Latest news with #ICCS
Zawya
28-05-2025
- General
- Zawya
President Ramkalawan Attends Seychelles Maritime Academy Graduation as 104 Students Mark Major Academic Milestone
President Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, graced the Seychelles Maritime Academy (SMA) graduation ceremony held on Tuesday afternoon at the International Conference Centre Seychelles (ICCS). The event celebrated the academic accomplishments of 104 students completing certificate and advanced certificate programmes—an important milestone for the country's maritime education sector. This year's ceremony underscored the unwavering commitment and academic discipline of the graduates, whose achievements reflect both resilience and scholarly excellence. A central feature of the event was the presentation of special awards honouring individuals who demonstrated outstanding performance and perseverance. Two new accolades were introduced this year—the Heart and Hustle Award and the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy Award —broadening the scope of recognition to encompass diverse forms of student excellence. The ceremony's highest distinction, the President's Cup for Outstanding Performer, was awarded to Eliel Meriza, a graduate of the Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science. Meriza was commended for his exemplary leadership, strong character, and meaningful contributions to the academic community. His success was attributed to remarkable perseverance, discipline, and integrity throughout his academic tenure. Other distinguished awardees included: Delivering the keynote address, SMA Director Captain Mahesa Abeynayake applauded the graduates for their accomplishments and urged them to view this achievement not as a final destination, but as a launching point for continued growth. He encouraged graduates to consider this an exhilarating new chapter they are commencing. Captain Abeynayake also highlighted the comprehensive and rigorous training the students received, which he noted would serve as a foundation for professional excellence. Quoting the Roman emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius, he reminded students that 'You are what you think,' underscoring the importance of mindset and purpose as they transition into the workforce. The ceremony reaffirmed the Seychelles Maritime Academy's pivotal role in equipping a new generation of maritime professionals, aligning with national strategies to strengthen the blue economy while upholding high standards of maritime training and education. The event was attended by key dignitaries including Minister for Education Dr Justin Valentin, Minister for Fisheries and the Blue Economy Mr. Jean-François Ferrari, Chief of Defence Forces Major General Michael Rosette, Commissioner of Police Mr. Ted Barbe, Seychelles Port Authority Harbour Master Captain Jean-Paul Fanchette, principal secretaries, senior officials, and invited guests. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
India Gazette
18-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Synergy in action: Tri-services deliver calibrated blow to Pakistani terror camps in Operation SINDOOR
New Delhi [India], May 18 (ANI): In an age of multi-domain warfare, where threats evolve faster than borders shift, India's national security architecture has demonstrated the strength of jointness and strategic foresight, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said. Operation SINDOOR, initiated on May 7 in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, showcased a calibrated, tri-services response that embodied precision, professionalism, and purpose. Operation SINDOOR was conceived as a punitive and targeted campaign to dismantle the terror infrastructure across the Line of Control and deeper inside Pakistan. According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Multi-agency intelligence provided confirmation of nine major camps that were eventually targeted in the operation. India's retaliatory action was based on meticulous planning and an intelligence-led approach, which ensured that the operations were conducted with minimal collateral damage. Operational ethics were central to the mission, and restraint was exercised to avoid civilian harm. In the aftermath of Operation SINDOOR, Pakistan initiated a series of retaliatory drone and Unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) attacks targeting key Indian airbases and logistics infrastructure. These attempts, however, were effectively neutralised by India's comprehensive and multilayered air defence architecture. Central to this success was the Integrated Command and Control Strategy (ICCS), which facilitated real-time threat identification, assessment, and interception across multiple domains, as per Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. In every single domain of Operation Sindoor there was operational synergy between the forces and fully supported by the Government, agencies and departments. The operation unfolded across land, air, and sea--a seamless demonstration of synergy between the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a crucial role in delivering precision strikes against terror infrastructure across Pakistan. It conducted high-impact air operations on targets such as the Nur Khan Air Base and the Rahimyar Khan Air Base, with visual evidence of damage presented during official briefings. The Air Force's robust air defence environment proved pivotal in protecting Indian airspace during retaliatory drone and UAV attacks from across the border. The indigenously developed Akash surface-to-air missile system and legacy platforms like the Pechora and OSA-AK were deployed effectively in a layered defence grid. The IAF's Integrated Air Command and Control System enabled real-time coordination of air assets, allowing Indian forces to neutralise aerial threats efficiently and maintain net-centric operations throughout the conflict. Simultaneously, the Indian Army demonstrated its preparedness and effectiveness in both defensive and offensive roles. The Army's air defence units worked in tandem with the Air Force, deploying a wide array of systems ranging from shoulder-fired MANPADS and LLAD guns to long-range SAMs. These units were instrumental in countering waves of drones and loitering munitions launched by Pakistan. Despite Pakistan's unrelenting efforts to inflict damage, Indian forces succeeded in ensuring the security of both military and civilian infrastructure. The Indian Navy played a critical role in asserting maritime dominance during Operation SINDOOR. Operating as a composite networked force, the Navy deployed its Carrier Battle Group (CBG) equipped with MiG-29K fighter jets and airborne early warning helicopters. This ensured persistent surveillance and real-time identification of threats across the maritime domain. The CBG maintained a powerful air defence shield that prevented hostile aerial incursions, especially from the Makran coast. The Navy's presence created a strong deterrent and effectively bottled up Pakistani air elements along their western seaboard, denying them any operational space. Naval pilots conducted round-the-clock sorties, further demonstrating India's readiness and strategic reach in the region. The Navy's ability to establish uncontested control over the seas also validated its anti-missile and anti-aircraft defence capabilities in a complex threat environment. During Operation Sindoor, the Border Security Force (BSF) also played a critical role in thwarting a major infiltration attempt along the International Border in the Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. BSF troops noticed suspicious movement in the early hours and swiftly responded, leading to a heavy exchange of fire. In the ensuing encounter, the BSF successfully neutralised at least two infiltrators and recovered arms, ammunition, and other war-like stores. The operation underscored the BSF's vigilance, operational preparedness, and its crucial role in maintaining border security during heightened tensions. Operation SINDOOR was thus not just a tactical success but a strategic statement. It demonstrated India's capacity for high-precision, coordinated military action across land, air, and sea. The operation was made possible by years of investment in defence preparedness, unwavering policy, and budgetary support from the government of India. The message was clear: when appeals to reason and diplomacy are met with continued aggression, a decisive response is both justified and necessary. In sum, Operation SINDOOR will be remembered as a defining moment in India's defence history--a symbol of military precision, inter-service cooperation, and national resolve. It successfully eliminated terror threats, reaffirmed India's regional dominance, and sent a strong message that cross-border terrorism would be met with a calibrated yet firm response. (ANI)
Zawya
09-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
National Institute of Health and Social Studies (NIHSS) Honours 86 Graduates at Prestigious Healthcare Ceremony
The National Institute of Health and Social Studies (NIHSS) celebrated the graduation of 86 newly qualified healthcare professionals this morning during a formal ceremony held at the International Conference Centre Seychelles (ICCS). Presided over by His Excellency President Wavel Ramkalawan and First Lady Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, the event was graced by several high-ranking officials, including the Speaker of National Assembly Mr. Roger Mancienne, Minister for Health, Mrs. Peggy Vidot; Minister for Education, Dr. Justin Valentin; Minister for Employment and Social Affairs, Mrs. Patricia Francourt; and Minister for Youth, Sports and Family, Mrs. Marie Celine Zialor The graduates, drawn from seven disciplines,Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Emergency Medical Care, Environmental Health Sciences, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and Health Care Assistance, represent the next generation of Seychelles' healthcare workforce. A highlight of the morning was the presentation of special awards recognising academic distinction, leadership, and clinical excellence. Mr. Jean Luc Rose, a graduate of the Diploma in Emergency Medical Care programme, was named Outstanding Graduate, earning the coveted President's Cup, along with a laptop and a government-sponsored scholarship. Mr. Rose was commended for his academic performance, leadership, and commitment to student life. Further accolades included the Overall Best Academic Award, presented to Ms. Solana Marie from the Diploma in Environmental Health Sciences programme, and the Ministry of Health's Overall Best in Practice Award, received by Ms. Ramlah Heneka from the Biomedical Laboratory Science cohort. Delivering the welcome address, NIHSS Director Mr. Ebrahim Ali described the occasion as 'a significant milestone not only for our students but for the future of healthcare in our country." He reiterated the Institute's core values—accountability, integrity, pursuit of excellence, respect, empowerment, scientific rigour, engagement, and teamwork—as guiding principles in building a resilient and responsive health system. "The transition from academic life to the workplace brings about real challenges but also presents great opportunities to be creative and apply innovative practices," Mr. Ali said, urging graduates to serve with compassion and commitment. The ceremony was punctuated by musical interludes from the NIHSS Choir, an inspiring speech from a former graduate, and a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Ramlah Heneka. The event concluded with a commemorative group photograph capturing the graduates alongside dignitaries and faculty members. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.
The Hindu
08-05-2025
- Climate
- The Hindu
Experts stress need for issuing accurate and localised forecasts for State
As above normal southwest monsoon is forecasted for the State in 2025, a one-day stakeholder dialogue titled 'Tracking the Monsoon: Kerala Outlook 2025' held here on Thursday stressed the need for issuing accurate and localised forecasts for the State in the future. Experts who took part in the summit stressed the importance of coordinated weather observation for better forecasting while emphasising the need for dense weather observation. The stakeholders also appreciated the Institute for Climate Change Studies' (ICCS) upcoming weather app for data collection and assimilation. The concept of a monsoon forum was also welcomed in the meet, with recommendations to extend such discussions in the future. The event organised by the ICCS in collaboration with the India Meteorological Department, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, and the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, brought together leading experts, policymakers, and representatives from key departments to deliberate on the preparedness strategies for the upcoming southwest monsoon season in Kerala. Actionable insights Technical sessions covered seasonal forecasts, disaster management, resource management, livelihood, and well-being, and experts shared insights and best practices. The dialogue was aimed at developing actionable insights and promoting collaborative efforts for risk mitigation and sustainable planning, ultimately enhancing Kerala's resilience to monsoon-related challenges. The programme began with a welcome address by K. Rajendran, Director of ICCS, and was formally inaugurated by K. P. Sudheer, Ex Officio Principal Secretary, Science and Technology department, and executive vice-president, Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment.
ARN News Center
13-03-2025
- Business
- ARN News Center
UAEFTS processes AED 19.89 trillion in transactions in 2024
The value of transactions conducted in the banking sector within the country through the UAE Funds Transfer System (UAEFTS) rose to AED 19.898 trillion during 2024, according to the latest statistics from the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). The figures are a year-on-year increase of 15.9 per cent, compared to transactions totalling AED 17.159 trillion carried out during the same period in 2023. According to the Monthly Banking Operations Statistics (2019- 2024), issued by the CBUAE on Thursday, bank transfers increased by approximately 13.3 per cent to AED 12.491 trillion in 2024, compared to AED 11.018 trillion in 2023. Meanwhile, customer transfers rose by about 20 per cent, surpassing AED 7.4 trillion in 2024, compared to approximately AED 6.14 trillion in 2023. On a monthly basis, the value of transfers increased in December 2024 to approximately AED 1.878 trillion, compared to around AED 1.707 trillion in December 2023. Regarding circulated checks, banking transaction statistics showed a 5.66 per cent increase in the value of checks processed using the Image Cheque Clearing System (ICCS), surpassing AED1.334 trillion in 2024, compared to AED1.263 trillion in 2023. The total circulated checks reached 22.59 million in 2024, compared to 22.12 million in 2023.
