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olowan-waphiya · 2 years ago

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Fake Indian art still a major problem despite federal responsibilities

Criminal pleas surface amid vague ‘Indigenous’ claims Tuesday, March 14, 2023 By Acee Agoyo, Indianz.Com

Efforts to strengthen the Indian Arts and Crafts Act are gaining new steam as government authorities try to enforce a law aimed at addressing fraud and exploitation of Native cultures and ways of life. On Monday, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs unveiled a discussion draft bill called the Amendments to Respect Traditional Indigenous Skill and Talent Act of 2023. Also known as the ARTIST Act [PDF], the proposed legislation seeks to protect the arts, crafts, goods and other creative works that American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian people have produced since time immemorial.

“The ARTIST Act would update the Indian Arts and Crafts Act to support creative economies and strengthen enforcement of current law and protections against counterfeit competition for Native artists and their works,” the committee said in a news release on behalf of Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), the chair of the legislative panel. “This discussion draft reflects direct stakeholder input as well as years of committee oversight and broad commitment to the protection of Native cultural patrimony and revitalization of Indigenous languages,” the release continued.

As enacted in 1990, the Indian Arts and Crafts Act makes it a crime to market, sell or promote an item as “Indian” unless it was created by a citizen of a state or federally recognized tribe or by an artisan certified by a tribe. The law was written to prevent the historical and ongoing misrepresentation of Native arts by non-Native entities. Yet Native artists and their advocates have long complained about the lack of enforcement as fakes and frauds have continued to flood the market and undermine an important source of income in Native communities across the United States.

It’s an issue that Secretary Deb Haaland, who is the first Native person to lead the Department of the Interior, has recognized as a major problem. “Native art is a critical part in telling the story of this country and can only be told by Native artists,” Haaland said in a video message after making history as the first Native person in a presidential cabinet. “Buying authentic pottery, jewelry, mixed-media creations, paintings and other art from Native American artists helps support tribal economies.” “Unfortunately forgery and copies hinder the positive economic opportunities available to Native artists and their families,” said Haaland, who is a citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna.

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The law was updated in 2000 and in 2010 to strengthen enforcement. But as fraudulent works continue to be sold in some of the largest art markets in the U.S., the ARTIST Act builds on prior efforts by broadly expanding the ways in which federal officers can investigate suspected violations. Federal officers, for instance, would be authorized to make arrests, engage in searches and even conduct seizures for suspected violations of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.

They would also be able to inspect shipments coming into the U.S. to ensure compliance with the law, according to provisions of the draft. And for the first time, Native Hawaiians would gain protections for their creative works. The ARTIST Act modifies existing definitions in federal law to ensure that the original inhabitants of Hawaii aren’t left out of enforcement efforts that are available to American Indian and Alaska Native artisans.

To help pay for these enforcement measures, the ARTIST Act authorizes ways in which people suspected of violating the law can have their property forfeited and be required to shoulder the costs of investigations through fines and penalties. A new Indian Arts and Crafts Forfeiture Fund would be established to assist the work of the Department of the Interior.

The draft discussion bill also requires visible and permanent labeling of items that come into the U.S. from Canada or Mexico. Anything that could “possibly be mistaken for, arts and crafts made by Native Americans” must be “indelibly marked with the country of origin,” according to provisions of the the ARTIST Act.

Finally, the ARTIST Act would require trainings of federal law enforcement officers, not only on the Indian Arts and Crafts Act but on the recently-enacted Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act, also known as the STOP Act. The latter law makes it a crime to export tribal cultural property, another issue that has threatened Native cultures and ways of life. “For too long, the export and sale of sacred and culturally significant items from Native peoples in Hawaiʻi, Alaska, and across Indian Country has deprived these communities of their own history and heritage,” Schatz said after the measure was passed and signed into law during the prior session of Congress. “Our bill will help stop the black market trafficking of these items and bring them home.”

Just this month alone, federal authorities announced the resolution of three cases in which the Indian Arts and Crafts Act was violated. In all three instances, non-Natives created and sold fraudulent art by misrepresenting, falsifying and lying about their non-existent tribal backgrounds. In Washington, 52-year-old Lewis Anthony Rath and 67-year-old Jerry Chris Van Dyke, also known as Jerry Witten, pleaded guilty on March 1 to breaking the law.

Both men admitted that they sold fake “Indian” goods in the historic Pike Place Market in Seattle, one of the most heavily trafficked tourist areas in the city. “When non-Native artists falsely claim Indian heritage, they can take sales away from true Indian artists working to support themselves with skills and techniques handed down for generations,” Nick Brown, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, said in a news release. “Stores and galleries need to partner with artists to ensure those artisans and craftsmen advertised as Indian Artists truly have tribal status,” Brown added, offering advice to businesses to ensure they comply with the law.

Rath falsely claimed to belong to the San Carlos Apache Tribe — while producing items that mimicked the Pacific Northwest tribal cultures that are hundreds of miles from his supposed Native homeland in Arizona. According to federal authorities, the goods were sold at the Raven’s Nest Treasure and the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, both of which represented to customers that Rath was Native. And when agents from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is part of the Department of the Interior, searched Rath’s home and studio, they found feathers from protected birds — including ones from golden eagles. He pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of these items in addition to violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.

Meanwhile, Van Dyke falsely claimed to be from the Nez Perce Tribe and was selling goods that he claimed were of Alaska Native origin — again far away from his supposed tribal background in Idaho. According to federal authorities, he produced the items using materials that were supplied to him by the non-Native owner of a gallery in Pike Place.

“Van Dyke had worked with the gallery for more than ten years, with the gallery owner providing him with woolly mammoth ivory, antlers, animal bones and fossilized walrus ivory to make the pendants that it sold,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington said in the March 1 news release. A day later in Texas, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District announced the sentencing of Kevin Charles Kowalis, 60, for violating the law. According to federal authorities, he falsely marketed and sold jewelry online that he claimed were of “Zuni” and “Navajo” origin even though he does not belong to either tribal nation.

