NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: TREC progressing SH35 underslip work in eastern Bay of Plenty

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A stretch of State Highway 35 near Opape in the eastern Bay of Plenty is now under stop/go traffic management as work continues to repair an underslip.

    Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC), on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), is completing the work, using gabion (rock filled) walls to repair a 5-metre long underslip.

    Work is expected to finish in April. Once work is complete, this stretch of state highway will be back to 2 lanes.

    During work hours (Monday to Friday, 6am til 6pm) the crew will use stop/go signs to direct vehicles through the 1 lane site.

    Outside these hours, a give-way system will be operating. Vehicles travelling in 1 direction are given priority to pass through, while those coming from the opposite direction wait until the way is clear – just like if you were using a 1 lane bridge.

    Please slow down, stay alert, and follow all instructions to help keep both road users and our crews safe.

    Coming soon: Slip repairs on SH35 in Tōrere

    Also in the eastern Bay of Plenty, TREC is also starting to plan work to repair 2 slips on SH35 by Te Kura O Tōrere.

    This is a big piece of mahi, that will take around 6 months. There isn’t much space on the highway, so we will set up a worksite on Kura grounds. We’re working with staff and others to plan for this and will share more information shortly. 

    While repairs are underway, this section of highway will be down to one lane for up to six months. Drivers will need to plan for delays of up to 10 minutes.

    Thanks for your patience

    Repairing our highways after Cyclone Gabrielle is a huge job that has been underway for more than a year now. Thanks for your patience and cooperation.

    The good news is that we’re almost finished – most recovery work will be complete by July 2025 and we will transition from smaller recovery works into larger projects at Mangahauini Gorge, Hikuwai Bridge No.1 replacement, Rototahe and Nesbitt’s Dip.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Northern Rivers Community Gateway 5th Financial Inclusion Conference

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Good morning.

    I would like to start by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, the Bundjalung people, and pay my respects to their elders past, present and future.

    I would also like to acknowledge Jenni Beetson-Mortimer, CEO of Northern Rivers Community Gateway and Chair of the NSW Financial Inclusion Network – thank you for inviting me, Jenni.

    Thank you to all the wonderful presenters, panel members and attendees who join us – there are so many wonderful representatives here today from organisations that provide critical support for our communities.

    Well thank you very much to Northern Rivers Community Gateway for inviting me to speak with you all at the 5th Financial Inclusion Conference.

    As the Federal Assistant Minister for Social Services and the Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, as well as your local Federal Member for Richmond – it’s wonderful that this important conference could be held right here in beautiful Kingscliff.

    I am very much looking forward to the wonderful insights that will be shared over the next two days.

    This conference is in fact extremely timely – as many people in our area are now relying on much-needed financial help and support, in the wake of severe weather here on the North Coast.

    The severe weather associated with ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has seriously impacted us here on the North Coast – with much devastation to people, their homes, their livelihoods and their communities.

    My office has been one of the main points of contact during this time, fielding calls for help; assisting with disaster payments, insurance claims, grants, emergency housing and getting people to safety.

    Recovery is a long process, and the Albanese Government is standing by the people of NSW throughout their journey to rebuild.

    That’s why we swiftly activated timely support for the community, through Personal Hardship Assistance, jointly funded with the State Government – the Disaster Recovery Allowance and Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP), to support those impacted.

    We know this is particularly important for our most vulnerable and for those on a low-income, who are needing to replace lost or damaged essentials, repair their homes, and of course rebuild their lives.

    This support is just part of a suite of comprehensive aid that people will require to get back on their feet, and I will go through some of those other measures shortly.

    We know too that this weather event has come at a time where many Australians are already feeling financial pressures.

    That’s why there’s never been a more important time to work together – and through the help of organisations and volunteers, such as many of yourselves here today – provide the frontline support that vulnerable Australians need.

    The Albanese Government is committed to improving financial wellbeing.

    Under the Financial Wellbeing and Capability Activity, which includes Emergency Relief, financial counselling and financial resilience services, we have increased our investment to around $150 million per year.

    This funds a range of community organisations across our nation, including many organisations represented here today, to deliver a wide range of supports and services to vulnerable people in need, helping them navigate financial crises, manage financial stress and hardship, and overall, improve financial wellbeing.

    Thankfully, through working with over 190 community organisations across the country, we can provide around 430,000 vulnerable Australians with Emergency Relief annually.

    And while we are very proud to be providing this funding, it is thanks to the organisations and their volunteers on the ground that so many people receive the support they need, when they need it.

    Now, Emergency Relief is not just providing food and water, clothing, fuel and medicine vouchers – but also budgeting assistance and referrals to other services to address underlying causes of financial strain.

    We cannot underestimate the negative effects that financial pressures can have on an individual or a family.

    Mounting financial pressure puts an extreme strain on a relationship and a family unit.

    Sometimes this stress can contribute to higher rates of domestic and family violence, which is particularly compounded in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

    That is why financial stability and resilience is so vital.

    From 1 July 2025, our government has proudly committed $27.4 million over five years to the National Debt Helpline so any person seeking financial counselling has access to support.

    Through the Helpline, which you can call on 1800 007 007, anyone can access a financial counsellor either over the phone or through the web chat.

    They can also remain anonymous, should they wish to.

    This allows people to access the support they need in a way that best suits them.

    As many of you know, financial counsellors support people to build the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions and to advocate for themselves, where it is safe and appropriate to do so.

    And this support, support with respect, is so critical.

    Because we know the consequences of when people are ill-advised – that sometimes the most vulnerable can fall into a cycle of predatory debt.

    That’s why I’m so proud of the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS), and the role that plays in assisting at-risk individuals to access help through fair and safe loans.

    Car repairs, registration, medical and dental costs, and education costs – these are all things that can creep up on a person without warning and send costs spiralling.

    Through NILS, people can access loans of up to $3,000 that can be paid over two years with no interest, fees or charges.

    We know this can make a world of difference when someone is struggling.

    Our government is also investing $51.5 million over 5 years from 1 July 2025 to continue the Saver Plus program, which helps families receive matched savings of up to $500 for education costs for themselves or their children.

    This important program, led by the Brotherhood of St Laurence in partnership with ANZ, has helped more than 64,000 Australians save more than $30 million since 2003 – and I understand you will hear more about this successful program throughout this conference.

    By supporting people with techniques to manage finances, providing them with incentives to save, and by giving better options to those in need – we are helping to improve lives and helping to build overall financial resilience.

    The support that the Northern Rivers Community Gateway, and all other community organisations represented here today provides is incredibly important, and I would like to take a moment to thank you for the great work you have done and will continue to do.

    Your support lets people know that they are not alone and that they are valued – at what can often be the most isolating, stressful and daunting time in a person’s life.

    As we all navigate financial pressures as well as extreme weather events, let’s keep working together to make our country stronger, and help people become more financially resilient and economically independent.

    I ask all of you here today to make use of this conference, to listen and to share your thoughts and ideas on ways forward and next steps.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Seeks Joint Damage Assessments in Preparation for Major Federal Disaster Declaration Request

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 17, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) participate in joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) for Individual Assistance in 23 counties following the severe storms and deadly tornadoes that devastated Missouri March 14-15. This request begins the process of obtaining federal disaster assistance.

    “As I observed during my visit to impacted areas this weekend, these storms and tornadoes caused widespread, devastating destruction and disrupted the lives of families and business across the Missouri,” said Governor Kehoe. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has been working closely with local emergency management officials, and we are confident the damage meets the threshold for FEMA to participate in joint damage assessments.”

    Joint PDAs are being requested for the following counties: Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Laclede, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Perry, Phelps, Pulaski, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Stoddard, Wayne, Webster, and Wright.

    Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials. Beginning Thursday, March 20, six teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

    Initial damage assessments estimate approximately 368 houses were destroyed, 356 with major damageand 1,058 with minor damage. Damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, likely resulting in a request for additional PDAs for Public Assistance later this week.

    The National Weather Service (NWS) continues to survey damage and debris patterns to determine the total number and strength of tornadoes. NWS has preliminarily confirmed the following 12 tornadoes as of March 16:

    EF1: Franklin County (Elmont to Union)

    EF1: Jefferson County (Klondike Rd)

    EF1: Webster County (near Seymour)

    EF1: Oregon County (near Rover)

    EF2: Franklin/St. Louis counties (Villa Ridge to Fox Creek)

    EF2: Jefferson County (Hillsboro to Arnold)

    EF2: St. Louis County (Bridgeton)

    EF2: Phelps County (Doolittle to Rolla)

    EF2: Dunklin/Pemiscot counties

    EF3: Iron County (Des Arc)

    EF3: Butler County (Poplar Bluff)

    EF3: Ozark County (Bakersfield)

    Outages continue to decrease as power is restored. As of 6:00 p.m., fewer than 13,000 customers remained without power – down from 47,000 at 2 p.m. Sunday. The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated to assist in the recovery process, assess ongoing needs and coordinate resources as requested by local partners and emergency management.

    Volunteer and faith-based organizations also continue to support response efforts and provide support services to those in need. The Red Cross of Missouri continues to provide meals and emergency supplies and operate shelters. Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief is assisting individuals and families with debris removal. Convoy of Hope is providing water and other emergency supplies, and the Salvation Army also continues to provide meals to those in impacted counties.

    Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Highlights Historic Ten-Week Voting Streak in Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    The Senate concludes a historic commencement of the 119th Congress following ten consecutive weeks of voting, representing the longest continuous stretch in more than 15 years.

    WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) marked the completion of the Senate’s historic ten-week voting streak, the longest continuous stretch in over 15 years. The productive and intense work period has set a tone for the 119th Congress, with Senate Republicans working hard to advance President Trump’s agenda. Senator Scott reaffirmed his commitment to building on this progress and continuing to advocate for South Carolinians and the American people.

    “This work period has been dynamic, exciting, and extremely productive. I have loved seeing so many South Carolinians in DC over the last three months,” said Senator Scott. “Senate Republicans have taken monumental steps in getting President Trump the cabinet he deserves, passing critical legislation and rolling back burdensome regulations. While the work is far from over, I remain committed to building on these efforts and delivering results for folks back home and across the country! America will be the shining city on a hill once again!”

    Since January, Senator Scott has introduced 16 pieces of legislation and resolutions including his Alan T. Shao II Fentanyl Public Health Emergency and Overdose Prevention Act, Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2025, Protect Small Businesses from Excessive Paperwork Act of 2025, Securing our Border Act, Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act, and the Families’ Rights and Responsibilities Act. 

    On the Senate’s duty of advice and consent…

    President Trump has selected various nominees to serve in critical positions throughout this new administration. Senator Scott has met with and voted to confirm the following nominees, now Cabinet-level positions, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Defense, Homeland Security, Education, Labor, Housing and Urban Development, SBA Administrator, and the Directors of the FBI, USTR, National Intelligence, and National Institutes of Health. Each cabinet appointee is critical to delivering on the promise to secure our borders, unleash American energy, and promote economic freedom. Senate Republicans are working hard to swiftly confirm President Trump’s nominees and bring safety and prosperity back to the American people! 

    On creating greater access to educational opportunities…

    Senator Scott celebrated the impact education freedom has on the lives of so many students and families during National School Choice Week. He also highlighted a quality education is still out of reach to countless children who desperately need it during Secretary McMahon’s confirmation hearing.

    As co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus and member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Senator Scott led his colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution recognizing January 26 – February 1 as National School Choice Week. The Senator continues to champion parental rights so families can choose the education that best fits their child’s individual talents and needs.

