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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “HSE and VTB Partnership: Cooperation to Solve Applied Problems”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    A project session dedicated to scientific and technological cooperation between the university and VTB Bank was held at the Higher School of Economics. HSE employees presented a wide range of projects that will help ensure the bank’s technological leadership. For example, this includes creating 3D avatars based on a person’s photo or solutions to reduce employee stress levels. In total, 21 projects were taken on by the bank. The next meeting of VTB and HSE representatives will take place in September.

    The session was attended by experts from the “Testing New Technologies” stream, as well as experts from the data analysis and modeling departments and the digital development operating model of VTB and representatives of the bank’s technology partner, IT holding T1.

    The strategic session began with a welcome from the host.

    “HSE is a large university. We have five campuses, including an online campus. HSE has more than 55 thousand students, almost 4.5 thousand teachers and researchers, and the university carries out more than 600 research projects annually. These projects give us more than 3,000 publications, and it is very pleasing that HSE published 40% of Russian A* reports on artificial intelligence last year,” said Igor Sokolov, Director of Research and Development at HSE, a little about what the university is today. According to him, the university conducts more than 150 unique fundamental studies annually and more than 270 applied projects are done for organizations, ministries and departments.

    Most of the projects at HSE are implemented by research departments (the largest is Institute for Statistical Research and Economics of Knowledge), the contribution of faculties is growing annually, and one of the goals of the strategic session is their active involvement in interaction with partners, noted Igor Sokolov.

    At the beginning of the program “Priority 2030“HSE’s revenue from research and development from all sources amounted to 5 billion rubles. By 2030, the university has set an ambitious goal of doubling this amount “on a parity basis: half from the state assignment, half from applied research,” he also said. “At the moment, we expect that applied research at HSE will slightly outpace the state assignment, including with the participation of partners such as VTB Bank,” Igor Sokolov added.

    Director Center for commercialization of developments and technology transfer HSE University Anton Yanovsky, in turn, noted that HSE is a university that knows how to make intellectual products and sell them under a license model. According to him, HSE already has a fairly large package of products from various fields – from expert analytics, medical applications, genetic tests to linguistic applications and sensory testing systems.

    The list of such products is constantly growing. “Our task is not just to transfer the results of scientific research to the customer, but also to create products together with them that can be sold in series,” Anton Yanovsky noted. If we consider the dynamics of the development of relations with business partners, the university has a growing number of licensing deals, he added.

    “VTB is actively developing interaction with technological innovations from the open market, including through work with scientific schools. Today, the bank has built its own system for working with innovations, several teams that have colossal expertise in research, testing and piloting innovative technological solutions. The bank has a fairly high appetite for using breakthrough technologies to solve business problems,” said Deputy Head of the IT Architecture Department, Vice President of VTB Andrey Kovalenko.

    The heads of the VTB Accelerator teams, the VTB Innovation Studio and the VTB Technology Laboratory shared their expertise on how to build effective cooperation with the bank, and also reviewed HSE projects for the potential development of partnership.

    Among the solutions presented by HSE employees were projects to create a visual search system within videos, an educational chatbot, a model for generating 3D avatars based on a person’s photograph, as well as projects for solutions to reduce employee stress. A total of 32 projects were reviewed, 5 of which were from the HSE campuses in Perm and St. Petersburg. Following the review, 21 projects were included in the framework of the mutual cooperation agreement. Representatives of VTB and HSE agreed that the next strategic session will be held in the fall.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Gansu Province Receives First Railway Equipment Maintenance Order from Kazakhstan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    LANZHOU, May 30 (Xinhua) — Northwest China’s Gansu Province has received its first order for railway equipment maintenance from Kazakhstan.

    On Thursday, two locomotives from Kazakhstan successfully arrived at the Alashankou checkpoint on the China-Kazakhstan border. After customs clearance, customs declaration and other procedures, they will be repaired in Lanzhou City in the province.

    According to an employee of the local logistics company that is carrying out the order, this order has successfully integrated such technology services into the service trade system. The order has not only helped open up new opportunities for Gansu Province in the field of technical maintenance of high-tech equipment brought from abroad, but also expanded the potential for industrial cooperation with Central Asian countries in the field of infrastructure.

    According to the information available, the company will assign the railway equipment maintenance team to carry out the repair work. The team will inspect and repair key components of the locomotives, such as the traction power system, braking system and electrical equipment.

    The entire maintenance process will strictly comply with international standards and industry regulations to ensure that locomotives are put into service in Kazakhstan in the best working condition after repair. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Thailand aims to become regional hub for AI, digital innovation: deputy PM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BANGKOK, May 30 (Xinhua) — Thailand is advancing a national transformation strategy and aiming to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society Prasert Chantharawongthong said in a video message Thursday at the Huawei Thailand Digital and AI Summit 2025.

    He pointed to the important role of AI and digital innovation in Thailand’s long-term development strategy, noting that the country’s digital economy is growing rapidly and will expand by 7.3 percent in 2025.

    “Under the ‘Economic Growth Engine of Thailand’ program, we aim to enhance national competitiveness, create a safe digital environment, and nurture a new generation of digital talent,” said P. Chantharawongthong. Thailand aims to strengthen its digital infrastructure, create a safe digital environment that protects users’ rights and enjoys public trust, and develop human capital by training talent and developing AI developers over the next two years, he added.

    In support of the country’s talent development policy, Chinese tech giant Huawei and Thailand’s Chulalongkorn University are collaborating to develop AI-focused curricula, develop ICT infrastructure, and transform the university into a fully integrated smart campus.

    “This collaboration with Huawei reflects our strong commitment to digital transformation in education and preparing our students and staff for the future digital economy,” said Parichat Sthapitanonda, vice president of the university.

    Huawei Technologies Thailand CEO Li Xiongwei pointed to the transformative power of AI for society. “By collaborating with government, industry, and academia, Huawei aims to advance all sectors, from agriculture to healthcare to finance,” he said.

    The summit brought together more than 2,000 participants, including government leaders, global tech leaders and academics, to explore the next phase of Thailand’s digital economy, powered by AI, cloud innovation and cross-sector collaboration. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • President Murmu honours 15 nurses with National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 on 15 outstanding nursing professionals in a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The annual awards recognise the exceptional service and unwavering commitment of nurses from across India, who have played a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s healthcare delivery system.

    The awardees, drawn from diverse states and healthcare settings, were honoured for their dedication, compassion, and resilience — hallmarks of the nursing profession. This year’s recipients include Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), and Registered Nurses serving in both government and voluntary healthcare services.

    Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, along with Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav and Anupriya Patel, attended the ceremony.

    Addressing the gathering, Nadda praised the awardees, saying, “This well-deserved recognition celebrates your dedication to serving humanity and will motivate you to keep making a positive impact. Our nurses are the pillars of India’s healthcare system, saving countless lives every single day.”

    Instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Florence Nightingale Awards include a Certificate of Merit, a medal, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The award is presented annually to honour nurses, midwives, and health workers for their distinguished service.

    The Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has undertaken several initiatives to bolster the nursing and midwifery professions. The recent enactment of the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act is expected to modernize nursing education and improve regulatory oversight. Additionally, the establishment of 157 nursing colleges alongside medical colleges is aimed at creating a robust, skilled nursing workforce capable of meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the country.

  • There could be no greater injustice: PM Modi accuses opposition of betraying Bihar, promises new era of progress

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took a sharp dig at the opposition during his public rally in Bikramganj, Rohtas district, accusing them of deceiving Bihar for decades and now attempting to misuse the narrative of social justice to regain power. Speaking to a large gathering, PM Modi said that under previous regimes, Bihar’s poor and marginalized communities—especially Dalits, backward classes, and tribal groups—were denied basic amenities and forced to migrate in search of better lives.

    “For decades, Dalits, backward classes, and tribal communities in Bihar lacked even basic sanitation,” PM Modi said. He added that many were denied access to banking services, remained homeless, and lived without proper shelter. “Is this the social justice promised by the opposition? I say there can be no greater injustice than this,” he asserted.

    The Prime Minister criticized opposition parties for not genuinely caring about the struggles of marginalized communities. He also censured them for bringing foreign delegations to Bihar merely to highlight poverty, instead of focusing on development work. PM Modi observed that after losing support among Dalits and other marginalized groups due to their failures, the opposition is now trying to revive its political identity by invoking social justice.

    In contrast, PM Modi highlighted the “new dawn” of social justice under the current government. He said his administration has ensured access to essential services for the poor, aiming to reach 100% of eligible beneficiaries. “Four crore new houses have been provided, and three crore women are being empowered through the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative,” PM Modi said. Over 12 crore households now enjoy tap water connections, improving living standards nationwide.

    He further noted that every senior citizen above 70 is entitled to free medical treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh, while free ration is provided monthly to support the needy. “Our government stands firmly with every poor and underprivileged individual, ensuring their well-being and upliftment,” PM Modi affirmed.

    PM Modi praised Bihar’s launch of the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samagra Seva Abhiyan, under which 22 essential welfare schemes are delivered simultaneously to villages, ensuring no eligible family is left behind. He announced that over 30,000 service camps have already connected lakhs of beneficiaries to these programmes, bringing the state closer to the vision of Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Karpoori Thakur, Babu Jagjivan Ram and Jayaprakash Narayan.

    On the infrastructure front, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the Rs 29,930 crore Nabinagar Super Thermal Power Project Stage-II (3×800 MW) in Aurangabad district. The project aims to boost energy security for Bihar and eastern India, stimulate industrial growth, create jobs, and provide affordable electricity.