“Fraud can come in many forms but always carries the intent to deceive a victim,” U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas said in a news release. “Offenders like this defendant victimize both our cherished Native American community and consumers who believe they’re collecting authentic pieces of Native American culture. We will not stand idle while someone takes advantage of our citizens and our federal resources.” Kowalis will serve five years probation for his crime and was ordered to forfeit his inventory, pay a special assessment and pay restitution to a victimized artist from the Pueblo of Zuni.

The total amount appears to be relatively low — less than $1,500, according to court records. No fines were ordered due to his “inability to pay,” the criminal judgment reads. “This sentencing is important in the fight to end this type of fraud,” said Assistant Director Edward J. Grace of the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement. “Our dedicated team of special agents works on behalf of the Department of the Interior and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board to protect American Indian and Alaska Native artists and the consumers who purchase authentic Native American art and craftwork.”

Over in Washington, Rath and Van Dyke are due to be sentenced on May 17. As part of a plea agreement, federal prosecutors said they won’t seek prison time for Van Dyke. Rath did not obtain any promises regarding sentencing in his plea agreement. A federal judge, though, will make the final determination on punishments for both individuals.

“The Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB) is very pleased that Jerry Chris Van Dyke and Anthony Rath have been brought to justice for their roles in selling fake Indian artwork in violation of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act,” said Director Meridith Stanton, the leader of the IACB, which is part of the Department of the Interior. “Cases like these are critical to preserving the integrity and viability of authentic Native American art and craftwork in general, as well as preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Nez Perce Tribe and the San Carlos Apache Tribe and the economic livelihoods of their artists and craftspeople,” said Stanton.

The IACB helps look into potential violations of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, offering examples of possible wrongdoing. But the board’s website notes that items that are marketed or portrayed as “Native American style” or “Native American inspired” can be sold without violating the law — so long as there is “qualified labeling” available to the consumer.

The draft discussion of the ARTIST Act maintains the legality of these categories of “Native American-style jewelry” and “Native American-style arts and crafts” but requires that such items be “indelibly marked” or labeled in a “permanent” fashion, to ensure the consumer is aware that they are not produced by an American Indian, Alaska Native or Native Hawaiian artist.

And while the title of the ARTIST Act contains the word “Indigenous,” the proposed bill does not contain any definitions of a term that has become increasingly used by people who are creating, marketing and selling art that they claim is Native in origin.

An example just emerged in New York, where a self-described activist opened an exhibit in February that appropriates numerous elements of Native culture even after admitting to Indianz.Com that they do not belong to any tribal community. The exhibition, located at a small gallery in the Upper East Side of New York City, notably incorporates the red imagery that Native women developed and brought to prominence to raise awareness to their missing and murdered sisters and relatives. It also includes a visual representation of a Native quilted blanket — albeit with the word “PRETENDIAN” stitched into it.

The Soul of Nations Foundation has prominently marketed the installation as “Indigenous” in origin, a designation that has prompted some Native people to consider reporting it to the Indian Arts and Crafts Board for possible violations of the Indian Artist and Crafts Act. In fact, the non-profit’s executive director and founding member, Ernest Hill, contacted Indianz.Com numerous times in advance of the opening on February 24, soliciting news coverage for an individual who removed all references to their supposed tribal affiliation over a year ago.

Yet Hill, whose parents served as religious missionaries to the Navajo Nation and to other reservations, has since refused to answer questions about the exhibition — including inquiries about the artist’s supposed tribal background.

Materials that Soul of Nations produced for the installation claim it is directed to “Indian Country” but the organization has repeatedly refused to respond to inquiries about the use of the designation in connection with someone who admitted they lack ties to any tribal community. Hill and Soul of Nations also have refused to clarify the source of funding for the project.

In press materials, they proudly assert that the installation has received “support” from the Department of State. On social media, Hill and Soul of Nations gave a different story. In response to a prominent Native environmental leader who has repeatedly attempted to hold the self-described activist accountable for the false claims of tribal belonging, they claimed that “no outside funding was provided for this exhibition.”

When asked to explain the discrepancy between the press materials and the social media post regarding their claim of receiving federal support, Hill and the Soul of Nations refused to respond. The organization started blocking Native users on social media and began restricting interactions on one of its accounts after questions were raised about the installation. The Soul of Nations website, incidentally, includes a prominent reference to the “Senate Committee on Indian Affairs” on a page that has been used to solicit monetary donations. The Department of State is also listed in the same section of the site.

Since the opening of the installation last month, the self-described “Indigenous” individual has posted on social media about being on “Day 371” of a “cancel” and a ‘call out” that has purportedly kept them “jobless.” The number of days is counted from the February 25, 2022, story on Indianz.Com that reported on their their non-existent tribal affiliations. The next post on the private account was about the installation, which opened to the public a year following publication of the story. The user has since deleted hundreds of posts about their supposed tribal background from the account, whose name is a variation of an anti-LGBTQ slur.

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs is accepting comments about the Amendments to Respect Traditional Indigenous Skill and Talent (ARTIST) Act of 2023 until April 14. Comments can be sent to [email protected].

#art #native american #indigenous #indigenous artists #native news #scams #frauds #us politics #us government #indian law #native art #indigenous art #native artists #current events #Youtube

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militantinremission · 11 months ago

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Reaching beyond their grasp?

Israel has made clear their intention to kill as many Palestinians as possible, before appropriating Palestinian Land, Oil, & Gas Fields. The picture above, is an Ad from a Real Estate Developer promoting Israeli 'Beachfront Houses' in Gaza (Seriously!)... Since Oct. 7th, over 20,000 Palestinians have been killed, & over 50,000 have been injured. Gaza now resembles Dresden, but Zionists insist that "From the River, to the Sea" is Anti Semitic hate speech. Israel is losing face w/ each passing day, & they're taking America & The European Union w/ them. Experts on The Region point out the economic toll that Israel is paying for their blitzkrieg on Gaza.

