
    ASSETS    
    Goodwill 574 653
    Intangible assets 306 349
    Tangible assets 524 580
    Right-of-use assets 466 550
    Equity-accounted investments 12 12
    Non-current financial assets 98 131
    Deferred tax assets 213 184
    Total non-current assets 2,193 2,458
    Trade accounts and notes receivable 2,190 2,435
    Current taxes 90 102
    Other current assets 1,340 1,510
    Current financial instruments 0 2
    Cash and cash equivalents 1,364 1,739
    Total current assets 4,984 5,788
    TOTAL ASSETS 7,176 8,246
    (in € million) June 30,
    2025
    December 31, 2024
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
    Common stock 19 18
    Additional paid-in capital 1,887 1,887
    Consolidated retained earnings -1,302 -1,354
    Net income (loss) attributable to the owners of the parent -696 248
    Equity attributable to the owners of the parent -91 799
    Non-controlling interests 1 –
    Total shareholders’ equity -91 799
    Provisions for pensions and similar benefits 664 782
    Non-current provisions 465 345
    Borrowings 2,174 2,089
    Deferred tax liabilities 138 69
    Non-current lease liabilities 438 498
    Other non-current liabilities 4 3
    Total non-current liabilities 3,884 3,787
    Trade accounts and notes payable 971 1,018
    Current taxes 66 75
    Current provisions 386 315
    Current portion of borrowings 11 17
    Current lease liabilities 190 207
    Other current liabilities 1,759 2,028
    Total current liabilities 3,383 3,660
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 7,176 8,246

    Glossary

    Operational capital employed: Operational capital employed comprises net fixed assets and net working capital but excludes goodwill and net assets held for sale.

    Current and non-current assets or liabilities: A current and non-current distinction is made between assets and liabilities on the consolidated statement of financial position. Atos has classified as current assets and liabilities those assets and liabilities that Atos expects to realize, use or settle during its normal cycle of operations, which can extend beyond 12 months following the period end. Current assets and liabilities, excluding the current portion of borrowings, lease liabilities and provisions, and current financial instruments represent the Group working capital requirement.

    DSO: (Days of Sales Outstanding). DSO is the amount of trade accounts receivable (including contract assets) expressed in days of revenue (on a last-in, first-out basis). The number of days is calculated in accordance with the Gregorian calendar.

    Organic growth: Organic growth represents the percent growth of a unit based on a constant scope and exchange rates basis.

    CAGR: The Compound Annual Growth Rate reflects the mean annual growth rate over a specified period of time longer than one year. It is calculating by dividing the value at the end of the period in question by its value at the beginning of that period, raise the result to the power of one divided by the period length, and subtract one from the subsequent result. As an example:

    2019-2021 revenue CAGR = (Revenue 2021 / Revenue 2018) (1/3) -1

    Operating margin: Operating margin equals to External Revenues less personnel and operating expense. It is calculated before Other Operating Income and Expense as defined below.

    Other operating income and expense: 

    Other operating income and expense include:

    • the amortization and impairment of intangible assets recognized as part of business combinations such as customer relationships, technologies and goodwill
    • when accounting for business combinations, the Group may record provisions in the opening statement of financial position for a period of 12 months beyond the business combination date. After the 12-month period, unused provisions arising from changes in circumstances are released through the income statement under “Other operating income and expense”
    • the cost of acquiring and integrating newly controlled entities, including earn out with or without presence conditions
    • the net gains or losses on disposals of consolidated companies or businesses
    • the fair value of shares granted to employees including social contributions
    • the restructuring and rationalization expense relating to business combinations or qualified as unusual, infrequent and abnormal. When a restructuring plan qualifies for Other operating income and expense, the related real estate rationalization & associated costs regarding premises are presented on the same line
    • the curtailment effects on restructuring costs and the effects of plan amendments on defined benefit plans resulting from triggering events that are not under control of Atos management
    • the net gain or loss on tangible and intangible assets that are not part of Atos core-business such as real estate
    • other unusual, abnormal and infrequent income or expense such as major disputes or litigation.

    Gross margin and indirect costs: Gross margin is composed of revenue less the direct costs of goods sold. Direct costs relate to the generation of products and/or services delivered to customers, while indirect costs include all costs related to indirect staff (defined hereafter), which are not directly linked to the realization of the revenue. The operating margin comprises gross margin less indirect costs.

    EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization): for Atos, EBITDA is based on Operating Margin less non-cash items and is referred to as OMDA (Operating Margin before Depreciation and Amortization).

    OMDA (Operating Margin before Depreciation and Amortization) is calculated as follows:

    Operating margin:

    • less – Depreciation of fixed assets (as disclosed in the “financial report”)
    • less – Depreciation of right of use (as disclosed in the “financial report”)
    • less – Net charge (release) of provisions (composed of net charge of provisions for current assets and net charge of provisions for contingencies and losses, both disclosed in the “financial report”)
    • less – Net charge (release) of provisions for pensions (as disclosed in the “financial report”).

    OMDAL: OMDA – lease repayments.

    Gearing: The proportion, expressed as a percentage of net debt to total shareholders’ equity (Group share and minority interests).

    Interest cover ratio: Operating margin divided by the net cost of financial debt, expressed as a multiple.

    Leverage ratio: Net debt (before changes in working capital actions and IFRS 9 fair value adjustment) / OMDAL rolling 12-months.

    Operating income (loss): Operating income (loss) comprises net income (loss) before deferred and current income taxes, net financial income (expense), and share of net profit (loss) of equity-accounted investments.

    Cash flow from operations: Cash flow coming from the operations and calculated as a difference between OMDA, net capital expenditures, lease payment and change in working capital requirement.

    Net cash or net debt: Net cash or net debt comprises total borrowings (bonds, short term and long-term loans, securitization and other borrowings), short-term financial assets and liabilities bearing interest with maturity of less than 12 months, less cash and cash equivalents. Liabilities associated with lease contracts and derivatives are excluded from the net debt.

    Free Cash Flow (FCF): The Free Cash Flow represents the change in net cash or net debt, excluding capital increase, share buyback, dividends paid to shareholders and non-controlling interests, net acquisition or disposal of companies.

    Earnings (loss) per share (EPS): Basic EPS is the net income (loss) divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is the net income (loss) divided by the diluted weighted-average number of common shares for the period (number of shares outstanding + dilutive instruments with dilutive effect).

    Revenue: Revenue related to Atos’ sales to third parties (excluding VAT).

    TCV (Total Contract Value): The Total Value of a Contract at signature (prevision or estimation) over its duration represents the firm order and contractual part of the contract excluding any clause on the decision of the client, as anticipated withdrawal clause, additional option or renewal.

    Order entry/bookings: The TCV, orders or amendments signed during a defined period. When an offer is won (contract signed), the total contract value is added to the backlog and the order entry is recognized.

    Book-to-bill: The Book-to-Bill is the ratio expressed in percentage of the order entry in a period divided by revenue of the same period.

    Backlog/Order cover: The value of signed contracts, orders and amendments that remain to be recognized over their contract lives.

    Pipeline: The value of revenues that may be earned from outstanding commercial proposals issued to clients. Qualified pipeline applies an estimated percentage likelihood of proposal success.

    Direct Staff: Direct staff includes permanent staff and subcontractors, whose work is billable to a third party.

    Indirect staff: Indirect staff includes permanent staff or subcontractors, who are not billable to clients. Indirect staff is not directly involved in the generation of products and/or services delivered to clients.

    Disclaimer

    This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group’s expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitors’ behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos’s beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos’s plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2024 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on April 10, 2025 under the registration number D.25-0238. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.

    This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos’s shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos’s shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction. This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders’ approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws.

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 70,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 67 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Contact

    Investor relations: investors@atos.net

    Individual shareholders: +33 8 05 65 00 75

    Media relations: globalprteam@atos.net


    1 Excluding change in Working Capital Actions

    2 Excluding change in Working Capital Actions

    3 At Dec 31, 2024 currency

    4 At constant currency

    5 Defined as Operating Margin before Depreciations, Amortization and Leases

    Attachment

    • Atos Group – 2025 08 01 – H1 2025 Results – PR

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 1 August 2025 Joint News Release Breastfeeding in Indonesia on the Rise, But Mothers Need More Support

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Jakarta, 1 August 2025 – As Indonesia commemorates World Breastfeeding Week 2025, UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) are highlighting the importance of strengthening support systems for breastfeeding mothers across the country.

    World Breastfeeding Week is observed around the world from 1–7 August. In Indonesia, this important occasion is observed throughout the month of August, under the theme: “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems”.  

    UNICEF and WHO commend the Government of Indonesia’s continued commitment to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. The rate of exclusive breastfeeding among infants under six months has steadily increased, rising from 52% in 2017 to 66.4% in 2024. However, many infants are not exclusively breastfed for the full six months – the duration required to achieve the full health benefits.

    With reliable and long-lasting support, mothers can better access help when they need it, wherever they are – at work, home or in their community. This includes skilled counselling from trained health workers, workplace policies and physical arrangements that enable breastfeeding, and ongoing support from community networks.

    “By investing in support systems for breastfeeding mothers, we create a vital a safety net that ensures no mother has to navigate breastfeeding challenges alone,” said UNICEF Indonesia Representative, Maniza Zaman. “When women and their babies are supported to breastfeed successfully, it sets off a chain of positive outcomes – not only for the child’s development, but also for stronger families, healthier communities and ultimately a better future for the nation.”

    “Indonesia’s steady rise in exclusive breastfeeding is a remarkable achievement and reflects the commitment of families, communities and the health system,” said Dr N. Paranietharan, WHO Representative to Indonesia. “With stronger support systems, every mother in Indonesia can have the resources needed to exclusively breastfeed for the full recommended six months, giving every child the healthiest start to life.”

    Breastfeeding is a baby’s first source of protection and nutrition. UNICEF and WHO recommend that infants are breastfed within one hour of birth and exclusively breastfed in their first six months of life, with no other foods and liquids provided.

    Evidence shows that breastfeeding boosts children’s cognitive development by 3–4 IQ points, reduces overweight and obesity risk and provides lifelong protection against non-communicable diseases. Babies who are not breastfed are up to 14 times more likely to die before their first birthday than those who are exclusively breastfed during their first six months. 

    Unlike formula production, breastfeeding is also environmentally sustainable, lowering carbon emissions and reducing packaging waste.

    UNICEF and WHO call on all stakeholders – the government, workplaces, healthcare institutions, the private sector and communities – to accelerate efforts to support breastfeeding mothers. Key actions include:

    • Expand access to skilled breastfeeding counselling through health facilities, community services, and remote options such as tele-counselling established by the Ministry of Health.
    • Ensure all maternity facilities implement the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding under the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative.
    • Enforce the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (BMS) to protect families from unethical marketing.
    • Integrate breastfeeding education into healthcare training curricula.
    • Adopt family-friendly policies—including paid maternity leave, lactation rooms and flexible workplace arrangements. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leeds breaks glass ceiling with first year success of household collections

    Source: City of Leeds

    Yorkshire Day marks one year on from service starting

    Yorkshire Day this year is a double cause for celebration in Leeds due to the successful impact of the first year of household glass collections in the city.

    The new service delivered by Leeds City Council, which began a year ago today, has seen nearly 12,000 tonnes of glass recycled by residents across the city through their green bins. That equates to over two million wine bottles per month and has helped save 464 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2e), the equivalent of taking more than 170 cars off the road. It has also helped increase glass recycling levels in Leeds from 48 per cent to 75 per cent in the first 12 months.

    Empty glass bottles and jars are 100 per cent recyclable, with the process able to be repeated endlessly with no loss in quality, delivering significant benefits to the environment.

    The council works with contractor HW Martin to sort the glass at its Leeds plant, with over 85 per cent of it being remelted at facilities in Yorkshire to produce new bottles and jars ready for reuse within a month.

    The collection service is for any colour of glass bottle or jars, including those for wine, spirits, beer, pop, jam, sauces, coffee jars and spreads. Caps, lids and labels can be left on ready for collection. As part of the Leeds approach to make recycling as simple and easy as possible from home, all glass bottle and jars can go in the green bin; along with paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays, foil and metal cans.

    The council is keen to build on the success of the first 12 months by encouraging even more glass to be recycled in green bins. Currently 25 per cent of glass bottles and jars are still needlessly being put in black bins and the council is asking residents to encourage everyone to use their green bins to recycle more.

    Another option aside from the green bin is to make use of the extensive network of more than 700 glass recycling banks around the city. Each of these banks is able to hold up to 3,000 bottles and jars. This option is particularly helpful after a party or large gathering to dispose of empty glass, or for those who still prefer to make regular trips to their nearest bottle bank.

    While glass bottles and jars can be easily remelted and recycled, a few specialised types -such as oven-proof or Pyrex dishes, lightbulbs, and drinking glasses – require different handling due to their unique melting points. These items can still be given a second life by donating them to a local charity shop or responsibly disposing of them at a household waste recycling centre in Leeds.

    Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, Councillor Mohammed Rafique said:

    “The first year of household glass collections has been a big success so we’d like to say a big thank you to everyone in Leeds for their efforts, and on Yorkshire Day we would call on people to continue to be glass acts and recycle even more if they can, as it does make a big and real difference.

    “Let’s all work together to make the second year of glass collections even more successful than the first, to help the environment and the Yorkshire economy so that everyone wins.”

    Victoria Adams, Marketing and Communications manager, British Glass, said:

    “British Glass are pleased to see the success of the approach by Leeds and, importantly, how much glass is now being sorted and then remelted into new bottles and jars within the local area.

    “We supported Leeds with the launch a year ago on Yorkshire Day and join with the council in thanking residents for their efforts in this first year and we look forward to even more glass being recycled in the year ahead.”

    Declan Nortcliffe, Operations Director, HW Martin Waste said:

    “It’s fantastic that Leeds is extracting over 75 per cent of the city’s glass, within a year of taking jars and bottles in the green bin. We prioritise sending this material to local outlets across Yorkshire for remelting, keeping our carbon footprint low and ensuring new products are back on shelves quickly.”

    Notes to editors:

    Leeds waste collections services currently empty on average 88,000 bins per day – over half a million a week. Annually, this adds up to almost 33,500 tonnes collected from green bins and over 172,000 tonnes from black bins. Thanks to increases in green bin collections to 10,000 homes in 2024 and a further 40,000 in 2025, all households in Leeds now receive a green bin recycling collection at least fortnightly, with 20,000 households in the most densely housed areas now getting a weekly recycling collection. Less than 0.2% of Leeds kerbside collection waste goes to landfill.

     ENDS

     For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: View sought on TV licence renewals

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Communications Authority today announced the launch of a public consultation on applications for the renewal of domestic free television programme service (free TV) licences.

    The free TV licences of HK Television Entertainment Company (HKTVE), i-CABLE HOY and Television Broadcasts (TVB), each with a validity of 12 years, are due to expire between 2027 and 2028.

    The three licensees have submitted licence renewal applications to the authority.

    In accordance with requirements under the Broadcasting Ordinance and established procedures, the authority will carry out a detailed assessment of the licensees’ past performance and renewal proposals, and collect public views through various means. This will include carrying out a two-month public consultation, an opinion survey, a televised online public hearing and focus group discussions.

    The authority will take into account the licensees’ respective performances, views from the industry and public, market developments, and more. It will make recommendations on the three licence renewal applications to the Chief Executive in Council before the end of March 2026.

    Members of the public may submit their views in writing by email, by fax to 2507 2219, or by mail to Office of the Communications Authority (Attn: Broadcasting Section 33), 20/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.

    They may also register to participate in the televised online public hearing, due to be held on September 20.

    The public consultation will end on September 30.

    The free TV licence of HKTVE is valid until March 31, 2027, while the licence of TVB runs until November 30, 2027, and that of i-CABLE HOY until May 30, 2028.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Marine climate interventions can have unintended consequences – we need to manage the risks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emily M. Ogier, Associate Professor in Marine Social Science, University of Tasmania

    Stock for you, Shutterstock

    The world’s oceans are being rapidly transformed as climate change intensifies. Corals are bleaching, sea levels are rising, and seawater is becoming more acidic – making life difficult for shellfish and reef-building corals. All this and more is unfolding on our watch, with profound consequences for marine ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

    In response, scientists, governments and industries are trying to intervene.
    People all over the world are experimenting with new ways to capture and store more carbon dioxide, or make up for damage already done.

    Ocean-based climate actions include breeding more heat-tolerant corals, restoring mangroves, and farming seaweed. Such interventions offer hope, but they’re also inherently risky. Some may be ineffective, inequitable or even harmful.

    The pace of innovation is now outstripping the capacity to responsibly regulate, monitor and evaluate these interventions. This means current and future generations may not be getting value for money, or worse – the chance to avoid irreversible change may be slipping away.

    In our new research, published in Science, we reviewed the latest evidence on known and perceived risks of new ocean-based climate interventions. We then gathered emerging ideas on how to reduce those risks.

    We found the risks aren’t being widely considered, and the benefits are unclear. But there are emerging assessment tools and planning frameworks we can build on, to plan ocean-based climate actions that meet humanity’s climate goals.

    The promise and peril of marine climate interventions

    Marine climate interventions vary in scope and ambition. Examples can be found all over the world. These include:

    • making oceans in North America more alkaline (less acidic) so they can take up more carbon dioxide

    • breeding heat-tolerant corals in Australia to transplant onto degraded reefs

    • farming seaweed in Africa to capture carbon and reduce ocean acidity

    • restoring mangroves in Asia to defend coastal communities

    • avoiding emissions by banning offshore oil and gas exploration.

    Some interventions are still at proof-of-concept stage, and several have been tested and abandoned. Others are facing challenges owing to complexity of monitoring and verification.

    Each has its own set of benefits, costs and risks. For example, making the ocean more alkaline may help to squeeze in more carbon from the atmosphere, but it’s difficult to verify how much carbon has been removed. This makes it hard to justify the costs and the potential damage to ecosystems, such as effects on local fish populations.

    Restoring coral can support biodiversity in the short term, but it may not last as warming exceeds their (modified) ability to adapt. This type of intervention is also expensive and labour-intensive, with unintended emissions from energy-intensive processes. So it may be impossible to scale up.

    Seaweed farming at scale would occupy thousands if not millions of square kilometres of oceans, displacing fishing, shipping and conservation. Harvesting 1 billion tonnes of seaweed carbon would require farming more than 1 million square km of the Pacific Ocean, and would deliver just 10% of the annual atmospheric carbon dioxide removal required to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

    It’s doubtful whether seaweed farming would actually remove carbon from the atmosphere. But seaweed farming can – if well-planned – produce a range of other climate-related benefits.

    Moreover, interventions often overlap in space and time, creating cumulative impacts and unintended consequences. In some cases, the projects may displace other users, undermine Indigenous rights, or erode public trust in climate science and policy. Without careful understanding and planning, these efforts could exacerbate the very problems they aim to solve.

    Governance gaps and ethical dilemmas

    One of the most pressing challenges is the lack of regulation and oversight suited to the scale and complexity of marine climate interventions.

    Existing regulations are often outdated, fragmented, or designed for land-based systems. Few countries have biosafety laws for the ocean. This means many interventions proceed without comprehensive risk assessments or community consultation.

    Ethical dilemmas abound. Who decides what constitutes a “healthy” ocean? Who bears responsibility if an intervention causes harm? And how do we ensure benefits — such as improved livelihoods or climate resilience — are equitably distributed?

    Currently, scientists, funding bodies and non-government organisations do the bulk of the decision-making. There is limited input from governments, local communities and Indigenous Peoples. This imbalance risks perpetuating historical injustices and undermining the legitimacy of many ocean-based climate actions.

    Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement has been proposed for St Ives in Cornwall.
    diego_torres, pixabug, FAL

    Toward responsible marine transformation

    We identified opportunities for scientists, policymakers, and funding bodies to work together more effectively on more comprehensive assessments of interventions.

    Guidelines and insights are emerging from experimental-scale research into capturing and storing “blue” carbon in ocean and coastal ecosystems. Similarly, a non-profit organisation in the United States has developed a code of conduct for marine carbon dioxide removal. However these guidelines are yet to be integrated into broader governance frameworks.

    Awareness of the urgent need to ensure intervention is done responsibly is also growing. Many high-level policy documents now recognise the importance of transitioning to more sustainable, equitable, and adaptive states. For example, the Samoa Climate Change Policy 2020 recognises the need to adapt coastal economies and communities to warming oceans, while also working to reduce carbon emissions.

    We can use the ocean in our fight against climate change (United Nations)

    Proceed with caution

    The ocean is central to our climate future. It absorbs heat, stores carbon, and sustains life. But it is also vulnerable — and increasingly, a site of experimentation. If we are to harness the promise of ocean-based climate action, we must do so with care, humility, and foresight.

    Responsible governance is not a barrier to innovation — it is its foundation. By embedding ethical, inclusive, and evidence-based principles into our marine climate strategies, we can chart a course toward a more resilient and equitable ocean future.

    Emily M. Ogier receives salary support from the Australia Research Council. She receives funding from The Nature Conservancy, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the Blue economy Centre for Research Excellence. She is affiliated with the Centre for Marine Socioecology.

    Gretta Pecl receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Department of Agriculture Water and the Environment, Department of Primary Industries NSW, Department of Premier and Cabinet (Tasmania), the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, The Ian Potter Foundation and has received travel funding support from the Australian government for participation in the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change process. She is affiliated with the Biodiversity Council and the Centre for Marine Socioecology.

    Tiffany Morrison receives funding from the Australian Research Council Laureate and Discovery Programmes, WorldFish-CGIAR ( (formerly the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research), and The Nature Conservancy Science for Nature and People Partnership.

    – ref. Marine climate interventions can have unintended consequences – we need to manage the risks – https://theconversation.com/marine-climate-interventions-can-have-unintended-consequences-we-need-to-manage-the-risks-262343

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI China: Shanghai port launches ultra-low sulfur fuel oil bunkering services

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

    Yangshan Port in east China’s Shanghai Municipality has become the country’s first port to offer bunkering services for liquefied natural gas (LNG), green methanol, biofuels and ultra-low sulfur fuel oil, according to local authorities.

    Recently, bunkering vessel Qi Hong 9 carried out a bunkering operation at the port, supplying 875 tonnes of domestic ultra-low sulfur fuel oil to the COSCO PRIDE ship.

    It was the first ship-to-ship bunkering operation involving Chinese ultra-low sulfur fuel oil for an internationally navigating vessel in China, the port said.

    According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the sulfur content limit for fuel oil used by ships navigating in certain international waters was reduced from 0.5 percent to 0.1 percent from May 1, 2025.

    The domestic ultra-low sulfur fuel oil supplied at Yangshan Port was produced by PetroChina Huabei Petrochemical Company.

    MIL OSI China News –

    August 5, 2025
  • Rain, thunderstorms likely in Delhi for next three days: IMD

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The national capital is expected to witness a fresh spell of rain over the next three days, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted light to moderate showers accompanied by thunderstorms between Friday and Sunday (August 3).

    According to the IMD’s Thursday bulletin, heavy to very heavy rainfall is also likely over parts of the Northeast and adjoining eastern India over the next seven days. In Delhi, however, the intensity of rainfall is expected to decrease slightly starting Friday.

    On Friday, Delhi will witness very light to light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms or lightning. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to remain below normal, ranging between 33 to 35 degrees Celsius and 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, respectively.

    Winds will initially blow from the northeast in the morning, shift to the southwest by afternoon, and then turn southeasterly in the evening and night, at speeds of 10–15 kmph.

    Rainfall is expected to continue through August 2 and 3, with mostly cloudy skies and light showers accompanied by thunderstorms.

    Daytime temperatures are likely to hover around 34 to 36 degrees Celsius, while night temperatures will range between 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, remaining a few degrees below the seasonal average. Winds will vary in direction but remain steady at 10–20 kmph, mostly from the northwest and northeast.

    Earlier on Thursday, parts of Delhi received moderate rainfall, while isolated areas saw heavy showers that led to localised waterlogging and traffic congestion.

    The maximum temperature recorded was 29.9 degrees Celsius, five degrees below normal, while the minimum stood at 24.7 degrees Celsius, two degrees below the usual.

    The met department also noted that Delhi has been experiencing irregular rainfall over the past few days, which has caused significant inconvenience to daily commuters in several areas of the city.

    With weather conditions remaining unstable and intermittent showers expected to continue, residents are advised to remain cautious, especially during peak travel hours.

    (IANS)

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Angola protests: United Nations (UN) urges restraint, investigations into deaths

    Source: APO


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    What began as protests against fuel price hikes in Angola have escalated into deadly unrest across the country, with at least 22 people killed and more than 1,000 detained, prompting calls from the UN for restraint and urgent investigations into possible rights violations by security forces.

    The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Thursday urged Angolan authorities to conduct prompt, thorough and independent investigations into the deaths as well as the reported use of excessive force during the demonstrations.

    “Unverified footage suggests that security forces used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse protesters, which points to an unnecessary and disproportionate use of force,” OHCHR spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said.

    He added that while some demonstrators resorted to violence and looting, any force used by authorities must comply with international human rights standards.

    “Any individuals who may have been arbitrarily detained must be immediately released.”

    Rapid escalation in situation

    The protests began on Monday as a strike by minibus taxi drivers over a one-third rise in diesel prices, part of a government effort to reduce fuel subsidies. According to media reports, the demonstrations quickly spread, becoming one of Angola’s most disruptive protest waves in recent years.

    Government officials reported that at least one police officer was among those killed. Nearly 200 people are said to have been injured and shops and vehicles reportedly vandalised, mostly in the capital, Luanda.

    Sporadic gunfire was also reported in parts of the city earlier in the week, and emergency services were overwhelmed. Many businesses remained shuttered Thursday, and hospitals reportedly struggled to cope with the number of casualties.

    Ensure rights protection

    OHCHR emphasised that while authorities have a responsibility to maintain public order, they must do so in a way that protects human rights.

    “All protesters taking to the streets to express their opinions should do so peacefully,” said Mr. Al-Kheetan. “All human rights violations must be investigated and those responsible held accountable.”

    The UN rights office also reiterated the importance of safeguarding fundamental freedoms, including the rights to life, expression and peaceful assembly, in any law enforcement response.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Exclusion, endurance, and the fight for inclusion

    Source: APO


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    Marlene Le Roux has lived with the effects of disability since she was three months old. Now 57, she has spent decades confronting physical, structural, and social barriers.

    Resilience is part of her everyday reality, as she manages pain, stays engaged, and keeps going even when her body resists.

    Ms Le Roux had spent the day before speaking and dancing to mark South Africa’s Freedom Day in Cape Town. By morning, her legs gave in. She was at the physio, acupuncture needles in her thigh to ease the pain.

    That pain, she says, is part of the “gift”– a lived experience that gave her the lens to understand the marginalization millions face every day.

    “I have a job, that’s why I could pay for treatment,” she said. “Others with polio? They suffer. They die in their beds.”

    Her story begins with polio and builds into a fight fueled by loss, sustained by purpose, and anchored in a refusal to accept exclusion.

    She’s lived the weight of exclusion twice over. First, as a child disabled by apartheid-era neglect, contracting polio at just three months old, after clinics denied the remaining vaccines to non-white children. And later, as a mother to her son Adam, who had profound cerebral palsy and required constant care. Adam later passed away, a loss that deepened her resolve.

    That urgency is also reflected in efforts across the United Nations system. In 2019, the UN launched the Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) to promote accessibility, participation, and accountability in its operations.

    By 2023, more than 60 UN entities had adopted action plans under the strategy, and over $77 million had been mobilized to support more than 100 initiatives in 93 countries. Yet implementation remains uneven, with many persons with disabilities still facing barriers even within institutions that champion inclusion.

    At the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town, where Ms Le Roux is the CEO, accessibility is built into the structure: automated doors, wheelchair seating, level entryways, tactile carpeting, comfort rooms. Staff receive training on both visible and non-apparent disabilities. Every feature is intentional, designed in consultation with those who use them.

    “Life here at Artscape is very easy for people with disabilities,” said vocalist Nikita Scott, a wheelchair user. “It feels like a second home. You just feel freer because there are no challenges you have to face as a disabled person.”

    Families raising children with disabilities find refuge at Artscape. “They can attend performances and relax in a space that doesn’t treat them as an afterthought,” Ms Le Roux said. “Here, no one stares.”

    Artscape also supports grassroots groups, including Lief en Leed (Love and Sorrow), a community initiative in Mamre. Its founder, Michael September, who has speech and mobility impairments, said people still assume disability means incapacity.

    “Artscape is one of the few places that sees our dignity first,” he said.

    Ms Le Roux’s leadership style is grounded in presence and humility. It’s not uncommon to see her joking with staff or sitting down for tea with the cleaning crew. “No one should be invisible,” she said. “Everyone here matters.”

    She helped launch the ArtsAbility Festival, an annual celebration that features performers with disabilities and challenges public perceptions through art and movement. The Unmute Dance Company, a regular participant, blends wheelchairs, crutches, and movement to challenge perceptions.

    “Artscape focuses on what people can do, not what they lack,” she said. “When they perform, you see ability. Not disability.”

    She sees these lessons as central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially the pledge to “leave no one behind.”

    “We can’t just have things on paper and expect it to work. It has to be in the fiscal budget, in the mindset, in the leadership.”

    To her, inclusion isn’t a checklist but a cultural shift. She meets regularly with an advisory group of people with disabilities to keep the work grounded in lived experience.

    In 2024, she launched Warrior Woman, a petition and art installation to protest gender-based violence. She plans an annual march to parliament with the statue in hand. “We’ve had enough of talking,” she said.

    “Artscape is more than a theatre,” she said, adding that it’s a platform to open doors and influence lives.

    “I can look glamorous now because I have a job. I can pay for treatment; I can walk into the best orthopaedic surgeon. But what happens to others? They suffer. They die. My job is to open doors for them.”

    And she’ll keep pressing forward, legs willing or not, until systems do too.

    Ms Le Roux’s full interview can be watched in this episode of our Sustainable Africa Series

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

    August 5, 2025
  • Delhi’s Yamuna river cleaning sees progress, but pollution levels remain concerning: Jal Shakti Ministry

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Ministry of Jal Shakti on Thursday informed the Lok Sabha that significant progress has been made in the ongoing efforts to clean the Yamuna River in Delhi. However, pollution levels at several points in the river remain well above permissible limits, indicating the need for continued and intensified action.

    In a written reply, Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary said that water quality at key locations along the Yamuna—Palla, Nizamuddin Bridge, and Okhla Barrage—is being monitored monthly by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme (NWMP). Parameters such as Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Faecal Coliform (FC) are being tracked since January 2025.

    As per data provided by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the national capital generates around 3,596 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage. While Delhi has 37 operational sewage treatment plants (STPs) with a total capacity of 3,474 MLD, only 2,955 MLD of sewage is actually being treated. Out of this, 2,014 MLD from 23 STPs complies with the discharge norms set by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), while 14 STPs remain non-compliant. An estimated 641 MLD of sewage continues to be discharged untreated into the Yamuna or the city’s drainage system.

    The CPCB also conducts annual inspections of Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs) in the Yamuna basin. In the last round of inspections carried out in 2024, a total of 189 GPIs were assessed in Delhi. Of these, 158 were operational and 31 had self-closed. Among the operational units, 49 were found to be violating discharge norms or lacked valid consent to operate. The concerned state pollution control boards issued 40 show-cause notices and 9 closure orders to the defaulting industries.

    To strengthen sewage treatment infrastructure under the Namami Gange Programme, nine projects worth ₹1,951 crore have been sanctioned for Delhi. These projects have added a treatment capacity of 1,268 MLD and include major initiatives such as the rehabilitation of trunk sewers, rising mains, and the upgradation of STPs at Kondli and Coronation Pillar. The Ministry confirmed that all nine projects have been completed.

    Since January 2025, a total of ₹140 crore has been allocated for Yamuna cleaning efforts, out of which ₹108.31 crore has already been utilized. The ministry stressed that river cleaning is a continuous process, and it is working closely with the states of Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and the Government of NCT of Delhi to tackle Yamuna pollution through financial and technical assistance.

    Despite infrastructure upgrades, water quality data from 2025 paints a grim picture. Downstream stretches of the river, particularly at Nizamuddin, Okhla, and Asgarpur, continue to record BOD levels far exceeding the safe limit of 3 mg/L. Faecal Coliform counts in these areas were reported in the range of hundreds of thousands to millions per 100 ml, highlighting the urgent need for stricter enforcement, expanded treatment coverage, and robust pollution control mechanisms.

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Development Bank issues its first loan to Kazakhstan Temir Zholy for the purchase of locomotives

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) — China Development Bank (CDB) recently issued its first loan of 180 million yuan (about 25.18 million U.S. dollars) for Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ)’s project to purchase 200 locomotives, thanks to which the first batch of locomotives has been delivered and put into operation, Zhongxinwang reported on Thursday, citing a source in the bank.

    In February this year, a banking consortium founded by the CDB and the Import-Export Bank of China signed an agreement with Kazakhstan’s state-owned transport and logistics holding KTZ to provide it with a loan of 3.56 billion yuan, which was to be used to purchase 200 locomotives from the Chinese company CRRC Co., Ltd.

    With the exchange rate-linked advantages of cross-border financing of the Chinese national currency Renminbi, the Kazakh enterprise was offered a highly efficient and low-cost financing option, the CDB noted.

    Successful implementation of this project will effectively increase the capacity of railway transportation in Kazakhstan, the bank added.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Operation Cloud and Advance Unite to Tackle Illicit Trade and Anti-Social Behaviour

    Source: City of Birmingham

    A coordinated enforcement operation between Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team and West Midlands Police has led to the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal goods.

    The action forms part of the ongoing Operation Cloud and the force-wide Operation Advance, both aimed at tackling crime, anti-social behaviour, and the sale of illicit products across the city.

    The raid, which took place earlier this month at multiple commercial premises and associated vehicles in Birmingham, resulted in the seizure of:

    • 40 large nitrous oxide canisters and related paraphernalia
    • More than 780 illicit vapes
    • 1,980 illicit and counterfeit cigarettes
    • More than 115 packets of oral snuff/smokeless tobacco
    • Nearly 50 unsafe counterfeit inflatable toys
    • 125 sachets of unlicensed erectile dysfunction medicine

    A concealed compartment was also discovered at one of the premises which contained a large quantity of nitrous oxide cannisters and illicit tobacco. A male suspect was also arrested at the scene.

    This latest enforcement builds on the success of Operation Cloud, which has been active since September 2024 and has already removed nearly £7 million worth of illegal goods from circulation. The operation targets the sale of illicit vapes, nitrous oxide, counterfeit tobacco, and other harmful products that pose serious risks to public health and safety.

    Last week’s action also forms part of Operation Advance, West Midlands Police’s force-wide initiative delivering 24 hours of high-impact policing activity. Officers from across departments joined forces with the Council’s Trading Standards teams to disrupt criminal activity, enforce public space protection orders, and reassure communities through high-visibility patrols.

    Councillor Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “This joint operation is a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve through partnership. Illegal goods like these are not only dangerous to health—especially for young people—but also fuel wider criminality and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to take robust action to protect our communities and uphold the law.

    “These products are often sold without any regard for safety standards, and in many cases, are deliberately marketed to appeal to children and teenagers. The presence of such goods in our neighbourhoods undermines community wellbeing and contributes to a cycle of harm that affects families, schools, and local businesses.

    “Through Operation Cloud and Operation Advance, we are sending a clear message: Birmingham will not tolerate the illegal trade of harmful products. We are committed to working with our partners to make our city safer, cleaner, and more resilient for everyone.”

    Ch Supt Tom Joyce, of Birmingham Police, said: “This was a fantastic day of really high-profile activity, using everyone from neighbourhood officers, to intelligence, traffic, firearms, gangs officers, investigators and more.

    “The activity is designed to be really visible and reassuring, while making a real impact in communities across the whole city.

    “This is all about making our town centres safe and welcoming for everyone, while making them hostile places for anyone wanting to commit crime.

    “Advance will be returning to Birmingham later in the year when we will be out in full force again to have that significant impact that using teams from across the West Midlands brings.

    “In the meantime, Birmingham officers will continue working 24/7 to make the city safer and help and support people when they need us most.”

    The Council is now pursuing a closure order for the premises under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This follows the recent enforcement of the national ban on single-use vapes, which came into effect on 1 June 2025.

    Birmingham’s Trading Standards team has already seized over 14,000 illegal or non-compliant vapes since the launch of Operation Cloud.

    Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or sales of illegal goods via by contacting the Council’s Trading Standards team on 0121 303 9360 or the West Midlands Police on 101.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: Making America Healthy Again Starts with Cost Transparency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Questions Healthcare Experts on Solutions to Rising Healthcare Costs
    Washington – On Thursday,U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), questioned healthcare experts, Ms. Chris Deacon, Principal and Founder at VerSan Consulting, Dr. Benedic Ippolito, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and Mr. Wendell Potter, President of the Center for Health and Democracy, during the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing focused on making American health care more affordable.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full exchange.
    Highlights from the hearing include:
    On Healthcare costs transparency:
    Senator Marshall: “I think that we have today before us a 90 to 10 issue. Maybe it’s 95 to 5. Americans are concerned about the cost of health care. Since I got here four years ago, eight years ago, four years ago in the Senate, I’ve talked about the pillar of transparency, more innovation and consumerism, letting patients be consumers again. So, it’s wonderful that we get an opportunity to address solutions. We’ve all described the product and the problem. Now let’s talk about solutions. I’m very proud of one of our signature legislation we’ve been working on for eight years, the Patients Deserve Price Tags Act. I appreciate Senator Hickenlooper’s support, Senator Hassan, Senator Grassley, she he and Ernst their support as well. Could you imagine walking into a grocery store, going to the meat department, and not seeing the prices on the different meats? Could you imagine going to a clothing store and not knowing what the prices are on the suits? Most of us walk up there, and we look at a suit, what’s the first thing I do? I look at the price of it. But in health care, they buried the prices. So, what our legislation attempts to do is to get price tags on health care. What a novel thought, and a couple of thoughts on what our bill does, and get your reaction. Ms. Deacon, I’ll start with you as a consumer. You have a choice of getting your hip replaced at one facility for $10,000, another one is $50,000, and that’s not unreasonable numbers to compare a hip replacement 10 versus 50. How would you, as a consumer, how would that impact the eventual cost of healthcare? If you’re in a self-insured plan and you’re running that plan, how would it impact your decisions to drive down the cost of healthcare?”
    Ms. Chris Deacon: “I mean, as a consumer, absolutely, if I had out of pocket, I would both evaluate for quality and cost to determine value, and I would likely find myself at the $10,000 clinic, but as an employer sponsor, if all of my members were to have such information, it would dramatically lower the cost of premiums every year, especially for our self-insured employers, because more consumers would be able to evaluate such terms.”
    On driving down the costs of health insurance:
    Senator Marshall: “And this is a wild guess, could it drive down the cost of health insurance for an employed, self-employed fund, 10, 20, 30, 40% perhaps. I mean, it’s a big number.”
    Ms. Chris Deacon: “Yes, we’ve absolutely seen employers that are able to do that, save 30 to 40% on premiums.”
    On group health care plans access to their own data:
    Senator Marshall: “Dr. Ippolito, another component of our bill ensures that group health care plans have access to their own claim data. Can you believe it? I have a self-insured plan, and I can’t look at my own claim data? Would that be helpful to us, specifically a self-insured plan?”
    Dr. Benedic Ippolito: “Well, sure. I mean, at a minimum, if you’re sitting there trying to think about what services are we going to use next year, what kind of plan looks good for us? If you don’t know what services you use, you can’t do that. And so, in terms of those basic tasks that your employer, who’s your agent in this world, for many of us, is tasked with providing, they need that information. So yeah, it seems like a baseline, a prerequisite.”
    On PBM price gouging:
    Senator Marshall: “So is there anyone in this panel that disagrees that price tags could not be helpful in driving down the cost of healthcare? Does anyone want to counter that argument? Okay, good. I want to turn to delinking just for a second. Of course, talking about pharmaceutical benefits. PBMs, right? Very horizontally, vertically integrated, four companies, three companies controlling 85% of the of the industry. And many of you talked about the oligo monopolies that they’re forming here, specifically Senator Kaine and I have a bill called delinking, and it delinks the money the pharmacy benefit managers make from the cost of the of the drug. So PBMs create formularies that really prevent you from using the generic drugs at less cost, they push you to the more expensive ones. So, I’ll start with Mr. Potter. Would reform such as delinking PBM compensation from the list price of medicines benefit patients in meaningful ways and drive down the cost of drugs?”
    Mr. Wendell Potter: “I absolutely agree. I think it’s very important legislation. I think there should be delinking. That game, I think, incentivizes drug companies to have a higher list price, and then the middleman that you’re showing, that they’re on that board, are sucking so much money from the pharmacy supply chain. When I was at Cigna, Cigna didn’t own a very big PBM. It bought Express grips recently, a few years ago, and now it is largely a PBM that also has insurance plans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    August 5, 2025
  • India inaugurates 1 MW green hydrogen plant at Kandla, advancing 2030 clean energy goals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Thursday inaugurated a 1 megawatt (MW) Green Hydrogen Plant at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, Gujarat terming it a “major step” in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2030 vision under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

    Calling the development a significant milestone in India’s transition towards clean energy, Sonowal said, “This commissioning demonstrates our commitment to Net Zero and sets a new benchmark in India’s green hydrogen ecosystem.”

    The newly inaugurated unit is part of a 10 MW Green Hydrogen project, whose foundation was laid by the Prime Minister during his visit to Bhuj on May 26 this year. The completion of the 1 MW module within just four months has been lauded as a symbol of India’s enhanced capabilities in implementing complex green energy projects with speed and scale.

    “The DPA has turned that vision into reality — a shining example of speed, scale, and skill under the Maritime India Vision 2030,” the Union Minister said.

    The green hydrogen plant is expected to produce approximately 140 metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually and will support maritime decarbonisation and sustainable port operations.

    Sonowal also praised DPA’s broader green initiatives, including the earlier deployment of the country’s first Make-in-India all-electric Green Tug. He noted that the hydrogen facility was fully developed by Indian engineers, making it a symbol of Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat and a model for ports across India to emulate.

    “This green hydrogen plant is a testament to the bold and transformative leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It reflects his commitment to a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant India,” Sonowal added.

    Congratulating the DPA leadership and engineering partner L&T, the Minister said the project was executed with “remarkable speed and precision.”

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, who also attended the inauguration, called the project a proud moment for Gujarat and the nation. “This initiative reaffirms India’s growing leadership in clean energy and innovation. It’s a bold step towards a sustainable maritime future,” he said.

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Nations (UN) Tourism/ International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Ministerial Summit calls for enhanced cooperation to unlock Africa’s growth

    Source: APO


    .

    Jointly organized by UN Tourism, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the Government of Angola, the high-level event drew more than 300 international delegates around the theme “Accelerating Synergies for Resilient and Sustainable Growth”. The three-day conference, focused on strengthening the alignment between two of Africa’s fastest-growing sectors: tourism and air transport. Both are critical enablers for job creation, innovation, and greater regional mobility.

    In his opening remarks, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism and air transport are not just engines of growth, they are pathways to empowerment, opportunity, and transformation, through strategic leadership and innovation, Africa’s potential can become its reality.” He urged decisive policy action to remove the barriers holding African tourism back.

    H.E Daniel Marcio, Angola’s Minister of Tourism said “Angola is proud to host such a landmark event, which positions Angola as a regional hub for dialogue and action. Tourism is a key pillar of our national strategy for inclusive development, job creation, and cultural promotion.”

    In his intervention, H.E Mr. Ricardo de Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, emphasized the importance of infrastructure and regulatory reform: “We must build air transport systems that are not only modern and efficient but also accessible and responsive to the needs of our people. Connectivity within Africa is essential to realizing the continent’s economic potential.”
    ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano commended the initiative’s collaborative spirit: “Tourism and aviation must grow hand in hand. Through shared vision and policy coherence, we can drive sustainable development, enhance safety and security, and ensure no country is left behind.”

    Connectivity, Policy Reform, Investment

    The Luanda Conference placed a strong emphasis on advancing Africa’s tourism and air transport sectors through enhanced connectivity, regulatory reform, and cross-sector collaboration. Delegates agreed that aligning aviation and tourism policies is vital to unlocking the continent’s potential, particularly through open skies agreements, cohesive infrastructure planning, and public-private investment. A central focus was also placed on simplifying visa processes, promoting joint destination marketing, and removing travel barriers to stimulate intra-African tourism.

    The Conference began with an expert-led workshop featuring technical sessions on innovation, connectivity, investment, and regional integration. Participants explored how technologies like AI and digital platforms can improve service delivery, while also identifying new funding models to expand infrastructure. In-depth discussions addressed how frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) can support harmonized policies and boost regional mobility.

    Ministerial Discussions and Commitments

    Over two days of ministerial sessions, high-level officials focused on aligning policy frameworks, driving innovation for inclusive growth, ensuring equitable access to travel, and building resilient transport and tourism systems. The Conference concluded with the formal adoption of the Luanda Ministerial Statement—an affirmation of Africa’s collective commitment to developing a seamless, sustainable, and integrated travel ecosystem. 

    Luanda Ministerial Statement

    Ministers, leaders of delegations and delegates present pledged to:

    • Modernize tourism and aviation infrastructure with support from both public and private investment.
    • Deepen partnerships with key institutions including ICAO, UN Tourism, IATA, AFRAA, AFCAC, and others.
    • Advance mobility reforms through simplified and more affordable visa regimes, fast-track procedures, and longer-validity multi-entry visas.
    • Promote intra-African tourism, including joint destination marketing and greater collaboration with the private sector.
    • Empower youth and women through skills training, entrepreneurship support, and educational initiatives focused on the tourism and aviation sectors.

    This 2nd conference came at a time of record momentum for African tourism. The continent welcomed 74 million international arrivals in 2024, a 7% increase over 2019 and 12% more than in 2023, signalling strong recovery and renewed global interest in African destinations.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

    MIL OSI Africa –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Football Fans Reminded of Restricted Parking Zone

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    With the Premiership season kicking off this weekend, football fans are being reminded that a restricted parking zone will be in operation around Dens and Tannadice parks on matchdays. 

    Dundee FC will play Hibernian on Sunday (Aug 3), and the council is advising supporters that parking attendants will issue penalty charge notices to vehicles parked illegally in the zone which do not have an exemption. 

    The match day scheme covers an area bounded by Dens Road, Caird Avenue, Clepington Road, Court Street North and Arklay Street and includes around 1400 properties.   

    An order banning parking by non-residents is in effect on match days, but residents and blue badge holders will still be able to use the streets.  

    Under the scheme parking attendants have “an allow-list” to identify vehicles that are permitted to be within the area when matches are being played. 

    Details on how residents can apply for a permit can be found here  

    City council depute convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Cllr Siobhan Tolland said: “This scheme was brought in two years ago and followed consultation with local residents. 

    “The city’s football grounds are uniquely situated closely together in a residential area and we are aware of the problems that were caused by football parking for those living near the grounds. 

    “I would ask football fans to pay attention to the road signage which informs them they are entering a restricted parking zone and the times when it is in effect.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police complete search of Parnkalla trail

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Branch and Port Lincoln Police, supported by SES personnel and a cadaver dog, have finished a detailed search of the Parnkalla Trail area in connection with the murder of Julian Story.

    A number of items were located during the search. All recovered evidence will be forwarded to Forensic Science SA for detailed scientific examination over the coming days.

    Police extend their gratitude to the many members of the Port Lincoln community who have come forward with information to aid this investigation.

    At this stage, there are no further searches planned, and investigators will now await the results of the forensic analysis.

    MIL OSI News –

    August 5, 2025
  • CM Rekha Gupta launches door-to-door cleanliness drive; says Delhi needs new Secretariat

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday launched a month-long door-to-door cleanliness campaign from Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) Kashmiri Gate, aiming to improve sanitation and workplace conditions across the national Capital.

    The campaign will be conducted across all districts of Delhi and involve active participation from government officials, civic agencies, and local communities.

    Leading by example, the Chief Minister personally took part in the cleanliness drive by sweeping the premises at the ISBT, where she also inspected the condition of the offices and public facilities.

    Expressing concern over the deteriorating infrastructure and unhygienic conditions at government offices, CM Gupta said, “If our officers are working in such conditions, how will they benefit anyone? Water is dripping from here, and this is where an officer’s chair is placed. This is the kind of furniture provided, where people are expected to sit and work.”

    While inspecting the ISBT office area, the Chief Minister was visibly dissatisfied with the poor maintenance and lack of basic facilities, calling for immediate structural reforms and better upkeep of public infrastructure.

    In a significant announcement during the campaign launch, CM Gupta said the capital urgently requires a new secretariat building.

    “Delhi needs a new Secretariat. From today itself, we will begin identifying suitable locations so that all departments can operate from a single place,” she stated.

    The month-long campaign will focus not only on residential and commercial areas but also on government buildings, transport hubs, and public service offices, aiming to set a new standard for urban cleanliness in the national Capital.

    The Chief Minister urged citizens and officials alike to treat cleanliness as a shared responsibility. The initiative is being coordinated with municipal bodies and is expected to involve schoolchildren, non-government organisations, resident welfare associations, and volunteers in the coming weeks.

    (IANS)

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Six people died in a road accident in Russia’s Penza region

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, August 1 /Xinhua/ — Six people died in a traffic accident on a federal highway in the Penza region of the Russian Federation, the regional State Traffic Inspectorate reported on its Telegram channel on Friday.

    As reported, at 5 a.m. Moscow time, at 571 km of the federal highway M5 “Ural” within the boundaries of the Mokshansky district of the Penza region, a collision occurred between two cars – a Datsun on-do and a Chevrolet Epica. Six people died, another was hospitalized with injuries of varying severity.

    Currently, traffic police officers and emergency services are working at the scene of the accident. The causes of the accident are being established. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ordos City’s Kanbash District Develops Intelligent Transportation System

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    In the Kangbash District of Ordos City in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, driverless cars are cruising the streets, creating a unique landscape. These scenes that look like science fiction have now become the daily reality of this city. As the only city in northwest China participating in two pilot projects, Ordos is building an intelligent transportation system that deeply integrates cars, roads, and cloud technologies, covering areas such as public transportation, logistics, street cleaning, etc.

    So far, 10 driverless buses have traveled a total of 120,000 kilometers and served 46,000 passengers. 15 driverless trucks have fulfilled 450,000 orders. 5 driverless cleaning machines have automated the cleaning of an area of 964,000 square meters.

    As is known, the second phase of the project “Integration of Cars, Roads and Cloud Technologies” was officially launched in December 2024, and its completion is scheduled for August 18, 2025. Within the framework of the second phase of the project, it is planned to build 35 intelligent intersections and 49 road sections, as well as place 8 unmanned vehicles, including 4 buses, 3 trucks and 1 cleaning machine.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor backs jobs boost in Scottish defence and energy sectors

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Chancellor backs jobs boost in Scottish defence and energy sectors

    Chancellor Rachel Reeves will outline how the Spending Review will give Scotland a jobs boost, as she visits RAF Lossiemouth and St Fergus Gas Plant today (1 August).

    • 18,000 North Sea jobs can be safeguarded through a £200 million investment in the Aberdeen Acorn energy project whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.
    • Increase in defence spending will see more jobs added to the 26,100 skilled Scottish jobs already supported by UK Government defence investment, and three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft will see even more jobs created by Boeing at RAF Lossiemouth.
    • Defence and clean energy commitments, part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, will provide jobs and build thriving communities from Aberdeen to the Clyde.

    The UK Government is investing in defence and clean energy to protect existing jobs and create thousands more, while keep the UK secure. Increasing defence spending to 2.6%, could lead to around 0.3% higher GDP in the long run, equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in today’s money, according to government estimates.

    RAF Lossiemouth shows how investment in defence delivers for ordinary families. The Moray base has undergone a huge transformation in recent years and military personnel and civilian workers now work together keep our fighter jets and sub-hunting aircraft in the air.  The addition of three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft to the RAF’s fleet will see even more jobs created by Boeing at the base, where the Chancellor will meet with some of the over 200 Boeing teammates who work alongside RAF personnel.

    Chancellor, Rachel Reeves said:

    We’re seizing the huge potential and opportunities that Scotland has on offer. Whether it’s in defence to keep the UK safe, or clean energy to power all corners of the country, this government is backing Scotland with billions of pounds of investment to grow the economy and create jobs.

    Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray said:

    The UK Government is investing in defence to ensure Britain’s security and deter our adversaries and drive economic growth.

    This investment is a massive jobs opportunity for Scotland – this ‘defence dividend’ is good news for Scotland, where it will help create skilled jobs, drive economic growth and help tackle the critical skills gaps facing the country in sectors such as nuclear, construction, maritime and project management.

    The Spending Review also saw investments that will make Scotland the home of the UK’s clean energy revolution. While Acorn is still subject to final investment decision, this £200 million is just the beginning to this government’s commitment to investing in Scotland and has the potential to safeguard 18,000 North Sea jobs whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.

    Great British Energy will also be headquartered in Aberdeen, to drive clean power generation across the UK. Boosting homegrown energy will also make the UK more secure.

    The Chancellor’s visit comes as defence spending rises to 2.6% of GDP and figures from 23/24 reveal that MOD spend maintains 26,100 skilled jobs across Scotland. The Spending Review also committed £250 million to secure the future of HMNB Clyde – the first stage of a multi-decade, multi-billion renewal project and all three Clyde shipyards are currently fulfilling contracts for the Royal Navy.


    Further information:

    • The Spending Review delivered a record settlement for Scottish public services, with the Scottish Government’s largest settlement, in real terms, since devolution in 1998. Scottish Government’s settlement is growing in real terms between 2024-25 and 2028-29. This translates into an average of £50.9 billion per year between 2026-27 and 2028-29.

    Maria Laine, President United Kingdom, Ireland & Nordic region, Boeing, said:

    Boeing has a long-standing presence in Scotland including at RAF Lossiemouth, the home to the UK’s P-8 Poseidon fleet and where the E-7 Wedgetail will be based when it enters service. As a key partner of the UK Armed Forces, Boeing welcomes the defence spending increase and has seen first-hand how defence infrastructure investments, such as the £100 million Atlantic Building and new E-7 facilities at RAF Lossiemouth, can deliver for local jobs, suppliers and UK national security.

    Michelle Ferguson, Director, CBI Scotland, said:

    Scotland’s energy and defence sectors are vital to our economy, driving investment and supporting thousands of skilled jobs. The Chancellor’s announcement of £200 million for the Acorn energy project is very encouraging, but businesses are eager for final approval to unlock its full potential and secure North Sea jobs. Increased defence spending will further boost Scotland’s skilled workforce and create growth opportunities across key supply-chain. Close collaboration between the Scottish and UK governments will be essential to fully realise these benefits, driving forward national security and Scotland’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.

    Mark Sommerfeld, UK Director of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said:

    The Chancellor’s visit to Acorn further highlights the importance of CCUS in securing the future of our foundational industries and delivering a secure low carbon power system – both in Scotland and across the UK. The Government’s commitment to CCUS means that thousands of skilled jobs will be protected, with thousands more created across our industrial heartlands – delivering economic growth and clean power. 

    To maintain global leadership in CCUS and realise the full benefits for our industrial communities, we need to see clear deployment pathways for both Acorn and Viking CCS, as well as other projects developing at pace across the UK. By doing so, the Government can deliver on its economic growth mission and climate goals.

    Katy Heidenreich, Offshore Energies UK Supply Chain and People Director said: 

    We share the Chancellor’s commitment to Scotland’s energy future. Our industry plays a vital role in delivering jobs, growth, and energy security through the production of homegrown energy.

    Government support for projects like Acorn is crucial. The UK Government has committed £200 million in development funding to Acorn — Scotland’s flagship carbon capture and storage initiative — marking a major milestone in advancing the country’s decarbonisation strategy. The project is expected to support around 15,000 jobs during peak construction and repurpose 175 miles of pipeline infrastructure to transport CO₂ from central Scotland to storage.

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DGCA attends Asia-Pacific aviation heads conference in Japan (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DGCA attends Asia-Pacific aviation heads conference in Japan  
    The theme for this year’s Conference was “The sustainable skies of the Asia-Pacific region: towards increased economic prosperity and social well-being by air transportation of people and goods in the region”. The five-day Conference, with over 350 participants from 47 member states, administrations and international organisations, concluded on a high note today (August 1). Discussion and information papers covering a wide range of subjects, including aviation safety, air navigation, aviation security, aviation and the environment, aviation technologies, as well as regional co-operation were submitted by aviation authorities and industry organisations to the Conference.
     
    Among the three papers submitted to the Conference by the CAD, one of them was themed “Development of Low-Altitude Economy” to share Hong Kong’s efforts of leveraging advanced air mobility technologies to develop the low-altitude economy in Hong Kong while safeguarding aviation and public safety. The other two papers presented the CAD’s experiences in upholding aviation safety and aviation security requirements for sustainable air cargo operations, and discussed the collaborative achievements in the commissioning of the Three-Runway System at Hong Kong International Airport to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the aerodrome remained unaffected throughout the project. The papers received recognition and support from delegates.
     
    During their stay in Sendai, the CAD delegation attended side meetings with representatives from different aviation authorities and industry organisations such as the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Australia, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Airports Council International and the International Air Transport Association. Views on matters of mutual interest were shared, and ways to strengthen co-operation were explored with the aim of facilitating aviation developments.
     
    The CAD will continue to maintain close co-operation with its aviation partners and continue to support the ICAO’s global aviation development initiatives.
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • Govt launches ‘Apna Ghar’ resting facilities for truck drivers across highways

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a move to enhance the safety and well-being of truck drivers during long-haul journeys, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched an ambitious initiative called ‘Apna Ghar’. The programme aims to provide comfortable and hygienic resting spaces for truckers across major highways in the country.

    As of July 1, 2025, a total of 368 ‘Apna Ghar’ units with 4,611 beds have been set up by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at retail fuel outlets along national and state highways. These facilities offer a range of services including dormitory accommodations, restaurants or dhabas, clean toilets, dedicated bathing areas, self-cooking spaces, and access to purified drinking water — all designed to improve the quality of life for truck drivers on the road.

    The initiative has seen a positive response from the trucking community, with a growing number of bookings, app downloads, and user registrations on the dedicated ‘Apna Ghar’ mobile application. Feedback collected from users reflects widespread appreciation for the comfort and convenience these resting spaces provide.

    The information was shared by Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. He said that the initiative is part of the government’s broader commitment to support the country’s trucking workforce and to ensure better infrastructure and working conditions for those who keep India’s supply chains running.

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: The SPbPU PISh team received a patent for an igniter for reactors of oil and gas processing plants

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The team of the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the Advanced Engineering School of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University “Digital Engineering” successfully completed the development and received a patent for an ignition device for reactors of oil and gas processing plants.

    Patent for invention RU 2842893 C1 was registered by the Federal Service for Intellectual Property on July 3, 2025.

    Leading industry research centers and strategic industrial partners of SPbPU have shown significant interest in the development. The partners of the invention were JSC TsKBM (part of the State Corporation Rosatom), LLC NTC Gazconsulting, and the Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenov of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

    Among the ultimate stakeholders in the innovative device is JSC Research Institute of Scientific Production Association LUCH (part of the State Corporation Rosatom).

    Developers of ignition devices for reactors of oil and gas processing plants:

    Borovkov Aleksey Ivanovich, chief designer in the key scientific and technological direction of development of St. Petersburg SPBPU “System Digital Engineering”, director of the advanced engineering school of SPBPU “Digital Engineering”;
    Rozhdestvensky Oleg Igorevich, head of the Office of Technological Leadership of St. Petersburg State University;
    Aristovich Yuri Valerievich, expert NOC “Digital Engineering of the Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pish SPBPU;
    Oganesyan Grach Varuzhanovich, chief specialist and researcher of Nutz “Digital Engineering of Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Mikheeva Valeria Yuryevna, engineer NOC “Digital Engineering of Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Nikolaeva Valery Andreevna, engineer NOC “Digital Engineering of the Basic Equipment of Chemical and Technological Systems” Pisch SPBPU;
    Ivanov Vladislav Sergeevich, Deputy Director of the Federal Research Center of Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenova RAS for scientific work;
    Frolov Sergey Mikhailovich, head of the combustion department and explosion and head of the laboratory of the detonation of the Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics named after N. N. Semenova RAS;
    Vasiliev Nikolay Dmitrievich, chief designer for remotely controlled and transport and technological equipment of JSC “Central Design Bureau”;
    Marinchenko Nikita Aleksandrovich, head of the project office in shipbuilding and hydrogen energy of JSC “Central Design Bureau”;
    Bondarchuk Dmitry Vitalyevich, commercial director of NTC Gazksonsalting LLC.

    A critical production problem is to ensure reliable ignition of burner devices of complex process equipment, for example, an autothermal reforming reactor, during its start-up. Unsuccessful ignition can lead to the formation of explosive concentrations of a flammable mixture in subsequent elements of the process chain. This, in turn, can provoke uncontrolled exothermic reactions and, as a consequence, emergency situations with potential damage to equipment and personnel. The developed product provides a radical solution to the problem, guaranteeing stable and reliable ignition, – said the responsible executor of the development, an expert of the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the St. Petersburg Polytechnical School Yuri Aristovich.

    The ignition device is a structurally and functionally unified device – a complex technical system in which all components are interconnected and jointly implement the function of igniting the combustible mixture. The device contains a housing, an oxidizer supply pipe and a combustible gas supply pipe, a spark plug, valves of the oxidizer supply pipe and the combustible gas supply pipe, an outlet pipe. The housing contains a cylindrical mixing chamber, the inputs of the oxidizer supply pipe and the combustible gas supply pipe are located in the part of the mixing chamber that is most distant from the outlet pipe.

    The oxidizer feed pipe is connected to the housing so as to feed the oxidizer in the tangential direction, and the combustible gas feed pipe is connected so as to feed the combustible gas in the radial direction. The inlet openings of the pipes in the housing are made so as to ensure critical gas outflow. The dimensions of the inlet openings are reasonably selected so that when the back pressure changes, the flow rates of the combustible gas and oxidizer change proportionally, the diameter of the outlet pipe is from 10 to 50% of the diameter of the mixing chamber. The technical result is an increase in the reliability of the device.

    The ignition device is designed to operate in a short-pulse mode. This ensures reliable ignition at low thermal loads in a wide range of pressures (from 1 to several tens of atmospheres). The device forms and directs small volumes of flame – fire ellipses of a certain size and at a given speed. Ignition charges ensure reliable ignition of the main burner, minimizing the thermal load on the outflow zone and the ignition device body, which significantly simplifies the reactor design and its startup procedure.

    The task of developing an igniter within the established deadlines seemed extremely difficult. Initially, it was assumed that the system would be implemented with a developed cooling infrastructure and multi-component thermal protection, which is due to the extremely high operating temperatures that significantly exceed the parameters of standard devices. The specifics of the reactor excluded the possibility of using serial solutions. Alternative options were considered, including the use of pyrotechnic cartridges, but this approach was recognized as suboptimal in terms of manufacturability and operational safety. As a result, an original, reliable and safe igniter was created that meets all the requirements. The developed device demonstrates high potential for use not only within the framework of this project, but also in other industries that require reliable systems for initiating processes in high temperatures and aggressive environments, added Nikolay Vasiliev, Chief Designer for Remotely Controlled and Transport and Technological Equipment at JSC TsKBM.

    Chief designer for the key scientific and technological development area of SPbPU “Systemic Digital Engineering”, director of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” Alexey Borovkov spoke about the key success factor: “At the beginning of the work, none of the authors of the development could foresee the final result of creating a science-intensive and high-tech product. By combining the knowledge, experience and competencies of scientists, engineers and designers from various fields of knowledge and industries, we managed to form a unique multidisciplinary team and obtain impressive results. Of course, this is a logical result of the application of systemic digital engineering technologies, including the technology of developing digital twins, mathematical and computer modeling of non-stationary nonlinear physical-mechanical and physical-chemical processes of the behavior of a high-tech product.

    The development of a complex technical system is based on the effective application of the created multidisciplinary digital model [ 1, 2, 3 ], which is a system of interconnected mathematical and computer models describing combustion kinetics, chemical thermodynamics of free-radical reactions, dynamics of vortex flows at supercritical parameters of substances and non-stationary nonlinear thermomechanics. Numerous digital (virtual) tests and the necessary full-scale tests made it possible to carry out verification [ 1, 2 ] and validation [1, 2] developed models, to raise the level adequacy of models and descriptions of complex processes confirmed the efficiency and reliability of the developed high-tech product.

    With the help of approaches, technologies and methods of system digital engineering, the formed innovative scientific and technical groundwork and on the basis of the digital platform for the development and application of digital twins CML-Bench® [ 1, 2 ] our team implemented all stages of creating a finished industrial product in record time: development and design took only 2 months, manufacturing and testing – 3 months. It is fundamentally important to note that traditional approaches are not capable of ensuring such a high speed of implementation of science-intensive and high-tech projects for the development of complex technical systems.”

    In conclusion, we note that the results of the development of the ignition device have made a significant contribution to the formation of a scientific and technological reserve for the creation digital (virtual) testing ground for burner devices. The development of a digital test site is one of the most important final goals of a large-scale project to develop new generation burner devices for pyrolysis furnaces, implemented within the framework of the key scientific and technological direction (KNTD-1) of the development of SPbPU “Systemic Digital Engineering” within the framework of the “Priority-2030” program.

    The project within the framework of KNTN-1 provides for the definition of approaches to mathematical and computer modeling of new burner devices, development matrices requirements, target indicators and resource constraints, creation of a series of computer models of the prototype (primary, refined, detailed, optimized), conducting full-scale tests of a pilot industrial model of a burner device for validations computer model, development of design documentation and implementation into production.

    Let us recall that in June 2025, specialists from the Scientific and Educational Center “Digital Engineering of the Main Equipment of Chemical-Engineering Systems” of the SPbPU PISh presented This project and the Center’s expertise in developing burner devices at the Gazprom Neft site, one of the leaders in the oil and gas industry and petrochemical industry in Russia.

    Methodological support and the process of registering the right to the intellectual property object of the igniter were provided by Center for Transfer and Import Substitution of Advanced Digital and Manufacturing Technologies SPbPU.

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    August 5, 2025
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