    On disaster recovery and SBA reform efforts…

    After hearing from hundreds of South Carolina businesses in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Senator Scott introduced the SBA Disaster Transparency Act, which requires the Small Business Administration to make its monthly reporting requirements for the Disaster Loan Account available to the public. During the 10-week work period, the bill successfully moved out of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, marking a significant step forward in providing essential resources to communities in need. By introducing this legislation, Senator Scott is committed to ensuring that those affected by natural disasters have the tools they need to rebuild their lives.  

    On unlocking economic freedom…

    Senator Scott has been actively laying the groundwork to advance pro-growth tax policies that strengthen the economy and protect hard working Americans. That includes preventing a $5 trillion tax hike on the middle-class by pushing to extend theTax Cuts and Jobs Act that would ensure small businesses and families aren’t burdened with higher taxes.

    As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and as a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Scott is focused on advancing solutions to support pro-growth policies and economic opportunity across the country – with the goal of unlocking up to $1 trillion in investments for underserved communities. Senator Scott’s effort is about building a future where every American has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. To that end, Senator Scott joined Walter Davis, founding member of Peachtree Providence partners, for an important conversation as part of Senator Scott’s Opportunity Summit series. The Opportunity Summit is designed to establish an ecosystem that drives economic growth in underserved communities, building on the success of his Opportunity Zones from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Senator Scott’s goal is to create lasting economic opportunities that will continue to empower communities for generations to come, ensuring that all Americans have the chance to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

    On the Senate Banking Committee, Senator Scott is leading Senate Republican efforts to address the un-American practice of debanking, holding hearings, meeting with industry leaders, and introducing legislation. In his committee’s first legislative markup of the 119th Congress, Senator Scott successfully advanced his debanking legislation, as well as a bipartisan bill that establishes a clear regulatory framework for payment stablecoins. Senator Scott will continue using his position as Chairman to prioritize serious solutions to support hardworking Americans and rein in burdensome regulations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration Low Interest Loans

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration Low Interest Loans

    Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance and Small Business Administration Low Interest Loans

    LOS ANGELES – Homeowners, renters and businesses in Los Angeles County who experienced property damage or losses from the January wildfires have two weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance

    Monday, March 31, is the last day to apply for both FEMA disaster assistance and a U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loan

    This deadline will not impact applications that have already been started

    Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance: Online at DisasterAssistance

    gov

    On the FEMA App

    By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service

    Assistance is available in multiple languages

    Lines are open Sunday–Saturday, from 4 a

    m

    – 10 p

    m

    Pacific Time

    At a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)

    To locate a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator

    For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster AssistanceApply for SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans:Online at sba

    gov/disaster By calling SBA’s Customer Service Center hotline at 800-659-2955

     People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability may dial 711 to access relay services

    By emailingDisasterCustomerService@sba

    govAt a Disaster Recovery Center or Business Recovery Center, where you can submit a completed application or SBA representatives can help you apply

    To find a BRC near you, go to Appointment

    sba

    gov

    Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending

    sba

    gov or other locally announced locations

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

    California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process

    Visit CA

    gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance

    alberto

    pillot
    Mon, 03/17/2025 – 21:14

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dusty Inferno Hits Oklahoma

    Source: NASA

    An area of low pressure over the U.S. Southwest began to collide with humid air flowing north on March 14, 2025. The combination powered a destructive weather front that unleashed a chaotic weekend of winds, thunderstorms, hail, dust, and wildfires as the front pushed east through several U.S. states.
    Dust streamed northeast across Texas and Oklahoma behind a line of thunderstorms when the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-21 satellite captured this image on March 14, 2025. Amidst the blanket of dust, smoke plumes are visible streaming from wildland fires burning near several towns in Oklahoma, including Camargo, Iconium, Langston, Leedey, Maramec, Merrick, Orlando, Pawhuska, and Stillwater.
    In Oklahoma, hurricane-force winds gusted up to 85 miles (137 kilometers) per hour, triggering a massive dust storm and fanning fast-moving grass fires that caused the state’s governor to declare a state of emergency in 12 counties. The high winds and fires damaged more than 400 homes and structures, including at least 70 homes in Stillwater that were destroyed. The extreme weather also caused tens of thousands of power outages and triggered deadly traffic accidents.
    More than 170,000 acres of land burned, according to The Oklahoman. Many fires raged in parched grasslands that had been abnormally dry and drought-prone in recent weeks, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
    “Wildfires are really many hazards at once,” said Doug Morton, a remote sensing scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, citing dangers including the direct threat to life and property, health hazards posed by the smoke, and issues of visibility that make road and air travel dangerous. “In Oklahoma, the mixture of dust and smoke compounded the problem and led to treacherous conditions,” Morton said.
    The same storm system generated dozens of tornadoes, some of which touched down in Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, taking dozens of lives and flattening homes in several communities.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Lauren Dauphin, using VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE, GIBS/Worldview, and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS). Story by Adam Voiland.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bill busting upgrades for Canberra’s social housing residents

    Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

    As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

    Released 03/03/2025 – Joint media release

    Up to 7,500 households in the nation’s capital will benefit from bill busting energy upgrades, with the Albanese Government investing $12.9 million for rooftop solar and batteries across social housing in the ACT.

    The program will bring down energy bills for good using Virtual Power Plants (VPP) to connect and combine renewable energy resources. By joining a VPP, households with solar panels and batteries can access savings on their energy bills.

    This is lasting cost of living relief by ensuring some of the most vulnerable households are better insulated from bill shock, with homes that are fitted out to stay cool in the summer and warm in the cold Canberra winters.

    The ACT Government will provide a greater weighting through the procurement process for products that are Australian made.

    The new funding is part of the Commonwealth’s $500 million expansion of the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI) and will enable more than 100,000 social housing properties across Australia – almost 25% of the country’s social housing stock – to save on energy bills and reduce emissions.

    Upgrades delivered under the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative could save tenants around $1,800 on their energy bills each year.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

    “The Albanese Labor Government is bringing down bills for good through the renewable energy transformation.

    “While Peter Dutton’s Coalition spruiks a $600 billion nuclear scheme that will prolong coal, make bills more expensive, risk blackouts and shrink our economy, we are delivering the clean, cheap, reliable and resilient energy system that Australians deserve.”

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson:

    “Every Australian deserves a home that is safe to live in, comfortable and cheaper to run, and energy efficiency upgrades can make a real difference to these outcomes.

    “After the recent hot weather and knowing the challenge of winter is ahead, we’re reminded of just how vital these upgrades are in bringing year-round comfort and lowering bills to some of the most vulnerable households.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Homes and New Suburbs Yvette Berry:

    “Every Canberran should have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.

    “Today’s announcement builds on our ongoing commitment to improve the comfort and energy affordability of public housing. Our new public housing builds maximise energy efficiency, including a 6-star energy rating and energy efficient appliances.

    “The existing public housing stock is also being upgraded through the Home Energy Support Program, with ceiling insulation and or electrification upgrades already completed in over 2,500 properties since the program began in 2023.

    “The latest SHEPI funding marks a further investment in public housing, that is critically important to our community’s overall economic and social wellbeing.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr:

    “The ACT Government is committed to ensuring no Canberrans are left behind as we transition to net zero. We welcome this significant further investment by the Australian Government which will see rooftop solar panels and batteries installed at thousands of social housing properties.

    “These solar and battery systems will be operated as a Virtual Power Plant, delivering an innovative and long-term solution to reducing electricity costs and supporting grid reliability.”

    – Statement ends –

    Yvette Berry, MLA | Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases

    «ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Campaign exposes “Dirty Dems” who betray the people for corporate donors

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    SACRAMENTO, CA — (March 17, 2025) Greenpeace USA, in collaboration with the California Working Families Party and Courage California, is launching a new campaign to hold legislators accountable for their campaign donations and voting records. The campaign, titled “Dirty Dems,” will shine a spotlight on Democratic lawmakers who have taken the most money from the oil and gas industry and voted against critical climate, economic justice and other progressive priority legislation. 

    Amy Moas, Ph.D., Greenpeace USA Senior Climate Campaigner said: “The Dirty Dems are selling out our future. This campaign will expose the politicians who deserved to be called out – the Democratic lawmakers who have chosen corporate money over the health and safety of their communities. We will no longer stand by while these legislators block vital progress that our families and communities demand.”

    Jane Kim, State Director of the California Working Families Party, said: “The Working Families Party is shining a light on elected officials who put billionaire polluter profits ahead of the health and safety of California’s working families. Despite being a super blue state, it is alarming that the majority of our state legislature is supported by Bil Oil. Having a D next to your name isn’t enough- we need champions who will fight for our future.”

    Starting this week, “Dirty Dems” will reveal at least one legislator each week, detailing their harmful votes, connections to the fossil fuel industry, and the damage they have caused to local communities. The first “Dirty Dem” to be exposed today is Assembly Member Stephanie Nguyen, who represents South Sacramento’s Elk Grove area. Since entering the legislature in 2022, Nguyen has already taken over $31,000 in donations from Big Oil, including $20,000 during the last legislative session alone. She has also accepted gifts from the Western States Petroleum Association, the largest trade association representing oil and gas in California.

    Nguyen’s voting record paints a troubling picture. She has abstained from voting on a shocking number of critical climate and environmental protection bills, including those aimed at reducing toxic pollutants (AB 674), cleaning up idle oil wells (AB 1167 and AB 1866), and improving climate financial disclosure (SB 253 and SB 261). Nguyen also voted against protections for grocery workers (SB 725), against increasing the number of paid sick days (SB 616) and against strengthening labor law enforcement (AB594). These actions, or lack thereof, have directly harmed the very communities she was elected to serve.

    Moas Said: “Real leadership means answering to the people, not to corporate donors, Assemblymember Nguyen and others like her are on the wrong side of justice. Their actions are allowing the climate crisis’ devastating effects to run rampant, delaying protections essential workers desperately need, and exacerbating the economic inequality our families face. The time to act is now, and we won’t stop until we’ve held every one of these Dirty Dems accountable.”

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with Two Institutes at Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025

    Source: Government of India

    ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with Two Institutes at Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025

    Four days Conference to focus on Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change 

    Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in collaboration with two institutes at the Harvard University, USA, is organizing a Conference on ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’, from 19th – 22nd March 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and the Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability at the Harvard University, USA are the organising partners for the event. This event will serve to identify the key challenges in adaptation and fine tune India’s response in terms of policies, programmes and action at the field level geared towards a climate-resilient India@2047.

    Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog and Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh will grace the inaugural session of this conference. The event would also be addressed by distinguished speakers from Government of India, academia, research institutions, private sector and the Harvard University. Notable amongst these are Prof. Tarun Khanna, Director, The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at the Harvard Business School; Prof. Jim Stock, Vice Provost for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University, Prof. Daniel P. Schrag, Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering at Harvard University, amongst others.

    The Conference will be organized over a period of four days, where multiple breakout sessions with several technical sessions focusing on adaptation and resilience under the following themes: (i) Climate Science and its implications on Water & Agriculture, (ii) Health, (iii) Work, and (iv) Built Environment.

    1. The theme on Climate Science and its implications on Agriculture and Water will explore the scientific, policy, and practical dimensions of adapting to heatwaves, changing monsoon patterns, and water distribution issues.
    2. The theme on Health convenes leading health professionals and health system experts, from India and the world to address essential questions on the impact of heat.
    3. The theme on Work will focus on impact of climate change on labour productivity.
    4. The theme on Built Environment seeks to examine how built environment should be prepared for rising temperatures over the coming decades.