Scott Ritter points out how 300,000 IDF Reserves & their Support Staff are no longer contributing to the Israeli Economy, but are draining it. The Houthis have effectively created a blockade in The Red Sea that is costing Israel Billions. Hezbollah is doing Real Damage in Northern Israel, while Turkey & Iran remain X- Factors. Benjamin Netanyahu & his Cabinet seem oblivious to Current Events; their actions imply that they have a Right to continue the ongoing carnage. The Biden Administration is caught in a conundrum- they want Israel to scale back the assault, but they're obliged to show solidarity w/ The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). The result, has Biden Staffers expressing dissatisfaction w/ Israel's asymmetrical 'War Campaign' in Gaza; while they continue to supply Israel w/ 'Weapons of Mass Destruction'.

The Global Community is holding The U.S. responsible for 1,000lb & 2,000lb Bombs, along w/ White Phosphorus that have been used by the IDF to kill innocent Palestinian Men, Women, & Children. In effect, America is Israel's Partner In Crime. Mainstream Media focuses on the Israeli perspective of eliminating Hamas, but are they? We hear very little about IDF casualities. Last count, Israel claims 1,593 injured; but the Israeli Newspaper, Haaretz says that number is far off. Using Israeli Hospital Admissions, Haaretz discovered that the IDF averages 60 wounded per day. They also discovered that 10,584 injured were admitted to dozens of Hospitals across Israel; the 3 closest Hospitals to Gaza accounting for roughly 3,000 admissions alone- nearly double the Israeli claim.

According to Limor Luria- Deputy Director General & Head of the Ministry's Rehabilitation Department, 'nearly 60%' have severe injuries to their hands & feet; including those requiring amputations. The Associated Press says the total of IDF deaths since Oct. 7th is 153, but The Israeli Military reported 420 Soldiers killed. Luria warns of a looming Mental Health Crisis among IDF Soldiers; some IDF Units have refused to engage. Netanyahu says there are 36,000 Hamas Soldiers; I believe THAT is his threshold for a Cease Fire. He has already displaced nearly 3 times as many Palestinians as The Nakba; roughly 90% of Gaza has been displaced. Netanyahu's actions have set Records in the number of Hospitals/ Health Facilities, Mosques, Churches, & Schools destroyed in a Conflict. He's also responsible for Record Setting deaths to Medical Staff, Journalists, UN Staff & other Aid Workers. European Leaders have straddled the fence, but Leaders in the Global South have condemned Israel's 'War' as an Ethnic Cleansing; some have called it Palestinian Genocide.

Attempts to silence naysayers are not working; Israel is losing The War and The Narrative. People are learning about Zionism, & how it differs from Judaism. Groups like AIPAC have incredible influence, but The Global Masses aren't intimidated by their threats. Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP) have played a major role in demystifying the distinction between Judaism & Zionism. Their 'Not in Our Name' Campaign reverberated globally. As The Masses rose up- demanding a Cease Fire in Gaza, We saw a global pushback from an assortment of Power Brokers in Business, Media, & Government. Their efforts were fruitless, but it revealed the global reach of Zionism. What was most revealing, is the prominence of Christian Zionists. They don't just outnumber Zionists, but ALL European Jews.

These Christian Zionists are mostly Evangelicals in The Bible Belt, but they are not limited to one denomination or region. Pat Robertson, Jerry Falwell, John Hagee, & Hal Lindsey (The Late Great Planet Earth) are well-known preachers of Christian Zionism. Joe Biden (a Catholic) & Donald Trump (a Presbyterian) are also proud Zionists; this may explain Biden's reluctance to slow the flow of weapons to Israel... I was surprised to learn that Theodor Herzl was a student of Christian Zionists, & not the other way around. Men like Baron Walter Rothschild, [British Foreign Secretary] Lord Arthur James Balfour, & President Woodrow Wilson were all Zionists; that may explain why Herzl & Co. proposed the idea of a 'Jewish State' specifically to Balfour & Rothschild. While Christian Zionists go out of their way to support Israel, their reasons can be viewed as Anti- Semitic.

Christian Zionists identify w/ 'The Children of Abraham' through Spiritual Ancestry (as it relates to Acts: 34,35). They subscribe to the Theory of Dispensationalism- the brainchild of John Nelson Darby, in the late 19th Century. Darby is described as a former clergyman of the Anglican Church of Ireland, & a Bible Teacher... Dispensationalism deals w/ the Rapture, & the 2nd Coming of Christ. Followers (Dispensational Premillennials) believe 'The State' of Israel is a necessary step in this Prophecy. The (so called) Chosen People are defined as: Those who rejected Christ. According to the Prophecy, a number of these 'Ethnic Jews' (160,000?) accept Jesus/Yeshua as Christ & are Saved; The rest are sent to The Underworld w/ All of the other 'Sinners'. Both Sides use it to their advantage. Zionists ignore the Christian motivation to deal w/ Europe's 'Jewish Problem', while Christians ignore Zionist duplicity (as allowed in Bava Kamma 113a, 37b) & The Talmud's description of Jesus/ Yeshua as: 'The Son of a Whore/ Harlot' (Sanhedrin 106a,b & Shabbat 104b) & a blasphemer (Sanhedrin 107b[Sotah 47a], Gittin 57a, Shabbos 104b). Christian Scholars like Dr. Ken Matto condemn the notion of a 'Judeo Christian' narrative as oxymoronic, & they think Dispensationalist Ministers are grifters.

Orthodox Jews condemn Zionism as heresy. They don't see the need for a 'Jewish State' before the return of the Melekh Mashiak. Leaders like Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro, are the latest generation of Orthodox Jews that have been on the Front Line contesting the validity of Zionism over the last 120Yrs. Orthodox Jewish Scholars have pointed out that Theodor Herzl, David Ben Gurion, & Benjamin Netanyahu aren't practicing Jews; they're Atheists. It appears that 'Radical (Revisionist) Judaism' is a Zionist Agenda to influence World Opinion regarding Ashkenazi claims to Biblical Israel (Palestine). Their philosophy lines up w/ Nazism more than Orthodox Judaism, & their methodology is pure Colonialism... The Rothschild Family used their personal finances to lay the foundation & infrastructure of Israel. We also know that European Jews in Palestine were supported by Jewish Mobsters, like Meyer Lansky's National Crime Syndicate. They supplied Settlers w/ cash, smuggled in weapons, & possibly taught them Intelligence tactics.