    He also laid foundation stones for multiple road projects, including the four-laning of Patna–Arrah–Sasaram section of NH-119A, six-laning of the Varanasi–Ranchi–Kolkata highway (NH-319B) and Ramnagar–Kacchi Dargah stretch (NH-119D), and the construction of a new Ganga bridge between Buxar and Bharauli. These projects will improve high-speed connectivity across Bihar, enhancing trade and regional integration.

    PM Modi also inaugurated the four-laning of Patna–Gaya–Dobhi section of NH-22 worth around Rs 5,520 crore and the elevated highway and at-grade improvements in Gopalganj town on NH-27.

    Furthering his commitment to rail infrastructure, PM Modi dedicated the third rail line between Son Nagar and Mohammad Ganj, a project worth over Rs 1,330 crore, to the nation.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Polytechnic University remembers: 80 years of Victory through the eyes of the SPbPU Student City

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    University youth have always played a key role in preserving historical memory and perpetuating the feat of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War. Students and staff of the Student City were no exception – they actively participated in university events dedicated to the anniversary of the Great Victory. In an effort to preserve the memory of the Student City’s contribution during the war, the united student council of the SPbPU dormitories initiated its own projects aimed at education and preserving the historical heritage.

    Information stands telling about the role of students during the war were placed in all the dormitories and hotels of the Student City. These stands became not only a tribute to memory, but also an opportunity for new generations of students to touch the pages of the past. Particular attention was paid to memorial sites – ceremonial flower-laying ceremonies were held at the dormitories on Lesnaya Street, as well as at the “Blockade Well” on Nepokorennykh Avenue.

    In addition, a series of videos was prepared for social networks, revealing the heroism of those who lived in dormitories during the war years. Thanks to living testimonies, archives and photographs, we can understand at what incredible cost in the conditions of war students continued to study and live.

    The beginning of the war

    From the recollections of Flight Research Institute student Zalman Reznikov-Levit: June 22, 1941. A clear, gentle, sunny day. The student campus “on Flyugov” was quiet. An examination session was underway. Everyone was sitting with their notes, preparing to take the next exam. The session was coming to an end. I was preparing “Electric Drive”, which was due tomorrow, Monday, June 23. The morning was clear and calm. Suddenly the radio announced that at 12 o’clock the Chairman of the Council of People’s Commissars of the USSR, Comrade V. M. Molotov, would speak on the radio. I felt anxious… For the next day, a table was set up in the student campus on the street opposite the canteen near building No. 5, where the registration of volunteers for the student division of the people’s militia began. The registration of those wishing to participate lasted for several days. There were a lot of people around the registration tables, a crush, noise.

    Simultaneously with the announcement of the attack of Nazi Germany on our country, the People’s Commissar of Foreign Affairs of the USSR V. M. Molotov read the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on the mobilization of persons born between 1905 and 1918 into the Red Army. As the director of the Student City Iraida Grigoryevna Otto recalled, military tables were organized in the premises of the factory-kitchen on a voluntary basis. The staff of the Student City delivered summonses to persons who had to appear at the recruiting stations. The administration also created self-defense groups in the Student City with the help of public organizations. They consisted mainly of women and children aged 12 to 17. The duties of the participants in these groups, in addition to regular duty, included sealing windows with paper tape, filling sandbags, and keeping watch in the attics.

    Student City Buildings

    Student canteen #6, located in the third dormitory, was transferred to the hospital. The hospital’s service personnel were housed in part of the second academic building. In the first days of the war, the V and VI buildings of the Student City were occupied by an evacuation hospital. As TVN worker P. Fomin recalls, it was there that he was treated for his wounds. 85% of the glass in the building had been replaced with plywood, the heating no longer worked, and there was no water. Due to the lack of fuel, the heat supply to the Student City buildings ceased, and the remaining students heated their rooms with temporary shelters. On December 31, 1941, due to improper use of a “potbelly stove”, the IV building caught fire. A third of the building burned down, and two fires that occurred in January completely destroyed the IV building of the Student City.

    The commander of the 7th company was a career firefighter A. Kudryavtsev, and the political instructor was a polytechnic student Valentin Vernitsky. The platoon headquarters was located in the Red Corner of the first building of the Student City on Lesnoy, 65. From September 11, the entire regiment was transferred to barracks. As student Vera Sharova recalls, the female firefighters lived in two rooms on the fifth floor of the first building of the Student City, and the guys lived with the company leadership in the basement of a building on the corner of Lesnoy Prospekt and 1st Murinsky. Every day, the platoon fighters gathered at the command post, from where they went on patrol.

    In addition, a tank regiment was located in the Student City. It stayed in the main building for only 12 days, after which it was transferred to the VII Corps of the Student City, located at 14 Pribytkovskaya Street. This street no longer exists. It is built up with houses, including the institute’s dormitories. Regular scheduled classes had effectively ceased by November 1941 due to the small number of groups. Lectures were often held in the apartments of teachers or in student dormitories.

    Before the war, flowers and seedlings were grown on the territory of the Polytechnic. So by the summer of 1941, gardeners had everything ready for growing flowers. But the war messed up their plans. It was too late to start planting vegetables; they were planted in the spring. Gardening was transformed into a subsidiary farm of the institute, and its staff increased. Already from mid-July 1942, the institute’s employees were harvesting.

    Victory Day

    Two o’clock in the morning. The dormitory was quiet, almost everyone was asleep. But as soon as the radio announced the capitulation of Nazi Germany, all the students and teachers were on their feet. The corridors began to stir, people congratulated each other, kissed each other. Songs thundered throughout the corridor, – a quote from the newspaper “Polytechnic” from May 16, 1945.

    After the announcement of Victory at 2:20 a.m. a rally was organized, after which dancing and singing began. The fun continued until six o’clock in the morning.

    By the way, the restoration of the Polytechnic buildings began in the summer of 1944. Workshop No. 1 was tasked with repairing the metal roof of the first and second academic buildings, and then the Main Building and the dormitories on Lesnoy. Special teams were created, which were joined by students arriving from evacuation.

    This page of the history of the Great Patriotic War is forever inscribed in the fate of the university and the Student City, becoming a symbol of the contribution to the education of a strong, courageous generation of defenders of the Motherland.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: TIAN RUIXIANG Holdings Ltd to Acquire Ucare Inc. in US$150 Million All-Stock Deal, Advancing In-Hospital Health Insurance Strategy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TIAN RUIXIANG Holdings Ltd (Nasdaq: TIRX) (the “Company” or “TRX”), a China-based insurance broker, today announced plans to acquire 100% of issued and outstanding shares of Ucare Inc. (“Ucare”), the sole operator of China’s only cloud-based AI-driven hospital and health insurance risk management platform, in an all-share deal valued at US$150 million. This strategic move aims to unlock new growth opportunities in the health insurance segment.

    The Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, VitaCare Limited (“VitaCare”) have entered into a share exchange agreement (the “Agreement”) with certain shareholders (the “Sellers”) of Ucare and other parties. Under the Agreement, the Sellers will receive 101,486,575 newly-issued class A ordinary shares (“Shares”) of TRX, each with a par value of US$0.025. The number of Shares is calculated based on the weighted average closing price of TRX’s Class A ordinary shares over the three months preceding the Agreement, at a per-share price of US$1.478. The Shares will represent approximately 91.75% of the Company’s total issued and outstanding Class A ordinary shares and approximately 13.70% of its total voting power upon closing, which is subject to customary conditions.

    Ucare develops innovative healthcare solutions that enable providers, payers, and institutions to reduce fraud, abuse, waste, and administrative costs. Powered by the largest hospital database, Ucare’s cloud-based generative AI platform continuously refines disease models by integrating real-world data, the latest medical guidelines, and real-time intelligence. Ucare’s vision is to ease the burden on patients, expand coverage, and ultimately improve access to healthcare for everyone. It currently serves over 4,000 hospitals and has contributed an estimated US$6.82 billion reduction in avoidable healthcare expenditures as of December 2024. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2024, Ucare reported a net profit of US$0.6 million on revenues of US$5.4 million.

    This acquisition comes at a time when China’s health insurance market is rapidly expanding to complement national health coverage reforms. By integrating Ucare’s AI-driven data analytics, institutional channels, and clinical treatment guidance tools, TRX aims to build differentiated health insurance products, strengthen their distribution within hospital systems, and accelerate its transition into a data-powered, platform-based insurance service provider.

    The transaction is expected to close on or about July 2025. Shares issued to the Sellers will be held in escrow and released based on Ucare achieving a cumulative revenue target of at least RMB150 million over the three years following closing. Post-transaction, Ucare will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of VitaCare. Key Ucare management, including Chief Executive Officer Mr. Wei Zhu, will remain in their roles to drive continuity and growth.

    Mr. Wei Zhu, Chief Executive Officer of Ucare, stated, “We are excited to join forces with TRX in a transaction that validates our mission and achievements. Over the years, we’ve built China’s leading hospital management platform, powered by proprietary AI algorithms and a deep understanding of healthcare system dynamics. TRX’s platform, capital access, and industry network will empower us to scale R&D, integrate the latest generative AI into clinical pathways, and expand our offerings from medical institutions to insurance companies. This marks a pivotal moment in building a unified ecosystem that brings hospitals, insurers, and patients closer together for more efficient, transparent healthcare.”

    Ms. Sheng Xu, Director, Chairwoman and Chief Executive Officer of TRX, commented, “This Agreement with Ucare represents a critical acquisition that expands our business channels by adding health insurance offerings that complement our property insurance products. With its unique positioning and first-mover advantage as the sole provider of cloud-based AI solutions for health insurance risk management, Ucare gives us privileged access to healthcare data, decision-makers, and patient journeys. This will significantly enhance our ability to design tailored insurance products，recommend solutions, streamline claims and diversify revenues. We view Ucare not only as a growth engine but as a strategic hub that bridges insurance services with healthcare delivery—an integration we believe will define the next decade of our industry.”