    There will be several crosscutting issues across these themes, such as governance, traditional knowledge, livelihood and skilling, gender, and financing. The workshops aim to generate tangible outputs such as research papers, technical documents, and policy briefs, as agreed upon by participants to contribute scientific evidence to global initiatives. This event will be a special opportunity to discuss adaptation and resilience to climate change amongst a receptive and influential audience in a location where this issue is an immediate concern.

    This Conference will bring together government, academia, civil society, private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. It will enable stakeholders to develop strategies for a sustainable and climate-resilient future for India, which will require multipronged interdisciplinary planning.

    With a focus on policy integration, scientific advancements, and localized adaptation strategies, the Conference aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps that hinder effective climate planning. This is not just another Conference —it is a crucial opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in the region where climate adaptation is an urgent priority. The insights gathered here will directly contribute to shaping India’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan, ensuring that it is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with India’s broader development goals.

    As India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, this upcoming Conference will be a significant step toward ensuring a climate-resilient future, backed by innovation, collaboration, and actionable policy insights.

    About The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute

    The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute is a university-wide research institute at Harvard that engages in interdisciplinary research to advance and deepen the understanding of critical issues in South Asia and its relationship with the world.

    About The Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability

    Established in 2022, The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to accelerating climate research, education, and action. Since 2023, the Salata Institute has supported the South Asia Adaptation Research Cluster, which comprises leading climate scientists, epidemiologists, planners, and experts. The cluster is dedicated to advancing climate adaptation research in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on the impacts of extreme heat and changing weather patterns. It aims to identify at-risk populations and inform targeted intervention strategies. The cluster collaborates with regional and international partners to ensure that adaptation strategies are both scientifically robust and aligned with local needs.

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2111922) Visitor Counter : 179

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with the Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with the Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025

    Four days Conference to focus on Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change 

    Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in collaboration with the Harvard University, USA, is organizing a Conference on ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’, from 19th – 22nd March 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event will serve to identify the key challenges in adaptation and fine tune India’s response in terms of policies, programmes and action at the field level geared towards a climate-resilient India@2047. The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and the Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability at the Harvard University, USA are the organising partners for the event.

    Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog and Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh will grace the inaugural session of this conference. The event would also be addressed by distinguished speakers from Government of India, academia, research institutions, private sector and the Harvard University. Notable amongst these are Prof. Tarun Khanna, Director, The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at the Harvard Business School; Prof. Jim Stock, Vice Provost for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University, Prof. Daniel P. Schrag, Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering at Harvard University, amongst others.

    The Conference will be organized over a period of four days, where multiple breakout sessions with several technical sessions focusing on adaptation and resilience under the following themes: (i) Climate Science and its implications on Water & Agriculture, (ii) Health, (iii) Work, and (iv) Built Environment.

    1. The theme on Climate Science and its implications on Agriculture and Water will explore the scientific, policy, and practical dimensions of adapting to heatwaves, changing monsoon patterns, and water distribution issues.
    2. The theme on Health convenes leading health professionals and health system experts, from India and the world to address essential questions on the impact of heat.
    3. The theme on Work will focus on impact of climate change on labour productivity.
    4. The theme on Built Environment seeks to examine how built environment should be prepared for rising temperatures over the coming decades.

    There will be several crosscutting issues across these themes, such as governance, traditional knowledge, livelihood and skilling, gender, and financing. The workshops aim to generate tangible outputs such as research papers, technical documents, and policy briefs, as agreed upon by participants to contribute scientific evidence to global initiatives. This event will be a special opportunity to discuss adaptation and resilience to climate change amongst a receptive and influential audience in a location where this issue is an immediate concern.

    This Conference will bring together government, academia, civil society, private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. It will enable stakeholders to develop strategies for a sustainable and climate-resilient future for India, which will require multipronged interdisciplinary planning.

    With a focus on policy integration, scientific advancements, and localized adaptation strategies, the Conference aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps that hinder effective climate planning. This is not just another Conference —it is a crucial opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in the region where climate adaptation is an urgent priority. The insights gathered here will directly contribute to shaping India’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan, ensuring that it is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with India’s broader development goals.

    As India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, this upcoming Conference will be a significant step toward ensuring a climate-resilient future, backed by innovation, collaboration, and actionable policy insights.

    About The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute

    The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute is a university-wide research institute at Harvard that engages in interdisciplinary research to advance and deepen the understanding of critical issues in South Asia and its relationship with the world.

    About The Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability

    Established in 2022, The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to accelerating climate research, education, and action. Since 2023, the Salata Institute has supported the South Asia Adaptation Research Cluster, which comprises leading climate scientists, epidemiologists, planners, and experts. The cluster is dedicated to advancing climate adaptation research in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on the impacts of extreme heat and changing weather patterns. It aims to identify at-risk populations and inform targeted intervention strategies. The cluster collaborates with regional and international partners to ensure that adaptation strategies are both scientifically robust and aligned with local needs.

    *****

    VM

    (Release ID: 2111922) Visitor Counter : 33

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Don’t Get Scammed, Be Aware of Fake FEMA Inspectors and Contractors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Don’t Get Scammed, Be Aware of Fake FEMA Inspectors and Contractors

    Don’t Get Scammed, Be Aware of Fake FEMA Inspectors and Contractors

    Don’t Get Scammed, Be Aware of Fake FEMA Inspectors and ContractorsTALLAHASSEE, Fla

    – While disaster recovery continues throughout Florida, disaster survivors are encouraged to protect themselves from fraudulent inspectors and contractors claiming to work for FEMA

    FEMA inspectors are still in communities performing home inspections

    Be aware, fake or unlicensed inspectors may try to take advantage of this situation to scam residents affected by Hurricanes Debbie, Helene or Milton

     Keep in MindFEMA will never charge applicants for disaster assistance or help with applications, appeals or inspections

    FEMA inspectors will not ask for banking information

    Ask inspectors to show identification – contractors working for FEMA always wear an official government badge to identify themselves

    Report suspicious activity of this kind to your local police department, the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814, or the Florida Attorney General’s Office by calling 866-9NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit MyFloridaLegal

    com

    ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

     For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

      
    lindsay

    tozer
    Mon, 03/17/2025 – 15:57

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 258, TORNADO Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 258 would direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve forecasting of and warnings about hazardous weather. The bill also would require NOAA to initiate a pilot program for communicating tornado hazards. Finally, the bill would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on the National Weather Service’s information technology infrastructure.

    The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 300 (natural resources and environment).

    CBO assumes that S. 258 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that the authorized and estimated amounts will be available in each year. Based on historical spending patterns, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $74 million over the 2025-2030 period, as described below.

    VORTEX-USA

    The bill would authorize the appropriation of $11 million annually from 2025 through 2032 for VORTEX-USA (Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes Experiment) to develop accurate and timely tornado forecasts, predictions, and warnings. In 2024, NOAA allocated $11 million to the project. CBO estimates that implementing this provision would cost $59 million over the 2025‑2030 period and $28 million after 2030, assuming appropriation of the authorized amounts.

    Other Activities

    Using information from NOAA, CBO estimates that the pilot program would require four full-time employees and one cooperative agreement with a research university at a total cost of $15 million over the 2025‑2030 period. Most of that cost would be for the cooperative agreement. CBO also estimates that the GAO report would cost less than $500,000. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Table 1.

    Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 258
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		  
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2025-2030

    VORTEX-USA

    		              

    Authorization

    11

    11

    11

    11

    11

    11

    66

    Estimated Outlays

    3

    10

    12

    12

    11

    11

    59

    Other Activities

    		              

    Estimated Authorization

    1

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    16

    Estimated Outlays

    1

    2

    3

    3

    3

    3

    15

    Total Changes

    		              

    Estimated Authorization

    12

    14

    14

    14

    14

    14

    82

    Estimated Outlays

    4

    12

    15

    15

    14

    14

    74

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Aurora Swanson and Johnny Willing. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New direction ensures affordable, stable electricity rates

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    In response to the economic and trade uncertainty faced by people and businesses across British Columbia , the Province is taking action to provide stability in BC Hydro’s electricity rates during these unpredictable times, while keeping rate increases below cumulative inflation.

    “We must take urgent action to protect British Columbians from the uncertainty posed by rising costs while building a strong, robust and resilient electricity system for the benefit of B.C.’s long-term energy independence,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “That is why we are submitting a rate stability direction to the B.C. Utilities Commission to set BC Hydro’s rate increases for the next two years. This move guarantees certainty and reaffirms our commitment to keeping electricity rates well below the North American average and cumulative inflation, while growing our clean-energy advantage.”

    BC Hydro has among the lowest electricity rates in North America. The rate stability direction to the B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC) will help maintain that advantage by setting BC Hydro’s annual average rate increase at 3.75% for the next two years. For the average residential household, which currently pays approximately $100 a month, this equates to an additional $3.75 per month.

    BC Hydro rate changes are staying below cumulative inflation, keeping electricity costs near the lowest in North America and about half what Albertans pay. These rate changes ensure BC Hydro can continue to build the critical local and provincial renewable energy infrastructure and supply needed to bolster B.C.’s economy, while maintaining rate increases below cumulative inflation for seven consecutive years. BC Hydro’s cumulative rate increases between 2017-18 and 2026-27 will be 12.4% below cumulative inflation.

    “The rate stability direction from the Province will provide customers and growing industries with the certainty they need during these times, while ensuring our rates remain affordable,” said Chris O’Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro. “The rate adjustment will go toward supporting critical investments in our system that will ensure we maintain our status as a leader in renewable energy, encouraging overall economic growth and job creation.”

    The rate adjustments for the upcoming two years reflect rising operating costs due to inflation, the needed Site C hydroelectric project coming into service, and the critical work required to significantly invest in B.C.’s energy supply and infrastructure to bolster B.C.’s economy and energy security.

    BC Hydro is taking a number of actions to meet the growing demand from population growth and housing construction, business and industrial development, and transportation. These actions will power more than one million new homes. This includes:

    • adding the Site C hydroelectric project, which will power 500,000 homes and boost supply by 8%;
    • adding 10 new renewable energy projects through the 2024 call for power, which will power 500,000 homes and increase supply by a further 8%; and
    • investing in energy efficiency, which is expected to result in 2,000 gigawatt hours per year of electricity savings or enough to power 200,000 homes.

    BC Hydro is also investing $36 billion through its 10-year capital plan to expand and strengthen community and regional electrical infrastructure, and to ensure power can be delivered to new homes, businesses and industries. These investments will create economic opportunities throughout the province, including approximately 10,000 jobs for skilled workers, and generate economic growth for First Nations and communities in B.C.

    In addition to the rate stability direction, government is providing support to people in British Columbia who are vulnerable or in crisis, a top priority during uncertain times. A key resource for supporting customers is BC Hydro’s Customer Crisis Fund, which offers grants for those in temporary financial crisis. Government has taken action to ensure an additional $1.9 million will be added to the fund, which is expected to help approximately 4,700 households between now and April 2026.

    For customers not eligible for the Customer Crisis Fund, BC Hydro offers equal payment plans that spread out the cost of winter bills, and flexible payment plans. Low-income conservation programs also offer income-qualified customers the opportunity to save energy and money. These programs have delivered approximately $6 million in annual electricity cost savings to customers over the past four fiscal years. BC Hydro has also expanded its rate options for residential customers, offering more billing choices and new opportunities to save money, including optional time-of-day pricing and an optional flat rate, which will be introduced on April 1, 2025.

    BC Hydro has filed the two-year rate adjustment publicly with the BCUC, along with supporting information. The rate increases will take effect April 1, 2025, and April 1, 2026.

    Through the rate stability direction and other actions, the  B.C. government is working to bring down costs for families, strengthen health care, make communities safer, help people find a home they can afford in a community they love, and grow a stronger economy that works for everyone.