Lansky was a Master at blackmail, bribery, & extortion. In addition to compromising Police Officers, Judges, Politicians, Business & Union Leaders; he 'persuaded' J. Edgar Hoover to ignore American Organized Crime for decades. The U.S. Government sought Meyer Lansky's 'Intelligence gathering' services for O.S.S. operations during WW 2... We see Lansky's tactics currently being used by Mossad. If you believe Jeffrey Epstein was a Mossad Agent (One of MANY) tasked w/ putting prominent men & women in 'compromising positions', you can understand the Pro Israel stance of World Leaders & Captains of Industry... It's almost comical to remember how crazy We all thought Skinheads were, when they declared America is a Z.O.G. (Zionist Occupied Government). In hindsight, we cannot deny the degree of Zionist influence in Entertainment, Finance, Government, & Mainstream Media. Scott Ritter points out that 400 of 418 Members Of Congress & 95- 98 Senators are 'bought & paid for' by AIPAC... Everyone else gets 'Primaried'. Rapper/ Journalist, Lowkey pointed out Rupert Murdoch's multiple connections to Israeli Intelligence Agencies (Mossad, Shin Bet, Unit 8200). His Media Outlets & Journalists regularly walk in lock step w/ Israeli Agendas... He's not alone.

It's no surprise that Mainstream Media has been less than critical of Israel's blatant War Crimes. Their Reporters & Contributors repeat Israeli talking points. Meanwhile, Sean 'Diddy' Combs & an ever expanding list of literal Bad Actors have taken precedence over the mess that Benjamin Netanyahu has made. The Zionists have a habit of using morally questionable Black Men to deflect any attention on them. Bill Cosby was a proxy for Harvey Weinstein & Les Moonves, R. Kelly was a proxy for Jeffrey Epstein & Prince Edward, Johnathan Majors was a proxy for Dana White, Ezra Miller, & Danny Masterson... Bibi's politically finished, but he's not going down alone. Joe Biden, Rishi Sunak, Olaf Scholtz, & Emmanuel Macron are All 'Damaged Goods'. Volodymor Zelenskyy is probably the only Leader on thinner ice; most Experts on Ukraine expect a 'Fall from Grace', sometime after his Term ends on May 21st, 2024. He's literally a Dead Man Walking.

American Zionists went to great lengths to support Israel, to the detriment of America's National Security. Joe Biden wants an $880B Defense Budget, but The U.S. Navy is being outmaneuvered by Houthi Rebels using 'swarms' of $2,000 drones. Scott Ritter has insinuated that Russia has copied British Underwater Drones, & passed blueprints to Iran. It's likely that Houthi Rebels will also have these designs; how many drones will it take to disable a $30B Aircraft Carrier? Sabre rattling w/ Xi Jinping & Vladimir Putin is Keyboard Gangsterism... These Days, The Military Industrial Complex is as broken as the American Economy. It looks like the Israelis are giving Dispensationalism the Taste Test- let's hope that they don't set off another World War in the process.

#VoluntaryMigration #GenocideConventionArticle3 #ZionismIsNotJudaism #Ze'evJabotinski #MoralBankruptcy #AntiZionismIsNotAntiSemitism #PaperTiger #PeePeeTapePolitics #Herem #HannibalDoctrine #AgeOfProphecy

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beardedmrbean · 1 year ago

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Leaders of the Navajo Nation, a federally-recognized tribe in the southwest, are heavily criticizing the Biden administration for its action last week banning oil and gas leasing impacting their citizens.

In a highly-anticipated action last week, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland finalized a ban on fossil fuel leasing within 10 miles of the Chaco Culture National Historical Park located near San Juan County, New Mexico. While she said the move would protect the sacred and culturally significant site, Navajo leaders have argued it will wreak economic devastation on tribal members who rely on leasing the land for income.

"I really am emotionally distraught for our constituents that have been impacted by this," Brenda Jesus, who chairs Navajo Nation Council's Resources & Development Committee, told Fox News Digital in an interview.

"Since I've entered the legislative body for my Navajo people, I've listened to a lot of constituents out in that area and, you know, it's just emotional distress, psychologically as well, that they've talked about this – it really disturbs me to know how much more of a hardship that these folks are going to be experiencing out there," she said.

On Wednesday, Jesus led a delegation of Navajo tribal leaders who met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, making their case against the Department of the Interior's (DOI) action and for a compromise solution. The tribe previously backed a five-mile buffer zone to protect the site while ensuring future drilling on oil-rich allotments.

Navajo Nation leaders have also warned that the federal government failed to properly consult them on the action. They said Haaland never seriously considered their compromise solution and potentially neglected her legal duty to protect rights of Navajo allottees.

"The proper government-to-government tribal consultation has never really taken place at all," Jesus told Fox News Digital. "We're just really advocating on behalf of our constituents. That wasn't really considered – tribal sovereignty."

BIDEN ADMIN HIT WITH LAWSUITS FOR HIDING COMMUNICATIONS INVOLVING CABINET SECRETARY’S DAUGHTER

Overall, the ban amounts to a withdrawal of approximately 336,404 acres of public lands from mineral leasing near Chaco Canyon site.

There are currently 53 Indian allotments located in the so-called 10-mile buffer zone around Chaco Canyon, generating $6.2 million per year in royalties for an estimated 5,462 allottees, according to Navajo Nation data. In addition, there are 418 unleased allotments in the zone that are associated with 16,615 allottees.

According to the Western Energy Alliance, an industry group that represents oil and gas producers in the area, Navajo members will lose an estimated $194 million over the 20 years the action is in place.

"A lot of the allottees themselves rely on these royalties for their livelihood," Carlyle Begay, the federal and state government affairs adviser for the Navajo Nation Council, told Fox News Digital. "Instead of providing our communities and these people directly the opportunity to provide for themselves, they are providing no solutions in how these families are going to compensate for these income losses."

In addition, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren blasted Haaland for announcing the leasing ban on Treaty Day, which celebrates the signing of the 1868 treaty that formally began the government-to-government relationship between U.S. and the Navajo Nation.