    About TIAN RUIXIANG Holdings Ltd
    TIAN RUIXIANG Holdings Ltd, headquartered in Beijing, China, is an insurance broker operating in China through its China-based variable interest entity. It distributes a wide range of insurance products, which are categorized into two major groups: (1) property and casualty insurance, such as commercial property insurance, liability insurance, accidental insurance, and automobile insurance; and (2) other types of insurance, such as health insurance, life insurance, and other miscellaneous insurance.

    About Ucare Inc.
    Ucare Inc. develops innovative healthcare solutions that enable providers, payers, and institutions to reduce fraud, abuse, waste, and administrative costs. Powered by the largest hospital database, Ucare’s cloud-based generative AI platform continuously refines disease models by integrating real-world data, the latest medical guidelines, and real-time intelligence. Ucare’s vision is to ease the burden on patients, expand coverage, and ultimately improve access to healthcare for everyone.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review risk factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and in its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    For investor and media enquiries, please contact:
    TIAN RUIXIANG Holdings Ltd
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@tianrx.com

    Water Tower Research
    Feifei Shen
    Email: feifei@watertowerresearch.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How trafficked American guns fuel Mexico’s cartel violence – podcast

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    More than two thirds of guns recovered at Mexican crime scenes originate in the U.S. For decades, Mexico has struggled with staggering levels of gun violence fueled in large part by weapons trafficked across its northern border.

    Now an investigation published by The Conversation has arrived at a new estimate of the scale of this illicit gun trade between the U.S. and Mexico in 2022: 135,000 guns.

    Investigative journalist Sean Campbell and Topher McDougal, a professor of economic development at the University of San Diego, spent a year combing through multiple databases and court documents and conducting interviews to understand how the flow of guns works.

    Their investigation reveals where in the U.S. the guns are coming from, what impact these American guns are having in Mexico, and how difficult it is for American law enforcement agencies to prosecute those trafficking guns across the border.

    Listen to Campbell and McDougal talk about their investigation on The Conversation Weekly podcast.

    You can read the full investigation here.

    This episode of The Conversation Weekly was written and produced by Mend Mariwany and Gemma Ware. Mixing and sound design by Eloise Stevens and theme music by Neeta Sarl.

    Newsclips in this episode from PBS News, CGTN, France24, ABC 7 and NewsNation.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here. A transcript of this episode is available on Apple Podcasts.

    Sean Campbell and Topher McDougal do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations.

    – ref. How trafficked American guns fuel Mexico’s cartel violence – podcast – https://theconversation.com/how-trafficked-american-guns-fuel-mexicos-cartel-violence-podcast-256746

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From working class pubs to sold-out stadiums: how darts has become a major international sport

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Joshua McLeod, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, Deakin University

    Few sports have witnessed a transformation as dramatic as darts in recent years.

    From its origins as a pub game stereotypically played with cigarette and beer in hand, darts is now serious business.

    With surging television ratings and huge demand for live events, the growth of darts continues to leave many sports looking on in envy.

    There has been a combination of factors at play – not least one exceptionally prodigious teenager. Before discussing those factors, it’s worth taking a closer look at the numbers.

    Becoming big business

    Darts sits alongside a select few sports to have achieved significant commercial growth over the past decade.

    While not at the scale of sports such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Formula 1, the rise of darts has been prolific.

    In the United Kingdom, a record-breaking peak of 3.7 million viewers watched the 2024 Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Championship final. It was Sky Sports’ highest-ever non-soccer broadcast.

    In addition to the PDC World Championship – the sport’s premier knockout event – viewership records were also broken across the 2024 Premier League Darts season, a league-format competition featuring weekly fixtures between top-ranked players.

    On the UK’s Sky Sports, the 15 most-watched nights in the competition’s history all occurred that year.

    The PDC World Championship and Premier League Darts sit alongside the World Matchplay as the “Triple Crown” of most important darts events.

    Outside the UK, darts viewership also continues to grow.

    The Netherlands remains a strong and expanding heartland, while in Germany, viewership for the World Championship final has increased eightfold since 2008.

    In Australia, precise viewing figures are not widely available, but the Foxtel Group’s landmark four-year deal with the PDC in 2023 suggests rising demand.

    Surging audiences are translating into significantly larger broadcast deals.

    In 2025, Sky Sports reportedly outbid Netflix to secure a new £125 million (A$260.3 million) deal for exclusive UK coverage of the PDC for 2026–30. That was double the size of the previous deal.

    In contrast, many other sports face stagnation or even sharp declines in media rights value.

    For instance, the UK Super League rugby’s rights on Sky Sports fell from £40 million (A$83.3 million) per season in 2021 to £21.5 million (A$44.5 million) in 2024.

    Similarly, in soccer, the French Ligue 1’s TV deal with DAZN collapsed due to underwhelming subscriber numbers. Meanwhile, ESPN walked away from its long-standing agreement with Major League Baseball after unsuccessfully trying to cut its US$550 million (A$848 million) annual payment down to $200 million (A$309 million).

    Prize money in darts has also exploded.

    Next year, the winner of the two-week long World Championship will bank £1 million (A$2.08 million) – doubling this year’s purse.

    The prize money was £60,000 (A$124,960) in 2005, representing a 1,567% increase over 20 years.

    Tickets are also hot property. Premier League and World Championship sessions often sell out within minutes worldwide: the UK, Bahrain, New York and even Wollongong have become key stops in darts’ international calendar.

    The recipe for success

    Like Formula 1 and the UFC, darts benefits from being privately operated.

    Without the typical bureaucracy and conflicting interests seen in many traditional sport governing bodies, the PDC can respond more quickly to audience preferences and market opportunities.

    This streamlined, commercially driven approach has been key to darts’ growth.

    The sport has been expertly tailored to modern audiences.

    One of darts’ best-known selling points is the live event experience. The entertainment-first approach is known for loud music, the showmanship of player walk-ons, fancy dress from the crowd and yes, often plenty of alcohol.

    The lines are blurred between sport and party and fans love it.

    Culturally, darts is seen by many as fun, relatable, and rooted in working-class culture. After all, its heritage is in the pub.

    Darts is ideally suited to modern sport media consumption habits: PLD matches last only 20–30 minutes and the up-close TV product works perfectly for social media highlight clips.

    It is also one of the few sports where women compete directly against men.

    This adds another layer of interest for fans and has helped elevate stars such as Fallon Sherrock, who made headlines in 2019 by becoming the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship, eventually reaching the final 32.

    A prodigy emerges

    The so-called “Littler Effect” has given darts’ profile a significant boost.

    The emergence of talented teenager Luke Littler has broken new ground for the sport and drawn global interest.

    The English prodigy, who has quickly risen to fame, is by far the sport’s biggest star, but it would be unfair to say darts is a one-man band.

    Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen enjoy significant profiles while Phil Taylor is regarded as the sport’s greatest player. Australia’s Simon “The Wizard” Whitlock also forged a successful career.

    There is also colourful two-time world champion Peter Wright.

    Where to from here?

    The success of darts reveals much about modern sports audiences and their preferences.

    Darts does not rely on traditional ideas of athletic excellence, nor does it fit the Olympic ideal.

    Yet, darts is thriving while many traditional sports are stagnating.

    Darts’ success stems from remaining authentic to its working-class roots while evolving into an engaging commercial product suited for television, short-form content and digital media.

    For darts to fully achieve its global potential, the next step has to be continued international growth. Although it has grown steadily in markets like Australia and throughout Asia, the UK remains darts’ dominant base.

    As the global sports marketplace becomes more fragmented and competitive, darts is well positioned to continue growing.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. From working class pubs to sold-out stadiums: how darts has become a major international sport – https://theconversation.com/from-working-class-pubs-to-sold-out-stadiums-how-darts-has-become-a-major-international-sport-254807

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities of PPPs in Health Care

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    A public–private partnership (PPP) is a long-term contract between a private entity and a government entity, for providing a public asset or service. It has emerged as a strategic approach in health care, enabling governments to deliver quality medical services efficiently by leveraging private sector expertise, financial resources, and technological advancements. The public partner is typically responsible for project development and planning, providing access to land and utilities, ensuring regulatory compliance, and conducting contract monitoring. On the other hand, the private partner is typically responsible for design, construction, and infrastructure development, bringing in investment and operational expertise, and driving innovation to enhance service efficiency and quality.

    PPPs help address challenges facing health care systems, such as inadequate infrastructure, workforce shortages, financial constraints, and service delivery gaps, by bridging critical gaps in infrastructure, service delivery, and management.

    Different countries have tailored PPP models to address their unique health care needs. The impact of PPPs is particularly significant in addressing the challenges faced by low- and middle-income countries, where health care access and quality are constrained by financial and human resource limitations. For instance, India has demonstrated significant progress in PPP-based health care service delivery, particularly in areas like super specialty hospital development, dialysis services, diagnostic networks, telemedicine initiatives, and medical institutes. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan is actively exploring PPP models to strengthen its health care infrastructure and service provision, with growing emphasis on leveraging private sector participation in tertiary care, diagnostics, and hospital management. The following case studies highlight key lessons from health care PPPs in India and Uzbekistan, showcasing successful models and practical insights for effective implementation

    Upgradation of district hospitals to medical college and hospitals, Uttar Pradesh, India

    Uttar Pradesh, the most populus state of India, faced a critical shortage of medical professionals and tertiary care facilities, particularly in underserved districts. Of the 39 districts lacking medical colleges, 23 were established with state funding. To further bridge the gap, the government launched the “One District, One Medical College” initiative that involves the upgrading of district hospitals to 16 new medical colleges under a PPP model. Of these facilities, four medical colleges are being developed under state incentive schemes, while the development of three medical colleges (based on Design-Build-Finance-Operate and Transfer PPP Model) is supported through Viability Gap Funding.