    Quick Facts:

    • BC Hydro’s residential, commercial and industrial rates are the third lowest in North America (among 22 utilities surveyed in Hydro Quebec’s 2024 Rates Comparison Report).
    • Adjusting for inflation, electricity in B.C. costs the same today as it did more than 40 years ago.

    Learn More:

    For more information about BC Hydro’s electricity rates, visit: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCHydroRates.pdf

    To access a multi-language page that helps British Columbians find out about tax benefits and credits, how to file, how to get free support with filing, and how to register for direct deposit to get their refund and benefits sooner, visit: gov.bc.ca/TaxBenefits

    To learn about other programs that are available to help with everyday costs, including a multi-language benefits connector to help find programs people may be eligible for, visit: gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Colleagues Raise Concerns About How Great Lakes Will Be Impacted by NOAA Firings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) led her colleagues in pressing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for more information about the termination of probationary staff and the potential impact these firings will have on the Great Lakes.

    “We write to express our deep concern over the firing of probationary staff at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the potential impact these firings will have on the Great Lakes,” wrote the Senators.

    “The Great Lakes are among the United States’ greatest natural treasures, strengthening our economy and attracting millions of visitors each year. The Lakes provide drinking water to over 30 million people, generate clean hydropower, and generate $3.1 trillion in gross domestic product,” the Senators continued. “National and regional NOAA programs help protect these lakes and support our constituents who call the Great Lakes home.”

    The Senators pressed Admiral Hann to detail (1) the number of people fired at NOAA during her tenure as Acting Administrator, (2) the number of people fired at each NOAA program serving the Great Lakes, (3) the services that will be terminated as a result, and (4) her plan to preserve these services.

    In addition to Klobuchar, the letter was also signed by Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Gary Peters (D-MI).

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Vice Admiral Nancy Hann:

    We write to express our deep concern over the firing of probationary staff at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the potential impact these firings will have on the Great Lakes. We request information on these firings—including at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) and any other NOAA installations and programs that serve the Great Lakes area—as well as a concrete plan for re-establishing terminated public services.

    The Great Lakes are among the United States’ greatest natural treasures, strengthening our economy and attracting millions of visitors each year. The Lakes provide drinking water to over 30 million people, generate clean hydropower, and generate $3.1 trillion in gross domestic product.

    National and regional NOAA programs help protect these lakes and support our constituents who call the Great Lakes home. The National Weather Service provides our weather and climate forecasts and warnings. The National Sea Grant Program helps conserve our aquatic resources. The Marine Debris Program prevents microplastics and litter from entering the Great Lakes, protecting our wildlife, natural resources, fishing and boating economy, and nearby residents’ health. The Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research invests in our clean drinking water. And the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) provides critical information for resource use and management decisions, including information on algal blooms and hypoxia, invasive species, ice cover and shipping navigability, and storm surges and coastal flooding.

    We are deeply concerned that the layoffs at NOAA will harm these critical initiatives. The staffing reductions have already required the GLERL, for example, to take an “indefinite hiatus” from its public communications, depriving the public of critical information such as what to do during a flood warning and how to stay safe in the extreme cold. When these communications go dark, the public suffers.

    Therefore, we request the following information by March 28, 2025:

    1. The number of people fired at NOAA during your tenure as Acting Administrator.
    1. The number of people fired at each NOAA program that serves the Great Lakes: 
      1. National Weather Service
      2. National Estuarine Research Reserve System
      3. NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries
      4. National Sea Grant Program
      5. NOAA Marine Debris Program
      6. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS)
      7. Great Lakes Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET)
      8. Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory
      9. Great Lakes Information Network (GLIN)
      10. Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research (CIGLR)
      11. Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies (CIMSS)
      12. Midwestern Regional Climate Center (MRCC)
    1. The services that will be terminated as a result of the firings at each of the above programs.
    1. Your plan to maintain or restore these services.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rwanda has moved people into model ‘green’ villages: is life better there?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Allyn Dale, Director of the MA in Climate and Society program at the Columbia Climate School, Columbia University

    After the devastating 1994 genocide, Rwandans returning from the violence established homes and began farming where they could find land.

    Since then, the Rwandan government has aimed to bring people scattered across rural parts of the country into grouped settlements which they have called “model villages”. These are intended to provide extra support for highly vulnerable residents, such as the homeless and those who are living in “high risk zones” – areas prone to floods, drought and mudslides, and which are likely to be affected by climate change in the future.

    Rwanda has a population of 14.5 million. An estimated 62,000 rural families have been resettled into 14,815 villages, of which 253 are considered “model villages”. Some of them are considered “green”, because they use solar power and biofuels as energy sources. Rainwater harvesting, tree planting, and terraced vegetable plots are other features of the green, environmentally friendly model villages.

    We conducted a study to understand the impact of relocating rural communities from high risk zones where they face threats from a changing climate, such as erratic rainfall, drought, floods and landslides. We looked at two lake island communities who were experiencing floods. They also suffered a lack of health and education services and security problems from being too close to an unguarded border.

    We used the Rweru Model Green Village as a case study. Based on our interviews with families who were moved there, we found that relocating people can be double-edged. On the positive side, resettlement increased access to modern facilities and social services. On the downside, people found it hard to earn a living. They lacked access to natural and financial capital and had to adapt to a different climate.

    The resettlement programme overall is now understood to be part of the government of Rwanda’s approach to climate change adaptation. However, our findings suggest that this should be done with care, considering factors like community expectations and government development plans.

    Why people were moved

    The Rweru Model Green Village was set up in 2016 to house residents from two nearby islands on Lake Rweru, Sharita and Mazane. Located along the southern border with Burundi, these islands were home to generations of Rwandans. But they lived in relative isolation without access to services like education, healthcare or markets.

    We interviewed and surveyed people from 64 households in the Rweru village. At the time of our research, 1,777 people had been moved in, all from Sharita and Mazane islands.



    Read more:
    Rising risks of climate disasters mean some communities will need to move – we need a national conversation about relocation now

    Participants said fishing had been a way of life on the islands, providing them with a consistent source of protein. Beans, potatoes, cassava and sorghum grew successfully. Even relatively impoverished households said they had enough food to live on: 55% said the productivity of the land was high.

    However, 84% of respondents also described an isolated life without services. As one put it:

    we were cut off from the rest of the world.

    Many mentioned the lack of drinking water, roads and electricity as a major drawback to living on the islands. While primary school was available, older children could only get to a secondary school by a two hour boat ride. Some dropped out of school.

    Healthcare was absent, and respondents described harrowing journeys to find medical attention. As one woman said:

    When we were still there in Sharita, a woman could want to deliver a baby but getting a boat it takes a long time, a woman can even lose her life waiting.

    The boat rides were dangerous because of hippos in the lake, malaria-carrying mosquitoes, and the risk of drowning.

    Others said that people from Burundi could access the islands easily and sometimes assaulted or killed the island residents. About 76% of the people we interviewed described their lives before relocation as dangerous. Residents had been asking to be resettled for some time because of these problems.

    One of the driving forces for organising rural life into model villages is to enhance the capacity of residents to adapt to changes, including climate impacts such as the increased risks of flooding, drought or landslides. In that way, the model green village programme is also understood to have climate change adaptation elements.

    The pros and cons after resettlement

    After resettlement, most respondents described improvements in their overall quality of life. They were less exposed to floods, which they’d experienced on the islands. They had improved access to healthcare, social services and quality housing.

    Many (66%) described the housing they received as the most important advantage of their new lives:

    Above all, the nicest thing I was given was the house.

    They also described clean water (26%), markets (50%), healthcare (55%), schools (50%) and electricity (24%) as benefits of living in the new model village. It was the first time they’d been able to manage livestock, having only had chickens on the islands. Their children were benefiting from having milk.



    Read more:
    Climate change will force up to 113m people to relocate within Africa by 2050

    Some residents appreciated having a mattress for the first time; 50% indicated furniture and kitchen equipment as advantages. About 34% of respondents were pleased that they no longer needed to travel by boat.

    They also felt safer. But despite these positive outcomes, they said they were poorer and had less food. Unlike the islands, the micro-climate inland was very hot, with little rain and increasing drought.

    Most people we interviewed (55%) said their new, smaller plots of land were “infertile”, “unproductive” or “barren”. They couldn’t fish or grow enough fruit or vegetables. One person said many of the elderly people who were moved only ate one meal a day in the village “and others are starving completely”.

    Increased hunger caused children to miss school:

    Sometimes I cannot put food on the table, my son sleeps with an empty stomach and he cannot go to school the next day.

    The future of model green villages

    The Rwandan government plans to continue setting up model villages, and wants these to be sustainable for many years.

    More research is needed to determine whether living in a model village provides young people with a better quality of life. The government will also need to address the economic challenges, food insecurity and welfare needs of residents in the new villages.

    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. Rwanda has moved people into model ‘green’ villages: is life better there? – https://theconversation.com/rwanda-has-moved-people-into-model-green-villages-is-life-better-there-250975

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As NOAA & National Weather Service Brace for More Job Cuts, Reed Says Trump Admin. is Recklessly Putting Public Safety At Risk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – After a series of powerful tornadoes swept through the South and Midwest this weekend, killing at least 34 Americans, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is expressing condolences to the victims; urging swift emergency federal assistance for impacted communities; and urging the Trump Administration to immediately reverse arbitrary staff cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service, a component of NOAA that issues early warnings and predictive modeling to help people prepare for weather emergencies.
    The so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by shadow president Elon Musk, recently forced NOAA and the NationalWeather Service to layoff about 10 percent of its workforce.  The mass-firing included some of America’s top meteorologists and researchers who are charged with providing the public with accurate, life-saving weather reports and data. 
    And last week it was reported by the Associated Press that the Trump Administration is readying another mass-firing of NOAA employees which would make Americans even more vulnerable to hazardous weather.  If plans for these latest cuts move forward, nearly 20 percent of NOAA’s 13,000-person workforce would be terminated.
    “We mourn the lives lost and stand with those impacted by these storms.  The federal government must do its part to help communities recover and rebuild.  The Trump Administration should speed aid to the hardest hit areas, cease the NOAA cutbacks, and immediately rehire the NOAA employees it arbitrarily fired.  The mass-culling of America’s top meterolgists and researchers at NOAA was an ill-conceived, short-sighted, cost-cutting move that undermines public safety.  The Trump Administration doesn’t seem to respect the important work these scientists and researchers do, otherwise, it wouldn’t try to hollow out and understaff these critical posts,” said Reed.
    The staffing shortages caused by the Trump Administration’s arbitrary cuts have already halted and delayed several NOAA balloon launches that collect weather data.
    “The Trump Administration should stop decimating government services and destabilizing the process of forecasting and tracking storm intensity.  The Trump Administrating is undermining public safety and hindering the nation’s ability to forecast and respond to sudden, severe weather events.  NOAA helps people prepare and avoid disaster.  The devastation of these tornados and storm systems should be a wakeup call and the Trump Administration needs to recalibrate and swiftly change course to help prevent future tragedies,” said Reed.  “Investing in real-time storm tracking and predictive modeling saves lives.”
    NOAA is a critical federal agency charged with monitoring and forecasting weather across the U.S. and tracking climate trends.  NOAA also researches ocean systems, marine life, and maps the seas; among other critical tasks.  The federal agency has its own fleet of research and survey vessels and specialized aircraft, operated by a combination of NOAA Corps officers and civilians.  NOAA oversees the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center, maintaining a network of radar systems, satellites and weather balloons to help predict and track extreme weather events.
    Last fall, Senator Reed sounded the alarm about Project 2025’s extremist plan to dismantle NOAA, which it labelled “one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry.”  Reed warned plans to gut the National Weather Service and emergency management would be a major disaster.
    The Trump Administration’s devastating cuts to key federal agencies are leaving state and local emergency managers to question whether they can count on the federal government in times of need.  Victims of the California wildfires are still waiting for emergency recovery assistance from the Trump Administration, and President Trump has called the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) a “disaster” and suggested it might “go away” leaving states in need further isolated after future catastrophes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: March 31 deadline approaching for studded tire removal in Washington

    Source: Washington State News 2

    OLYMPIA – Spring is arriving in the Northwest, and with it comes Washington’s deadline to remove studded tires.