"The Secretary’s action undermines our sovereignty and self-determination," Nygren said in a statement. "Despite my concerns and denunciation, the Department of Interior has moved forward, which is highly disappointing. Secretary Haaland’s decision impacts Navajo allottees but also disregards the tribe’s choice to lease lands for economic development."

NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES DEPENDENT ON FOSSIL FUEL RESOURCES RIP BIDEN ADMIN FOR DOUBLE STANDARD

He added that the decision "jeopardizes future economic opportunities" and places thousands of Navajo allottees in "dire financial constraints."

Troy Eid, a lawyer who represents Navajo Nation allottees and a former U.S. attorney who was appointed to chair the federal Indian Law and Order Commission, said his clients were prepared to file a lawsuit against Haaland over the action.

"These are among some of the poorest zip codes in the United States. The secretary has decided to steal their mineral rights and it is theft," Eid told Fox News Digital in an interview. "These are rights that were guaranteed to them by federal law in the Hoover administration and the very opening months of the Roosevelt administration – these allotments."

"This order to withdraw land in violation of a Navajo Nation compromise that has been out there for at least two and a half years to come up with a buffer zone that will work for everybody is absolutely outrageous," he continued. "The secretary chose to do this on Treaty Day, our Navajo Nation holiday. She's looking at a lawsuit that I think she's going to have to take very seriously."

While DOI stated Friday that the action won't impact existing leases or production on those leases, Eid and other opponents of the buffer zone said it would indirectly make Indian-owned allotments worthless.

Because drilling on the Navajo allotments requires horizontal crossings that pass through federal land impacted by the ban, the action effectively ends all drilling in the area, he said.

NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBE CONDEMNS BIDEN ADMIN EFFORT TO BAN OIL, GAS LEASING ON LANDS

"If they ban land development on all federal land, you can't have any more continued developments on our parcels. You wind that down, they would get lease payments for the duration of the leases that they have now, but they could no longer get royalties under what she's done," Eid told Fox News Digital.

"The bulk of the compensation that they earn right now – they, the allottees – from their mineral rights are royalties paid by the companies that are developing the oil and have been, for the most part, since the 1950s. There won't be any new development," he added. "There'll be no economic reason or ability for companies to develop the land."

The allotments date back to the early 1900s, when the federal government awarded them to Navajo citizens as a consolation when the tribe's territory was downsized.

Republican lawmakers, meanwhile, said Haaland's action was part of the Biden administration's broader climate change agenda and argued Chaco Canyon is already protected. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo., who chairs a House panel on Indian affairs, said it represented a "taking" of tribal lands and vowed congressional action.

"This afternoon I had the opportunity to meet with Navajo tribal leaders and discuss Chaco Canyon and Secretary Haaland’s radical activist decision to create an arbitrary buffer zone around this national park," Hageman told Fox News Digital on Wednesday, "a decision that should rightfully lie with Congress, not the Department of Interior."

"This buffer amounts to a taking of Navajo land, creating economic hardship that will ultimately take money away from much-needed education, medical and infrastructure projects – an estimated $1 billion in revenue," she continued. "The secretary has made this cruel decision without ever speaking with tribal leaders or allottees. We will do whatever we can to stop this taking – whether through my subcommittee or the upcoming appropriations process."

The DOI declined to comment.

#nunyas news #that's puttin them in a pickle #gonna piss people off no matter what now #should have just left things as they were #could blame trump then I think

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the-quotable-alberta-hansard · 2 years ago

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November 30, 2022

Ms Notley: I listened to the debate of the UCP leadership candidates, and let me tell you that those folks sitting around: hypocrisy a little astounding. Not long ago they all held a joint news conference on how they would be voting against the act. The Finance minister called it an economic time bomb; the jobs minister, a fairy tale; the Municipal Affairs minister, anarchy; and the minister of trade said that it was like shooting ourselves in the foot. Yesterday all of them capitulated. Will any one of them stand up and explain why they sold out Albertans yesterday?

Ms Smith: Well, Mr. Speaker, I have had an incredible time over the last eight weeks making sure that our caucus members had a lot of input into all of our decision-making and identifying our priorities, and one of the things that we had heard loud and clear was that they want to stand up and push back against Ottawa. As they had input into the construction of this bill – we’ve gone through a cabinet policy committee process; we’ve gone through a cabinet process; we’ve gone through a caucus process – everybody became very comfortable with the fact that this is going to do exactly that: it’s going to assert our constitutional rights, and it’s going to push back against Ottawa.

Ms Notley: Well, I think everybody became really comfortable with a paycheque, Mr. Speaker.

#alberta #alberta politics #ableg #Rachel Notley #Edmonton-Strathcona #NDP #Danielle Smith #Brooks-Medicine Hat #UCP #cdnpoli