    Figure 1: Project Structure Using the Design-Build-Finance-Operate and Transfer Model

    Source: Compiled by the Author Team based on NITI Aayog, Government of India. Public Private Partnership in Medical Education Concession Agreement – Guiding Principles. Guidelines for Financial Support to Public Private Partnerships in Infrastructure Viability Gap Funding Scheme, Project Tender Documents. 
    DH = District Hospital, NMC = National Medical Commission, VGF = Viability Gap Funding.

    Over the next 5 years, the project is expected to

    • improve access to medical education, addressing the shortage of trained professionals; 

    • expand tertiary care services in underserved regions;
    • enhance healthcare infrastructure by adding 6,700 beds;
    • enhance workforce availability by adding 1,600 doctors and more than 10,000 clinical workforce; and
    • provide affordable care by providing free inpatient department beds for underserved patients, free essential medicines for government-supported patients, and free outpatient department-related diagnostics; and ensured affordable rates for other patients.

    NephroPlus Dialysis Project in Uzbekistan

    Uzbekistan faced a severe shortage of dialysis centers, leading to high patient mortality and limited access to treatment, especially in remote areas. Existing facilities were overburdened and patients often had to travel long distances for care. To address this, dialysis services are being implemented through a PPP model across three regions in Uzbekistan (Karakalpakstan, Khorezm, and Tashkent), ensuring high-quality care, advanced technology, and cost-effective treatment for patients with renal diseases. The project follows a Build-Operate-Transfer model with a concession period of 10 years.

    From 2021 to 2025, the project achieved the following:

    • provided over 300,000 treatments across three regions;

    • reduced patient mortality by 40% since May 2021;

    • trained and recruited more than 300 clinical nurses and doctors through the NephroPlus Academy;

    • enabled a total savings of $9.8 million for the government; and

    • reduced by 15% country-level Hepatitis C patient count.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • PM Modi stresses green energy, infrastructure growth and farmer welfare in Bihar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, underlined the central government’s commitment to building a modern and self-reliant Bihar, with a strong focus on green energy, infrastructure development, and farmer welfare.

    Addressing a gathering in Bihar’s Karakat, PM Modi highlighted the ongoing construction of a solar park in Kajra as a step towards increasing the state’s renewable energy capacity. He said the initiative aligns with the larger national agenda of clean energy transition and reflects the government’s resolve to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

    Speaking on the benefits of the PM-KUSUM scheme, the Prime Minister said farmers are being empowered to generate additional income through solar energy. He also noted that the use of renewable-powered agricultural feeders is ensuring a reliable power supply to farmlands, contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity. “These efforts have not only improved the quality of life in rural areas but have also ensured greater safety for women,” he added.

    The Prime Minister emphasised that modern infrastructure brings maximum benefits to villages, the poor, farmers, and small industries by linking them to national and international markets. He said that new investments in the state are generating new employment opportunities and propelling economic growth.

    Recalling the Bihar Business Summit held last year, PM Modi noted that several companies had expressed interest in investing in the state. He said the resulting industrial development is helping reduce migration by enabling people to find jobs closer to home. Improved transportation facilities, he added, are allowing farmers to market their produce across wider regions, further boosting the agricultural economy.

    Reiterating the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, the Prime Minister said over 75 lakh farmers in Bihar are benefitting from the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. He announced the setting up of a Makhana Board in the state and highlighted that Bihar’s Makhana has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which is helping farmers gain better recognition and returns for their produce.

    He also said the Union Budget this year has made provisions for setting up a National Institute for Food Processing in Bihar, which will further support the food processing industry and benefit local farmers.

    In a major announcement, the Prime Minister informed the public that the Union Cabinet has recently approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops, including paddy. He said the decision would ensure better returns for farmers and boost their income during the upcoming crop season.

    The Prime Minister’s address was part of a larger event during which he launched and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹48,500 crore, encompassing infrastructure, energy, transport, and agriculture.

     

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Isle of Wight Council moves to shield Island from overdevelopment 30 May 2025 Isle of Wight Council moves to shield Island from overdevelopment

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    The Isle of Wight Council has taken a major step forward in protecting and shaping the Island’s long-term development by voting to accept the planning inspector’s required changes to the Island Planning Strategy (IPS).

    The decision, made during an extraordinary meeting of Full Council on Wednesday night, clears the way for the IPS to progress toward formal adoption.

    The IPS is a long-term strategic framework that guides how the Island will manage housing, infrastructure, job creation, and environmental priorities across the Island.

    It strikes a careful balance between the need for new and affordable homes and the protection of the Island’s unique communities, environment and heritage.

    One of the most significant changes required by the Planning Inspectorate was an increase in the Island’s annual housing target.

    While the original draft proposed 453 new homes per year — based on local evidence — the government’s standard method would have required the Island to plan for 1,104 homes annually.

    However, after reviewing the council’s detailed submission and supporting evidence, the planning inspectors concluded that a revised minimum target of 703 homes per year would be required to comply with national planning policies.

    Council officers will now begin to identify how to deliver an additional, modest, 79 homes per year for the first five years of the plan.

    They will also address other minor changes requested by the inspectors. These updates will be subject to public consultation, ensuring residents continue to have a voice in how the Island develops.

    The IPS continues to include strengthened policies to protect the Island’s natural environment and biodiversity.

    It promotes sustainable transport, supports renewable energy, and encourages development in areas with existing infrastructure, especially on brownfield land — helping to reduce pressure on greenfield sites and preserve the Island’s rural charm and nature.

    The plan also addresses key local concerns such as flood risk, coastal erosion, and affordable housing, aiming to ensure that future growth is both responsible, resilient, appropriate, and sustainable.

    Options considered

    Councillors considered several options before reaching their decision.

    The approved route, known as Option A, allows the council to move forward with the IPS while incorporating the inspector’s recommendations. This approach was seen as the most balanced, enabling the council to retain local control over planning decisions while meeting national policy requirements.

    Alternative options included withdrawing the IPS entirely and starting from scratch, which would have triggered the higher housing target of 1,104 homes per year.

    Another proposal to formally challenge the inspector’s recommendations was rejected, as it lacked a credible risk assessment and could have left the Island without a valid local plan — potentially opening the door to speculative and unregulated development.

    A council spokesperson said: “This was not an easy decision, but it was the right one under the circumstances we face. By accepting the Inspector’s recommendations, we are securing a plan that gives us the best chance to protect our Island from speculative development, while still meeting the needs of our communities.

    “Rejecting the plan, starting over or opposing the inspector’s requirements would have left us exposed to far greater housing targets and far less control. The worst of all outcomes for the Island.”

    What happens next?

    Next steps include preparing detailed proposals to meet the revised housing requirement and completing other evidence-based work.

    These will be published for public consultation in the coming months, giving residents another opportunity to help shape the final version of the plan.

    Photo: Getty Images

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 30 May 2025 News release WHO outlines recommendations to protect infants against RSV – respiratory syncytial virus

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) published its first-ever position paper on immunization products to protect infants against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – the leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections in children globally.

    Every year, RSV causes about 100 000 deaths and over 3.6 million hospitalizations in children under the age of 5 years worldwide. About half of these deaths occur in infants younger than 6 months of age. The vast majority (97%) of RSV deaths in infants occur in low- and middle-income countries where there is limited access to supportive medical care, such as oxygen or hydration.

    Published in the Weekly Epidemiological Record (WER), the position paper outlines WHO recommendations for two immunization products: a maternal vaccine that can be given to pregnant women in their third trimester to protect their infant and a long-acting monoclonal antibody that can be administered to infants from birth, just before or during the RSV season.

    “RSV is an incredibly infectious virus that infects people of all ages, but is especially harmful to infants, particularly those born premature, when they are most vulnerable to severe disease,” says Dr Kate O’Brien, Director of Immunization, Vaccines, and Biologicals at WHO. “The WHO-recommended RSV immunization products can transform the fight against severe RSV disease, dramatically reduce hospitalizations, and deaths, ultimately saving many infant lives globally.”

    RSV usually causes mild symptoms similar to the common cold, including runny nose, cough and fever. However, it can lead to serious complications – including pneumonia and bronchiolitis – in infants, young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions.

    Two immunization products to protect against RSV

    In response to the global burden of severe RSV disease among infants, WHO recommends that all countries introduce either the maternal vaccine, RSVpreF, or the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab depending on the feasibility of implementation within each country’s existing health system, cost-effectiveness and anticipated coverage. Both products were recommended by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) for global implementation in September 2024. In addition, the maternal vaccine received WHO prequalification in March 2025, allowing it to be purchased by UN agencies.

    WHO recommends that the maternal vaccine be given to pregnant women during the third trimester of pregnancy, from week 28 onwards, to optimize for the adequate transfer of antibodies to their baby. The vaccine may be given during routine antenatal care, including at one of the 5 WHO-recommended antenatal care visits in the third trimester or any additional medical consultations.

    The second WHO-recommended immunization product, nirsevimab, is given as a single injection of monoclonal antibodies that starts protecting babies against RSV within a week of administration and lasts for at least 5 months, which can cover the entire RSV season in countries with RSV seasonality.

    WHO recommends that infants receive a single dose of nirsevimab right after birth or before being discharged from a birthing facility. If not administered at birth, the monoclonal antibody can be given during the baby’s first health visit. If a country decides to administer the product only during the RSV season rather than year-round, a single dose can also be given to older infants just before entering their first RSV season.