    Studded tires must be removed by the end of the day Monday, March 31 to avoid a potential fine of $137. Automotive centers are expected to be busy the weekend before the deadline, so the Washington State Department of Transportation encourages travelers to plan ahead.

    Studded tire regulations

    Studded tires are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31. There is no individual exception or “out of state waiver” to the studded tire dates. Tickets could be issued by the Washington State Patrol as soon as Monday, April 1. WSDOT does not issue tickets. Washington and Oregon share the same March 31 removal deadline, but other states may have different rules. All drivers—including visitors—must follow Washington’s motor vehicle laws while in the state.

    Weather and road conditions

    State law gives WSDOT the authority to extend the deadline when circumstances call for it. While late-season snow is possible in mountain passes, there are no statewide forecasts warranting a deadline extension. For mountain travel, WSDOT recommends drivers use approved traction tires and carry chains to have handy if necessary. WSDOT crews will continue to monitor weather and roadway conditions and respond quickly to any spring snow.

    “Studded tires cause between $20 million to $29 million in damage to Washington’s state-owned roads each winter, in addition to damaging city and county roads,” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin. “There are many alternative traction options available. We encourage drivers to consider non-stud, winter-tread tires, which provide excellent traction without the road damage caused by metal studs.”

    More information about studded tire regulations in Washington is available online.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: EPA aligns with corporate polluters in devastating public betrayal

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    WASHINGTON, DC – (March 17, 2025) In response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) plan to abandon critical regulations and climate rules, John Noel, Greenpeace USA Deputy Climate Director, said: 

    “We are deeply disturbed by this calculated betrayal of public health and the environment by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, who seems to believe his job is to serve corporate polluters rather than the American people. This decision isn’t just a setback—it’s an all-out assault on communities nationwide, opening the floodgates to more pollution, more harm, and a worsening climate crisis.

    “For decades, these EPA regulations have been a critical line of defense against harmful pollution, protecting public health and tackling the climate crisis. Yet even these safeguards have never been enough. This year alone, our country has been ravaged by extreme hurricanes, devastating wildfires, and record-breaking heat—in large part, consequences of pollution. Instead of holding these industries accountable, the EPA is giving them a free pass. 

    “EPA exists to protect our health and environment—not to gut the very safeguards that protect us. As the climate crisis grows, the agency must reverse this reckless course and recommit to its core mission: protecting people and, not the economic interests of polluting corporations.”

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 17 March 2025 News release Nearly 50 million people sign up call for clean air action for better health

    Source: World Health Organisation

    In an unprecedented show of unity, more than 47 million health professionals, patients, advocates, representatives from civil society organizations, and individuals worldwide have signed a resounding call for urgent action to reduce air pollution and to protect people’s health from its devastating impacts.

    Air pollution is one of the biggest environmental threats to human health and a major contributor to climate change. Around 7 million people die from air pollution each year, mainly from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

    This global call to action, spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and international health organizations will be presented at the Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health, set to take place in Cartagena, Colombia, on 25–27 March 2025.

    “Forty-seven million people from the health community have issued a clarion call for urgent, bold, science-driven action on air pollution, and their voices must be heard,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Around the world, WHO is supporting countries to implement evidence-based tools to address air pollution and prevent the disease it causes. At the second WHO Conference on Air Pollution and Health in Cartagena, we hope to see concrete commitments from countries to implement those tools and save lives.”

    Hosted by WHO and the Government of Colombia, the conference will bring together political leaders, representatives from civil society organizations, UN agencies and academia to drive a global clean air agenda which promises benefits for public health, climate change response and sustainable development, both globally and locally.

    Recognizing the heavy toll of air pollution, the health community is calling on governments to take immediate and ambitious steps to reduce emissions, enforce stricter air quality standards, and transition to cleaner energy sources, unlocking multiple benefits for the health of people and planet. The topic will also be a focus ahead of the 2025 UN High-Level Meeting on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), where world leaders will be called upon to take stronger action.

    Key facts:

    • Air pollution in both cities and rural areas generates fine particulate matter which results in NCDs such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases as well as acute conditions such as pneumonia.  
    • Around 2.1 billion people are exposed to dangerous levels of household air pollution, while using polluting open fires or stoves for cooking.
    • Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), are among the leading causes of death, many are linked to air pollution exposure. The global NCD epidemic claims 41 million lives annually. Addressing air pollution is a key strategy in reducing the burden of NCDs and improving global health.
    • Sources of air pollution are varied and context-specific. The major pollution sources include polluting energy sources used in homes, energy production, industrial emissions, transport, agriculture, waste as well as natural sources such as desert and dust storms or wildfires.

    Improving air quality by implementing well-known and available solutions will prevent premature deaths, improve health, drive sustainable economic development, and mitigate climate change.

    At the conference, countries are expected to commit to concrete measures, including setting and enforcing stronger air quality standards aligned with the WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines. WHO, in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), has unveiled the updated 2025 Air Quality Standards database last month, which now includes data from approximately 140 countries, showcasing their air pollution regulatory efforts aimed at protecting public health.

    “While the challenge is immense, progress is possible. Many cities and countries have significantly improved air quality by enforcing stricter pollution limits,” said Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director for Environment, Climate Change and Health. “Clean air is not a privilege; it is a human right as recognized by the UN General Assembly. We need to work together urgently to scale up transitioning from coal-fired power to renewable energy, expanding public and sustainable transport, establishing low-emission zones in cities and promoting clean energy for cooking and solar power in healthcare facilities.”

    The commitments made at the upcoming Second Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health and the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs will play a crucial role in paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future for all. Now is the time to take the call and step up efforts for cleaner air, everywhere.

    For interviews, please contact WHO Media Team.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Popular rapid EV chargers increase usage by 139% in Winchester City Council car parks.

    Source: City of Winchester

    In 2024, Winchester City Council installed three new rapid EV chargers and upgraded four fast chargers to rapid in its car parks across the district. Between October and December, the seven car parks with new rapid chargers showed a 139% increase in usage, compared to the same period in 2023. The busiest car park for EV charging is Basingwell car park in Bishops Waltham, where the EV chargers were used 267 times in January alone.

    The addition of the new chargers has brought the total number across the district to 39, the vast majority of which have two charging points. There are therefore now over 70 dedicated EV charging parking bays available in City Council car parks.

    The total power consumed at Winchester City Council car parks during the same 3-month period (October to December 2024) is 131,625kWh. This is an increase of 42% over the same period in 2023 – the equivalent of 18 trips around the world in an average sized electric vehicle.

    Fast EV chargers, providing between 7 and 22kW of power, should provide a full charge in just a few hours. The same level of charge can be achieved in under an hour with a rapid (50/60 kW) charger.

    Councillor Kelsie Learney, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, said:

    “I’m really pleased to see this increase in usage – it shows that there is a growing commitment to greener travel across the district and that our initiatives are helping people to make this shift. We’ll continue to work with partners to increase this capacity, not only for electric vehicles but other forms of low carbon travel too.”

    Winchester’s new rapid chargers can be found at Colebrook, Middle Brook St, Worthy Lane, St Peter’s and Harestock car parks, at Basingwell Street car park in Bishops Waltham and Winchester Sport and Leisure Park.

    The full list of charge point locations can be found on the website at www.winchester.gov.uk/parking/other-parking-facilities.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE Resource Management Week 2025: Advancing Sustainable Resource Governance for a Just Energy Transition 

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    As demand for critical mineral resources surges and energy transitions reshape economies, UNECE Resource Management Week 2025 is where global experts, policymakers and industry leaders will come together to shape the policies and strategies to support a more sustainable future for resource governance. 

    Strengthening Global Resource Governance with UNFC and UNRMS 

    As critical minerals become increasingly essential to the energy transition, the 16th Session of the Expert Group on Resource Management (24–28 March) will explore how to ensure transparent, sustainable, and responsible resource governance. Discussions will focus on the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) and UN Resource Management System (UNRMS) and their role in securing supply while balancing environmental and social concerns and implementing UNFC under the EU Critical Raw Material Act. The International Centres of Excellence on Sustainable Resource Management in Central Asia, Mexico, Russian Federation and UK will share their national and regional priorities to deploy and disseminate UNFC and UNRMS.  

    The session will also feature the Geneva Dialogues on Mineral and Metal Resources, with a Joint UNEP and UNECE side event focused on circular economy solutions and responsible mining practices. Lectures will bring fresh insights, including a discussion led by the Norwegian Offshore Directorate’s Stig-Morten Knutsen on the potential of seabed minerals for energy and industry, addressing both opportunities and environmental risks. Other sessions will explore AI’s role in resource management and women’s leadership in resource management. The FutuRaM annual event on 26 March will highlight advancements in secondary raw materials (SRMs) management, showcasing two years of research on how urban mining and anthropogenic resources can strengthen supply chains. Experts will discuss how the latest Urban Mine Platform updates can support informed decision-making in resource management. 

    With competition for minerals intensifying, EGRM-16 will play a role in shaping policies that secure resources responsibly while advancing long-term sustainability goals. 

    Two Decades of Advancing Mine Safety, Methane Management, and Just Transition 

    As pressure mounts to curb methane emissions and phase out coal, UNECE’s Group of Experts on Coal Mine Methane and Just Transition will mark its 20th session (24–25 March 2025) by unveiling new tools for methane abatement and discussing ways to integrate emission reductions into national climate targets (NDCs). With mine closures accelerating, experts will present business models from Poland and Spain that repurpose sites for clean energy. Just transition strategies in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will also highlight efforts to support coal-dependent communities. The session underscores the growing urgency to align mine safety, environmental goals, and economic resilience in the energy transition. 

    UNECE to Tackle Gas Sector’s Role in Energy Security and Climate Action

    The 12th Session of the UNECE Group of Experts on Gas (GEG-12) will address the future of gas in a rapidly evolving landscape. Discussions will focus on biogases as alternatives to fossil fuels, hydrogen infrastructure, and resilience amid supply shocks. For the first time, Just Transition in the gas sector will be explored, alongside new methane reduction measures 

    Driving Partnerships for a Just and Sustainable Energy Transition 

    The UNECE Resource Management Week 2025 will also highlight collaborations with the European Commission, World Bank, and UNDP on methane reduction and hydrogen projects, as well as partnerships with the UN Country Teams and the Issue-Based Coalition on Environment and Climate Change to shape coherent just transition policies. With a focus on practical solutions and innovation, the event aims to accelerate the energy transition in a fair, inclusive, and sustainable way. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Severe Weather

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp has declared a statewide State of Emergency, effective at noon today, in preparation for the severe and potentially damaging weather front moving into Georgia late this evening and early tomorrow morning. The State of Emergency executive order authorizes the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to activate the State Operations Center (SOC) and mobilize any needed resources to address potential impacts. Crews will also be on standby to respond to damage and power outages. The State of Emergency will expire at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18.