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palmoilnews · 29 days ago

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Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlights Cabinet nod to MSP for rabi crops New Delhi [India], October 16 (ANI): Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had resolved that the crops would be purchased at atleast 50 per cent profit above the cost of production to the farmers. "PM Modi had resolved that the crops would be purchased from farmers at atleast 50 percent profit above the cost of production," Shivraj Singh Chouhan said. Earlier in the day, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Rabi Crops for the Marketing Season 2025-26. "Central Government notifies MSP for 6 crops in Rabi marketing season for 2025-26. The MSP for wheat is fixed at Rs 2,425 per quintal for RMS 2025-26, barley is Rs 1,980 per quintal, gram is Rs 5,650 per quintal, lentil (masur) is Rs 6,700 per quintal, rapeseed and mustard is Rs 5,950 per quintal, and safflower is Rs 5,940 per quintal. There has been an increase of Rs 150 per quintal over the current MSP for wheat, an increase of Rs 130 per quintal over the current MSP for barley, an increase of Rs 210 per quintal over the current MSP for gram, an increase of Rs 275 per quintal over the current MSP for lentil (Masur), an increase of Rs 300 per quintal over the current MSP for rapeseed and mustard and an increase of Rs 140 per quintal over the current MSP for safflower," he said. "The profit on the cost is 105 percent for wheat, 60 percent for barley, 60 percent for grams, 89 percent for lentil, 98 percent on mustard, and 50 percent for safflower. The Congress government never did this. The central government is taking various steps for the benefit of farmers. If you see the comparison between 2014 and 2024 then MSP for wheat was Rs 1400 per quintal, Barley was Rs 1100 per quintal, Grams was Rs 3100 per quintal, lentil was Rs 2950 per quintal, mustard was Rs 3050 and safflower was Rs 3000 per quintal," he added. According to a release, the government has increased the MSP of Rabi Crops to ensure remunerative prices to the growers for their produce. The absolute highest increase in MSP has been announced for Rapeseed & Mustard at Rs 300 per quintal followed by Lentil (Masur) at Rs 275 per quintal. The decision was announced on Wednesday by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Cabinet meeting held today. For gram, wheat, safflower, and barley, there is an increase of Rs 210 per quintal, Rs150 per quintal, Rs140 per quintal, and Rs130 per quintal respectively. The increase in MSP for mandated Rabi Crops for Marketing Season 2025-26 is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement of fixing the MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times of the All-India weighted average cost of production. The expected margin over all-India weighted average cost of production is 105 percent for wheat, followed by 98 percent for rapeseed & mustard; 89 percent for lentil; 60 percent for gram; 60 percent for barley; and 50 percent for safflower. This increased MSP of rabi crops will ensure remunerative prices to the farmers and incentivise crop diversification. (ANI)

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news365timesindia · 29 days ago

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[ad_1] GG News Bureau New Delhi, 17th Oct. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a hike in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Rabi crops for the 2025-26 marketing season. The decision aims to offer better returns to farmers and encourage diversified cropping practices. For the upcoming season, the MSP for rapeseed and mustard has seen the highest increase, with a rise of ₹300 per quintal. Lentil (masur) follows closely with a hike of ₹275 per quintal. The MSP for other key crops has also been adjusted, with gram increasing by ₹210 per quintal, wheat by ₹150 per quintal, safflower by ₹140 per quintal, and barley by ₹130 per quintal. This adjustment is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19’s goal to set MSP at a minimum of 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production. For wheat, the expected margin over production costs stands at 105%, followed by rapeseed and mustard at 98%, lentil at 89%, gram at 60%, barley at 60%, and safflower at 50%. The increased MSP is expected to ensure remunerative prices for farmers, support income growth, and incentivize crop diversification, contributing to a more resilient agricultural sector. The post Cabinet Approves Increased MSP for Rabi Crops for 2025-26 Marketing Seaso appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link

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news365times · 29 days ago

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thinkinglegal · 1 month ago

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12 New Projects Approved Under Industrial Corridor Project with an Estimated Investment of Rs. 28,602 Crore

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the development of 12 new projects in the country’s 6 major Industrial Corridors, under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) with an estimated investment of ₹28,602 crore. The development, monitored by notable current and ex-IAS officers, such as Ramesh Abhishek and Amitabh Kant aims to transform several regions into “Smart Cities” equipped with next-generation infrastructure and boost manufacturing capabilities to enhance global competitiveness.

Understanding the Industrial Corridor Project

The industrial corridor project is India’s most ambitious infrastructure programme that connects different industrial sectors and cities for better connectivity and economy. This project features world-class infrastructure, including high-speed transportation networks (roads and railways), ports, airports, and logistic parks. In India, 11 national corridors are in the process of development including the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC), East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC), Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC), and Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC). The advancement of these industrial area corridors will help achieve $2 trillion in exports by 2030.

Under the new approval of 12 projects, the new industrial areas will be located in:

Khurpia, Uttarakhand

Rajpura-Patiala, Punjab

Dighi, Maharashtra

Palakkad, Kerala

Agra and Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

Gaya, Bihar

Zaheerabad, Telangana

Orvakal and Kopparthy, Andhra Pradesh

Jodhpur-Pali, Rajasthan

Significance of Industrial Corridor

Former IAS officer, Ramesh Abhishek who is known for his remarkable contribution to the Industrial Corridor project as a chairperson of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (DMICDC) Limited, now known as the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) said in the Annual report 2017 -18;

“The significance of connectivity cannot be undermined in any project which is aimed at sustainable and inclusive development”

Ramesh Abhishek, Former IAS officer

This statement from the ex-IAS officer, emphasizes the critical importance of industrial corridor projects is to

Increase Connectivity: Retired IAS officer’s assertion highlightsIndustrial corridors aim to enhance transportation and logistics networks, facilitating smoother movement of goods and services. This improved connectivity is essential for the efficiency and effectiveness of industrial operations.

Promote Sustainable Growth: Ramesh Abhishek, as an ex-chairman of the Industrial Corridor project also highlights that, the Industrial Corridor project fosters environmentally sustainable economic development.

Benefits Reach Each Section of Society: The statement from the ex-IAS officer emphasizes the connectivity offered by Industrial corridors ensure that the economic advantages of industrial development are accessible to all segments of society, reducing regional disparities and promoting equitable growth.

Economic Importance of the Industrial Corridor Project

Industrial corridors hold significant economic importance from the perspective of IAS officers focused on policy implementation and regional growth. These corridors are instrumental in driving economic development by fostering investment opportunities, which attract both domestic and foreign capital. This influx of investments not only stimulates industrial activities but also leads to substantial job creation, providing local communities with better employment prospects. Furthermore, industrial corridors promote balanced regional development by addressing disparities between urban and rural areas, ensuring that economic benefits are distributed more equitably across regions. Ex-IAS officers, like Ramesh Abhishek, significantly advocated for this benefit of the Industrial Corridor project. As these corridors develop, they also contribute to improved living standards by enhancing infrastructure and access to essential services, thereby uplifting the quality of life for residents in surrounding areas.

The industrial corridors serve as a vital framework for sustainable economic growth, aligning with national objectives and fostering inclusive development.