    The greatest impact on severe RSV disease will be achieved by administering the monoclonal antibody to infants under 6 months of age. However, there is still a potential benefit among infants up to 12 months of age.

    WHO regularly issues updated position papers on vaccines, combinations of vaccines and other immunization products against diseases that have major public health impact. These papers focus primarily on the use of vaccines in large-scale vaccination programmes. The new position paper aims to inform national public health policymakers and immunization programme managers on the use of RSV immunization products in their national programmes, as well as national and international funding agencies.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HA pools resources to strengthen nursing education and cultivate next generation of nursing talent

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    HA pools resources to strengthen nursing education and cultivate next generation of nursing talent 
         The HA Nursing School will co-ordinate various nursing training programmes. Students will be able to share the teaching resources and facilities currently available at the four nursing schools, which will help provide a more diversified teaching and training model as well as more flexible clinical placement arrangements. It will also leverage the unique strengths of each school to design programmes and subjects that suit their own characteristics, providing students and teaching staff with more comprehensive training and development opportunities.
     
         Speaking at today’s inauguration ceremony of the HA Nursing School, the Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to nursing education. He said, “The HA attaches great importance to the professional training and development of nurses. I believe that the HA Nursing School will lead our nursing training programmes to a new level through curriculum innovation and enhanced teaching quality to cultivate competent, compassionate, and patient-centred healthcare professionals who can meet the evolving healthcare needs.”
     
         The Head of the HA Academy, Dr David Sun, said, “We anticipate four major advantages following the integration of the HA’s nursing schools. We will be able to facilitate flexible management and allocation of teaching resources to prepare for providing more nursing education opportunities, offering more continuous learning opportunities for both aspiring nurses and existing nursing staff. The integration will help streamline administrative work by reducing duplicative or unnecessary procedures while further enhancing teaching standards. It will also promote exchanges and collaboration with universities, specialty colleges, the Nursing Council of Hong Kong, and nursing schools worldwide. Furthermore, this will provide students and teaching staff with more diverse opportunities for learning, exchanges, and broadening horizons as well as a more enriching campus life.”
     
         The same day, the HA also held a graduation ceremony for the Professional Diploma in Nursing (PDN) Programme 2025. About 300 graduates from the HA Nursing School completed their 3.5-year training and qualified as registered nurses, ready to join the healthcare workforce.
     
         In his address, the Chief Manager (Nursing) of the HA, Dr Danny Tong, encouraged the graduates to uphold the spirit of people-centred care. He said, “The HA has always been dedicated to nurturing nursing talents. We value not only clinical expertise but also the fostering of their core nursing values. Remember to stay true to your aspirations and serve the community with empathy, professionalism and dedication.”
     
         Three outstanding graduates, Mr Lo Ming Laam (CMC), Miss Zoe Chan (QEH) and Mr Leung Kin Lok (TMH), shared that their learning experiences at the HA Nursing School had been very rewarding. They pointed that the Programme emphasised both theoretical knowledge and practical application, which deepened their understanding of holistic care. They pledged on behalf of all graduates to apply their knowledge and provide high-quality nursing services to patients and the community.
     
         The HA’s 3.5-year full time PDN Programme is currently open for enrollment, offering 300 places. On completion of the PDN Programme, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse (General) under the Nursing Council of Hong Kong. The deadline for applications is August 8. For details, please visit the HA’s website
    www.ha.org.hk/visitor/ha_visitor_index.asp?Content_ID=251613&Lang=ENG&Dimension=100Issued at HKT 17:47

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese to take over 80 million train trips during Dragon Boat Festival

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) — About 80.5 million passenger train trips are expected to be made during China’s five-day Dragon Boat Festival tourism boom, state-owned China Railway Corp. said Friday.

    The ancient Chinese Dragon Boat Festival, also known as the Duanwu Jie or Double Fifth Festival, falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. This year, the festival is celebrated on Saturday, May 31.

    The special period for rail transport began on Friday, and the peak of passenger transport will be on Saturday, on which day the passenger flow on the country’s railways will reach 18.3 million person-times, KZhD reported.

    According to China’s railway ticket booking platform 12306, popular destinations during the holiday this year include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Xi’an, Nanjing, Changsha and Zhengzhou.

    The platform’s data also shows that Beijing-Shanghai, Beijing-Jinan, Beijing-Taiyuan, Beijing-Nanjing and Shenzhen-Xianggang routes are the most popular these days.

    To meet increased travel demands, China Railways has increased capacity and also improved service quality to provide a better travel experience for passengers. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China issues guidelines to improve market allocation of natural resource and environment-related production factors

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) — China recently released guidelines to improve the market-based distribution system for production factors related to natural resources and the environment, as part of the country’s efforts to accelerate the overall transition to green socio-economic development.

    This document was jointly issued by the General Office of the CPC Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

    The document outlines measures to deepen reforms in the area of trade in factors of production related to natural resources and the environment, including improving quota allocation systems, expanding the range of traded factors of production, optimizing trading systems and strengthening fundamental capacity in this area.

    According to the document, China aims to establish a basically sound carbon and water trading system and establish and improve a pollutant emission trading system by 2027.

    By then, the market mechanism for energy conservation will be further improved, and trade in production factors related to natural resources and the environment will become more active, which will contribute to the formation of more advanced pricing mechanisms, the document says. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best VPN for Streaming (2025): IPVanish Recognized as Top Streaming VPN by Software Experts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK CITY, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Software Experts has recognized IPVanish as the Best VPN for Streaming in 2025, citing its strong performance across speed, server coverage, privacy features, and usability. The review highlights IPVanish’s consistency in unlocking geo-restricted content and delivering smooth streaming experiences across major platforms.

    Best VPN for Streaming

    • IPVanish: known for providing secure, encrypted connections that protect user privacy while offering access to a global network of servers.

    The recognition comes amid the growing relevance of VPNs for online content consumption. As streaming platforms continue to regionalize content libraries, users increasingly turn to VPNs to access media unavailable in their current location. VPNs allow users to connect to servers in other countries, bypassing regional restrictions while masking their IP addresses to maintain privacy.

    Software Experts identified IPVanish as a standout for its ability to reliably stream content from services such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Max, Disney Plus, and ESPN Plus. The platform consistently provided access without interruptions, buffering, or failed connections during review tests. With more than 2,400 servers in over 140 locations and access to over 40,000 shared IP addresses, IPVanish offers geographic diversity that many VPNs lack. Its network includes servers in regions that are often underserved by competitors, such as Africa and South America. This wide footprint enables greater flexibility for users looking to stream regional content or access faster local connections while traveling.

    Speed remains a critical factor in evaluating VPN services, particularly when streaming high-definition or 4K content. IPVanish demonstrated reliable performance across its network, supported by the modern WireGuard protocol. Engineering improvements have made WireGuard significantly faster than older VPN protocols, with speed tests showing download rates consistently exceeding 80 Mbps. IPVanish’s self-owned infrastructure also minimizes reliance on third-party providers, allowing for better optimization and reduced latency.

    The service’s Optimal Location feature automatically connects users to the fastest available server, eliminating guesswork and enhancing performance. IPVanish also supports split tunneling, enabling users to route some traffic through the VPN while allowing other apps to use a direct connection. This flexibility can improve streaming quality and reduce unnecessary bandwidth usage.

    In terms of security, IPVanish incorporates essential safeguards that enhance both privacy and reliability. DNS leak protection ensures that domain name requests remain within the encrypted VPN tunnel, preventing unintentional data exposure. The Kill Switch feature disconnects internet access if the VPN connection drops, protecting users from accidental leaks.

    IPVanish operates under a verified no-logs policy, meaning it does not monitor, record, or store browsing activity or connection data. The policy has been independently audited, offering transparency and reinforcing the platform’s privacy commitments.

    VPNs have also gained attention for their role in avoiding internet throttling. Internet service providers may reduce connection speeds during high-bandwidth activities such as streaming. A VPN can help mask this activity, leading to more stable connections.

    As part of its ongoing service, IPVanish has introduced a new offering in collaboration with global eSIM provider aloSIM. New subscribers to the IPVanish Advanced 1-Year or 2-Year plan will receive a 3GB eSIM data gift. Valid in over 200 countries, the eSIM provides secure mobile data without the need for a physical SIM card. The data gift can be redeemed for local connectivity in the country of the user’s choice and is available through July 31, 2025.

    This addition supports users who travel frequently or work remotely, allowing them to access mobile data and stay connected with fewer complications. Instant activation through the aloSIM app streamlines setup, while no-contract pricing models offer flexibility. Together, IPVanish and aloSIM provide a bundled solution that combines secure browsing with dependable mobile data access, especially valuable for users navigating public Wi-Fi or network restrictions abroad.

    As consumer demand grows for digital tools that support privacy, security, and open access, VPNs like IPVanish are playing a more central role. The service continues to evolve to meet the expectations of users who value not just access to content but protection of their online activity across borders and platforms.

    Software Experts’ full review of IPVanish and its performance as the Best VPN for Streaming in 2025 is now available at Software Experts.

    About IPVanish:

    IPVanish, a Ziff Davis company, is an award-winning cybersecurity provider whose tools and products support internet safety, digital privacy, and online freedom. With a commitment to innovation, transparency, and user-centric solutions, IPVanish is a leading name in the VPN industry.

    About Software Experts: Software Experts provides news and reviews of consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Software Experts may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided. 

    The MIL Network –

  • Era of broken roads and poor connectivity in Bihar is over, says PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored the crucial role of security and peace in unlocking Bihar’s development potential, recalling that the state’s journey from the days of ‘Jungle Raj’ to prosperity began under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Addressing a large public gathering in Bihar, he noted that dilapidated highways, rundown rail networks, and scant air connectivity now belong to the past.

    PM Modi highlighted the transformation of Bihar’s aviation landscape. “Once, Patna was our state’s only airport,” he said. “Today, Darbhanga Airport is fully operational, offering direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.” He further announced that the new terminal at Patna Airport—capable of handling one crore passengers annually—was inaugurated just the previous evening. An additional ₹1,400 crore investment will now be channelled into developing Bihta Airport, he added.

    Turning to roads and bridges, the Prime Minister described the rapid expansion of multi-lane highways. He cited the four-lane corridors from Patna to Buxar and Gaya to Dobhi, as well as the Patna–Ara–Sasaram Greenfield Corridor, which he said is progressing at a “swift pace.” “New bridges over the Ganga, Son, Gandak, and Kosi rivers are not just steel and concrete; they are gateways to opportunity,” Modi remarked, pointing out that these projects—worth several thousand crores—are generating employment for thousands of young people and fueling growth in tourism and trade.

    On railways, PM Modi lauded the introduction of world-class Vande Bharat trains in Bihar and the ongoing doubling and tripling of key lines. “Work is advancing rapidly from Chhapra to Muzaffarpur to Katihar,” he noted, adding that multi-tracking between Son Nagar and Andal will significantly enhance train movement. “Over 100 trains now halt at Sasaram, a testament to our improved connectivity,” he said, while lamenting that previous administrations had exploited recruitment processes, delaying the railway network’s modernization.

    Emphasizing that development is incomplete without reliable power, the Prime Minister drew attention to Bihar’s remarkable growth in electricity consumption—now four times higher than a decade ago. He announced the construction of a major NTPC power plant at Nabinagar, with an outlay of ₹30,000 crore and a capacity of 1,500 megawatts. Projects for new thermal power plants in Buxar and Pirpainti have also been initiated, he added.

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A summer payment to around 90,000 carers

    Source: Scottish Government

    Carer’s Allowance Supplement to be paid this June.

    Around 90,000 carers are set to receive Carer’s Allowance Supplement this June – an additional payment of £293.50.  

    The payment is extra money for people who receive Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance on a particular date. 

    Only available in Scotland, the summer payment will be made between 18 and 19 June 2025. Carers are eligible if they received Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance on 14 April 2025.  

    Carers eligible for the payment will receive a letter from Social Security Scotland before the payment is made. Carers do not need to apply as it is paid automatically to everyone who is eligible.  

    Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “This benefit was the first that we introduced when we formed Social Security Scotland back in 2018. It’s an additional payment to recognise the important contribution of unpaid carers in Scotland. A payment not made anywhere else in the UK. 

    “It’s another example of how we’ve built a radically different social security system in Scotland, with dignity, fairness and respect at its heart.”    

    Claire Cairns, Director at The Coalition of Carers in Scotland added: “At a time when many carers are struggling to pay the bills, while providing essential support to loved ones, this payment is a vital acknowledgment of their role and a much-needed financial boost that helps ease some of the pressure they face every day.” 

    If a carer is eligible for Carer’s Allowance Supplement but has not received a letter or payment by 30 June 2025, they should contact Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222. 

    The next Carer’s Allowance Supplement will be paid in December 2025.   

    Background 

    • Carer’s Allowance Supplement is paid twice a year. It’s an extra payment for eligible unpaid carers who are getting Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance on the qualifying date. It is paid automatically without the need to apply.   Carers who have a genuine and sufficient link to Scotland but live outside the UK in the European Economic Area, Switzerland or Gibraltar may be eligible. Find out more Applying outside of Scotland – mygov.scot 
    • Other benefits available for carers from Social Security Scotland, including Carer Support Payment and Young Carer Grant, can be found at mygov.scot/carers 
    • The Coalition of Carers is a coalition of unpaid carers and local carer organisations who work to promote the voice of carers in the development of services, policy and legislation. Its aim is to improve carers’ rights and recognition in Scotland. Coalition of Carers in Scotland – Carers Rights in Scotland 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improving lives through local climate action

    Source: Scottish Government

    Scotland’s Climate Action Hubs to receive £6 million funding.

    Community projects across Scotland aimed at improving lives through local climate action are set to benefit from a share of £6 million Scottish Government funding.

    Scotland’s nationwide network for Climate Action Hubs encourage and support climate action unique to their own areas from flood mitigation, repair shops and local energy generation to food growing and tree planting.

    There is now a Hub covering every area in Scotland fulfilling a previous Programme for Government commitment to ensure people are empowered to act on climate in their own neighbourhoods.

    Acting Net Zero Secretary Gillian Martin confirmed the funding during a visit to Buckie Thistle Football Club which is being supported by Moray Climate Hub to reduce its impact on the environment and raise awareness of climate change in local schools. 

    Ms Martin said: “I am very pleased to hear first-hand how Moray Climate Hub has been helping communities in the area support climate action from working with their local football team to identify ways in which they can cut their emissions to setting up a biodiversity garden for adults with learning difficulties.

    “Football clubs, like Buckie Thistle, play an influential role in their local community, and their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint will undoubtedly inspire others to do the same, and provide a template for climate action that other clubs can follow.

    “Tackling climate change is our collective responsibility and will require collaborative action at all levels. We must also share in the economic and health benefits that protecting our planet for future generations will bring. 

    “Communities are uniquely placed to play a critical role in shaping and driving forward the transition to low carbon and climate resilient living and we want to empower people to take action in their neighbourhoods that’s right for them. 

    “That is why we are proud to continue to support our hugely successful framework of regional climate hubs, which provide a vehicle for communities to come together and engage in collective grassroots action.”

    Moray Climate Hub Manager (Moray CAN) Louise Nicol said: “We’re delighted to receive continued funding , it means we can keep supporting communities across Moray to take meaningful climate action in ways that work for them. Working with Buckie Thistle has been great, and we are both learning so much from each other. Football is more than a game – it’s a community hub, and it’s a great way to open up conversations about the environment.”

    Buckie Thistle Football Club General manager, Stephen Shand, said: “We’re very grateful for the support from Moray Climate Hub – it’s helped us get our heads around what we can do as a club to be more environmentally responsible. We’re just at the start of the journey, but it’s exciting to learn more and see where small changes can make a difference. The help we are getting to find funding has been a huge boost to the club.”  

    Background

    A total of 24 hubs have been set up across Scotland – fulfilling a 2024 Programme for Government commitment.

    Contact information for climate action hubs.

    The Scottish Government is providing up to £6 million of funding in 2025 – 2026 for its network of Climate Action Hubs alongside a support package for delivery. This is broken down as follows – with some funding still to be allocated:

    Hub

    Total 25/26 Grant

    Angus

    171,946.00

    Argyll and Bute

    158,208.00

    Ayrshire

    370,000.00

    Dumfries and Galloway

    212,461.60

    Dundee

    163,895.00

    East Dunbartonshire

    105,985.00

    East Lothian

    166,617.00

    East Renfrewshire

    106,294.00

    Edinburgh

    375,000.00

    Fife

    307,505.00

    Forth Valley

    375,000.00

    Glasgow

    473,425.00

    Highlands & Islands

    476,952.00

    Inverclyde

    102,000.00

    Lanarkshire

    473,661.95

    Midlothian

    125,000.00

    Moray

    146,247.00

    North East

    510,895.00

    Outer Hebrides

    141,700.00

    Perth & Kinross

    165,000.00

    Renfrewshire

    162,000.00

    Scottish Borders

    171,151.33

    West Dunbartonshire

    70,960.00

    West Lothian

    170,985.00

    Total

    5,702,888.88

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Strabane’s pubs set to come alive with local talent as Summer Jamm Festival unveils vibrant Music Tr

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Strabane’s pubs set to come alive with local talent as Summer Jamm Festival unveils vibrant Music Tr

    30 May 2025

    Strabane is eagerly anticipating the return of the Summer Jamm Festival on Saturday, June 7th. The day promises a wealth of family fun running from 12pm to late, with a significant highlight being the celebration of Strabane’s rich musical heritage through the inaugural Music Trail.

    As dusk approaches, the town will transform into a melodic wonderland. The Music Trail, in conjunction with Strabane BID, commences at 4pm and continues into the night across Strabane’s pubs.

    Attendees are invited to follow their ‘Music Map’ from bar to bar, discovering and celebrating the incredible talent of local musicians and bands. This trail is more than just a series of performances. It’s a testament to Strabane’s thriving artistic community and a unique opportunity to experience a diverse array of genres in welcoming local venues.

    Among the artists taking part are DJ Ryan Doc, Adam Dolan, Sticks Doherty, DJ Johnny G, The Brambles, David Doc, DJ Paul Carlin, Louis McTeggert, Darren Doherty, Nicky McCallan, Glen Rouse, Darragh Doherty and Ryan Quigg, Ragamuffins, Roddy Lynch and 2Vague.

    Throughout the afternoon and evening they will be appearing at the Harp and Fiddle, XOX, Christy’s Bar, The Railway Bar, Dicey’s Bar, the Fir Trees Hotel, Charlie’s Bar and the Farmers’ Home.

    “The Music Trail is truly the beating heart of our evening festivities at Summer Jamm this year,” says Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council.

    “We are incredibly proud to showcase the exceptional musical talent we have right here in Strabane. This trail offers an intimate and authentic way for both residents and visitors to connect with our local culture, support our artists, and enjoy a fantastic atmosphere in our town’s pubs. It’s the perfect end to what promises to be a brilliant day.”

    From acoustic sets to lively DJs, the Music Trail features a packed schedule across numerous venues, ensuring there’s something to suit every musical taste. Attendees can craft their own personalised musical journey, hopping between pubs to catch their favourite acts or discover new ones.