    “This storm will hit at the worst possible time, as people are heading to or already in bed. Before they retire for the evening, I’m urging everyone to be prepared ahead of time and to remain weather aware as long as this system is in the state,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Given the uncertainty of this storm and the fact it will move through Georgia overnight, individuals and families should prepare now and make plans to stay safe. Just as we’ve made all necessary preparations on the state level ahead of the system’s arrival, Georgians should get ready now and not wait until the storm is already here.”

    Among other provisions, the State of Emergency order prohibits price gouging. Access the full State of Emergency Executive Order here.

    Current Weather Forecast:

    A significant severe weather event is expected across the Southeast this weekend, with a powerful line of storms moving into Georgia late Saturday night through Sunday morning. The main threats will be tornadoes and damaging winds with large hail also possible. 

    While some strong thunderstorms are possible during the day on Saturday, the main window for severe weather will begin late Saturday night in northern and western Georgia. Supercells and a broken line of storms will shift eastward overnight and should move out of Metro Atlanta by sunrise on Sunday. The main window for severe weather in eastern and much of southern Georgia will be after sunrise on Sunday.

    Significant severe weather will be possible anywhere in Georgia Saturday night and Sunday morning. Given the late-night expected arrival of the system, ensure you have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings and review your tornado safety plans beforehand. Continue to monitor updates from your local National Weather Service office and reliable media outlets through the duration of this event.

    As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Global crises have hit education hard: 24 years of research offers a way forward for southern Africa

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Emmanuel Ojo, Associate Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    Global crises have shaped our world over the past two decades, affecting education systems everywhere. Higher education researcher Emmanuel Ojo has studied the impact of these disruptions on educational opportunities, particularly in southern Africa.

    He looked at 5,511 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 to explore what the research suggests about making education systems more resilient. Here, he answers some questions about his review.

    What are the global crises that have undermined education?

    In my review I drew up a table documenting how multiple crises have disrupted education systems worldwide.

    The cycle began with the 2000-2002 dot-com bubble collapse, which reduced education funding and slowed technological integration. This was followed by the 2001 terrorist attacks, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak (2002-2004), Iraq War (2003-2011), Indian Ocean tsunami (2004), and Hurricane Katrina (2005). The Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 2000, global food crisis (2007-2008), financial crisis (2007-2008), and European debt crisis (2010-2012) continued this pattern of disruption.

    More recently, the Ebola epidemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia-Ukraine war have destabilised education systems. Meanwhile, the ongoing climate crisis creates challenges, particularly in southern Africa where environmental vulnerability is high.

    Who suffers most, and in what ways?

    Education has consistently been among the hardest-hit sectors globally. According to Unesco, the COVID pandemic alone affected more than 1.6 billion students worldwide.

    But the impact is not distributed equally.

    My research shows crises have put vulnerable populations at a further disadvantage through school closures, funding diversions, infrastructure destruction and student displacement. Quality and access decline most sharply for marginalised communities. Costs rise and mobility is restricted. Food insecurity during crises reduces attendance among the poorest students.

    In southern Africa, the Covid-19 disruption highlighted existing divides. Privileged students continued learning online. Those in rural and informal settlements were completely cut off from education.

    Climate change compounds these inequalities. Unicef highlights that climate disasters have a disproportionate impact on schooling for millions in low-income countries, where adaptive infrastructure is limited.

    What’s at stake for southern Africa is the region’s development potential and social cohesion. The widening of educational divides threatens to create a generation with unequal opportunities and capabilities.

    What makes southern African education systems fragile?

    My review focused on the 16 countries of the Southern African Development Community, revealing what makes them vulnerable to crisis impacts.

    Southern Africa’s geographic exposure to climate disasters combines with pre-existing economic inequalities. The region’s digital divide became starkly visible during the Covid-19 pandemic. Some students were excluded from learning by limited connectivity and unreliable electricity.

    The region’s systems also rely on external funding. The Trump administration’s sudden foreign aid freeze was a shock to South Africa’s higher education sector. It has affected public health initiatives and university research programmes.

    Research representation itself is unequal. Within the region, South African researchers dominate and other nations make only limited contributions. This creates blind spots in understanding context-specific challenges and solutions.

    Each successive crisis deepens educational divides, making recovery increasingly difficult and costly. Weaker education systems make the region less able to respond to other development challenges, too.

    How can southern Africa build education systems to withstand crises?

    One striking finding from my review was the surge in educational research after the Covid-19 pandemic began – from 229 studies in 2019 to nearly double that in 2020, with continued rapid growth thereafter. This indicates growing recognition that education systems must be redesigned to withstand future disruptions, not merely recover from current ones.

    Research points to a number of ways to do this:

    • Strategic investment in educational infrastructure, particularly digital technologies, to ensure learning continuity.

    • Equipping educators with skills to adapt teaching methods during emergencies.

    • Innovative, context-appropriate teaching approaches that empower communities.

    • Integration of indigenous knowledge systems into curricula, enhancing relevance, adaptability and community ownership.

    • Interdisciplinary and cross-national research collaborations.

    • Protection of education budgets, recognising education’s role in crisis recovery and long-term stability.

    • Community engagement in education, ensuring interventions are culturally appropriate and widely accepted.

    In my view, African philanthropists have a duty to provide the independent financial base that education systems need to withstand external funding fluctuations.

    What’s the cost of doing nothing?

    The economic and social costs of failing to build resilient education systems are profound and long-lasting. Each educational disruption creates negative effects that extend far beyond the crisis period.

    When students miss critical learning periods, it reduces their chances in life. The World Bank estimates that learning losses from the Covid-19 pandemic alone could result in up to US$17 trillion in lost lifetime earnings for affected students globally.

    Social costs are equally severe. Educational disruptions increase dropout rates, child marriage, early pregnancy, and youth unemployment. These outcomes create broader societal challenges that require costly interventions across multiple sectors.

    Spending on educational resilience avoids those costs.

    The question isn’t whether southern African nations can afford to invest in educational resilience, but whether they can afford not to.

    The choices made today will determine whether education systems merely survive crises or make society better. Evidence-based policies and regional cooperation are essential for building education systems that can fulfil Southern Africa’s human potential.

    – Global crises have hit education hard: 24 years of research offers a way forward for southern Africa
    – https://theconversation.com/global-crises-have-hit-education-hard-24-years-of-research-offers-a-way-forward-for-southern-africa-251833

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Global crises have hit education hard: 24 years of research offers a way forward for southern Africa

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Emmanuel Ojo, Associate Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    Global crises have shaped our world over the past two decades, affecting education systems everywhere. Higher education researcher Emmanuel Ojo has studied the impact of these disruptions on educational opportunities, particularly in southern Africa.

    He looked at 5,511 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 to explore what the research suggests about making education systems more resilient. Here, he answers some questions about his review.

    What are the global crises that have undermined education?

    In my review I drew up a table documenting how multiple crises have disrupted education systems worldwide.

    The cycle began with the 2000-2002 dot-com bubble collapse, which reduced education funding and slowed technological integration. This was followed by the 2001 terrorist attacks, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak (2002-2004), Iraq War (2003-2011), Indian Ocean tsunami (2004), and Hurricane Katrina (2005). The Israeli-Palestinian conflict since 2000, global food crisis (2007-2008), financial crisis (2007-2008), and European debt crisis (2010-2012) continued this pattern of disruption.

    More recently, the Ebola epidemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia-Ukraine war have destabilised education systems. Meanwhile, the ongoing climate crisis creates challenges, particularly in southern Africa where environmental vulnerability is high.

    Who suffers most, and in what ways?

    Education has consistently been among the hardest-hit sectors globally. According to Unesco, the COVID pandemic alone affected more than 1.6 billion students worldwide.

    But the impact is not distributed equally.

    My research shows crises have put vulnerable populations at a further disadvantage through school closures, funding diversions, infrastructure destruction and student displacement. Quality and access decline most sharply for marginalised communities. Costs rise and mobility is restricted. Food insecurity during crises reduces attendance among the poorest students.

    In southern Africa, the Covid-19 disruption highlighted existing divides. Privileged students continued learning online. Those in rural and informal settlements were completely cut off from education.

    Climate change compounds these inequalities. Unicef highlights that climate disasters have a disproportionate impact on schooling for millions in low-income countries, where adaptive infrastructure is limited.

    What’s at stake for southern Africa is the region’s development potential and social cohesion. The widening of educational divides threatens to create a generation with unequal opportunities and capabilities.

    What makes southern African education systems fragile?

    My review focused on the 16 countries of the Southern African Development Community, revealing what makes them vulnerable to crisis impacts.

    Southern Africa’s geographic exposure to climate disasters combines with pre-existing economic inequalities. The region’s digital divide became starkly visible during the Covid-19 pandemic. Some students were excluded from learning by limited connectivity and unreliable electricity.

    The region’s systems also rely on external funding. The Trump administration’s sudden foreign aid freeze was a shock to South Africa’s higher education sector. It has affected public health initiatives and university research programmes.

    Research representation itself is unequal. Within the region, South African researchers dominate and other nations make only limited contributions. This creates blind spots in understanding context-specific challenges and solutions.

    Each successive crisis deepens educational divides, making recovery increasingly difficult and costly. Weaker education systems make the region less able to respond to other development challenges, too.

    How can southern Africa build education systems to withstand crises?

    One striking finding from my review was the surge in educational research after the Covid-19 pandemic began – from 229 studies in 2019 to nearly double that in 2020, with continued rapid growth thereafter. This indicates growing recognition that education systems must be redesigned to withstand future disruptions, not merely recover from current ones.

    Research points to a number of ways to do this:

    • Strategic investment in educational infrastructure, particularly digital technologies, to ensure learning continuity.

    • Equipping educators with skills to adapt teaching methods during emergencies.

    • Innovative, context-appropriate teaching approaches that empower communities.

    • Integration of indigenous knowledge systems into curricula, enhancing relevance, adaptability and community ownership.

    • Interdisciplinary and cross-national research collaborations.

    • Protection of education budgets, recognising education’s role in crisis recovery and long-term stability.

    • Community engagement in education, ensuring interventions are culturally appropriate and widely accepted.

    In my view, African philanthropists have a duty to provide the independent financial base that education systems need to withstand external funding fluctuations.

    What’s the cost of doing nothing?

    The economic and social costs of failing to build resilient education systems are profound and long-lasting. Each educational disruption creates negative effects that extend far beyond the crisis period.

    When students miss critical learning periods, it reduces their chances in life. The World Bank estimates that learning losses from the Covid-19 pandemic alone could result in up to US$17 trillion in lost lifetime earnings for affected students globally.

    Social costs are equally severe. Educational disruptions increase dropout rates, child marriage, early pregnancy, and youth unemployment. These outcomes create broader societal challenges that require costly interventions across multiple sectors.

    Spending on educational resilience avoids those costs.

    The question isn’t whether southern African nations can afford to invest in educational resilience, but whether they can afford not to.

    The choices made today will determine whether education systems merely survive crises or make society better. Evidence-based policies and regional cooperation are essential for building education systems that can fulfil Southern Africa’s human potential.

    Emmanuel Ojo receives funding from National Research Foundation (NRF).

    – ref. Global crises have hit education hard: 24 years of research offers a way forward for southern Africa – https://theconversation.com/global-crises-have-hit-education-hard-24-years-of-research-offers-a-way-forward-for-southern-africa-251833

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The US military has cared about climate change since the dawn of the Cold War – for good reason

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Paul Bierman, Fellow of the Gund Institute for Environment, Professor of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Vermont

    Military engineers managing supply routes in Greenland in the 1950s paid attention to the weather and climate.
     US Army/Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images

    In 1957, Hollywood released “The Deadly Mantis,” a B-grade monster movie starring a praying mantis of nightmare proportions. Its premise: Melting Arctic ice has released a very hungry, million-year-old megabug, and scientists and the U.S. military will have to stop it.