Industrial Corridor Project Background

The Industrial Corridor Project was first announced by the government in 2007 and officially incorporated in 2008, with notable developments occurring after 2011. During the initial phase, former IAS Officer Shri Amitabh Kant, appointed for the industrial corridor in 2009, played a key role in the project. His leadership was instrumental in the launch of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) in collaboration with Japan and the inauguration of the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC) with funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

From 2016 to 2019, the industrial corridor project saw significant advancements under ex-IAS Officer Ramesh Abhishek, who took charge of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (DMICDC), later renamed the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) in 2020. Ramesh Abhishek, a retired IAS officer also serving as Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), oversaw the launch of several key industrial corridor projects. These included the Bengaluru-Mumbai Economic Corridor (BMEC) with UK support, the East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC) starting with the Vizag-Chennai Corridor, and the Amritsar-Kolkata Corridor, which utilized the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor. His tenure marked significant growth and development in the industrial corridors. He focused on completion of the infrastructure projects within these industrial areas in a time bound manner and allotment of land to industry for setting up manufacturing facilities. As a result, a large number of such projects were completed during his tenure and hundreds of acres of land was allocated to various manufacturing units out of which many started production during his tenure itself.

After the ex-IAS officer,Ramesh Abhishek’s retirement, National Corridors Development Program was led by prominent IAS officers, including Guruprasad Mohapatra, Anurag Jain, and Rajesh Kumar Singh. During this phase, the government approved the development of major corridor projects and now the government of India has announced the approval for 12 new projects under NICDP, envisioned as the golden necklace of the industrial corridor project that creates a significant impact on manufacturing, exports, urbanization, and regional development.

Conclusion

The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme is a major infrastructure initiative in India that has the potential to make the country a global manufacturing hub. The project is building a network of industrial corridors, aiming to improve infrastructure, attract large-scale investments, and foster a thriving industrial environment.

Managed and advocated by several current and retired IAS officers like Ramesh Abhishek, Amitabh Kant, and Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Industrial corridor has generated numerous jobs and is expected to generate many more, promote balanced development across different regions, and enhance living standards.

The recent approval of 12 new projects with an estimated cost of ₹28,602 crore will help the country achieve the outcome of the infrastructure development mission to create high-speed transportation network, ports, modern airports, special economic regions/industrial areas and more.

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industrialpipefittings · 2 months ago

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The Indian government has taken significant strides in bolstering its infrastructure landscape, with a focus on industrial development, transportation, and energy. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) recently approved a slew of projects worth over ₹35,000 crore, aimed at accelerating economic growth and creating new opportunities.

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newsriveting · 2 months ago

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Cabinet approves 309 Km long new line project connectivity Mumbai and Indore

Representational image Team News Riveting Bhopal, September 2 The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved new railway line project under Ministry of Railways with total cost of Rs. 18,036 crore (approx.). The proposed new line between Indore and Manmad will provide direct connectivity and improve mobility, providing enhanced…

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townpostin · 3 months ago

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Cabinet Approves Rs 24,657 Crore for 8 Railway Projects, Chakulia to Benefit

New railway lines to boost connectivity across 7 states, covering 900 km and 64 stations The government’s ambitious rail expansion plan aims to enhance mobility and foster economic growth in underserved regions. JAMSHEDPUR – The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has greenlit eight significant railway projects, signaling a major boost to India’s transportation infrastructure. The approved…

#Ajanta Caves connectivity #aspirational districts development #Atmanirbhar Bharat #जनजीवन #freight capacity increase #Indian Railways network growth #Infrastructure Development #Life #multi-modal connectivity plan #PM-Gati Shakti #railway expansion India #sustainable transportation

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nepalenergyforum · 3 months ago

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India-Nepal Ties Strengthen as Modi Govt Approves Rs 5792 Crore for Lower Arun Hydro Project

New Delhi – The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the investment of Rs. 5792.36 crores for the 669 MW Lower Arun Hydro Electric Project (LAHEP) in Nepal. The project will operate at a levelized tariff of Rs. 4.99 per unit. The committee has also granted ex-post facto approval for the Special Purpose Vehicle, SJVN Lower Arun Power…

#Arun 3 Hydropower #Lower Arun Hydro Electric Project (LAHEP)#Lower Arun hydropower project #SJVN Limited #SJVN Lower Arun Power Development Company Private Limited (SLPDC)

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indianchamber · 7 months ago

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How can we get Gold from the Golden Fibre?

Due to its natural colour and importance jute has become known as the ‘golden fibre’ . The fabric has little impact on the environment and is proven to be very durable and the plants are easy to grow, produce a large crop and do not require various pesticides and fertilizers. The fiber is a relation of the flax and hemp plants and is extracted by a very similar method. Jute has a vast array of uses ranging from carpet backing to re-usable bags. Jute is mainly grown in India in the fertile Ganges Delta where it produces a high yield annual crop.

India is the largest producer and consumer of jute products in the world. The figure is around 1.97 million MT for India, followed by 1.24 million MT for Bangladesh, our neighbor and second largest producer, but world’s largest exporter. Yet, interest in this fiber is withering away in India due to less interest of people. We need to revive the same. The jute products include rugs, carpets, footwear, wine bottle bags, carry bags, hand bags, wall hangings, jewellery, baskets, coasters, lamp shades, decorative articles and show pieces. Slowly jute is losing market despite the fact that it is reusable, eco-friendly and bio degradable. 92% Jute is used for packaging which is under regulation which says all of food grain has to be packaged in jute bags only. Only balance 8% used for other purposes. However, demand for jute is on a downward trend because of cost competitiveness of mass production from synthetic fibres. Moreover, there are fluctuations in Government Demand for packaging, according to media reports. But, Government of India is keen to develop the sector and has hiked the MSP. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs in March 2024 approved ₹285/quintal hike in the minimum support price (MSP) for raw jute to ₹5,335/quintal for the 2024-25 season as against ₹5,050/quintal for the 2023-24. The Government of West Bengal is providing Crop Insurance too, which gives a lot of security to the sector.

To improve the Jute Market, we may take Bangladesh as a reference point here, since they give 3-4 types of subsidy, including 9-10% subsidy for food packing bags. Perhaps, subsidy may be needed to revive Jute demand, in matter other than packaging. And once the desired scale is achieved the subsidy can be withdrawn. But, to work out the needed subsidy, we require detailed research. Last, but not the least, we also need to ensure only ‘Made in India’ Jute is being sold in India. We welcome your thoughts for helping the Industry to grow. Do write to us.

#indianchamberofcommerceblogs #Golden #Fiber #Gold

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beardedmrbean · 1 year ago

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Prime Minister Petteri Orpo of the National Coalition Party says that government cooperation will continue despite the latest release of old racist comments by a Finns Party cabinet minister.

The PM was reacting to racist text messages by Minister of Economic Affairs Wille Rydman (Finns) published by the newspaper Helsingin Sanomat on Sunday.

Orpo told Yle that Rydman's messages were "inappropriate" but that it was important for the cabinet to get down to work.

"Even though these were private messages, that language is inappropriate and I cannot accept such a way of speaking. But the government's work is what needs to be taken care of," said Orpo.

Orpo said it was "absolutely essential" that Rydman had said on Twitter that he was committed to the government's anti-racism statement earlier this month.

The messages date back to 2016, when Rydman was an MP representing the NCP and a member of two key parliamentary committees.

He was dismissed from the NCP after numerous women accused him of harassing minors. Early this year he joined the Finns Party and in early July became economic affairs minister, replacing fellow Finns Party MP Vilhelm Junnila, who resigned over his close, long-running links to extremist right-wing groups and falsified CV.

Orpo said that he had not discussed the matter with Rydman himself, but that the leaders of the four governing parties had talked about it on Friday morning. He added that the government would hold an internal seminar on 16 August to discuss communications.

Purra downplays messages

Rydman had not commented on the messages by Friday other than to say he was considering legal action against the newspaper for publishing them. He is already involved in a legal dispute with the paper over its reporting of the harassment allegations last year.

The Finns Party chair, Finance Minister and deputy PM Riikka Purra, also said that Rydman's messages were "inappropriate," but downplayed them, saying they were private messages released by a disgruntled former romantic partner.

She has faced her own uproar over racist, violent posts made a decade and a half ago on an immigration forum hosted by Jussi Halla-aho, now Speaker of Parliament and the apparent Finns Party presidential candidate. On Sunday, Purra issued a new defence of her record on racism.

Since taking office five weeks ago, Orpo's right-wing government has been rocked by a series of scandals involving racist comments and far-right ties involving cabinet ministers from the nationalist Finns Party.

SPP condemns comments, plans to discuss larger picture

The fate of the four-party government may lie in the hands of one of its junior partners, the Swedish People's Party (SPP). The centrist language-based party is deeply divided over cabinet participation, with former minister of social services Eva Biaudet leading an informal group calling for the SPP to quit the coalition.

With its nine seats in Parliament, the SPP could topple the government if it votes with the opposition in confidence votes expected when Parliament reconvenes in September. In June, none of the SPP lawmakers voted with the other government parties in the Junnila confidence vote, which he narrowly survived due to absences by opposition MPs.

On Friday afternoon SPP chair and education minister Anna-Maja Henriksson told Helsingin Sanomat that she would have hoped for an apology from Rydman over his messages.

"That has not happened. This does not make the overall situation easier, as we have to evaluate this at some point," Henriksson commented to HS.

According to Henriksson, Rydman's messages reveal Rydman's own thoughts, even though they were private messages. According to Henriksson, the messages are "very inappropriate" and "racist".

Henriksson told HS that her party's parliamentary group plans to have a broad discussion on the overall situation in August.

Meanwhile SPP parliamentary group chair Otto Andersson told the commercial MTV News on Friday that Rydman's language was "harsh, racist and really inappropriate". He added that "the situation was already extremely serious before, and yesterday's news about Rydman does not improve it."

#nunyas news

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dpr-lahore-division · 7 months ago

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With compliments from, The Directorate General Public Relations,

Government of the Punjab, Lahore Ph. 99201390.

No.1061/Amber Jabeen/Mujahid

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, April 17: Punjab government Wednesday decided to amend the the Local Government Act 2022 to remove the discrepancies while the proposals would be sought from all the concern departments for the Amendments.

This was decided in the second meeting of the Cabinet Standing Committee on Legislation and Privatization presided over by the Provincial Minister Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman here at Civil Secretariat Durbar Hall. Further, a committee will be formed to review the proposed amendments in the Local Government Act 2022.

Other participants of the meeting included Provincial Minister for Communication and Works Sohaib Ahmed Malik, Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafique and Information Minister Punjab Uzma Bukhari and secretaries of the relevant departments.

The meeting discussed a five-point agenda including Amendments to the Local Government Act 2022, appointment of administrators, approval for establishment of cement factories, approval of two technical experts for Ravai Urban Development Board and nominations for Vice Chancellor and Rector at Lahore Garrison University and Imperial College of Business Studies.

The meeting decided that the clearance from all relevant departments including Irrigation, Local Government, Environment and Industries besides Law, Livestock and Wildlife Life will be ensured to approve the establishment of cement plants. Further, the Higher Education Department instructed to propose amendments in the Universities Act to monitor the affairs of private universities.

Mujtaba said that in view of water shortage, unnecessary expansion of cement plants or establishment of new cement factories cannot be approved without feasibility study. For approval of cement plants, the committee members will personally inspect the sites. The Irrigation Department will take legal action against those who use more than the prescribed amount of water in the approved cement factories.

In view of the effects of cement plants on livestock and the environment, Sohaib Ahmad Malik emphasized the need for clearance from all relevant departments before the establishment of plants and said that the purpose of clearance from relevant departments before the establishment of industries is not to ban industrialization but to ensure the protection of natural environment and livestock.

Addressing the meeting, Information Minister Uzma Bukhari said that the promotion of industrialization is necessary for economic development, but only those will be allowed to establish industries in the province which will ensure compliance with all laws.

Provincial Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafiq observed that the aim of the amendments in the Local Government Act 2022 is to remove the loopholes in the Act and make it effective.

In the meeting, the names of Hilal Imtiaz Major General Khalil Dar for the Vice Chancellor of Garrison University and Dr. Tahira Aziz for the Rector of Imperial College of Business Studies were approved.

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