    Adding to the day’s excitement, the popular Bear Run ’74 Supercar event is coming to Strabane for the first time. Bear Run ’74 will take over Railway Street in full throttle fashion – a fierce spectacle of luxurious supercars lined from the Alley Theatre right up to Abercorn Square.

    Think chrome, growls, and glam: Strabane won’t know what hit it.

    The event showcases an impressive display of supercars while raising vital funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity. The stunning Lamborghini Revuelto, sure to be the number one attraction at this year’s Bear Run ’74, boasts impressive performance credentials. The supercar achieves 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 217 mph. It’s guaranteed to turn heads at this year’s Summer Jamm.

    Beyond the music and roaring engines, the Summer Jamm Festival offers a host of other family-friendly attractions including a new Street Art Festival with interactive selfie murals, the Kidz Farm petting zoo, dinosaur encounters, and urban sports activities.

    The festival also features a diverse Arts and Crafts and Food Quarter, and dedicated family entertainment at The Alley Theatre.

    The Summer Jamm Festival takes place on Saturday, June 7th from 12pm to late, with the Music Trail beginning at 4pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of Strabane at this exciting community celebration.

    For Music Trail times and venues, visit www.derrystrabane.com/subsites/summer-jamm/pub-music-trail.

    For other festival details, please visit www.derrystrabane.com/summerjamm and follow Whats On Derry Strabane and The Alley Theatre Facebook pages for further updates.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Walk on the wild side of Inch Island this June

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Walk on the wild side of Inch Island this June

    30 May 2025

    Nature lovers are invited to find out more about the rich and fascinating ecosystem of Inch Wildfowl Reserve Island in County Donegal at a special event taking place on Saturday June 7th.

    Enjoy a range of outdoor activities led by nature experts and Biodiversity Officers from Donegal and Derry City and Strabane District Councils at Inch Wildfowl Reserve through the ‘Biodiversity without Borders’ Project. The event is supported by Creative Ireland and led by Donegal County Council as part of a Shared Island programme for Cruinniú na nÓg in partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council.

    The reserve is situated to the East of Lough Swilly and supports a wide diversity of breeding terns, gulls, waders and duck, and in the winter, swans and geese, making it a popular spot for bird watchers.

    Join Aengus Kennedy from Nature North West for a spot of birdwatching or hop along to Frog CIC for a peek at what’s going on under the water, and get spotting wildflowers, trees and bugs with Annie Mullan from Butterlope Farm.

    Looking ahead to the event, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “We are blessed with so many areas of natural beauty around us and Inch Island is just teeming with fascinating wildlife. This event is an opportunity to find out more about the plants and animals that share our landscape and how we can work to protect them and help them to thrive.

    “There is no border when it comes to our shared environment and DCSDC is committed to working with our partners in Donegal to promote biodiversity for the benefit of everyone in our border areas. There will be plenty of fun activities for all the family to enjoy so why not get involved!”

    Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Councillor Niamh Kennedy commended the event: “This will be a fantastic outdoor family event, one of 35 events in the County to celebrate Cruinniú na nÓg and we can’t wait to get out and explore our fantastic biodiversity!”   

    From 12noon – 3pm visitors can take part in a fun biodiversity trail along part of the 8km loop of the island, with a chance to explore and pick up some wild prizes. And there will be a free goody bag for the first 30 families to register and attend the event. The adventure begins at Farland Car Park and visitors can drop in at any time from 12noon.

    Go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wild-day-out-at-inch-for-cruinniu-na-nog-tickets-1376106484539?aff=oddtdtcreator to find out more and to register.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Encore PAA Makes a Splash with Magical Production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Encore PAA Makes a Splash with Magical Production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid

    30 May 2025

    Encore Performing Arts Academy (Encore PAA) has once again delighted local audiences with a spellbinding production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, which played to six sold-out performances at the Alley Theatre, Strabane, from 20th to 24th May.

    Following the success of previous shows like Oliver!, The Sound of Music, and Nativity! The Musical, Encore’s latest production transported theatre-goers to a dazzling underwater world, complete with breathtaking costumes, a live orchestra, and a dynamic cast of talented young performers.

    Audiences were hooked from start to finish, completely captivated by the classic tale of Ariel, the adventurous mermaid who dreams of life beyond the sea. Many were left in awe of the stunning costumes, intricate choreography, and the incredible talent displayed by the cast throughout the production. From the dramatic confrontation with the sea witch Ursula to the heartfelt romance between Ariel and Prince Eric, the show was filled with memorable moments, vibrant dance sequences, and powerful vocals that brought Disney’s beloved story to life on stage.

    Featuring hit songs like “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World,” the production enchanted audiences of all ages and reaffirmed Encore PAA’s reputation for delivering high-quality musical theatre experiences in Strabane.

    Disney’s The Little Mermaid featured music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a book by Doug Wright. This amateur production was presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe), with all authorised performance materials supplied by MTI Europe.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 18 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Immigration Department (ImmD) mounted a series of territory-wide anti-illegal worker operations codenamed “Contribute”, “Rally” and “Twilight”, on May 26, 28, and yesterday (May 29) respectively. A total of 15 suspected illegal workers and three suspected employers were arrested.

    During the anti-illegal worker operations, ImmD Task Force officers raided 294 target locations including a construction site, residential buildings and restaurants. Fifteen suspected illegal workers and three suspected employers were arrested. The arrested suspected illegal workers comprised 10 men and five women, aged 26 to 67. Among them, seven men and three women were holders of recognisance forms, which prohibit them from taking any employment. In addition, two men and two women were also suspected of using and being in possession of a forged Hong Kong identity card. Three men, aged 29 to 59, were suspected of employing the illegal workers and were also arrested.

    An ImmD spokesman said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”

    The spokesman warned, “As stipulated in section 38AA of the Immigration Ordinance, an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land is prohibited from taking any employment, whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or joining any business. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to three years’ imprisonment. As stipulated in section 20(1)(a) of the Immigration Ordinance, the Chief Executive may make a deportation order against an immigrant, prohibiting the immigrant from being in Hong Kong at any time thereafter if the immigrant has been found guilty in Hong Kong of an offence punishable by imprisonment for not less than two years. Under the prevailing laws, it is an offence to use or possess a forged Hong Kong identity card or a Hong Kong identity card related to another person. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to 10 years’ imprisonment.”

    The spokesman reiterated that it is a serious offence to employ people who are not lawfully employable. Under the Immigration Ordinance, the maximum penalty for an employer employing a person who is not lawfully employable, i.e. an illegal immigrant, a person who is the subject of a removal order or a deportation order, an overstayer or a person who was refused permission to land, has been significantly increased from a fine of $350,000 and three years’ imprisonment to a fine of $500,000 and 10 years’ imprisonment to reflect the gravity of such offences. The director, manager, secretary, partner, etc, of the company concerned may also bear criminal liability. The High Court has laid down sentencing guidelines that the employer of an illegal worker should be given an immediate custodial sentence.

    According to the court sentencing, employers must take all practicable steps to determine whether a person is lawfully employable prior to employment. Apart from inspecting a prospective employee’s identity card, the employer has the explicit duty to make enquiries regarding the person and ensure that the answers would not cast any reasonable doubt concerning the lawful employability of the person. The court will not accept failure to do so as a defence in proceedings. It is also an offence if an employer fails to inspect the job seeker’s valid travel document if the job seeker does not have a Hong Kong permanent identity card. Offenders are liable upon conviction to a maximum fine of $150,000 and to imprisonment for one year. In that connection, the spokesman would like to remind all employers not to defy the law by employing illegal workers. The ImmD will continue to take resolute enforcement action to combat such offences.

    Under the existing mechanism, the ImmD will, as a standard procedure, conduct an initial screening of vulnerable persons, including illegal workers, illegal immigrants, sex workers and foreign domestic helpers, who are arrested during any operation with a view to ascertaining whether they are trafficking in persons (TIP) victims. When any TIP indicator is revealed in the initial screening, the ImmD officers will conduct a full debriefing and identification by using a standardised checklist to ascertain the presence of TIP elements, such as threats and coercion in the recruitment phase and the nature of exploitation. Identified TIP victims will be provided with various forms of support and assistance, including urgent intervention, medical services, counselling, shelter or temporary accommodation and other supporting services. The ImmD calls on TIP victims to report crimes to the relevant departments immediately.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: No more than 100 thousand rubles can be transferred without opening an account using simplified identification

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    This is the maximum threshold set. by law, which came into force on May 30 this year.

    If you need to transfer more than 100 thousand rubles, you will need to undergo full identification or make a transfer using your bank account. Until now, the maximum threshold for the amount of transfer without opening an account has not been established by law.

    In addition, amendments have been made to the law that increase the amount of funds remaining in an electronic wallet opened using simplified identification from 60 thousand to 100 thousand rubles.

    For simplified identification, the financial institution must establish the citizen’s last name, first name, patronymic, series and passport number. For full identification, the address of the place of residence and TIN (if available) are also required.

    The new regulations are aimed at preventing opaque transactions that are carried out to launder illegal proceeds and finance terrorism, including with the help of droppers.

    Preview photo: Pixels Hunter / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 24659

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Package of documents for RNKO in the form of LLC

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia (2) –

    1. Learn the necessary federal laws and regulations.

    2. Check the compliance of candidates for the position of managers and other persons of the organization being created with the stated qualification requirements and/or business reputation requirements.

    The list of persons is specified in Article 11.1 of the Law on Banks and Article 60 of the Federal Law of 10.07.2002 No. 86-FZ “On the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia)”.

    The qualification requirements and requirements for the business reputation of these persons are established by Article 16 of the Law on Banks.

    To perform the check, we recommend using:

    3. Collect documents to assess the financial position of the founders of the NPO and other persons provided for by the Law on Banks.

    The procedure and criteria for assessing the financial position, as well as the requirements for the financial position are established By the Regulation of the Bank of Russia dated 28.12.2017 No. 626-P.

    4. Select a unique name for the non-bank credit institution being created.

    Requirements for the name are established by Articles 54 and 1473 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, Article 7 of the Law on Banks and the Bank of Russia Instruction dated 02.04.2010 No. 135-I.

    To check the names already in use, we recommend using the KGR KO and the Unified State Register of Legal Entities (USRLE).

    Before making a decision to establish a non-profit organization, the founders must send a request to the Bank of Russia regarding the possibility of using the proposed full corporate name and abbreviated corporate name of the credit institution (in Russian).

    5. Pay the state fee for obtaining a license to carry out banking operations.

    For the issuance of a license to carry out banking operations, a state fee is paid in accordance with subparagraph 93 of paragraph 1 of Article 333.33 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation.

    The amount of the state duty is 0.1% of the declared authorized capital of the created credit institution, but not more than 500 thousand rubles.

    Payment order designer.

    6. Prepare and submit to the Bank of Russia a set of documents for state registration of a non-profit organization.

    A set of documents for state registration can be sent to the Bank of Russia via personal account, as well as by mail or courier to the Bank of Russia expedition.

    To create a non-banking credit organization in the form of a limited liability company, a “set of standardized documents“

    7. Receive notification of the entry of information about the non-bank credit institution into the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and a certificate of registration from the Bank of Russia.

    After making a decision on state registration of a non-profit organization, the Bank of Russia sends to the authorized registration body the information and documents necessary for it to carry out its functions of maintaining the Unified State Register of Legal Entities.

    Based on the decision taken by the Bank of Russia and the information and documents submitted by it, the authorized registration body, within a period of no more than five working days from the date of receipt of such documents, makes a corresponding entry in the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and, no later than the working day following the day of making such entry, notifies the Bank of Russia of this.

    The Bank of Russia, no later than three working days from the date of receipt from the authorized registration body of information on the entry of a record of state registration of an NPO into the Unified State Register of Legal Entities, notifies its founders of this with a requirement to make a payment of 100% of the declared authorized capital of the organization within one month. The regulator also issues the founders a document confirming the fact of entry of a record of it into the Unified State Register of Legal Entities and a certificate of registration of the Bank of Russia, assigns the NPO a registration number of the Bank of Russia and enters information about it into the State Register of Legal Entities.

    8. Pay the authorized capital and obtain a license to carry out banking operations.

    Upon presentation of documents confirming payment of 100% of the declared authorized capital of the NPO, the Bank of Russia issues it a license to carry out banking operations within three days.

    Information about an NPO after its creation and issuance of a license is posted inDirectory of financial organizations on the official website of the Bank of Russia.

    The notice of state registration of a credit institution is published in“Bulletin of the Bank of Russia”.

    A non-bank credit institution has the right to carry out operations from the moment it receives a license issued by the Bank of Russia.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government has distributed funding for road repairs in new regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Order of May 29, 2025 No. 1374-r

    Document

    Order of May 29, 2025 No. 1374-r

    In 2025, more than 7.6 billion rubles will be additionally allocated to the budgets of the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics, as well as the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions, for the repair of regional, inter-municipal and local roads, including the street and road network in cities. The order on the distribution of funding by region was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    Of the total amount, more than 4.2 billion rubles are intended for the DPR, 1.8 billion for the Kherson region, 1.25 billion for the LPR, and more than 360 million for the Zaporizhia region.

    It is planned to bring 243.3 km of roads up to standard using federal funding.

    The work is being carried out within the framework of the state program “Restoration and socio-economic development of the Donetsk People’s Republic, Lugansk People’s Republic, Zaporizhia region and Kherson region”.

    The issue was considered atGovernment meeting on May 29.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Another step towards innovative technologies: GUU and SPb FRC RAS signed a cooperation agreement

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On May 27, 2025, Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev and Director of the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Ronzhin signed an agreement on cooperation in the educational and scientific fields.

    St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences is a leading scientific institution with advanced scientific groundwork in fundamental research and engaged in interdisciplinary research in the field of information technology, automation, environmental management and environmental safety.

    Vice-Rector Maria Karelina and Director of the Engineering Project Management Center Vladimir Filatov also took part in the meeting on behalf of the State University of Management. The Director of the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences was given a tour of the State University of Management and the Engineering Project Management Center, where specialists presented the projects being implemented. These included developments in the field of unmanned aircraft systems and work within the framework of a large scientific project being carried out at the State University of Management. Representatives of the State University of Management’s Student Design Bureau demonstrated a project to restore the LuAZ-967M (TPK) vehicle and create its electrified version.

    Within the framework of the signed agreement, the State University of Management and the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences will carry out joint research projects in the field of high-tech innovative technologies, develop and update educational programs for higher and additional professional education, and conduct expertise in the field of research and experimental activities.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile’s GPTBots.ai Welcomes the Enhanced DeepSeek-R1-0528 Model to Power Enterprise AI Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced the integration of newly updated DeepSeek-R1-0528—a groundbreaking open-source reasoning AI model that rivals proprietary giants like OpenAI’s o3 and Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro—into its leading enterprise-grade AI platform GPTBots.ai. This significant update, released by DeepSeek, brings enhanced reasoning capabilities and developer-friendly features, further empowering GPTBots.ai to deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to enterprises worldwide.

    Why DeepSeek-R1-0528 Matters for GPTBots.ai Users

    The DeepSeek-R1-0528 model brings substantial advancements in reasoning capabilities, achieving notable benchmark improvements such as AIME 2025 accuracy rising from 70% to 87.5% and LiveCodeBench coding performance increasing from 63.5% to 73.3%. These enhancements empower GPTBots.ai users to tackle complex tasks in domains like math, science, business, and programming with greater precision and efficiency.

    Additionally, the model’s reduced hallucination rate, along with support for JSON output and function calling, ensures seamless integration into business workflows, delivering reliable and consistent results. These improvements align perfectly with the mission of GPTBots.ai to provide secure, scalable, and enterprise-ready AI solutions.

    Smaller Variants for Scalable Deployments

    For enterprises with limited compute resources, DeepSeek has introduced a distilled version, DeepSeek-R1-0528-Qwen3-8B, optimized for smaller-scale applications. This variant achieves state-of-the-art performance among open-source models while requiring only 16 GB of GPU memory, making it accessible for businesses with modest hardware setups.

    Open Source, Enterprise-Ready

    DeepSeek-R1-0528 is available under the permissive MIT License, supporting commercial use and customization. This open-source approach aligns with the commitment of GPTBots.ai to offering flexible, cost-effective solutions that empower enterprises to build tailored AI applications without the constraints of proprietary models.

    What This Means for GPTBots.ai Clients

    By integrating DeepSeek-R1-0528, GPTBots.ai enhances its platform’s ability to deliver advanced AI solutions for industries such as finance, healthcare, education, and e-commerce. Whether it’s automating customer support, optimizing decision-making, or generating actionable insights, GPTBots.ai clients can now access even more powerful tools to drive innovation and efficiency.

    Looking Ahead

    The release of DeepSeek-R1-0528 underscores the growing potential of open-source AI models in enterprise applications. GPTBots.ai has swiftly integrated DeepSeek’s latest advancements into its platform, enabling businesses to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

    About GPTBots.ai

    GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots.ai enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots.ai is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.

    For more information, please visit www.gptbots.ai.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited

    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:

    Aurora Mobile Limited 
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen
    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In U.S.
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • Our armed forces turned terror hideouts into ruins: PM Modi on Operation Sindoor

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Karakat in Bihar on Friday, laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development projects worth over ₹48,520 crore, marking a major step towards boosting infrastructure and economic progress in the state.

    Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister said he felt honoured to accelerate Bihar’s development from its sacred soil. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of the state for their continued support, especially acknowledging the presence and blessings of thousands of women in the audience. “The affection and trust shown by the people of Bihar, particularly our mothers and sisters, is a great source of strength,” he said.

    During his address, Prime Minister Modi referred to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed several innocent lives. Recalling his earlier visit to Bihar in the aftermath of the attack, he said he had promised the nation that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. “Today, I stand before you having fulfilled that pledge. Our armed forces turned the hideouts of those who conspired from across the border into rubble,” he stated.

    The Prime Minister underlined that the swift and decisive response by India’s forces had sent a strong message to the world. “This is the new India. The world has seen the power of the sindoor of our daughters. The terrorists, once emboldened by protection across the border, now cower in fear,” he added, referring to the military action termed Operation Sindoor.

    Describing the operation as a testament to India’s growing strength and resolve, PM Modi said the country’s military struck key enemy positions, including airbases and military installations, within minutes. “This is the India of resilience, courage and swift action,” he asserted.

    Paying tribute to Bihar’s legacy of bravery, the Prime Minister invoked the memory of Veer Kunwar Singh and noted the substantial contribution of the state’s youth to the Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF). He praised the BSF’s valour during Operation Sindoor and described them as an unbreakable shield protecting India’s borders.

    PM Modi also honoured BSF Sub-Inspector Imtiaz, a native of Bihar, who was martyred in the line of duty on May 10. “The sacrifice of Bihar’s brave son will always be remembered,” he said.

    Reiterating his earlier statement from Bihar, the Prime Minister said that Operation Sindoor was just a glimpse of India’s capabilities. “This was only one arrow from our quiver,” he declared, reinforcing the message of a strong and assertive India.