    The rampaging insect menaces America’s Arctic military outposts, part of a critical line of national defense, before heading south and meeting its end in New York City.

    Yes, it’s over-the-top fiction, but the movie holds some truth about the U.S. military’s concerns then and now about the Arctic’s stability and its role in national security.

    A poster advertises ‘The Deadly Mantis,’ a movie released in 1957, a time when Americans worried about a Russian invasion. The film used military footage to promote the nation’s radar defenses along the Distant Early Warning line in the Arctic.
    LMPC via Getty Images

    In the late 1940s, Arctic temperatures were warming and the Cold War was heating up. The U.S. military had grown increasingly nervous about a Soviet invasion across the Arctic. It built bases and a line of radar stations. The movie used actual military footage of these polar outposts.

    But officials wondered: What if sodden snow and vanishing ice stalled American men and machines and weakened these northern defenses?

    In response to those concerns, the military created the Snow, Ice and Permafrost Research Establishment, a research center dedicated to the science and engineering of all things frozen: glacier runways, the behavior of ice, the physics of snow and the climates of the past.

    It was the beginning of the military’s understanding that climate change couldn’t be ignored.

    Army engineers test the properties of snow on Greenland’s ice sheet in 1955, a critical determinant of mobility on the ice and one that changes rapidly with temperature and climate.
    U.S. Army

    As I was writing “When the Ice is Gone,” my recent book about Greenland, climate science and the U.S. military, I read government documents from the 1950s and 1960s showing how the Pentagon poured support into climate and cold-region research to boost the national defense.

    Initially, military planners recognized threats to their own ability to protect the nation. Over time, the U.S. military would come to see climate change as both a threat in itself and a threat multiplier for national security.

    Ice roads, ice cores and bases inside the ice sheet

    The military’s snow and ice engineering in the 1950s made it possible for convoys of tracked vehicles to routinely cross Greenland’s ice sheet, while planes landed and took off from ice and snow runways.

    In 1953, the Army even built a pair of secret surveillance sites inside the ice sheet, both equipped with Air Force radar units looking 24/7 for Soviet missiles and aircraft, but also with weather stations to understand the Arctic climate system.

    The public reveal of U.S. military bases somewhere – that remained classified – inside Greenland’s ice sheet, in the February 1955 edition of REAL.
    Paul Bierman collection.

    The Army drilled the world’s first deep ice core from a base it built within the Greenland ice sheet, Camp Century. Its goal: to understand how climate had changed in the past so they would know how it might change in the future.

    The military wasn’t shy about its climate change research successes. The Army’s chief ice scientist, Dr. Henri Bader, spoke on the Voice of America. He promoted ice coring as a way to investigate climates of the past, provide a new understanding of weather, and understand past climatic patterns to gauge and predict the one we are living in today – all strategically important.

    Henri Bader describes drilling high on Greenland’s ice sheet in 1956 or 1957 in a Voice of America recording (National Archives), “The Snows of Yesteryear,” and a movie (U.S. Army). Created by Quincy Massey-Bierman.

    In the 1970s, painstaking laboratory work on the Camp Century ice core extracted minuscule amounts of ancient air trapped in tiny bubbles in the ice. Analyses of that gas revealed that levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere were lower for tens of thousands of years before the industrial revolution. After 1850, carbon dioxide levels crept up slowly at first and then rapidly accelerated. It was direct evidence that people’s actions, including burning coal and oil, were changing the composition of the atmosphere.

    Since 1850, carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have spiked and global temperatures have warmed by more than 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit (1.3 Celsius). The past 10 years have been the hottest since recordkeeping began, with 2024 now holding the record. Climate change is now affecting the entire Earth – but most especially the Arctic, which is warming several times faster than the rest of the planet.

    Since 1850, global average temperature and carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere have risen together, reflecting human emissions of greenhouse gases. Red bars indicate warmer years; blue bars indicate colder years.
    NOAA

    Seeing climate change as a threat multiplier

    For decades, military leaders have been discussing climate change as a threat and a threat multiplier that could worsen instability and mass migration in already fragile regions of the world.

    Climate change can fuel storms, wildfires and rising seas that threaten important military bases. It puts personnel at risk in rising heat and melts sea ice, creating new national security concerns in the Arctic. Climate change can also contribute to instability and conflict when water and food shortages trigger increasing competition for resources, internal and cross-border tensions, or mass migrations.

    The military understands that these threats can’t be ignored. As Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro told a conference in September 2024: “Climate resilience is force resilience.”

    A view of aircraft carriers docked at the sprawling Naval Station Norfolk show how much of the region is within a few feet of sea level.
    Stocktrek Images via Getty Images

    Consider Naval Station Norfolk. It’s the largest military port facility in the world and sits just above sea level on Virginia’s Atlantic coast. Sea level there rose more than 1.5 feet in the last century, and it’s on track to rise that much again by 2050 as glaciers around the world melt and warming ocean water expands.

    High tides already cause delays in repair work, and major storms and their storm surges have damaged expensive equipment. The Navy has built sea walls and worked to restore coastal dunes and marshlands to protect its Virginia properties, but the risks continue to increase.

    Planning for the future, the Navy incorporates scientists’ projections of sea level rise and increasing hurricane strength to design more resilient facilities. By adapting to climate change, the U.S. Navy will avoid the fate of another famous marine power: the Norse, forced to abandon their flooded Greenland settlements when sea level there rose about 600 years ago.

    Norse ruins in Igaliku in southern Greenland, illustrated in the late 1800s while flooded at spring tide by sea level, which had risen since the settlement was abandoned around 1400.
    Steenstrup, K.J.V., and A. Kornerup. 1881. Expeditionen til Julianehaabs distrikt i 1876. MeddelelseromGrønland

    Climate change is costly to ignore

    As the impacts of climate change grow in both frequency and magnitude, the costs of inaction are increasing. Most economists agree that it’s cheaper to act now than deal with the consequences. Yet, in the past 20 years, the political discourse around addressing the cause and effects of climate change has become increasingly politicized and partisan, stymieing effective action.

    In my view, the military’s approach to problem-solving and threat reduction provides a model for civil society to address climate change in two ways: reducing carbon emissions and adapting to inevitable climate change impacts.

    The U.S. military emits more planet warming carbon than Sweden and spent more than US$2 billion on energy in 2021. It accounts for more than 70% of energy used by the federal government.

    In that context, its embrace of alternative energy, including solar generation, microgrids and wind power, makes economic and environmental sense. The U.S. military is moving away from fossil fuels, not because of any political agenda, but because of the cost-savings, increased reliability and energy independence the alternatives provide.

    Solar panels generate power on many U.S. military bases. This array at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos, Calif., generates enough power for more than 15,000 homes and has a backup battery system to provide power when the sun isn’t shining.
    Frederic J . Brown/AFP via Getty Images

    As sea ice melts and Arctic temperatures rise, the polar region has again become a strategic priority. Russia and China are expanding Arctic shipping routes and eyeing critical mineral deposits as they become accessible. The military knows climate change affects national security, which is why it continues to take steps to address the threats a changing climate presents.

    Paul Bierman receives funding from the US National Science Foundation, this work in part supported by grant EAR-2114629.

    – ref. The US military has cared about climate change since the dawn of the Cold War – for good reason – https://theconversation.com/the-us-military-has-cared-about-climate-change-since-the-dawn-of-the-cold-war-for-good-reason-246333

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven Detroit Men Charged for Drug Distribution, Illegal Possession of Weapons, and Money Laundering

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    DETROIT – Seven men have been charged in a forty-three-count indictment alleging conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, weapons charges, and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by Chevoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Detroit Field Office, and Charles E. Miller, Special Agent in Charge of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Detroit Field Office.

    Tary Holcomb (age 52), Maurice Hill (56), James Thomas (47), Curtis Weathers (52), Jason Ford, Conrad Taylor (48), and Shantonio Brooks (49), all of Detroit, were charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a myriad of controlled substances, including cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. If convicted of the conspiracy charge, each of the men faces a mandatory prison sentence of at least 10 years. Holcomb and Thomas each face additional charges for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, while Holcomb also faces charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm, and for money laundering activities dating back to January 2023.

    This case is assigned to Judge Edmunds of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.

    An indictment is only a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    “This case is an example of our zealous commitment to identify and dismantle local drug trafficking organizations that wreak havoc in our community by distributing harmful substances, illegally amassing weapons, and laundering illicit proceeds. This activity puts far too many at risk, and it will not be tolerated in our district,” Acting U.S. Attorney Beck said.

    “The indictment of seven men, accused of conspiring to distribute drugs, illegally possess firearms, and engage in money laundering, was successfully halted due to the tireless and meticulous investigative efforts by our dedicated team at the FBI Detroit Field Office, in close collaboration with our law enforcement partners at the IRS Criminal Investigation. This operation underscores our commitment to protecting the safety of Michigan’s communities,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI is unwavering in its mission to investigate and hold accountable those who threaten the well-being and security of our residents, ensuring a safer Michigan for all.”

    “Federal laws that regulate the reporting of financial transactions are in place to detect and stop illegal activities, such as the drug trafficking and money laundering charges levied today,” said Charles Miller, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “CI is committed to enforcing these laws and following the money, wherever it leads.”

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This case was investigated by agents from FBI’s Detroit Organized Crime Squad and IRS-CI along with the assistance of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Ramamurthy. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Bank of Russia opens applications for participation in the spring ESG school

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    April 16–18 will pass Spring School “ESG, Sustainable Development and Climate Change” is an intensive full-time educational program of the Bank of Russia and the Higher School of Business of the National Research University Higher School of Economics. Students and postgraduates of Russian universities of any year and specialty who have passed the competitive selection can become its participants.

    Applicants will need to pass online program, which will introduce listeners to the basic concepts and principles of sustainable development. It is also required to write an essay on one of the proposed topics and prepare a summary.

    Submit an application can be done through your personal account on the event website until March 27. The results of the competitive selection will be known by April 4.

    The ESG school offers its students a more in-depth study of sustainable development and climate change issues. The curriculum includes lectures by experts from the Bank of Russia, the Higher School of Business, representatives of the banking sector and companies that are leaders in sustainable development. Students will also analyze practical cases on assessing climate risks and processing ESG data, study international experience and take part in brainstorming sessions.

    All ESG school graduates will receive certificates of completion of training.

    Preview photo: Marina Lysceva / TASS

    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 = 23463

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India – New Zealand Joint Statement

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 2:39PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, is on an Official Visit to India on 16-20 March 2025. Prime Minister Luxon, who is on his first visit to India in his current capacity, is visiting New Delhi and Mumbai, and is accompanied by Hon. Louise Upston, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Hon. Mark Mitchell, Minister for Ethnic Communities, and Sport and Recreation, and Hon. Todd McClay, Minister for Trade and Investment, Agriculture, and Forestry, and a high-level delegation comprising of officials, and representatives of businesses, community diaspora, media and cultural groups.

    Prime Minister Luxon was accorded a warm and traditional welcome in New Delhi. Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Luxon. Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue on 17 March 2025 in New Delhi with Prime Minister Luxon as the Chief Guest delivering the Inaugural Keynote Address. The Prime Minister laid a wreath at Raj Ghat Mahatma Gandhi Memorial and also called on President Droupadi Murmu.

    The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their shared desire to further strengthen the growing bilateral relationship between India and New Zealand which is anchored in shared democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. Both leaders recognized that there remains significant potential for further growth in the bilateral relationship and agreed to cooperate closely in diverse areas, including trade and investment, defence and security, education and research, science and technology, agri-tech, space, mobility of people and sports.

    The Prime Ministers exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest and agreed to strengthen multilateral cooperation. The Prime Ministers recognised that we face an increasingly uncertain and dangerous world. They noted that, as maritime nations, India and New Zealand have a strong and common interest in an open, inclusive, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, where the rules-based international order is upheld.

    The Prime Ministers reaffirmed the right of freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the seas in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The Prime Ministers reaffirmed the need to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS.

    The Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the strong connections between the people of the two countries, with Indian-origin people making up almost six percent of New Zealand’s population. They appreciated the significant contribution of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand and their positive role in facilitating people-to-people ties between the two countries. Both leaders agreed on the significance of ensuring the safety and security of the Indian community, including students, in New Zealand, and of New Zealanders in India and visitors to India.

    Cooperation in trade, investment and financial matters:

    The Prime Ministers welcomed sustained trade and investment flows between India and New Zealand and called for further exploring the potential to expand bilateral trade. They encouraged businesses on both sides to cultivate links; explore emerging economic and investment opportunities to build upon the complementarities of the two economies.

    The Leaders called for greater two-way investment, reflective of the ongoing strong momentum in bilateral cooperation.

    The Prime Ministers agreed to enhance the trade and investment relationship between India and New Zealand to realise its untapped potential and to contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

    The Prime Ministers welcomed the launch of FTA negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial trade agreement to achieve deeper economic integration. The Leaders agreed that a comprehensive trade agreement offers a significant opportunity to enhance trade and economic cooperation. By leveraging each country’s strengths, addressing their respective concerns, and tackling challenges, a bilateral trade agreement can foster mutually beneficial trade and investment growth, ensuring equitable gains and complementarities for both sides. The Leaders committed to designate senior representatives to steer these negotiations to resolution as soon as reasonably possible.

     Within the context of FTA negotiations, the Leaders agreed to discussions between respective authorities on both sides to explore early implementation of cooperation in the digital payments sector.

    The Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the Authorized Economic Operators Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AEO-MRA) under the aegis of the Customs Cooperation Arrangement (CCA) signed in 2024, which would facilitate easier movement of goods between the two countries by our respective trusted traders through close cooperation between customs authorities, thereby boosting bilateral trade.

    The Leaders welcomed new cooperation on horticulture and forestry, including: the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation on Horticulture which would enhance bilateral cooperation by promoting knowledge and research exchanges, development of post-harvest and marketing infrastructure; and the signing of a Letter of Intent on Forestry Cooperation that encourages policy dialogues and technical exchanges.

    The Leaders recognized the positive role played by tourism in generating economic growth, increasing business engagements and generating greater understanding between people of the two countries. They welcomed the growing flows of tourists between India and New Zealand. They appreciated the update to the India-New Zealand Air Services Agreement and agreed to encourage their carriers for commencement of direct (non-stop) flight operations between the two countries.

    Political, defence and security cooperation:

    The Prime Ministers recognised the significance of parliamentary exchanges and encouraged regular visits of parliamentary delegations between the two countries.

    The Prime Ministers acknowledged the shared history of sacrifice of Indian and New Zealand service personnel who fought and served alongside one another around the world over the past century.

    The Prime Ministers welcomed sustained progress in defence engagements, including through participation in military exercises, staff college exchanges, regular port calls by naval ships, and exchange of high-level defence delegations. They recalled that the Indian Naval sailing vessel Tarini made a port call at Lyttelton, Christchurch, New Zealand in December 2024. They also referred to the upcoming port call in Mumbai by the Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Te Kaha.

    Both Leaders welcomed the signing of the India-New Zealand Memorandum of Understanding for Defence Cooperation. This will further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and establish regular bilateral defence engagement. Both sides noted the need for ensuring the safety and security of sea lanes of communication and agreed there needs to be regular dialogue to discuss enhancement of maritime safety.

    New Zealand welcomed India joining the Combined Maritimes Forces. Both Leaders welcomed advancement in defence ties during New Zealand command of Command Task Force 150.

    Both Leaders appreciated the regular training exchanges of officers, including at Defence Colleges on reciprocal basis. Both sides agreed for enhanced capacity building cooperation.

    Prime Minister Luxon expressed New Zealand’s interest in joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Prime Minister Modi welcomed New Zealand into this partnership with like-minded countries which seek to manage, conserve and sustain the maritime domain. Further cooperation as maritime nations is also being explored between India and New Zealand with discussions taking place between experts on the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) which is being established at Lothal, Gujarat.

    Cooperation in science & technology and disaster management:

    The two Leaders noted the significance of research, scientific connections, technology partnerships and innovation as an important pillar of the bilateral partnership and called for exploring such opportunities in mutual interest. Both sides stressed the need for stronger collaboration to develop and commercialize technologies in identified areas through closer collaboration between businesses, and industries.

    The two sides recognized the challenges for their economies presented by climate change and the transition to low emissions climate resilient economies. Prime Minister Luxon welcomed India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and reiterated New Zealand’s strong support as a member since 2024. Prime Minister Modi welcomed New Zealand joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which aims at making systems and infrastructure resilient in order to achieve the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Climate Agreement and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

    The two Leaders welcomed work towards a Memorandum of Cooperation on earthquake mitigation cooperation between relevant authorities of India and New Zealand, which would facilitate inter alia exchange of experiences in earthquake preparedness, emergency response mechanism, and capacity building.

    Education, mobility, sports and people to people ties:

    Both Prime Ministers agreed that there exists great potential to further strengthen the growing education and community links between India and New Zealand. They encouraged academic institutions of both countries to build future-oriented partnerships focused on areas of mutual interest including in areas of science, innovation, new and emerging technologies.

    The Leaders encouraged the creation of further opportunities for Indian students seeking quality education programmes in New Zealand. They noted the significance of skill development and mobility of skilled personnel to support expanded engagement in sectors, including science, innovation, and new and emerging technologies. The two Leaders agreed, within the context of the trade agreement negotiations, which the Leaders have agreed to launch, to also launch negotiations on an arrangement facilitating the mobility of professionals and skilled workers between the two countries, while also addressing the issue of irregular migration.

    The Leaders welcomed the signature of the refreshed Education Cooperation Arrangement between the Indian Ministry of Education and the New Zealand Ministry of Education. This Arrangement will facilitate the continued exchange of information on India’s and New Zealand’s respective education systems as the basis for strengthening the bilateral education relationship.

    The Leaders noted that India and New Zealand enjoy close sporting links, particularly in cricket, hockey and other Olympic sports. They welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation on Sports to foster greater sporting engagement and collaboration between countries. They also welcomed the “Sporting Unity” events planned in 2026, to recognise and celebrate 100 years of sporting contact between India and New Zealand.

    The Prime Ministers acknowledged the importance of robust systems of traditional medicine in India and New Zealand, and welcomed discussions between experts, including science and research experts, on both sides to understand and explore possible areas of cooperation, including through sharing of information and best practices and visits of experts.

    Both Prime Ministers noted the growing interest among New Zealanders in Yoga and Indian music and dance, as well as the free observance of Indian festivals. They encouraged further promotion of bilateral ties including through music, dance, theatre, films, and festivals.

    Cooperation in regional and multilateral fora:

    Both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting an open, inclusive, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific where sovereignty and territorial integrity are respected.

    The Leaders noted cooperation between India and New Zealand in various regional fora, including ASEAN-led fora such as the East Asia Summit, the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus and the ASEAN Regional Forum. The Leaders reaffirmed the importance of these regional bodies and ASEAN centrality for furthering security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region and emphasised the importance of all parties maintaining peace and stability in the region.

    Both Leaders emphasized on the importance of an effective multilateral system, centered on a United Nations that is reflective of contemporary realities, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. The two sides stressed the need for UN reforms, including of the Security Council through expansion in its membership, to make it more representative, credible and effective. New Zealand endorsed India’s candidature for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council. The two sides agreed to explore the possibility of extending mutual support to each other’s candidatures at the multilateral fora.

    Both Leaders emphasized the importance of upholding the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime, and acknowledged the value of India joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group in context of predictability for India’s clean energy goals and its non-proliferation credentials.

    Both Leaders reaffirmed their firm support for peace and stability in the Middle East and welcomed the agreement for the release of hostages and ceasefire of January 2025. They reiterated their call for continued negotiations to secure a permanent peace, which includes the release of all hostages and the rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza. Both Leaders stressed the importance of a negotiated two-State solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent state of Palestine, and living within secure and mutually recognized borders, side by side in peace and security with Israel.

    The Leaders exchanged views on the war in Ukraine and expressed support for a just and lasting peace based on respect for international law, principles of the UN charter, and territorial integrity and sovereignty.

    The two Leaders reiterated their absolute condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and the use of terrorist proxies in cross-border terrorism. Both stressed the urgent need for all countries to take immediate, sustained, measurable, and concrete action against UN-proscribed terrorist organizations and individuals. They called for disrupting of terrorism financing networks and safe havens, dismantling of terror infrastructure, including online, and bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice swiftly. The two leaders agreed to cooperate in combating terrorism and violent extremism through bilateral and multilateral mechanisms.

    The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the progress in ongoing bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral partnership for mutual benefit as well as for the benefit of the Indo-Pacific Region. They called for exploring the potential to deepen bilateral engagement and explore new avenues of cooperation, including in the fields of green and agriculture technologies.

    Prime Minister Luxon thanked Prime Minister Modi and the Government and the people of India for the warmth and hospitality extended to him and to the members of his delegation during his Official Visit to India. Prime Minister Luxon invited Prime Minister Modi to undertake a reciprocal visit to New Zealand.

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: List of Outcomes: Official Visit of Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt. Hon Christopher Luxon, to India

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 2:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Announcements:

    1. Launch of negotiations between India and New Zealand on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA);

    2. Launch of negotiations between India and New Zealand on an arrangement facilitating the mobility of professionals and skilled workers;

    3. New Zealand joins the Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI);

    4. New Zealand becomes member of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)

    Bilateral Documents:

    1. Joint Statement

    2. Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation between the Ministry of Defence of India and the New Zealand Ministry of Defence;

    3. Authorized Economic Operator – Mutual Recognition Agreement (AEO-MRA) between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs of India (CBIC) and the New Zealand Customs Service;

    4. Memorandum of Cooperation on Horticulture between the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare of India and the Ministry for Primary Industries of New Zealand;

    5. Letter of Intent on Forestry between the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change of India and the Ministry for Primary Industries of New Zealand;

    6. Education Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Education of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Education of New Zealand; and

    7. Memorandum of Cooperation in Sports between the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports of the Government of India and the Sport New Zealand of the Government of New Zealand

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Legislative proposal to include the EU 2040 climate target – E-000551/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In February 2024, the Commission presented its assessment for a 2040 climate target for the EU and the 2040 climate target Communication where it recommended a 90% net greenhouse gas emission reduction compared to 1990 levels as the recommended target for 2040[1].

    As announced in the Commission Work Programme 2025[2], the Clean Industrial Deal will also go hand in hand with a proposed 90% emission-reduction target for 2040 to be enshrined in the European Climate Law. The indicative date for the adoption of the European Climate Law amendment proposal is the first quarter of 2025[3].

    • [1] COM(2024) 63 final.
    • [2] COM(2025) 45 final.
    • [3] Annex I to the Commission work programme 2025.
    Last updated: 17 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –