The Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, through its various subordinate offices, attached and autonomous offices observed day 5 of the Swachhata Hi Sewa Campaign 2024, themed “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskaar Swachhata,” today.
As a part of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, the Department of Consumer Affairs organised an event under “Swachhata Hi Sewa 2024” . The main event was organized at the National Test House (NTH), Ghaziabad, on September 21, 2024, in association with NTH, Ghaziabad in which Ms. Nidhi Khare, the Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, led the plantation drive and planted a sapling. The senior officers and staff of the department and NTH actively participated in the drive, which included plantation, beautification, and trimming of bushes within the premises. The presence of officials highlighted the department’s commitment to environmental sustainability and beautification efforts. Participants enthusiastically demonstrating their dedication to the cause and contributing to a cleaner and greener environment in line with the Swachhata Hi Seva 2024. In this even, about 80 saplings were planted in NTH, Ghaziabad premises by the Department. Todays, the Department and its subordinate/autonomous/attached offices have collectively planted approximately 925 trees.
(Secretary, Ms. Nidhi Khare, Department of Consumer Affairs along with officials of the Department)
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS): BIS HQ has planted 40 trees, contributing to a total of approximately 500 trees planted across all regional offices of BIS.
National Test House (NTH): Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Campaign total 310 number. plantation, by all NTH Region offices .
(Employees and staff of NTH(HQ), Kolkata doing plantation during “एकपेड़माँकेनाम” Campaign)
NTHVaranasi: Swachchata Hi Seva-2024 “एक पेड़ माँ के नाम ” Campaign at NTH(Satellite Centre), Varanasi. 20 Number of Plant have been planted at different location of NTH Varanasi Campus
NTH(NWR) Jaipur : Swachh Bharat Diwas “Swachhata Hi Sewa” (SHS) Plantation Campaign (Campaign Name –एकपेड़माँकेनाम) was conducted at NTH(NWR) Jaipur (total Participants 40 number)
RRSL, Bangalore: Employees and staff of RRSL, Bangalore during “एक पेड़ माँ के नाम” Campaign)
RRSL Faridabad: 12 trees have been planted during “Ek Ped Maan Ke Naam “.
IILM, Ranchi: On the occasion of “Swachhata Hi Seva – 2024” a event EK PED MAA KE NAAM has been organised at IILM, Ranchi in which Director of the Institute Dr. Rajeshwar Kumar, Faculty, Staff and trainee officials of Basic Training Course participated very enthusiastically and made this event very successful. 11 number of fruit trees have planted under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.
RRSL, Ahmedabad: 10 trees have been planted during ‘Ek ped maa ke naam’ event.
RRSL Bhubaneswar: 2 coconut trees have been planted under “Ek ped maa ke naam” event during Swachchata hi Sewa 2024.
In its commitment towards protecting consumer rights and ensuring transparency in the education sector, the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has successfully intervened at a pre-litigation stage to ensure justice for students and aspirants who enrolled for the UPSC Civil Services, IIT and other entrance examinations.
Following numerous complaints registered in the National Consumer Helpline regarding unfair practices by various coaching centres especially not refunding the enrolment fees of the students/ aspirants, NCH initiated a drive to resolve these grievances on a mission-mode to facilitate a total refund of 1 cr. to affected students from the total demanded refund of 2.39 Cr till date.
This decisive action comes after the National Consumer Helpline received multiple grievances from students who had enrolled in UPSC Civil Services, IIT and other coaching programs but faced issues such as unfulfilled promises, inadequate teaching quality, and abrupt cancellations of courses. Data reveals that during a short span of 12 months i.e. 2023-2024 – 16,276 numbers of students reached out to NCH, once their requests were declined/ rejected/ not specifically redressed to their satisfaction by coaching centres. The analysis of data repository also revealed/highlighted an increasing trend in the numbers of dissatisfied students/consumers lodging complaints at NCH.
The total numbers of grievances registered by the students in the year 2021-2022 are 4,815 followed by year 2022-2023 having 5,351 and 2023-2024 are 16,276. This increase reflects growing confidence and trust of students in NCH as an effective grievance redressal mechanism before opting to knock at the door of Consumer Commissions. In 2024, already 6980 students have reached out to NCH for speedy redressal of their grievances at a pre litigation stage.
Table showing Consistent increase in the number of grievances registered at NCH from year 2021-2024
All these refunds were processed promptly at a pre-litigation stage after the intervention of the department to the affected students from all corners of the country who raised their grievances claiming their refunds against the coaching centres offering classes for “UPSC Civil Services”, “JEE advance”, medical entrance, CA exams and other courses.
One such success story relates to a student from Bengaluru who had taken a study loan of Rs 3.5 lacs to take admission in a management course offered by an institution from Lucknow. He was forced to opt out of the course on account of unreasonable delays in commencement of course. Even after multiple follow ups, the refund was not granted. Distressed by loan EMIs and inability to enrol anywhere else due to paucity of funds, he approached NCH and was granted refund on department’s intervention.
Similarly, another success story belongs to a student from Bharuch, Gujarat who was granted a refund of 8.36 lacs paid for enrolment once NCH stepped in.
All these students and aspirants registered their grievances at the National Consumer Helpline by calling toll-free “1915” helpline number or registering their grievances at the portal namely “www.consumerhelpline.gov.in”. The Department of Consumer Affairs launched the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) to disseminate information on issues pertaining to consumers and promote consumer welfare. Department extended this service with the launch of Integrated Consumer Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal : a pre-litigation platform maintained and monitored by NCH for consumers to get their complaints and grievances addressed directly by the companies.
It may be mentioned that CCPA took up class action against malpractices of misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices and has also penalized several Coaching Centres on several occasions. These initiatives reinforced DoCA’s commitment and contribution to empower our society by supporting students as a consumer class.
Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary of DoCA, stated, “We are dedicated to safeguarding the rights of consumers, especially students who invest their precious time and resources in pursuing their dreams. This action reaffirms our commitment to ensure that coaching institutions adhere to fair practices and honour the rights of consumers.” and emphasized that coaching institutes must present facts truthfully and honestly by clearly and prominently disclosing important information so that consumers can not only notice it easily but also take more informed choice. She underscored the significance of consumer rights and the responsibility of advertisers to ensure they provide accurate information.
Furthermore, this initiative of DoCA is a key-step to strengthen the pre-litigation platform for prompt redressal of grievances across the sectors in alignment with the letter and spirit of the recommendations of NITI Aayog given in its report “Designing the Future of Dispute Resolution: The ODR Policy Plan for India dated October 2021” which acknowledges and reiterates the significance of pre-litigation mechanisms by stating that-
“Mandatory pre-litigation/ ODR cases involving e-commerce claims, small cause claims and cheque-bouncing issues can be resolved before they reach the courts system. This is extremely critical for Indian judiciary, which has a burgeoning case-load”
It is pertinent to state that the National Consumer Helpline is already undertaking resolution of consumer grievances through pre-litigation measures in an impactful and effective manner. Moreover, the department has directed coaching centres to adopt a more student centric approach and ensure transparency in course offerings and assured quality standards in the sector. This proactive stance not only supports affected students but also sets a precedent for improved practices within the education sector, ensuring that coaching institutions prioritize transparency and accountability in their operations.
India signed and exchanged the first-of-its-kind agreements focused on Clean Economy, Fair Economy, and the IPEF Overarching arrangement under Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) for prosperity, on 21st September, 2024 at Delaware USA, in the presence of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi who is on 3-day visit to the US for the Quad Summit.
IPEF Clean Economy Agreement (Pillar-III)
The Agreement on Clean Economy intends to promote technical cooperation, workforce development, capacity building, and research collaborations; and collaborate to facilitate development, access, and deployment of clean energy and climate-friendly technologies with the aim to collectively accelerate efforts of IPEF partners towards energy security and transition, climate resilience and adaptation and GHG emissions mitigation.
This Agreement will facilitate investments, project financing including concessional financing, joint collaborative projects, workforce development and Technical Assistance and Capacity Building for industries, in particular for the MSMEs, and facilitate further integration of Indian companies in the global value chains, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. These activities will be undertaken through joint collaborative actions such as Cooperative Work Programmes, the IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund, the IPEF Accelerator etc.
IPEF Fair Economy Agreement (Pillar-IV)
The Agreement aims to create a more transparent and predictable trade and investment environment across the Indo-Pacific. To achieve these goals, the IPEF partners will collaborate to enhance their efforts in preventing and combating corruption, including bribery, and supporting initiatives to improve tax transparency, the exchange of information, domestic resource mobilization, and tax administration.
It focuses on enhancing information sharing among partners, facilitating asset recovery, and strengthening cross-border investigations and prosecutions. This will also support India’s efforts in fighting corruption, money laundering, and terror financing.
Recognizing the critical role of technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) in achieving the commitments outlined in the proposed agreement and ensuring effective implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption measures, the partners are committed to identifying and implementing TACB initiatives. These initiatives will strengthen anti-corruption efforts and improve the efficiency of tax administration.
Overarching IPEF Agreement
The Overarching Agreement is an administrative agreement establishing an oversight Ministerial-level mechanism. This Agreement seeks to establish a high-level political oversight framework at the Ministerial level over the various individual IPEF agreements while setting general guidance and goals, and guiding Leaders’ vision and mandate for IPEF. This Agreement primarily includes administrative and institutional provisions.
This agreement would provide identity to the group and longevity to the IPEF partnership, by creating a formal mechanism and establishing a forum for Ministerial discussions on emerging issues, etc. This agreement is expected to facilitate the effective implementation of subject agreements (Pillars II-IV), that have the potential to enhance India’s productive capacity, and integration into supply chains, and promote innovation, in line with the concept of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, had accorded the approval earlier this month for signing and ratification of these three agreements focused on the Clean Economy, Fair Economy, and the overarching IPEF Agreement which were signed by other IPEF members on June 6, 2024 in IPEF Ministerial meeting in Singapore, however India did not formally sign the same then as the domestic approval process was still underway.
IPEF to boost investment
Investor Forum: Under Clear Economy (Pillar-III) Agreement, IPEF partners aim to catalyze investment in green technology and reduce GHG emissions through various means including annual business matching events under the Investor Forum. The First Investor Forum was held in Singapore on 5-6 June, 2024. One of such efforts was accelerated in the form of a MoU among companies from India, Singapore and Japan following which, Singapore-based Sembcorp will be investing ₹36,238 crore for state-of-the-art green ammonia plant in Thoothukudi.
At the Inaugural Forum, IPEF partners identified USD 23 Billion (₹1.91 lakh crore) of priority infrastructure projects ~USD 4 Billion (₹ 33,200 crore) from India which offered potential opportunities for investment in some Indian renewable energy companies. The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) committed a total of USD 1.5 Billion (₹12,450 crore) to support energy transition, climate investment, and digital inclusion.
Funds under IPEF: IPEF also provides platforms for technical assistance, concessional funding, and viability gap funding. The IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund, with an initial grant of USD 33 million (₹273.9 crore) from Australia, Japan, Korea, and the United States, aims to catalyze private investments totaling USD 3.3 billion (₹27,390 crore). Additionally, the PGI Investment Accelerator under IPEF has received initial funding of USD 300 million (₹2,490 crore) from the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
Initiatives under IPEF
IPEF Upskilling Initiative: IPEF Upskilling Initiative was launched in September 2022 to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth and development by providing primarily for women and girls in IPEF emerging and middle-income partner countries with access to digital skills training. Under the initiative, as communicated by the US, 14 participating US companies and the Asia Foundation provided 10.9 million upskilling opportunities in IPEF partners, primarily for women and girls, in the last 2 years, of which India availed 4 million of these opportunities.
Critical Mineral Dialogue: This ongoing dialogue focuses on several key areas, including the comprehensive mapping of mineral resources across IPEF partners to develop an extensive database, promoting trade by mapping trade flows within the IPEF region and enhancing business engagements, and fostering technical collaboration for mineral recovery and recycling in the region. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening the critical mineral supply chain and ensuring sustainable mining practices in the region.
Tech Council: The main objectives of this initiative are coordination and cooperation on key technologies by bringing together IPEF partners to share best practices and standards, enhance the resilience of digital infrastructure, promote investment, and foster innovation through workforce development. The key areas on which IPEF partners are currently collaborating include Cyber Security, Undersea Cables and Artificial Intelligence.
Cooperative Work Program (CWP): Aim of CWP is to facilitate collaborative and cooperative efforts among the interested participating IPEF countries to advance the objectives of the Clean Economy Agreement. Till date, 8 CWP proposals, circulated by several IPEF countries, have been announced in the IPEF Ministerial meetings. These are related to hydrogen supply chains, carbon markets, clean electricity, sustainable aviation fuel, just transition, emissions intensity accounting, small modular reactors, and including India’s proposal on e-waste urban mining.
About IPEF
IPEF was launched on 23 May 2022 at Tokyo, Japan, comprising 14 countries – Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and USA. The IPEF seeks to strengthen economic engagement and cooperation among partner countries with the goal of advancing growth, economic stability and prosperity in the region.
The framework is structured around four pillars relating to Trade (Pillar I); Supply Chain Resilience (Pillar II); Clean Economy (Pillar III); and Fair Economy (Pillar IV). India has ratified Agreement on Supply Chain Resilience (Pillar II) in February 2024 and has maintained an observer status in Pillar-I.
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal today inaugurated Invest India’s new office in Singapore. Today’s office inauguration comes after India’s Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced setting up of an Invest India office in Singapore during his visit to the country on September 4th and 5th, 2024. The Singapore Office is Invest India’s first overseas office. This significant move reinforces India’s commitment to deepening investment partnerships and making it easier for global investors to engage with India. The Singapore office will serve as a dedicated point of contact for companies from the region looking to invest in India, fostering collaboration across sectors.
Speaking at the event, Minister Goyal emphasised, “Singapore is a key strategic partner for India, and this office marks a new chapter in our efforts to strengthen economic cooperation with Singapore and the broader ASEAN region. We plan to open more overseas Invest India offices in the coming months with an aim to provide global investors seamless access to India’s dynamic and growing economy.”
The United States and India share an enduring commitment to deepen our collaboration on issues of shared national and economic security. As an important aspect of our economic growth agendas, we are committed to working together to capture the benefits of the clean energy transition, including the creation of high-quality jobs for our populations, acceleration of clean energy deployment globally, and achievement of global climate goals.
In support of these objectives, the United States and India intend to elevate and expand bilateral technical, financial, and policy support to expand complementary U.S. and Indian manufacturing capacity for clean energy technologies and components and lay the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in third countries, with a focus on partnerships in Africa. This effort will build on existing clean energy cooperation between the United States and India, including clean energy initiatives launched during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the United States in 2023, the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership led by the U.S. Department of Energy and Government of India ministries, technical assistance provided by U.S. laboratories, and novel financial platforms such as the Payment Security Mechanism established to support the rapid deployment of electric buses in India. A U.S. and Indian partnership to establish a shared, resilient, and cutting-edge techno-industrial base centered on innovative clean energy manufacturing techniques sets a strong example for the world and positions our countries to lead clean economic development in the 21st century.
To launch this partnership, the United States and India are working to unlock USD$1 billion in new multilateral finance through the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) for projects that include catalyzing India’s domestic clean energy supply chain buildout. The funding could support supply-side manufacturing capacity expansion for key technology verticals, focusing on solar, wind, battery, energy grid systems, and high-efficiency air conditioner and ceiling fan supply chains. Over time, we seek to mobilize additional financing into priority clean energy manufacturing sectors that harness public and private financial tools and pioneer innovative financial vehicles to meet the rapid demand for flexible climate finance solutions.
The United States and India intend to work with relevant government agencies, civil society, U.S. and Indian private sectors, philanthropies, and multilateral development banks to identify a package of pilot projects across the clean energy value chain that meet our eligibility criteria and meaningfully contribute to supply chain expansion and diversification in identified sectors. The U.S. and Indian governments also pledge to work with industry leaders on the following lines of effort to launch and eventually scale this new partnership:
Identifying near-term investment opportunities to expand manufacturing capacity for specific clean energy supply chain segments, with initial focuses on the following clean energy components:
Solar wafers and wafer manufacturing equipment & next generation solar cells
Wind turbine nacelle components
Power transmission line components including conductors, cabling, transformers, and next generation technologies
Energy storage components including batteries
Battery packs for 2- and 3-wheel electric vehicles (EVs) and zero-emission e-bus and truck components
High-efficiency air conditioners and ceiling fan components
Collaborating with the private sector to scope eligible opportunities in the above supply chain segments and support an initial package of pilot projects, ideally including one project focused on clean energy deployment to Africa. Additional investments plans and sources of funding can be developed over time. This effort would build on private sector partnerships facilitated by U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC) across the solar, wind, battery, and critical minerals sectors to pursue opportunities to finance the manufacture of clean energy components. Such investments may be in scope for India’s Green Transition Fund – which will support renewable energy, storage, and e-mobility investments in India and strengthen demand for localized manufacturing – as well as for Indian private equity fund manager Eversource Capital’s new DFC-supported $900 million fund to invest in clean technologies such as renewable energy, efficient cooling, and electric transportation.
Building trilateral relationships with African partners that have stated political commitments to clean energy deployment, focusing on solar and battery storage opportunities. India and the United States can work multilaterally with African partners to pursue high-potential solar and EV deployment opportunities, understand the conditions required for project success, detail the partnerships and financial model for project success, and implement the project. The United States intends to collaborate with Indian companies to explore investment opportunities and facilitate public-private matchmaking expand partnerships with local African manufacturers. DFC and the U.S. Agency for International Development are anchoring this effort by collaborating with India-based International Solar Alliance to deploy solar and EV charging networks near health facilities.
Collaborating with each other and industry to consult on policies that will strengthen demand certainty for locally manufactured clean technologies. The U.S. Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act were historic laws designed to invest in the large-scale deployment of clean energy technologies while also reinvigorating the manufacturing capacity of the United States to appropriately onshore clean energy supply chains. Likewise, India’s Production Linked Incentive Schemes have invested over $4.5 billion to catalyze nascent clean energy manufacturing. However, additional policies are vital to expand and protect these investments in the face of global market dynamics and thin profit margins. Both countries acknowledge the importance of sharing insights on how to design policy frameworks to reduce demand uncertainties and ensure sufficient input materials, technological expertise, finance, and other manufacturing enablers are available and secure.
This roadmap is intended to serve as a short-term mechanism for driving initial cooperation on projects, to help inform a long-term roadmap including working together to establish a cadence of meetings and milestones this partnership. This roadmap is not intended to give rise to rights or obligations under domestic or international law.
Today, we—Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of the United States—met for the fourth in-person Quad Leaders Summit, hosted by President Biden in Wilmington, Delaware.
Four years since elevating the Quad to a leader-level format, the Quad is more strategically aligned than ever before and is a force for good that delivers real, positive, and enduring impact for the Indo-Pacific. We celebrate the fact that over just four years, Quad countries have built a vital and enduring regional grouping that will buttress the Indo-Pacific for decades to come.
Anchored by shared values, we seek to uphold the international order based on the rule of law. Together we represent nearly two billion people and over one-third of global gross domestic product. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient. Through our cooperation, the Quad is harnessing all of our collective strengths and resources, from governments to the private sector to people-to-people relationships, to support the region’s sustainable development, stability, and prosperity by delivering tangible benefits to the people of the Indo-Pacific.
As four leading maritime democracies in the Indo-Pacific, we unequivocally stand for the maintenance of peace and stability across this dynamic region, as an indispensable element of global security and prosperity. We strongly oppose any destabilizing or unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion. We condemn recent illicit missile launches in the region that violate UN Security Council resolutions. We express serious concern over recent dangerous and aggressive actions in the maritime domain. We seek a region where no country dominates and no country is dominated—one where all countries are free from coercion, and can exercise their agency to determine their futures. We are united in our commitment to upholding a stable and open international system, with its strong support for human rights, the principle of freedom, rule of law, democratic values, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition on the threat or use of force in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter.
Reflecting the Vision Statement issued by Leaders at the 2023 Quad Summit, we are and will continue to be transparent in what we do. Respect for the leadership of regional institutions, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), is and will remain at the center of the Quad’s efforts.
A Global Force for Good
Health Security
The COVID-19 pandemic reminded the world how important health security is to our societies, our economies, and the stability of our region. In 2021 and 2022, the Quad came together to deliver more than 400 million safe and effective COVID-19 doses to Indo-Pacific countries and almost 800 million vaccines globally, and provided $5.6 billion to the COVAX Advance Market Commitment for vaccine supply to low and middle-income countries. In 2023, we announced the Quad Health Security Partnership, through which the Quad continues to deliver for partners across the region, including through the delivery of pandemic preparedness training.
In response to the current clade I mpox outbreak, as well as the ongoing clade II mpox outbreak, we plan to coordinate our efforts to promote equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured mpox vaccines, including where appropriate expanding vaccine manufacturing in low and middle-income countries.
Today we are proud to announce the Quad Cancer Moonshot, a groundbreaking partnership to save lives in the Indo-Pacific region. Building on the Quad’s successful partnership during the COVID-19 pandemic, our collective investments to address cancer in the region, our scientific and medical capabilities, and contributions from our private and non-profit sectors, we will collaborate with partner nations to reduce the burden of cancer in the region.
The Quad Cancer Moonshot will focus initially on combatting cervical cancer—a preventable cancer that continues to claim too many lives—in the Indo-Pacific region, while laying the groundwork to address other forms of cancer as well. The United States intends to support this initiative, including through U.S. Navy medical trainings and professional exchanges around cervical cancer prevention in the region starting in 2025, and through U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) openness to finance eligible private sector-driven projects to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, including cervical cancer. Australia is announcing the expansion of the Elimination Partnership in the Indo-Pacific for Cervical Cancer Program (EPICC) with support of the Australian Government and the Minderoo Foundation to AUD 29.6 million, to cover up to eleven countries in the Indo-Pacific in helping advance the elimination of cervical cancer and support complementary initiatives focused on cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. India commits to providing HPV sampling kits, detection kits, and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the Indo-Pacific region. India, through its $10 million commitment to the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, will offer technical assistance to interested countries in the Indo-Pacific region for the adoption and deployment of its Digital Public Infrastructure that helps in cancer screening and care. Japan is providing medical equipment, including CT and MRI scanners, and other assistance worth approximately $27 million, including in Cambodia, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste, and is contributing to international organizations such as the Gavi Vaccine Alliance. Quad partners also intend to work, within respective national contexts, to collaborate in advancing research and development in the area of cancer and to increase private sector and non-governmental sector activities in support of reducing the burden of cervical cancer in the region. We welcome a number of new, ambitious commitments from non-governmental institutions, including the Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, which will support orders of up to 40 million HPV vaccine doses, subject to necessary approvals, for the Indo-Pacific region, and which may be increased consistent with demand. We also welcome a new $100 million commitment from Women’s Health and Empowerment Network to address cervical cancer in Southeast Asia.
Altogether, our scientific experts assess that the Quad Cancer Moonshot will save hundreds of thousands of lives over the coming decades.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
Twenty years since the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, when the Quad first came together to surge humanitarian assistance, we continue to respond to the vulnerabilities caused by natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific. In 2022, the Quad established the “Quad Partnership on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief in the Indo-Pacific” and signed Guidelines for the Quad Partnership on HADR in the Indo-Pacific, which enable Quad countries to rapidly coordinate in the face of natural disasters. We welcome Quad governments working to ensure readiness to rapidly respond, including through pre-positioning of essential relief supplies, in the event of a natural disaster; this effort extends from the Indian Ocean region, to Southeast Asia, to the Pacific.
In May 2024, following a tragic landslide in Papua New Guinea, Quad partners collectively contributed over $5 million in humanitarian assistance. Quad partners are working together to provide over $4 million in humanitarian assistance to support the people of Vietnam in light of the devastating consequences of Typhoon Yagi. The Quad continues to support partners in the region in their longer-term resiliency efforts.
Maritime Security
In 2022, we announced the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) to offer near-real-time, integrated, and cost-effective maritime domain awareness information to partners in the region. Since then, in consultation with partners, we have successfully scaled the program across the Indo-Pacific region—through the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, with partners in Southeast Asia, to the Information Fusion Center—Indian Ocean Region, Gurugram. In doing so, the Quad has helped well over two dozen countries access dark vessel maritime domain awareness data, so they can better monitor the activities in their exclusive economic zones—including unlawful activity. Australia commits to boosting its cooperation with the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency to enhance regional maritime domain awareness in the Pacific through satellite data, training, and capacity building.
Today we are announcing a new regional Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI), to enable our partners in the region to maximize tools provided through IPMDA and other Quad partner initiatives, to monitor and secure their waters, enforce their laws, and deter unlawful behavior. We look forward to India hosting the inaugural MAITRI workshop in 2025. Furthermore, we welcome the launch of a Quad maritime legal dialogue to support efforts to uphold the rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. In addition, Quad partners intend to layer new technology and data into IPMDA over the coming year, to continue to deliver cutting edge capability and information to the region.
We are also announcing today that the U.S. Coast Guard, Japan Coast Guard, Australian Border Force, and Indian Coast Guard, plan to launch a first-ever Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission in 2025, to improve interoperability and advance maritime safety, and continuing with further missions in future years across the Indo-Pacific.
We also announce today the launch of a Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network pilot project, to pursue shared airlift capacity among our nations and leverage our collective logistics strengths, in order to support civilian response to natural disasters more rapidly and efficiently across the Indo-Pacific region.
Quality Infrastructure
The Quad remains committed to improving the region’s connectivity through the development of quality, resilient infrastructure.
We are pleased to announce the Quad Ports of the Future Partnership, which will harness the Quad’s expertise to support sustainable and resilient port infrastructure development across the Indo-Pacific, in collaboration with regional partners. In 2025, we intend to hold a Quad Regional Ports and Transportation Conference, hosted by India in Mumbai. Through this new partnership, Quad partners intend to coordinate, exchange information, share best practices with partners in the region, and leverage resources to mobilize government and private sector investments in quality port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific region.
We applaud the expansion of the Quad Infrastructure Fellowships to more than 2,200 experts, and note that Quad partners have already provided well over 1,300 fellowships since the initiative was announced at last year’s Summit. We also appreciate the workshop organized by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure in India, working to empower partners across the Indo-Pacific to strengthen power sector resilience.
Through the Quad Partnership for Cable Connectivity and Resilience, we continue to support and strengthen quality undersea cable networks in the Indo-Pacific, the capacity, durability, and reliability of which are inextricably linked to the security and prosperity of the region and the world. In support of these efforts, Australia launched the Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre in July, which is delivering workshops and policy and regulatory assistance in response to requests from across the region. Japan will extend technical cooperation to improve public ICT infrastructure management capacity for an undersea cable in Nauru and Kiribati. The United States has conducted over 1,300 capacity building trainings for telecommunication officials and executives from 25 countries in the Indo-Pacific; today the U.S. announces its intent, working with Congress, to invest an additional $3.4 million to extend and expand this training program.
Investments in cable projects by Quad partners will help support all Pacific island countries in achieving primary telecommunication cable connectivity by the end of 2025. Since the last Quad Leaders’ Summit, Quad partners have committed over $140 million to undersea cable builds in the Pacific, alongside contributions from other likeminded partners. Complementing these investments in new undersea cables, India has commissioned a feasibility study to examine expansion of undersea cable maintenance and repair capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.
We reaffirm our support for the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles, which are an expression of Pacific voices on infrastructure.
We underscore our commitment to an inclusive, open, sustainable, fair, safe, reliable and secure digital future to advance our shared prosperity and sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific. In this context, we welcome the Quad Principles for Development and Deployment of Digital Public Infrastructure.
Critical and Emerging Technologies
Today, we are proud to announce an ambitious expansion of our partnership to deliver trusted technology solutions to the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Last year, Quad partners launched a landmark initiative to deploy the first Open Radio Access Network (RAN) in the Pacific, in Palau, to support a secure, resilient, and interconnected telecommunications ecosystem. Since then, the Quad has pledged approximately $20 million to this effort.
Quad partners also welcome the opportunity to explore additional Open RAN projects in Southeast Asia. We plan to expand support for ongoing Open RAN field trials and the Asia Open RAN Academy (AORA) in the Philippines, building on the initial $8 million in support that the United States and Japan pledged earlier this year. The United States also plans to invest over $7 million to support the global expansion of AORA, including through establishing a first-of-its-kind Open RAN workforce training initiative at scale in South Asia, in partnership with Indian institutions.
Quad partners will also explore collaborating with the Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation to ensure the country’s readiness for nationwide 5G deployment.
We remain committed to advancing our cooperation on semiconductors through better leveraging of our complementary strengths to realize a diversified and competitive market and enhance resilience of Quad’s semiconductor supply chains. We welcome a Memorandum of Cooperation between Quad countries for the Semiconductor Supply Chains Contingency Network.
Through the Advancing Innovations for Empowering NextGen Agriculture (AI-ENGAGE) initiative announced at last year’s Summit, our governments are deepening leading-edge collaborative research to harness artificial intelligence, robotics, and sensing to transform agricultural approaches and empower farmers across the Indo-Pacific. We are pleased to announce an inaugural $7.5+ million in funding opportunities for joint research, and welcome the recent signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between our science agencies to connect our research communities and advance shared research principles.
The United States, Australia, India, and Japan look forward to launching the Quad BioExplore Initiative—a funded mechanism that will support joint AI-driven exploration of diverse non-human biological data across all four countries.
This project will also be underpinned by the forthcoming Quad Principles for Research and Development Collaborations in Critical and Emerging Technologies.
Climate and Clean Energy
As we underscore the severe economic, social, and environmental consequences posed by the climate crisis, we continue to work together with Indo-Pacific partners, including through Quad Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Package (Q-CHAMP), to enhance climate and clean energy cooperation as well as promote adaptation and resilience. We emphasize the significant benefits of transitioning to a clean energy economy for our people, our planet, and our shared prosperity. Our countries intend to strengthen our cooperation to align policies, incentives, standards, and investments around creating high-quality, diversified clean energy supply chains that will enhance our collective energy security, create new economic opportunities across the region, and benefit local workers and communities around the world, particularly across the Indo-Pacific.
We will work together, through policy and public finance, to operationalize our commitment to catalyzing complementary and high-standard private sector investment in allied and partner clean energy supply chains. To this end, Australia will open applications for the Quad Clean Energy Supply Chains Diversification Program in November, providing AUD 50 million to support projects that develop and diversify solar panel, hydrogen electrolyzer and battery supply chains in the Indo-Pacific. India commits to invest $2 million in new solar projects in Fiji, Comoros, Madagascar, and Seychelles. Japan has committed to $122 million grants and loans in renewable energy projects in Indo-Pacific countries. The United States, through DFC, will continue to seek opportunities to mobilize private capital to solar, as well as wind, cooling, batteries, and critical minerals to expand and diversify supply chains.
We are pleased to announce a focused Quad effort to boost energy efficiency, including the deployment and manufacturing of high-efficiency affordable, cooling systems to enable climate-vulnerable communities to adapt to rising temperatures while simultaneously reducing strain on the electricity grid.
We jointly affirm our commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the resilience and sustainability of port infrastructure. Quad partners will leverage our learning and expertise to forge a path towards sustainable and resilient port infrastructure, including through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
Cyber
In the face of a deteriorating security environment in the cyber domain, Quad countries intend to enhance our cybersecurity partnership to address common threats posed by state-sponsored actors, cybercriminals, and other non-state malicious actors. Our countries commit to taking concrete steps to increase our collective network defense and advance technical capabilities through greater threat information sharing and capacity building. We plan to coordinate joint efforts to identify vulnerabilities, protect national security networks and critical infrastructure networks, and coordinate more closely including on policy responses to significant cybersecurity incidents affecting the Quad’s shared priorities.
Quad countries are also partnering with software manufacturers, industry trade groups, and research centers to expand our commitmentto pursuing secure software development standards and certification, as endorsed in the Quad’s 2023 Secure Software Joint Principles. We will work to harmonize these standards to not only ensure that the development, procurement, and end-use of software for government networks is more secure, but that the cyber resilience of our supply chains, digital economies, and societies are collectively improved. Throughout this fall, Quad countries each plan to host campaigns to mark the annual Quad Cyber Challenge promoting responsible cyber ecosystems, public resources, and cybersecurity awareness. We are constructively engaging on the Quad Action Plan to Protect Commercial Undersea Telecommunications Cables, developed by the Quad Senior Cyber Group, as a complementary effort to the Quad Partnership for Cable Connectivity and Resilience. Our coordinated actions to protect global telecommunications infrastructure as guided by the Action Plan will advance our shared vision for future digital connectivity, global commerce, and prosperity.
Space
We recognize the essential contribution of space-related applications and technologies in the Indo-Pacific. Our four countries intend to continue delivering Earth Observation data and other space-related applications to assist nations across the Indo-Pacific to strengthen climate early warning systems and better manage the impacts of extreme weather events. In this context, we welcome India’s establishment of a space-based web portal for Mauritius, to support the concept of open science for space-based monitoring of extreme weather events and climate impact.
Quad Investors Network (QUIN)
We welcome private sector initiatives—including the Quad Investors Network (QUIN), which facilitates investments in strategic technologies, including clean energy, semiconductors, critical minerals, and quantum. The QUIN is mobilizing a number of investments to promote supply chain resilience, advance joint research and development, commercialize new technologies, and invest in our future workforce.
People-to-People Initiatives
The Quad is committed to strengthening the deep and enduring ties between our people, and among our partners. Through the Quad Fellowship, we are building a network of the next generation of science, technology, and policy leaders. Together with the Institute of International Education, which leads implementation of the Quad Fellowship, Quad governments welcome the second cohort of Quad Fellows and the expansion of the program to include students from ASEAN countries for the first time. The Government of Japan is supporting the program to enable Quad Fellows to study in Japan. The Quad welcomes the generous support of private sector partners for the next cohort of fellows, including Google, the Pratt Foundation, and Western Digital.
India is pleased to announce a new initiative to award fifty Quad scholarships, worth $500,000, to students from the Indo-Pacific to pursue a 4-year undergraduate engineering program at a Government of India-funded technical institution.
Working Together to Address Regional and Global Issues
Today we reaffirm our consistent and unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity. We continue to support implementation of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and are committed to ensuring the Quad’s work is aligned with ASEAN’s principles and priorities.
We underscore ASEAN’s regional leadership role, including in the East Asia Summit, the region’s premier leader-led forum for strategic dialogue, and the ASEAN Regional Forum. As comprehensive strategic partners of ASEAN, our four countries intend to continue to strengthen our respective relationships with ASEAN and seek opportunities for greater Quad collaboration in support of the AOIP.
We recommit to working in partnership with Pacific island countries to achieve shared aspirations and address shared challenges. We reaffirm our support for Pacific regional institutions that have served the region well over many years, with the PIF as the region’s premier political and economic policy organization, and warmly welcome Tonga’s leadership as the current PIF Chair in 2024-2025. We continue to support the objectives of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. We and our governments will continue to listen to and be guided at every step by Pacific priorities, including climate action, ocean health, resilient infrastructure, maritime security and financial integrity. In particular, we acknowledge climate change remains the single greatest threat to the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of the peoples of the Pacific and applaud Pacific island countries’ global leadership on climate action.
We remain committed to strengthening cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. We strongly support IORA as the Indian Ocean region’s premier forum for addressing the region’s challenges. We recognize India’s leadership in finalizing the IORA Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (IOIP) and express our support for its implementation. We thank Sri Lanka for its continued leadership as IORA Chair through this year and look forward to India’s assuming the IORA Chair in 2025.
As Leaders, we are steadfast in our conviction that international law, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the maintenance of peace, safety, security and stability in the maritime domain, underpin the sustainable development, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. We emphasize the importance of adherence to international law, particularly as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to address challenges to the global maritime rules-based order, including with respect to maritime claims. We are seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. We continue to express our serious concern about the militarization of disputed features, and coercive and intimidating maneuvers in the South China Sea. We condemn the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels, including increasing use of dangerous maneuvers. We also oppose efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore resource exploitation activities.We reaffirm that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, as reflected in UNCLOS. We re-emphasize the importance of maintaining and upholding freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea, and unimpeded commerce consistent with international law. We re-emphasize the universal and unified character of UNCLOS and reaffirm that UNCLOS sets out the legal framework within which all activities in the oceans and the seas must be carried out. We underscore that the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea is a significant milestone and the basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties.
Together, with our global and regional partners, we continue to support international institutions and initiatives that underpin global peace, prosperity and sustainable development. We reiterate our unwavering support for the UN Charter and the three pillars of the UN system. In consultation with our partners, we will work collectively to address attempts to unilaterally undermine the integrity of the UN, its Charter, and its agencies. We will reform the UN Security Council, recognizing the urgent need to make it more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable through expansion in permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council. This expansion of permanent seats should include representation for Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean in a reformed Security Council.
We stand for adherence to international law and respect for principles of the UN Charter, including territorial integrity, sovereignty of all states, and peaceful resolution of disputes. We express our deepest concern over the war raging in Ukraine including the terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. Each of us has visited Ukraine since the war began, and seen this first-hand; we reiterate the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with international law, consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. We also note the negative impacts of the war in Ukraine with regard to global food and energy security, especially for developing and least developed countries. In the context of this war, we share the view that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. We underscore the importance of upholding international law, and in line with the UN Charter, reiterate that all states must refrain from the threat of or use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state.
We condemn North Korea’s destabilizing ballistic missile launches and its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). These launches pose a grave threat to international peace and stability. We urge North Korea to abide by all its obligations under the UNSCRs, refrain from further provocations and engage in substantive dialogue. We reaffirm our commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula consistent with relevant UNSCRs and call on all countries to fully implement these UNSCRs. We stress the need to prevent any proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies related to North Korea in the region and beyond. We express our grave concern over North Korea’s use of proliferation networks, malicious cyber activity and workers abroad to fund its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs. In that context, we urge all UN Member States to abide by the relevant UNSCRs including the prohibition on the transfer to North Korea or procurement from North Korea of all arms and related materiel. We express deep concern about countries that are deepening military cooperation with North Korea, which directly undermines the global nonproliferation regime. As the mandate of the UN Panel of Experts tasked with monitoring violations of North Korea-related UNSCR sanctions was not renewed, we reiterate our commitment to continued implementation of the relevant UNSCRs which remain in full force. We reconfirm the necessity of immediate resolution of the abductions issue.
We remain deeply concerned by the worsening political, security and humanitarian situation in Myanmar, including in Rakhine State, and again call for an immediate cessation of violence, the release of all those unjustly and arbitrarily detained, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, resolution of the crisis through constructive and inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders, and a return to the path of inclusive democracy. We reaffirm our strong support for ASEAN-led efforts, including the work of the ASEAN Chair and the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar. We call for full implementation of all commitments under the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus. The ongoing conflict and instability have serious implications for the region, including increases in transnational crime such as cybercrime, the illegal drug trade, and human trafficking. We restate our appeal to all States to prevent the flow of arms and dual-use material, including jet fuel. We remain resolute in our support for the people of Myanmar and commit to continuing to work with all stakeholders in a pragmatic and constructive way, to find a sustainable solution to the crisis in a process which is led by the people of Myanmar and returns Myanmar to the path of democracy.
We call upon all States to contribute to the safe, peaceful, responsible, and sustainable use of outer space. We remain committed to fostering international cooperation and transparency, as well as confidence-building measures with the goal of improving the security of outer space for all States. We reaffirm the importance of upholding the existing international legal framework for outer space activities, including the Outer Space Treaty, and the obligation of all States Parties to the Treaty not to place in orbit around the Earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction, install such weapons on celestial bodies, or station such weapons in outer space in any other manner.
The Quad reaffirms its commitment to fostering a resilient information environment including through its Countering Disinformation Working Group by supporting media freedom and addressing foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation, which undermines trust and sows discord in the international community. We recognize these tactics are intended to interfere with domestic and international interests, and we are committed, together with our regional partners, to leverage our collective expertise and capacity to respond. We reaffirm our commitment to respect international human rights law, strengthen civil society, support media freedom, address online harassment and abuse, including technology-facilitated gender-based violence, and counter unethical practices.
We unequivocally condemn terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. We are committed to international cooperation and will work with our regional partners in a comprehensive and sustained manner to strengthen their capability to prevent, detect and respond to threats posed by terrorism and violent extremism, including threats posed by the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes, consistent with international law. We are committed to working together to promote accountability for the perpetrators of such terrorist attacks. We reiterate our condemnation of terrorist attacks including the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai and in Pathankot, and our commitment to pursuing designations, as appropriate, by the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee. We welcome the constructive discussions held at the first Quad Working Group on Counter-Terrorism and the fourth tabletop exercise in Honolulu last year, and look forward to Japan hosting the next meeting and tabletop exercise in November 2024.
We share great interest in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. We unequivocally condemn the terror attacks on October 7, 2023. The large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unacceptable. We affirm the imperative of securing the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and emphasize that the deal to release hostages would bring an immediate and prolonged ceasefire in Gaza. We underscore the urgent need to significantly increase deliveries of life-saving humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza as well as the crucial need to prevent regional escalation. We urge all parties to comply with international law, including international humanitarian law, as applicable. We welcome UNSCR S/RES/2735 (2024), and strongly urge all parties concerned to work immediately and steadily toward the release of all hostages and an immediate ceasefire. We call on all parties to take every feasible step to protect the lives of civilians including aid workers, and facilitate the rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian relief to civilians. We also encourage other countries, including those in the Indo-Pacific, to increase their support in order to address the dire humanitarian need on the ground. We underscore that the future recovery and reconstruction of Gaza should be supported by the international community. We remain committed to a sovereign, viable and independent Palestinian state taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns as part of a two-state solution that enables both Israelis and Palestinians to live in a just, lasting, and secure peace. Any unilateral actions that undermine the prospect of a two-state solution, including Israeli expansion of settlements and violent extremism on all sides, must end. We underscore the need to prevent the conflict from escalating and spilling over in the region.
We condemn the ongoing attacks perpetrated by the Houthis and their supporters against international and commercial vessels transiting through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which are destabilizing the region and impeding navigational rights and freedoms and trade flows, and jeopardize the safety of vessels and people on board including sailors.
We reaffirm our commitment to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the achievement of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We underscore the importance of achieving the SDGs in a comprehensive manner without selectively prioritizing a narrow set of such goals, and reaffirm that the UN has a central role in supporting countries in their implementation. With six years left, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and accelerating progress toward all the SDGs in a comprehensive manner that is balanced across three dimensions – economic, social and environmental. From global health to sustainable development and climate change, the global community benefits when all stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute to addressing these challenges. We affirm our commitment to contributing to and implementing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda and to achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. We underscore our commitment to strongly engaging constructively in the discussion on advancing sustainable development, including at the Summit of the Future. The Quad continues to realize a safe and secure world where human rights and human dignity are protected, based on the central premise of the SDGs: “Leave no one behind.”
We, the Quad Leaders, remain dedicated to working in partnership with Indo-Pacific countries in deciding our future and shaping the region we all want to live in.
Enduring Partners for the Indo-Pacific
Over the past four years, Quad Leaders have met together six times, including twice virtually, and Quad Foreign Ministers have met eight times in the last five years. Quad country representatives meet together on a regular basis, at all levels, including among ambassadors across the four countries’ extensive diplomatic networks, to consult one another, exchange ideas to advance shared priorities, and deliver benefits with and for partners across the Indo-Pacific region. We welcome our Commerce and Industry ministers preparing to meet for the first time in the coming months. We also welcome the leaders of our Development Finance Institutions and Agencies deciding to meet to explore future investments by the four countries in the Indo-Pacific. Altogether, our four countries are cooperating at an unprecedented pace and scale.
Each of our governments has committed to working through our respective budgetary processes to secure robust funding for Quad priorities in the Indo-Pacific region to ensure an enduring impact. We intend to work with our legislatures to deepen interparliamentary exchanges, and encourage other stakeholders to deepen engagement with Quad counterparts.
We look forward to the next Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting hosted by the United States in 2025, and the next Quad Leaders’ Summit hosted by India in 2025. The Quad is here to stay.
Today, United States President Joseph R. Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed that the U.S.-India Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, the defining partnership of the 21st century, is decisively delivering on an ambitious agenda that serves the global good. The Leaders reflected on a historic period that has seen the United States and India reach unprecedented levels of trust and collaboration. The Leaders affirmed that the U.S.-India partnership must be anchored in upholding democracy, freedom, the rule of law, human rights, pluralism, and equal opportunities for all as our countries strive to become more perfect unions and meet our shared destiny. The Leaders commended the progress that has made the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership a pillar of global security and peace, highlighting the benefits of increased operational coordination, information-sharing, and defense industrial innovation. President Biden and Prime Minister Modi expressed unrelenting optimism and the utmost confidence that the tireless efforts of our peoples, our civic and private sectors, and our governments to forge deeper bonds have set the U.S.-India partnership on a path toward even greater heights in the decades ahead.
President Biden expressed his immense appreciation for India’s leadership on the world stage, particularly Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in the G-20 and in the Global South and his commitment to strengthen the Quad to ensure a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. India is at the forefront of efforts to seek solutions to the most pressing challenges, from supporting the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic to addressing the devastating consequences of conflicts around the world. President Biden commended Prime Minister Modi for his historic visits to Poland and Ukraine, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in decades, and for his message of peace and ongoing humanitarian support for Ukraine, including its energy sector, and on the importance of international law, including the UN charter. The Leaders reaffirmed their support for the freedom of navigation and the protection of commerce, including critical maritime routes in the Middle East where India will assume co-lead in 2025 of the Combined Task Force 150 to work with Combined Maritime Forces to secure sea lanes in the Arabian Sea. President Biden shared with Prime Minister Modi that the United States supports initiatives to reform global institutions to reflect India’s important voice, including permanent membership for India in a reformed U.N. Security Council. The Leaders voiced their view that a closer U.S.-India partnership is vital to the success of efforts to build a cleaner, inclusive, more secure, and more prosperous future for the planet.
President Biden and Prime Minister Modi applauded the success of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in deepening and expanding strategic cooperation across key technology sectors, including space, semiconductors, and advanced telecommunications. Both Leaders committed to enhance regular engagements to improve the momentum of collaboration in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum, biotechnology, and clean energy. They highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with like-minded partners, including through the Quad and a U.S.-India-ROK Trilateral Technology initiative launched earlier this year to build more secure and resilient supply chains for critical industries and ensure we collectively remain at the leading edge of innovation. The Leaders directed their governments to redouble efforts to address export controls, enhance high technology commerce, and reduce barriers to technology transfer between our two countries, while addressing technology security, including through the India-U.S. Strategic Trade Dialogue. Leaders also endorsed new mechanisms for deeper cyberspace cooperation through the bilateral cybersecurity dialogue. The Leaders recommitted to expand the manufacturing and deployment of clean energy, including finding opportunities to expand U.S.-India cooperation in solar, wind and nuclear energy and the development of small modular reactor technologies.
Charting a Technology Partnership for the Future
President Biden and Prime Minister Modi hailed a watershed arrangement to establish a new semiconductor fabrication plant focused on advanced sensing, communication, and power electronics for national security, next generation telecommunications, and green energy applications. The fab, which will be established with the objective of manufacturing infrared, gallium nitride and silicon carbide semiconductors, will be enabled by support from the India Semiconductor Mission as well as a strategic technology partnership between Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the U.S. Space Force.
The Leaders praised combined efforts to facilitate resilient, secure, and sustainable semiconductor supply chains including through GlobalFoundries’ (GF) creation of the GF Kolkata Power Center in Kolkata, India that will enhance mutually beneficial linkages in research and development in chip manufacturing and enable game-changing advances for zero and low emission as well as connected vehicles, internet of things devices, AI, and data centers. They noted GF’s plans to explore longer term, cross-border manufacturing and technology partnerships with India which will deliver high-quality jobs in both of our countries. They also celebrated the new strategic partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the India Semiconductor Mission, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in connection with the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund.
The Leaders welcomed steps our industry is taking to build safe, secure, and resilient supply chains for U.S., Indian, and international automotive markets, including through Ford Motor Company’s submission of a Letter of Intent to utilize its Chennai plant to manufacture for export to global markets.
The Leaders welcomed progress toward the first joint effort by NASA and ISRO to conduct scientific research onboard the International Space Station in 2025. They appreciated the initiatives and exchange of ideas under the Civil Space Joint Working Group and expressed hope that its next meeting in early 2025 will open additional avenues of cooperation. They pledged to pursue opportunities to deepen joint innovation and strategic collaborations, including by exploring new platforms in civil and commercial space domains.
The Leaders also welcomed efforts to enhance collaboration between our research and development ecosystems. They plan to mobilize up to $90+ million in U.S. and Indian government funding over the next five years for the U.S.-India Global Challenges Institute to support high-impact R&D partnerships between U.S. and Indian universities and research institutions, including through identifying options to implement the Statement of Intent signed at the June 2024 iCET meeting. The Leaders also welcomed the launch of a new U.S.-India Advanced Materials R&D Forum to expand collaboration between American and Indian universities, national laboratories, and private sector researchers.
The Leaders announced the selection of 11 funding awards between the National Science Foundation and India’s Department of Science and Technology, supported by a combined $5+ million grant to enable joint U.S.-India research projects in areas such as next-generation telecommunications, connected vehicles, machine learning. The Leaders announced the award of 12 funding awards under the National Science Foundation and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, research collaboration with a combined outlay of nearly $10 million to enable joint U.S.-India basic and applied research in the areas of semiconductors, next generation communication systems, sustainability & green technologies and intelligent transportation systems. Furthermore, NSF and MeitY are exploring new opportunities for research collaboration to enhance and synergize the basic and applied research ecosystem on both sides.
The Leaders celebrated that India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) along with National Science Foundation of the United States announced the first joint call for collaborative research projects in February 2024 to address complex scientific challenges and innovate novel solutions that leverage advances in synthetic and engineering biology, systems and computational biology, and other associated fields that are foundational to developing future biomanufacturing solutions and advance the bioeconomy. Under the first call for proposals, joint research teams responded enthusiastically and results are likely to be announced by the end of 2024.
The Leaders also highlighted additional cooperation we are building across artificial intelligence (AI), quantum, and other critical technology areas. They highlighted the second convening of the U.S.-India Quantum Coordination Mechanism in Washington in August and welcomed the announcement of seventeen new awards for binational research and development cooperation on artificial intelligence and quantum via the U.S.-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund (IUSSTF). They welcomed new private sector cooperation on emerging technologies, such as through IBM’s recent conclusion of memoranda of understanding with the Government of India, which will enable IBM’s watsonx platform on India’s Airawat supercomputer and drive new AI innovation opportunities, enhance R&D collaboration on advanced semiconductor processors, and increase support for India’s National Quantum Mission.
The Leaders commended ongoing efforts to build more expansive cooperation around 5G deployment and next-generation telecommunications; this includes the U.S. Agency for International Development’s plans to expand the Asia Open RAN Academy with an initial $7 million investment to grow this workforce training initiative worldwide, including in South Asia with Indian institutions.
The Leaders welcomed progress since the November 2023 signing of an MOU between the Commerce Department and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to enhance the two countries’ innovation ecosystems under the “Innovation Handshake” agenda. Since then, the two sides have convened two industry roundtables in the U.S. and India to bring together startups, private equity and venture capital firms, corporate investment departments, and government officials to forge connections and to accelerate investment in innovation.
Powering a Next Generation Defense Partnership
President Biden welcomed the progress towards India concluding procurement of 31 General Atomics MQ-9B (16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian) remotely piloted aircraft and their associated equipment, which will enhance the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities of India’s armed forces across all domains.
The Leaders recognized the remarkable progress under the U.S.-India Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, including ongoing collaboration to advance priority co-production arrangements for jet engines, munitions, and ground mobility systems. They also welcomed efforts to expand defense industrial partnerships, including the teaming of Liquid Robotics and Sagar Defence Engineering for the co-development and co-production of unmanned surface vehicle systems that strengthen undersea and maritime domain awareness. The Leaders applauded the recent conclusion of the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), enhancing the mutual supply of defense goods and services. Both Leaders committed to advance ongoing discussions on aligning their respective defense procurement systems to further enable the reciprocal supply of defense goods and services.
President Biden welcomed India’s decision to set a uniform Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5 percent on the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector, including on all aircraft and aircraft engine parts thereby simplifying the tax structure and paving the way for building a strong ecosystem for MRO services in India. The Leaders also encouraged the industry to foster collaboration and drive innovation to support India’s efforts to become a leading aviation hub. The Leaders welcomed commitments from U.S. industry to further increase India’s MRO capabilities, including for the repair of aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Leaders hailed the teaming agreement on the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft recently signed between Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Limited, the two companies that co-chair the U.S.-India CEO Forum. Building on longstanding industry cooperation, this agreement will establish a new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the readiness of the Indian fleet and global partners who operate the C-130 Super Hercules aircraft. This marks a significant step in U.S.-India defense and aerospace cooperation and reflects the two sides’ deepening strategic and technology partnership ties.
The Leaders lauded the growing defense innovation collaboration between our governments, businesses, and academic institutions fostered by the India-U.S. Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) initiative launched in 2023, and noted progress achieved during the third INDUS-X Summit in Silicon Valley earlier this month. They welcomed the enhanced collaboration between the Indian Ministry of Defence’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and US Department of Defence’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) through the Memorandum of Understanding signed at the Silicon Valley Summit. The efforts via the INDUSWERX consortium to facilitate pathways for defense and dual-use companies in the INDUS-X network to access premier testing ranges in both countries, were appreciated.
The Leaders also recognized the clear fulfillment of the shared goal to build a defense innovation bridge under INDUS-X through the launch of “joint challenges” designed by the U.S. DoD’S DIU and the Indian MoD’s Defence Innovation Organization (DIO). In 2024, our governments have separately awarded $1+ million to U.S. and Indian companies that developed technologies focused on undersea communications and maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Building on this success, a new challenge was announced at the most recent INDUS-X Summit that focused on Space Situational Awareness (SSA) in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
The Leaders welcomed ongoing efforts to deepen our military partnership and interoperability to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific, noting that India hosted our most complex, largest bilateral, tri-service exercise to date during the March 2024 TIGER TRIUMPH exercise. They also welcomed the inclusion of new technologies and capabilities, including a first-ever demonstration of the Javelin and Stryker systems in India, on the margins of the ongoing bilateral Army YUDH ABHYAS exercise.
The Leaders welcomed the conclusion of the Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Deployment of Liaison Officers, and the commencement of deployment process of the first Liaison Officer from India in US Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
The Leaders commended work to advance cooperation in advanced domains, including space and cyber, and looked forward towards the November 2024 bilateral cyber engagement to enhance the U.S.-India cyber cooperation framework. Areas of new cooperation will include threat information sharing, cybersecurity training, and collaboration on vulnerability mitigation in energy and telecommunications networks. The Leaders also noted the second U.S.-India Advanced Domains Defense Dialogue in May 2024, which included the first-ever bilateral defense space table-top exercise.
Catalyzing the Clean Energy Transition
President Biden and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the U.S.-India Roadmap to Build Safe and Secure Global Clean Energy Supply Chains, which launched a new initiative to accelerate the expansion of safe and secure clean energy supply chains through U.S. and Indian manufacturing of clean energy technologies and components. In its initial phase, the U.S. and India would work together to unlock $1 billion of multilateral financing to support projects across the clean energy value chain for renewable energy, energy storage, power grid and transmission technologies, high efficiency cooling systems, zero emission vehicles, and other emerging clean technologies.
The Leaders also highlighted the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)’s partnership with India’s private sector to expand clean energy manufacturing and diversify supply chains. To date, DFC has extended a $250 million loan to Tata Power Solar to construct a solar cell manufacturing facility and a $500 million loan to First Solar to construct and operate a solar module manufacturing facility in India.
The Leaders lauded the strong collaboration under the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP), most recently convened on September 16, 2024 in Washington DC to strengthen energy security, create opportunities for clean energy innovation, address climate change and create employment generation opportunities, including through capacity building, and collaboration between industry and R&D.
The Leaders welcomed collaboration on a new National Center for Hydrogen Safety in India and affirmed their intent to utilize the new Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP) to enhance collaboration on clean energy manufacturing and global supply chains, including through public-private task forces on hydrogen and energy storage.
The Leaders also announced a new Memorandum of Cooperation between the U.S. Agency for International Development and the International Solar Alliance aimed at promoting more responsive and sustainable power systems that leverage diverse renewable energy sources.
The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to accelerate the development of diverse and sustainable supply chains for critical minerals under the Minerals Security Partnership targeting strategic projects along the value chain. The Leaders looked forward to the signing of the Critical Minerals Memorandum of Understanding at the forthcoming U.S.-India Commercial Dialogue and pledged to hasten bilateral collaboration to secure resilient critical minerals supply chains through enhanced technical assistance and greater commercial cooperation.
The Leaders welcomed the progress made on joint efforts since 2023 for India to work toward IEA membership in accordance with the provisions of the Agreement on an International Energy Program.
The two Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the manufacturing and deployment of renewable energy, battery storage and emerging clean technology in India. They welcomed the ongoing progress between India’s National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation to provide up to $500 million each to anchor the Green Transition Fund as well as encourage private sector investors to match these efforts. Both sides look forward to the expeditious operationalization of the Green Transition Fund.
Empowering Future Generations and Promoting Global Health and Development
The Leaders welcomed India’s signature and ratification of the Agreements under Pillar III, Pillar IV and the overarching Agreement on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). The Leaders underscored that IPEF seeks to advance resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness, economic growth, fairness, and competitiveness of the economies of its signatories. They noted the economic diversity of the 14 IPEF partners that represents 40 percent of global GDP and 28 percent of global goods and services trade.
President Biden and Prime Minister Modi celebrated the new U.S.-India Drug Policy Framework for the 21st Century and its accompanying Memorandum of Understanding, which will deepen collaboration to disrupt the illicit production and international trafficking of synthetic drugs and precursor chemicals, and deepen a holistic public health partnership.
The two Leaders signaled their commitment to the objectives of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drugs Threats and work towards combatting the threat of synthetic drugs and their precursors through mutually agreed initiatives to promote public health through coordinated actions.
The Leaders applauded the first-ever U.S.-India Cancer Dialogue held in August 2024, which brought together experts from both countries to increase research and development to accelerate the rate of progress against cancer. The Leaders applauded the recently launched Bio5 partnership between the United States, India, ROK, Japan, and the EU, driving closer cooperation on pharmaceutical supply chains. The Leaders applauded the Development Finance Corporation’s $50 million loan to Indian company Panacea Biotech to manufacture hexavalent (six-in-one) vaccines for children, reaffirming our joint commitment to advance shared global health priorities, including bolstering support for primary healthcare.
The leaders welcomed the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Small Business Administration for promoting cooperation between U.S. and Indian small and medium-size enterprises by improving their participation in the global market place through capacity building workshops in areas such as trade and export finance, technology and digital trade, green economy and trade facilitation. The MoU also provides for the joint conduct of programs for women entrepreneurs to empower them and facilitate trade partnership between women-owned small businesses of the two countries. The Leaders celebrated that, since the June 2023 State visit, the Development Finance Corporation has invested $177 million across eight projects to support Indian small businesses and drive economic growth.
The Leaders welcomed enhanced cooperation on agriculture between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and India’s Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, in areas such as climate-smart agriculture, agriculture productivity growth, agriculture innovation, and sharing best practices related to crop risk protection and agriculture credit. The two sides will also enhance cooperation with the private sector through discussions on regulatory issues and innovation to enhance bilateral trade.
The Leaders welcomed the formal launch of the new U.S.-India Global Digital Development Partnership, which aims to bring together U.S. and Indian private sector companies, technology and resources to deploy the responsible use of emerging digital technologies in Asia and Africa.
The Leaders welcomed strengthened trilateral cooperation with Tanzania through the Triangular Development Partnership, led by the U.S. Agency for International Development and India’s Development Partnership Administration to jointly address global development challenges and foster prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. The partnership focuses on advancing renewable energy projects, including solar energy, to enhance energy infrastructure and access in Tanzania, thereby bolstering energy cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. They also desired to explore the expansion of the triangular development partnership in areas of health cooperation, particularly for critical technical areas of mutual interest including digital health and capacity building of nurses and other frontline health workers.
The Leaders acknowledged the July 2024 signing of a bilateral Cultural Property Agreement that will facilitate implementation of the 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property. The agreement marked the culmination of years of diligent work by experts from both countries and fulfills President Biden’s and Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to enhance cooperation to protect cultural heritage highlighted in the joint statement when they met in June 2023. In this context, the leaders welcomed the repatriation of 297 Indian antiquities from the U.S. to India in 2024.
The Leaders look forward to building on India’s ambitious G20 presidency to deliver on shared priorities for the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, including: bigger, better, and more effective MDBs, including by following through on Leaders’ pledges in New Delhi to boost the World Bank’s capacity to help developing countries address global challenges, while recognizing the imperative of achieving the sustainable development goals; a more predictable, orderly, timely and coordinated sovereign debt restructuring process; and a pathway to growth for high-ambition developing countries that are facing financing challenges amid mounting debt burdens by increasing access to finance and unlocking fiscal space taking into account country specific circumstances.
Today, the United States, Australia, India, and Japan are launching a groundbreaking effort to help end cancer as we know it in the Indo-Pacific, starting with cervical cancer, a largely preventable disease that continues to be a major health crisis in the region, and laying the groundwork to address other forms of cancer as well. This initiative is part of a broader set of announcements made at the Quad Leaders Summit .
The Quad Cancer Moonshot will serve to strengthen the overall cancer care ecosystem in the Indo-Pacific by improving health infrastructure, expanding research collaborations, building data systems, and providing greater support for cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and care.
Cervical cancer, while preventable through vaccination and usually treatable if detected early, remains the third leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the Indo-Pacific region. Fewer than one in 10 women in the Indo-Pacific have completed their human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination series, and fewer than 10% have undergone recent screening. Many countries in the region face challenges related to healthcare access, limited resources, and disparities in vaccination rates. Through this initiative, Quad countries will work to address these gaps by promoting HPV vaccination, increasing access to screenings, and expanding treatment options and care in underserved areas.
Altogether, our scientific experts assess that the Quad Cancer Moonshot will save hundreds of thousands of lives over the coming decades. These steps build on the Biden-Harris Administration’s steadfast commitment to ending cancer as we know it. More than two years ago, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden reignited the Cancer Moonshot with the goals of reducing the cancer death rate in the United States by at least half—preventing more than 4 million cancer deaths—by 2047, and improving the experience of people who are touched by cancer.
Cancer is a global challenge that requires collective action and cooperation beyond any single nation’s effort. By working together, the Quad aims to implement innovative strategies to prevent, detect, treat and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families. Quad partners also intend to work, within respective national contexts, to collaborate in advancing research and development in the area of cancer and to increase private sector and non-governmental sector activities in support of reducing the burden of cervical cancer in the region. Today Quad countries are pleased to announce the following ambitious commitments from our governments and non-government contributors:
QUAD COUNTRIES
Quad countries intend to continue their strong commitments to Gavi including with HPV vaccines in the Indo-Pacific, with the United States making an early pledge of at least $1.58 billion over five years.
In addition, Quad countries will work together with United Nations agencies on bulk purchasing of HPV diagnostics to bring down the cost of cervical cancer screening, and work with the International Atomic Energy Agency to improve access to and quality of medical imaging and radiation therapy.
United States
The Department of Defense, through the U.S. Navy, intends to support HPV vaccine expert exchanges with Indo-Pacific partners, starting in 2025. This partnership will enable healthcare professionals from partner nations to receive hands-on training, build capacity, and strengthen healthcare systems across the Indo-Pacific, focusing on preventive health services like HPV vaccination. The initiative aims to bolster regional cooperation on cancer and promote health security in the region.
The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Oncology Center of Excellence intends to arrange a technical visit to India within the next twelve months to set up collaborations with stakeholders under FDA’s ‘Project Asha’. Working together with the FDA India Office, leading oncologists, patient advocacy groups, clinical trial sponsors, and government stakeholders, this new partnership will focus on capacity-building efforts, including education on the design, conduct, and management of clinical trials, promoting international standards, helping streamline approval processes, sharing regulatory expertise, and increasing cancer clinical trial access.
The U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) intends to expand its support as a leading funder of global cancer research and global cancer research training in the Indo-Pacific region. This portfolio currently includes nearly 400 active projects involving investigators and institutions in South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific, including major investments specifically focused on testing cervical cancer vaccination, screening, and treatment interventions and strategies that can meet the needs of women and girls worldwide. The NCI will also expand its support for global cancer control efforts more broadly through scientific support provided to countries via the International Cancer Control Partnership, International Agency for Research on Cancer, and World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center.
The NCI will expand ongoing collaborations with nations in the Indo-Pacific region to provide evidence-based cancer information for health professionals and people affected by cancer to this global audience. NCI will aim to support the public education needs of the Quad Cancer Moonshot Initiative by providing its expert-curated, comprehensive, and authoritative cancer information to health professionals and patients in the Indo-Pacific. This will include a comprehensive collection of information on cancer topics such as adult and pediatric cancer treatment, screening, prevention, genetics, supportive and palliative care, and integrative, alternative, and complementary therapies, including extensive information related to the screening, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical cancer.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will support HPV vaccination programs, improve vaccine distribution and strengthen cancer surveillance and prevention systems in the Indo-Pacific region. This will include working with the Philippines Ministry of Health on an HPV vaccination program evaluation, focusing on behavioral and social drivers to inform future vaccine distribution. CDC will also contribute to broader cancer control efforts by supporting cancer control plan development to strengthen the overall cancer care ecosystem in the region.
CDC intends to provide technical assistance and disseminate best practices informed by pilot cervical cancer screening studies in the U.S. Pacific territories and freely associated states, as well as continuing to support CDC-funded national cancer control programs in U.S. Pacific Island Jurisdictions (PIJs). These efforts will involve sharing evidence-based strategies to improve early detection of cervical cancer. In addition, CDC intends to disseminate an implementation guide that can assist PIJ efforts to improve their screening capacity and encourage partnerships to promote cervical cancer screening, including guidance on how to build medical and laboratory capacity to conduct primary HPV testing and follow-up tests, and improve data systems to monitor screening to enhance cancer prevention and care infrastructure.
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) will look to support eligible private sector-driven projects to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, including cervical cancer. In particular, DFC will look to accelerate the deployment of innovative approaches and technologies to underserved communities.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will look to provide critical financial and technical support to expand HPV vaccination access. The U.S. government, through USAID has made an unprecedented pledge of at least $1.58 billion to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which will bolster global efforts to increase vaccine coverage, including HPV vaccines, in low- and middle-income countries, helping to protect millions of women and girls from cervical cancer across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
The State Department, through Global Health Security and Diplomacy (GHSD)-President’s Emergency Plan for Relief (PEPFAR), will share best practices on the rapid scale-up of cervical cancer screening and treatment efforts among people living with HIV, including commodity procurement and health system strengthening in low-and-middle-income countries. This collaboration will enhance the integration of cervical cancer screening into existing HIV treatment programs, increasing access to life-saving interventions. It will also focus on improving supply chains for essential medical supplies needed for screening and treatment.
Australia
Through Australian Government and philanthropic contributions, total funding commitments to the Elimination Partnership in the Indo-Pacific for Cervical Cancer (EPICC) consortium will expand to AUD $29.6 million. EPICC is a new program that builds on decades of research and clinician leadership to advance the elimination of cervical cancer across the Indo-Pacific by improving HPV-related policies, planning and readiness in any country in the region. EPICC is piloting HPV programs for future scale-up in Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands, expanding sub-national vaccination programs to support country readiness in Malaysia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea, and supporting the establishment of national sustained HPV elimination programs in Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Nauru. EPICC works across six priority areas to eliminate cervical cancer, including strengthening primary prevention through HPV vaccination support, secondary prevention of cervical cancer through HPV screening and treatment for pre-cancer, laboratory strengthening for cervical cancer screening and diagnosis, digital health work to generate data for decision making and strengthened models of care, supporting cervical cancer management (across both treatment and palliative care), and policy and modelling support across all pillars of the cervical cancer elimination pathway.
With a total Australian Government commitment of AUD 16.5 million [$11 million], the expanded EPICC project will extend its reach to more women in the Indo-Pacific. It will also support partner organizations in the region working on cervical cancer elimination to participate in the next Global Forum on Cervical Cancer Elimination, which will have a strong Indo-Pacific focus.
Through their charity Minderoo Foundation, Dr. Andrew Forrest AO and Nicola Forrest AO are expanding a lifesaving contribution to EPICC with a further AUD13.1 million [$8.81 million]. This additional funding will see EPICC expanded to up to 11 countries in the region and brings Minderoo’s total commitment to AUD21.7 million. The expanded program will see 140,000 women in the Pacific region screened over the next 4 years, as well as the establishment of national elimination programs and the empowerment of governments to sustain the program for future generations of women and girls.
India
India will share technical expertise in digital health through its National Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) portal. As part of its $10 million commitment to support the World Health Organization (WHO) led Global Initiative on Digital Health, India will provide technical assistance to the Indo-Pacific region. This includes offering technical support for the use of its National Non-Communicable Disease portal, which tracks long-term data on cancer screening and care.
India commits to providing HPV sampling kits, detection tools and cervical cancer vaccines worth $7.5 million to the Indo-Pacific region. This significant contribution aims to strengthen local efforts to prevent and detect cervical cancer and empower communities with affordable, accessible tools for early detection and prevention, while supporting vaccination programs to reduce the disease burden across the region.
India is scaling up population-based screening for oral, breast, and cervical cancers through its National Progamme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. In particular, India uses the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) method for cervical cancer screening, which is simple, cost effective and efficient and allows healthcare workers to detect early signs of cervical cancer without the need for advanced laboratory infrastructure, making it a model for other regions in the Indo-Pacific.
India is expanding access to specialized cancer treatment centers under its “Strengthening of Tertiary Care Cancer Centres” program. The Government of India is supporting both states and union territories to improve treatment capacity across the county, ensuring that people from all parts of the country, including underserved areas, can receive high-quality care.
India is committed to affordable cancer treatment through Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). As part of its broader health coverage efforts, PMJAY, India is committed to providing affordable cancer treatments to its citizens, ensuring financial protection for those most in need.
India’s commitment to cervical cancer elimination is further supported by implementation research led by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The research is focused on enhancing cervical cancer screening, early diagnosis and initiation of treatment. The results and findings will be shared with the Indo-Pacific countries in the coming years, to strengthen regional collaboration.
Japan
Japan is providing medical equipment, including Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners, and other assistance worth approximately $27 million, to countries in the Indo-Pacific region. These countries include Cambodia, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste, as well as contributing to international organizations.
Through the Japan International Cooperation Agency and other organizations, Japan has committed approximately $75 million from FY2019 to FY2023 in the Indo-Pacific to combatting cancer including cervical cancer. This includes providing relevant medical equipment and facilities, medical diagnosis, health system strengthening, and technical assistance.
Japan is committed to improving the access to vaccines and promoting the women’s health including the prevention and control of cervical cancer through Global Health Initiatives or International Organizations such as Gavi, UNFPA, IPPF. Japan intends to continue its commitment to support this initiative.
Toward the achievement of universal health coverage, Japan intends to strengthen capacity for addressing cancer including cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific region by health system strengthening. Japan will also continue to support combatting cancer including cervical cancer in the region through National Cancer Center Japan’s partnership with each Quad country’s cancer related institution.
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS
Collaboration with the private and non-profit sectors of all Quad countries is indispensable to the success of this initiative, as their collective innovation, resources, and commitment will be critical in advancing progress against cancer in the Indo-Pacific region. Quad countries are pleased to announce the following actions from non-government contributors:
Improving Access to Cancer Screening and Prevention
The World Bank is significantly increasing its commitment to cervical cancer prevention and treatment in the Indo-Pacific region through a comprehensive health systems approach, including $400 million in HPV-related investments globally over the next three years. In line with its broader goal to provide quality, affordable health services to 1.5 billion people by 2030, the World Bank, along with the Global Financing Facility (GFF) for Women, Children, and cervical cancer. With projects in countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the Philippines, the World Bank is supporting cervical cancer screening, HPV vaccination, and treatment by integrating these services into primary healthcare systems. This includes expanding access to screening for underserved populations, strengthening service delivery, and leveraging partnerships to improve diagnostics and treatment. In addition, the World Bank is working to address supply chain challenges and ensure the sustainable production and distribution of HPV vaccines, with a focus on increasing access across the region. Through this approach, the World Bank aims to create sustainable and equitable health systems that can address the growing burden of cervical cancer and support long-term health outcomes for women and girls across the Indo-Pacific.
Women investors and philanthropists of the Women Health and Economic Empowerment Network (WHEN) will deploy a joint investment of more than $100 million over the next three years, with funding targeted for cervical cancer in Southeast Asia. These funds will be working to fill essential gaps for improving the prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical cancer. WHEN’s women investors and philanthropists will deploy grant, concessional, and investment capital into HPV screening, medical imaging, pathology, radiotherapy, training for healthcare workers, and the solarization of health facilities.
The Serum Institute of India, in partnership with Gavi, will support the procurement of up to 40 million doses of the HPV vaccine for distribution across the Indo-Pacific region. This commitment can be expanded based on demand, ensuring a steady supply of vaccines to address the cervical cancer burden in underserved areas. By increasing access to lifesaving vaccines, this commitment will help prevent cervical cancer and promote equitable healthcare across the region.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, alongside other donors and countries earlier this year, committed to support cervical cancer elimination. The foundation announced it intends to commit up to US$180 million over four years to help accelerate the global uptake of HPV vaccines, develop new prophylactic HPV and therapeutic vaccines and diagnostic tools and fund clinical studies.
Sabin Vaccine Institute, through the Global HPV Consortium (GHC), will support a new country-based coalition to promote cervical cancer elimination. The Cervical Cancer Elimination Consortium-India (CCEC-I) will collaborate with the Government of India, wherever appropriate, to pilot “100 Cervical Cancer Mukt (Cancer Free) Districts” through their integrated SAVE Strategy: Screening, Access to Treatment, Vaccination, Education. This is in continuation of GHC’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, having previously collaborated with Indonesia’s Ministry of Health to support development of their National Cervical Cancer Elimination Plan.
Jhpiego, in partnership with the Philippines Department of Health and with support from Roche, is increasing awareness, demand and access for cervical cancer screening by educating women on the importance of HPV testing and the risk of cervical cancer. The Centralized Laboratory Model of Screening project is expanding coverage of cervical cancer screening with introduction of the WHO elimination strategy-recommended high performance HPV testing, and thermal ablation treatment for precancers, in five highly urbanized Local Government Units of the Philippines – with strengthened referral pathways to ensure a pathway to treatment.
Illumina is committed to supporting the development and adoption of genomic diagnostic tests to fulfill the promise of precision medicine in the Indo-Pacific Region. The objective of this initiative is to ensure that advanced-stage (>50%) and non-HPV driven (~5%) cervical cancer patients receive correct diagnoses and possible suitable therapies such as Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Similar initiatives are being explored with gynecological oncology organizations in Australia and Japan.
Roche Diagnostics is expanding its cervical cancer screening and diagnosis initiatives in the Indo-Pacific region. Roche Diagnostics will expand efforts in the Indo-Pacific to increasing access to screening and raising awareness building on the experience gained in partnership with Japan including on providing education to women, training healthcare workers, and developing digital solutions for efficient follow-up care; and in partnership with Australia on promoting cervical cancer screening among under-screened and never-screened groups, including Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and culturally diverse communities.
Becton Dickinson & Co. (BD) is making comprehensive investments in cervical cancer screening in the Indo-Pacific. BD is working with Obstetric and Gynecological Societies to deliver education for clinicians on cervical cancer screening best practices, with an aim of reaching over 1,200 clinicians and support staff by early 2025. BD is also investing in pilots to inform the design of large-scale HPV screening rollout and programs to reach under-served communities. Through their longstanding partnership with Direct Relief, BD is working with the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) to facilitate screening for over 20,000 women. Under the program, 400 screening camps will offer screening, diagnosis and mental health support.
Improving Cancer Care Delivery
Project ECHO will accelerate cervical cancer elimination in the Indo-Pacific region through 10 new learning networks that facilitate effective and accessible prevention and care. More than 180 public health organizations in 33 countries leverage the ECHO Model, an evidence-based training and mentorship framework for community-based health care professionals, to improve cancer care delivery. By 2028, Project ECHO will launch at least 10 new communities of practice, with local partners and ministries of health in Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and other Indo-Pacific countries to accelerate cervical cancer elimination, including programs for HPV vaccine implementation, treatment of precancerous lesions, and use of essential curative therapies.
The American Cancer Society is committed to reduce the global burden of HPV-related cancers by increasing support of civil society organizations globally, including in the Indo-Pacific Region. Support for these organizations, initially focused on cancer civil society organizations and medical societies, includes catalytic grants and technical assistance for implementing evidence-based, low-cost behavioral interventions aimed at optimizing the demand and uptake of life-saving prevention services through widespread healthcare provider trainings.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) will update its global guidelines on the Management and Care of Women with Invasive Cervical Cancer to incorporate new recommendation-changing scientific evidence on optimal approaches to the treatment of cervical cancer. Once completed, ASCO will work with its members, including their Asia Pacific Regional Council, and partner oncology societies in the Indo-Pacific to support the usage of these guidelines, along with companion guidelines on primary and secondary prevention of cervical cancer, by cancer clinicians for improved patient outcomes in the region.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is expanding its Rays of Hope initiative to strengthen radiotherapy and medical imaging capacities in the Indo-Pacific region. Through this initiative, 13 countries and territories have requested support, and efforts are already underway to raise awareness and increase cervical cancer screening rates. The IAEA has designated cancer institutes in Japan, and India as Rays of Hope Anchor Centres, serving as hubs for capacity building in education, training, research, innovation, and quality assurance.
The Union for International Cancer Control is committed to working with its 1150 members across 172 countries to address inequities and drive global action in cervical cancer elimination, including in the Indo-Pacific region over the next three years as part of the ‘Elimination Partnership in the Indo-Pacific for Cervical Cancer’. Leveraging flagship convening platforms, established learning opportunities, alongside its rich network and proven ability to collaborate across sectors, UICC will support national partners to improve access to care, sustain progress and ultimately, reduce the burden of cancer for populations around the world.
Increasing Capacity for Cancer Research, Infrastructure, and Training
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Australia’s Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney launch a $40 million public-private partnership that will advance international clinical trials of precision oncology and liquid biopsy technologies, including for the detection and elimination of cervical cancer. A generous donation of $20 million to each institution from Australian philanthropists Mr. Gregory John Poche and the late Mrs. Kay Van Norton Poche, will support this public-private partnership, accelerating the development of cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment tools for the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) will support organizations in the Indo-Pacific region in their ability to prevent, detect, and treat cervical cancer, will provide cloud computing credits and enable access to AWS and datasets via the Registry of Open Data on AWS. Researchers are using AWS to identify patterns and variances from datasets secured from the Cancer Genome Atlas and others through AWS.
Pfizer will expand the INDovation initiative to build oncology capacity at the primary care level in the Indo-Pacific. INDovation was launched by Pfizer two years ago to support local startups. Under the program, Pfizer has awarded nearly $1 million in grants to startups, including those related to cervical cancer, and worked in partnership with the government and universities. Pfizer is now expanding the program to focus on oncology with the goal of strengthening primary care health centers. Under this phase, Pfizer will award grants to up to 10 startups that can deploy solutions to help enhance early diagnosis and patient services at the primary care setting with potential deployment across primary health centers in the region.
Elekta will expand radiotherapy capacity in the Indo-Pacific, closing an important treatment gap in the region to contribute to eliminating cervical cancer. Initiatives include establishing radiotherapy training centers in Southeast Asia, conducting treatment courses with regional medical centers and implementing cloud-based platforms to improve quality of care in radiotherapy through knowledge sharing, and peer review sessions among the member centers of the Asia-Pacific radiation oncology network.
MD Anderson commits to expanding their cervical cancer research, training and education programs to the Indo-Pacific region. MD Anderson currently collaborates with the Ministry of Health of Indonesia on the implementation and evaluation of cervical cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment programs and helps train medical providers in-country to perform colposcopy, ablation, loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), and surgery. MD Anderson commits to expanding these programs to ministries of health in the Indo-Pacific interested in partnerships to eliminate cervical cancer.
Increasing Cancer Awareness and Education to Empower People
Hologic, a global leader in diagnostic and medical imaging solutions for cervical and breast cancer, is working with government agencies and health care providers in the Indo-Pacific region to educate and raise awareness on cervical cancer. Hologic is currently expanding access to innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence in cervical cancer screening to scale population-based programs to overcome provider shortages in the Indo-Pacific region. In addition, Hologic commits to the continued publication of the Global Women’s Health Index, a comprehensive global survey about women’s health, filling a critical gap in what the world knows about the health and well-being of the world’s women and girls.
The Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer will promote HPV vaccination, cervical screening and early treatment projects with partners and collaborators in the Indo-Pacific Region. These efforts will include organizing the Asia-Pacific Workshop in Bangkok to share knowledge and best practices within the region and expanding awareness efforts to further enhance awareness initiatives throughout the Indo-Pacific.
On September 21, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. hosted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in Wilmington, Delaware, for the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit.
The Quad was established to be a global force for good. This year, the Quad is proudly executing tangible projects that benefit partner countries across the Indo-Pacific—including in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and the Indian Ocean Region. The Quad is working together at unprecedented scope and scale to deliver on Indo-Pacific partners’ priorities. Together, the Quad is leading ambitious projects to help partners address pandemics and disease; respond to natural disasters; strengthen their maritime domain awareness and maritime security; mobilize and build high-standard physical and digital infrastructure; invest in and benefit from critical and emerging technologies; confront the threat of climate change; bolster cyber security; and cultivate the next generation of technology leaders.
ENDURING PARTNERS FOR THE INDO-PACIFIC
Over the past four years, Quad Leaders have met six times, including twice virtually. Quad Foreign Ministers have met eight times, most recently in Tokyo in July. Quad country representatives convene on a regular basis, at all levels, to consult one another, exchange ideas to advance shared priorities, and deliver benefits for partners across the Indo-Pacific region. All Quad governments have institutionalized the Quad at all levels and across a diverse array of departments and agencies. Today, Quad Leaders announced new initiatives to solidify these habits of cooperation and to set up the Quad to endure for the long-term.
Each Quad government has committed to work through their respective budgetary processes to secure robust funding for Quad priorities in the Indo-Pacific region to ensure an enduring impact.
The Quad governments also intend to work with their respective legislatures to deepen interparliamentary exchanges, and encourage other stakeholders to deepen engagement with Quad counterparts. Yesterday, Members of Congress announced the creation of a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Quad Caucus.
In the coming months, Quad Commerce and Industry ministers will meet for the first time.
Quad Leaders also welcome the leaders of the Quad Development Finance Institutions and Agencies deciding to meet to explore future investments by the four countries in the Indo-Pacific, including in health security, food security, clean energy, and quality infrastructure. This builds on a previous meeting in 2022 between the heads of the Export Finance Australia, the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, India Export-Import Bank, Japan Bank for International Cooperation, and U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
The United States will host the 2025 Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting, and India will host the 2025 Quad Leaders Summit.
GLOBAL HEALTH & HEALTH SECURITY
In 2023, the Quad announced the Quad Health Security Partnership to strengthen coordination and collaboration in support of health security in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad Health Security Partnership is delivering on its commitments to strengthen the Indo-Pacific’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks of diseases with epidemic or pandemic potential, including through a set of new initiatives announced today.
Quad Cancer Moonshot
The Quad is launching the historic Quad Cancer Moonshot, a collective effort to leverage public and private resources to reduce the number of lives lost to cancer in the Indo-Pacific, with an initial focus on cervical cancer. Altogether, the Quad Cancer Moonshot announced today is projected to save hundreds of thousands of lives over the coming decades. More information can be found here.
Pandemic Preparedness
Quad countries are committed to supporting health security and resiliency efforts across the region, including continued support for the Pandemic Fund.
The Quad reaffirms commitment to bolstering health security across the Indo-Pacific region. In 2024, the Quad Health Security Partnership advanced regional resilience through the second pandemic preparedness table top exercise, building on the success of the Quad Vaccine Partnership to enhance prevention, early detection, and response to potential disease outbreaks, and is exploring developing Standard Operating Procedures for Pandemic Response. The Quad’s collaborative efforts included training health specialists from the Indo-Pacific to strengthen regional capabilities for health emergencies.
India will host a workshop on pandemic preparedness and release a white paper outlining emergency public health responses.
Australia is increasing the pool of public health specialists who are ready to deploy, in-country or in the region, in response to disease outbreaks, with the first training session to commence in Darwin, Australia, in the coming days.
In coordination with Quad partners, the United States is pledging over $84.5 million to partner with fourteen countries in the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats.
Mpox
In response to the current clade I mpox outbreak, as well as the ongoing clade II mpox outbreak, the Quad plans to coordinate our efforts to promote equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured mpox vaccines, including where appropriate expanding vaccine manufacturing in low and middle-income countries.
HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF (HADR)
Twenty years ago, the Quad first came together to respond to the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, surging humanitarian assistance to affected countries. In 2022, Quad Foreign Ministers signed the Guidelines for the Quad Partnership on HADR in the Indo-Pacific. In May 2024, following a tragic landslide in Papua New Guinea, Quad countries coordinated their response in accordance with these guidelines. The Quad collectively provided over $5 million in humanitarian assistance. Quad partners continue to support Papua New Guinea in its longer-term resiliency efforts. The Quad continues to deepen HADR coordination and support partners in the region in their longer-term resiliency efforts.
Quad governments are working to ensure readiness to rapidly respond, including through pre-positioning of essential relief supplies, in the event of a natural disaster; this effort extends from the Indian Ocean region, to Southeast Asia, to the Pacific.
In the coming months, Quad HADR experts will conduct a tabletop exercise to prepare for potential future disasters in the region.
Quad partners are working together to provide over $4 million in humanitarian assistance to support the people of Vietnam in light of the devastating consequences of Typhoon Yagi.
MARITIME SECURITY
Quad partners are working side-by-side with partners throughout the region to bolster maritime security, improve maritime domain awareness, and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness and Maritime Training
Quad Leaders launched the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) at the 2022 Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo. This initiative provides partners with near-real-time, cost-effective, cutting-edge radio frequency data, enabling them to better monitor their waters; counter illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; respond to climate change and natural disasters; and enforce their laws within their waters.
Since the announcement, in consultation with partners, the Quad has successfully scaled the program across the Indo-Pacific region—through the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, with partners in Southeast Asia, to the Information Fusion Center—Indian Ocean Region, Gurugram. In doing so, the Quad has helped well over two dozen countries access dark vessel maritime domain awareness data, so they can better monitor the activities in their exclusive economic zones—including unlawful activity.
In the next phase of implementation, announced today, the Quad intends to layer new technology and data into IPMDA over the coming year, to continue to deliver cutting edge capability and information to the region. The Quad intends to leverage electro-optical data and advanced analytic software to sharpen the maritime domain awareness picture for partners.
Today the Quad announced a new regional Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI) to enable our partners in the region Indo-Pacific partners to maximize tools provided through IPMDA and other Quad partner initiatives, to monitor and secure their waters, enforce their laws, and deter unlawful behavior. The Quad countries look forward to India hosting the inaugural MAITRI workshop in 2025.
Quad countries are coordinating comprehensive and complementary training across the full suite of legal, operational, and technical maritime security and law enforcement knowledge domains. Quad partners have pledged to expand engagement with regional maritime law enforcement fora, share best practices, and improve civil maritime cooperation.
Indo-Pacific Logistics Network
The Quad launches today a Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network pilot project, to pursue shared airlift capacity among the four nations and leverage collective logistics strengths, in order to support civilian response to natural disasters more rapidly and efficiently across the Indo-Pacific region. This effort will complement existing efforts with Indo-Pacific partners.
Coast Guard Cooperation
The U.S. Coast Guard, Japan Coast Guard, Australian Border Force, and Indian Coast Guard plan to launch a first-ever Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission in 2025 in the Indo-Pacific to improve interoperability. Through this effort, members of Japan Coast Guard, Australian Border Force, and Indian Coast Guard will spend time on board a U.S. Coast Guard vessel operating in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad intends to continue with further missions in the Indo-Pacific.
QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE
The Quad is delivering quality, resilient infrastructure to the region to increase connectivity, build regional capacity, and meet critical needs.
This year, the Quad countries’ export credit agencies (ECAs) signed and are implementing a Memorandum of Cooperation, which supports supply chain resilience, critical and emerging technologies, renewable energy, and other high-quality projects in the Indo-Pacific. Quad ECAs are strengthening communication on pipeline information and provision of relevant financing for projects in the Indo-Pacific region, and will pursue joint business promotion efforts that involve industry experts, project developers, and other major market players.
The Quad released joint Principles for Development and Deployment of Digital Public Infrastructure, underscoring the Quad’s commitment to an inclusive, open, sustainable, fair, safe, reliable, and secure digital future to advance shared prosperity and sustainable development.
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure organized a workshop in India to empower partners across the Indo-Pacific to strengthen power sector resilience.
Quad Ports of the Future Partnership
The Quad Ports of the Future Partnership will harness the Quad’s expertise to support sustainable and resilient port infrastructure development across the Indo-Pacific, in collaboration with regional partners.
In 2025, Quad partners intend to hold the inaugural Regional Ports and Transportation Conference, hosted by India in Mumbai.
Through this new partnership, Quad partners intend to coordinate, exchange information, share best practices with partners in the region, and leverage resources to mobilize government and private sector investments in quality port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific region.
Quad Infrastructure Fellows
The Quad Infrastructure Fellowship was announced at the 2023 Quad Leaders’ Summit to improve capacity and deepen professional networks across the region to design, manage, and attract investment in infrastructure projects. Over the past year, it has expanded to more than 2,200 experts, and Quad partners have already provided well over 1,300 fellowships.
Undersea Cables and Digital Connectivity
Through the Quad Partnership for Cable Connectivity and Resilience, Quad partners continue to support and strengthen quality undersea cable networks in the Indo-Pacific, the capacity, durability, and reliability of which are inextricably linked to the security and prosperity of the region and the world.
In support of these efforts, Australia launched the Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre in July, which is delivering workshops and policy and regulatory assistance in response to requests from across the region.
Japan has conducted capacity building trainings to enhance connectivity and resilience in the Indo-Pacific through cooperation with specialized agencies and international organizations. Japan intends to further extend technical cooperation to improve public information and communication technology infrastructure management capacity for an undersea cable in Nauru and Kiribati.
The United States has conducted over 1,300 capacity building trainings for telecommunication officials and executives from 25 countries in the Indo-Pacific; today the U.S. announces its intent, working with Congress, to invest an additional $3.4 million to extend and expand this training program.
Investments in cable projects by Quad partners will help support all Pacific island countries in achieving primary telecommunication cable connectivity by the end of 2025. Since the last Quad Leaders’ Summit, Quad partners have committed over $140 million to undersea cable builds in the Pacific, alongside contributions from other likeminded partners.
Complementing these investments in new undersea cables, India has commissioned a feasibility study to examine expansion of undersea cable maintenance and repair capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.
CRITICAL AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGY
The Quad is working in lockstep to stay at the forefront of technology innovation, and remains committed to harnessing emerging technologies for the benefit of people across the Indo-Pacific, and deploying these technologies to facilitate economic prosperity, openness, and connectivity.
Open Radio Access Network (RAN) and 5G
In 2023, Quad partners announced the first-ever Open RAN deployment in the Pacific, in Palau, to support a secure, resilient, and interconnected telecommunications ecosystem. Since then, the Quad has committed approximately $20 million to this effort. Building on this initiative, the Quad announces an expansion of Open RAN collaboration to deliver trusted technology solutions.
The Quad plans to expand support for ongoing Open RAN field trials and the Asia Open RAN Academy (AORA) in the Philippines, building on the initial $8 million in support that the United States and Japan pledged earlier this year.
In addition, the United States plans to invest over $7 million to support the global expansion of AORA, including through establishing a first-of-its-kind Open RAN workforce training initiative at scale in South Asia, in partnership with Indian institutions.
Quad partners also welcome the opportunity to explore additional Open RAN projects in Southeast Asia.
Quad partners will also explore collaborating with the Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation to ensure the country’s readiness for nationwide 5G deployment.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Through the Advancing Innovations for Empowering NextGen Agriculture (AI-ENGAGE) initiative announced at the 2023 Quad Leaders’ Summit, Quad governments are deepening leading-edge collaborative research to harness artificial intelligence, robotics, and sensing, to transform agricultural approaches and empower farmers across the Indo-Pacific. The Quad announces an inaugural $7.5+ million in funding opportunities for joint research, and highlights the recent signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation among the four countries’ science agencies to connect research communities and advance shared research principles.
The Quad recognizes the importance of advancing international efforts to achieve safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems, including through the outcomes of the Hiroshima AI Process, GPAI New Delhi Ministerial Declaration 2023, and UN General Assembly resolution 78/625 on “Seizing the opportunities of safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems for sustainable development.” The Quad seeks to further deepen international cooperation on artificial intelligence systems and interoperability among artificial intelligence governance frameworks.
Quad countries, through the Standards Sub-Group, launched two Track 1.5 dialogues on AI and Advanced Communications Technologies to promote international standardization cooperation, including frameworks for AI conformity assessment.
Biotechnology
The Quad partners look forward to launching the BioExplore Initiative – a joint effort supported by an initial $2 million in funding to use AI technology to study and analyze biological ecosystems across all four countries. This initiative will help advance our ability to discover and use the diverse capabilities found in living organisms to yield new products and innovations with the potential to diagnose and treat disease, develop resilient crops, generate clean energy, and much more. The initiative will also aim to build technological capacity across the Quad nations.
This project will also be underpinned by the forthcoming Quad Principles for Research and Development Collaborations in Critical and Emerging Technologies, which advances sustainable, responsible, safe and secure collaborations in biotechnologies and other critical technologies among the Quad and across the region.
Semiconductors
Quad Leaders welcome the finalization of a Memorandum of Cooperation for the Semiconductor Supply Chains Contingency Network to facilitate collaboration in addressing semiconductor supply chain risks.
The Quad Investors Network
The Quad Investors Network (QUIN) is a nonprofit initiative launched at the 2023 Quad Leaders’ Summit. The QUIN aims to accelerate investments in critical and emerging technologies across the Indo-Pacific region, bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, technologists, and public institutions from the Quad countries to support innovation that aligns with the Quad’s shared values and promotes economic growth, resilience, and regional stability. This year, the QUIN supported ten major strategic investments and partnerships across the Quad in the critical minerals, renewable energy, cybersecurity, and aerospace sectors.
The QUIN has advanced additional frameworks to foster the development of new technologies and facilitate investment partnerships for emerging startups, including through finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding for the creation of a startup campus in Tokyo, supported by the QUIN and the Chiba Institute of Technology’s Center for Radical Transformation.
The QUIN is also working to establish a new venture accelerator in Tokyo through a collaboration between the University of Tokyo, Northeastern University, and the QUIN. These collaborations will not only fuel technological advancements but also strengthen the economic ties among the Quad nations, contributing to a more integrated and resilient Indo-Pacific region.
Finally, the QUIN developed a Quantum Center of Excellence, which produced a report this year highlighting ways each Quad country’s Quantum ecosystems can work together to collectively leverage capital and expertise.
CLIMATE AND CLEAN ENERGY
The Quad recognizes the existential threat climate change poses to the world, the Indo-Pacific, and in particular island nations in the Pacific and in the Indian Ocean region, and is taking ambitious steps to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change, promote clean energy innovation and adoption, and support sustainable development.
Climate Adaptation
The Quad intends to expand its Early Warning Systems and the Climate Information Services Initiative (CIS), announced at the 2023 Leaders’ Summit. This will help improve Pacific Island countries’ access to high-quality climate data and services, and increase partners’ capacity to prepare for and respond to climate change and its impacts.
The United States plans to provide 3D-printed automatic weather stations to the Pacific in 2025 to support local weather and climate forecasts, and also train experts in Fiji with the goal of operating a regional center to develop and deploy this technology.
Australia is also strengthening Early Warning Systems through Weather Ready Pacific, a Pacific-led initiative supported by the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders in 2021 that drives and delivers on the EWS4ALL UN initiative in the Pacific.
Japan is also enhancing cooperation with Pacific Island countries under its “Pacific Climate Resilience Initiative”, inter alia, by strengthening disaster risk reduction and preparedness through satellite technology and by promoting clean energy through capacity building and installation of renewable energies.
The Quad also plans to train experts in Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu to better monitor and forecast flash floods, for timely and accurate warnings, reducing human and economic losses from flash floods.
Clean Energy
Our countries intend to strengthen our cooperation to align policies, incentives, standards, and investments around creating high-quality, diversified clean energy supply chains that will enhance our collective energy security, create new economic opportunities across the region, and benefit local workers and communities around the world, particularly across the Indo-Pacific. We will work together, through policy and public finance, to operationalize our commitment to catalyzing complementary and high-standard private sector investment in allied and partner clean energy supply chains. We note the uniquely complementary capabilities Quad partners share across the battery supply chain, and pledge to focus near-term efforts on strengthening mineral production, recycling, and battery manufacturing across our respective industries.
Quad Leaders announced a Quad Clean Energy Supply Chain Diversification Program last year, which aims to support the development of secure and diversified clean energy supply chains in the Indo-Pacific region. Australia will open applications for the Quad Clean Energy Supply Chains Diversification Program in November, providing AUD 50 million to support projects that develop and diversify solar panel, hydrogen electrolyzer and battery supply chains. Secure and diversified clean energy supply chains are an integral part of achieving the Indo-Pacific’s collective energy security, emissions reduction goals and transition to a net zero future.
India commits to invest $2 million in new solar projects in Fiji, Comoros, Madagascar, and Seychelles.
Japan has committed to $122 million grants and loans, both public and private, in renewable energy projects in the Indo-Pacific.
The United States, through the DFC, has extended a $250 million loan to Tata Power Solar to construct a solar cell manufacturing facility and a $500 million loan to First Solar to construct and operate a solar module manufacturing facility in India, and continues to seek opportunities to mobilize private capital to solar, as well as wind, cooling, batteries, and critical minerals to expand capacity and diversify supply chains.
The Quad announces an initiative to boost energy efficiency, including the deployment and manufacturing of affordable, high-efficiency, cooling systems, to enable climate-vulnerable communities to adapt to rising temperatures while simultaneously reducing strain on the electricity grid. The United States intends to invest an initial $1.25 million of technical assistance financing to this effort.
CYBER SECURITY
The Quad is working together to build a more resilient, secure, and complementary cyber security environment for Quad countries and partners.
The Quad has [developed/released] the Quad Action Plan to Protect Commercial Undersea Telecommunications Cables, to advance the Quad’s shared vision for future digital connectivity, global commerce, and prosperity.
Quad countries are also partnering with software manufacturers, industry trade groups, and research centers to expand the Quad’s commitment to pursuing secure software development standards and certification, as endorsed in the Quad’s 2023 Secure Software Joint Principles.
Quad partners will work to harmonize these standards to not only ensure that the development, procurement, and end-use of software for government networks is more secure, but that the cyber resilience of our supply chains, digital economies, and societies are collectively improved.
Throughout this fall, each Quad country plans to host events to mark the annual Quad Cyber Challenge promoting responsible cyber ecosystems, public resources, and cybersecurity awareness. This year’s Cyber Challenge campaigns will focus on establishing career pathway programs to increase the number and diversity of global cybersecurity professionals, including increased participation by women, in this rapidly growing field. Last year’s Quad Cyber Challenge included over 85,000 participants across the Indo-Pacific region.
Capacity building projects like the Quad Cyber Bootcamp and the international conference on cyber capacity building in the Philippines are important initiatives to enhance cybersecurity and workforce development in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Quad is undertaking joint efforts to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities to national security and protection of critical infrastructure networks, and coordinate more closely including on policy responses to sharing of cyber threat information on significant cybersecurity incidents affecting shared priorities.
COUNTERING DISINFORMATION
The Quad is working together to foster a resilient information environment, including through its Countering Disinformation Working Group, by supporting media freedom and addressing foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation, which undermines trust and sows discord in the international community.
PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE TIES
Quad countries are building enduring ties between their peoples. Stakeholders from Quad countries have participated in International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and other exchanges, on topics related to cyber security, workforce development for critical and emerging technologies, women in STEM, government transparency and accountability, combating disinformation, and regional maritime governance.
The Quad Fellowship
Together with the Institute of International Education, which leads implementation of the Quad Fellowship, Quad governments welcome the second cohort of Quad Fellows and the expansion of the program to include students from ASEAN countries for the first time. The Government of Japan is supporting the program to enable Quad Fellows to study in Japan. The Quad welcomes the generous support of private sector partners for the next cohort of fellows, including Google, the Pratt Foundation, and Western Digital.
The Quad looks forward to the Quad Fellowship Summit in Washington, DC, in October, organized by the Institute of International Education.
Additional People-to-People Initiatives
India announces a new initiative to award fifty Quad scholarships, worth $500,000, to students from the Indo-Pacific to pursue a 4-year undergraduate engineering program at a Government of India-funded technical institution.
SPACE
The Quad recognizes the essential contribution of space-related applications and technologies in the Indo-Pacific. The four countries plan to continue delivering Earth Observation data and other space-related applications to assist nations across the Indo-Pacific to strengthen climate early warning systems and better manage the impacts of extreme weather events.
The Quad welcomes India’s establishment of a space-based web portal for Mauritius to support the concept of open science for space-based monitoring of extreme weather events and climate impact.
Space Situational Awareness Initiative
Quad partners intend to share expertise and experience in space situational awareness (SSA), contributing to long-term sustainability of the space environment. Cooperation is intended to leverage SSA and space traffic coordination capabilities in the civil domain, including to help avoid collisions in outer space and manage debris.
COUNTERING TERRORISM
The Quad hosted its first Counter Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) in 2023 and will meet annually to discuss CT threats, Quad CT good practices, and ways the Quad can work together to mitigate acts of terrorism through information sharing, consequence management and strategic messaging. The Quad CTWG currently focuses on countering the use of unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear devices (CBRN), and the internet for terrorist purposes. The Quad CTWG discusses new CT lines of effort on which to collaborate, hosts technical workshops for establishing CT good practices, and explores ways to engage non-Quad members with Quad-established CT expertise.
In keeping with close bilateral ties and to foster greater cultural understanding, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and the Archaeological Survey of India under Ministry of Culture, Government of India had signed a Cultural Property Agreement in July 2024 to fulfill the commitments made by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi to enhance cooperation to protect cultural heritage, as reflected in the Joint Statement issued after their meeting in June 2023.
Photo by Pause the Moment ud83dudcf8 on Pexels.com
On the occasion of the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the United States, the US side facilitated the return of 297 antiquities that had been stolen or trafficked from India. These will shortly be repatriated to India. In a symbolic handing over, a select few pieces were showcased to Prime Minister and President Biden on the sidelines of their bilateral meeting in Wilmington, Delaware. Prime Minister thanked President Biden for his support in the return of these artefacts. He noted that these objects were not just part of India’s historical material culture, but formed the inner core of its civilization and consciousness.
The antiquities belong to a time period spanning almost 4000 years, from 2000 BCE – 1900 CE and have origins in different parts of India. Majority of the antiquities are terracotta artefacts from Eastern India, while others are made in stone, metal, wood and ivory and belong to different parts of the country. Some of the notable antiquities handed over are:
Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century CE;
Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE;
Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE;
Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE;
Lord Ganesh in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE;
Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE;
Lord Vishnu in Bronze from Eastern India belonging to 17-18th century CE;
Anthropomorphic figure in copper from North India belonging to 2000-1800 BCE;
Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE,
Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE.
In recent times, restitution of cultural property has become an important aspect of India-US cultural understanding and exchange. Since 2016, the US Government has facilitated the return of a large number of trafficked or stolen antiquities. 10 antiquities were returned during PM’s visit to USA in June 2016; 157 antiquities during his visit in September 2021 and a further 105 antiquities during his visit in June last year. The total number of cultural artefacts returned from US to India since 2016 stands at 578. This is the maximum number of cultural artefacts returned by any country to India.
The Vice-President, Shi JagdeepDhankhar today reflected on the profound influence of national leadership, stating “Although there is a lot in a name, the name ‘Nar’ plus ‘Indra’, ‘Narendra’, has made everything possible.”
Commending the significant strides made in housing development, Shri Dhankhar stated that over 21,000 houses have been sanctioned and constructed in the region, under various government initiatives. He emphasized the remarkable transformation taking place in the country, attributing this progress to the leadership “The specialty here is that whatever gets sanctioned becomes possible. Why is everything becoming possible in the country? It is because the person who is making it possible is leading the country,” he said.
Acknowledging the profound changes witnessed in the last decade concerning the selection of recipients for some of the nation’s highest civilian honors, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Bharat Ratna awards, Shri Dhakhar remarked “A big change has come in the last 10 years. Now, the recipients of these prestigious awards are those who are truly deserving. People across the country now say that the awards are being given to the right individuals”. He further noted that this progress symbolizes India’s journey towards “Ram Rajya”. “This reflects that the country is changing and moving towards Ram Rajya,” he said.
Highlighting India’s emergence as the center of the biggest change of this century, Shri Dhankhar stated, “Those who think big have made India the main center of the world. There is no other country like India. I am not the one saying this—major global institutions are acknowledging this transformation. A massive change, one that was previously unimaginable, is unfolding.”
Emphasizing the transformative governance, Shri Dhankhar pointed to the unprecedented developments in infrastructure and essential services across the country. “Did you ever imagine that, with the help of the government, such a powerful voice would rise, that every household would have access to electricity, gas connections, and toilets? And now, the Prime Minister has even initiated the solar energy system,”he said.
Recognizing the Government’s commitment to transforming lives through economic empowerment, he stated, “I request Prafullaji to organize a small camp here for Mudra loans. Once informed, people will realize the Government of India has a policy to empower them economically, enabling not only self-employment but also providing jobs to others.”
Underscoring that education is the centre of the biggest change today, Shri Dhankharurged everyone to prioritize their children’s education. “Education is the centre of the biggest change today. I request all of you to pay a lot of attention to the education of your children,” he said.
Emphasizing the holistic progress of Bharat across water, land, sky, and space, Shri Dhankhar urged citizens to reflect continuously on their contributions to the nation’s advancement, stating, “We are moving towards Ramrajya, and each of us can play a significant role in this journey.”
Shri Praful Patel, Hon’ble Administrator, UT of DNH&DD and Lakshadeep and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
Department of Sociology, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni Port Harcourt
Abstract
The study investigated football betting and depression among youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. The study was guided with one research question, one objective as well as one hypothesis. The scope of the study was delimited into geographical scope and the content scope which addressing the issue football betting and depression. They were synthesized to explain the nexus between football betting and depression. Methodologically, the study adopted a correlation research design using quantitative research approach to get the view of the sample respondents. The sample size of 400 was used to determine through census sampling technique. The research instrument was questionnaire. The validity of the instrument was content validity, while the reliability was obtained through test-retest technique which gave an index of 0.80. The method of data analysis included the chart, mean and T-test. The findings of the study revealed the reasons for football betting among football betting youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State and also found that various depressed symptoms characterized the football betting games such as financial constraints, conflict with family members, emotional traumas and many more. It was recommended among others the need for youths to consider reaching out to mental health professionals, such as a therapist or counselor, or social workers who can provide personalized support and guidance as this can help them to understand and address the underlying causes of their depressive symptoms related to football betting.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in the world which is associated with important betting activities (Armstrong & Carroll, 2017). A common belief, widely spread among those who participate in football betting activities, is that knowledge and expertise on football lead to better prediction skills for match outcomes (Armstrong & Carroll, 2017). This belief precipitated the high increase in the number of youths who participate in football betting. Football betting is the activity of predicting football results and placing a wager on the outcome. The frequency of football bet varies from culture to culture. Uzochukwu and Ohiri (2021) maintained that in recent times, the economic hardship in Nigeria is becoming unbearable hence, most people are finding it difficult to meet their basic needs. They further stated that unemployment and underemployment rate is on the increase, and businesses are collapsing and depression rate is increasing daily which all result to people involving in different risky behaviour to survive. One of the risky behaviour is gambling which has been reported to be related to some criminal behaviour and prominent amongst then is football betting which most Nigerian youths are addicted to. (Oyebisi, et al., 2012).
The Nigerian sports betting (online and offline) and gaming industry has grown geometrically in the past few years (Uzochukwu & Ohiri, 2021). Accordingly, to them, this remarkable growth can be attributed to the country’s population and increased access to the internet via enabled internet devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptop, desktops etc. Many adolescents, youths, young adult, educated and non-educated Nigerians are involved in football betting (Eboh, 2015). Football betting has become part of mainstream culture through the entertainment, leisure, sport, and tourism industries and it is a significant source of revenue to governments and private enterprises (Eboh et al., 2012). It also comes in different forms `ranging from betting and prediction, lottery, casino betting and virtual games. Football betting also poses a source of harm and concern to some Nigerians due to its negative impact on individuals, families and communities through problem gambling (Deans et al., 2017). While most people handle recreational football betting in a controlled way, many get addicted. It is therefore essential that football betting and problem gambling are well understood, and that the regulation of football betting at individual, community, industry and government levels is well informed.
Statistically, about 60 million Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 40 are involved in active sports betting. On average, these punters spend roughly ₦3,000 Naira every day on bets enterprise (Eboh et al., 2012). For instance, data report from Klynveld and Goerdeler (2016) revealed that a leading sports betting company in Nigeria makes an average monthly turnover of $10 million dollars. Sport betting shops can now be spotted in almost every street in Lagos and new ones are popping up daily. In Nigeria gambling is regulated by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and it is worthy to note that all forms of gambling including football betting are restricted from all residents of Nigeria below 18 years enterprise (Eboh et al., 2012). The present paper is on the trends of football betting and the change in the appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State
Objective of the Study
The main objective of this study is to investigate the nexus between football betting and depression among football betting youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. In specific terms, the objective is to;
To investigate how the trends of football betting how the trends of football betting affect change in the appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Hypothesis
Ho1 The more the youths involves themselves in football betting and also becomes unsuccessful in the game, the more they become depress in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State
Significance of the Study
This study would be useful as it will reveal the relationship between football betting and depression among football betting youths in Nigeria. The study will be of a huge benefit to government, parents, teachers, counsellors, social workers and future researchers. The study would be beneficial to government in the sense that the study will reveal the prevalence of pathological betting and its negative effects on the mental health of the youths. This will enable government to initiate laws that will regulate football betting and other gambling activities. The government through this study will be informed of the importance of social workers in addressing some of these social issues.
Operational Definition of Terms
The following terms are operationally defined;
Depression: This is a mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities one usually enjoys.
Betting: Betting is the action of gambling money, possessions, time, or something else on the outcome of something, such as a game or race. In other words, the act or practice of playing games of chance for a stake; usually money. We can also, in most cases, use the word ‘gambling’ with the same meaning.
Football betting: This refers to the activity of predicting football results and placing a wager on the outcome.
Football Betting Youths: These are young people between the ages of 18-40 who engage in football betting in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Trends of Football Betting in Nigeria
Motorcycle Racing: With the rest of the events, the situation is similar. Motorcycle racing allows us to bet on the winner of the test or make a combine. They are motorcycle races on a speedway-type circuit where you only turn to the left side. Each participant has their quotas, and the race lasts only 1 minute.
Virtual Motorcycle Racing: In these speed cycling races, you can bet on the winner from a group of 8 runners or make a combine. As in other virtual sports, the race is short but exciting.
Greyhound Racing: Greyhound racing is practically identical to motorcycle racing. In them, the virtual dogs must go around a circular circuit, and before it, we can bet on the winner or make a combined. The dog with the lowest odds does not have to win here, as it does in real life.
Horse and Trotter Racing: You can also bet on horse races. As with the other specialties, you bet only on the winner or in combinations. You will see a race in a virtual racetrack with a quite successful setting. Trotting competitions are a bit slower and maybe a bit more boring.
Match Bet: This is the simplest form of football betting in which you pick the result of a football match. You can bet on the three different outcomes which are a home team to win, the away team to win or a draw. It’s important to note that match bets are paid out on the outcome after 90 minutes, so if the scores are level then, the draw is the winning bet, irrespective of the outcome after extra time or penalties.
Bet Builder/Same Game Multi: Bet builders are one of the newer additions to football betting and have become one of the more popular ways to bet on the sport in recent years. Sometimes referred to as same game multis, these bets are effectively an accumulator of outcomes from a single match rather than a number of matches. These bets are obviously less likely to come in because of the number of outcomes that need to happen. However, they are perfect if you are knowledgeable about both teams and want to place small-stake bets at the bigger odds that can be realised by combining numerous outcomes, such as the number of yellow cards, corners and goal scorers, rather than betting on each individual market. You can also include player props, which we explain below, in bet builders. Player props are also becoming a popular form of betting on their own.
Player Props/Player Stats: This is a way of showing how the football betting market has continued to evolve with an in-depth set of markets released for various Premier League and international matches. This is different to the goal scoring or card markets, and includes the ability to bet on players to have a certain number of shots, tackles and even off sides. There are also ever-growing prop markets that lead to some intriguing bets such as how many free-kicks, goal-kicks and throw-ins there are in a match. What’s on offer differs widely from bookmaker to bookmaker, but one of the bookies with the most player props available is bet365. There is also now the option to bet on the number of passes a player makes in a match, which can be a fascinating bet to follow and allows customers to use their own research before making the specific bet (Hing, Lamont, Vitartas & Fink 2015)..
Whole-goal handicap: Liverpool -1, Arsenal +2. The figures next to each team are applied to their score in the match. If you bet on Liverpool, you win if they win by a two-goal margin or more. You lose if they draw or lose. And you get your stake back if they win by a one-goal margin, which is cancelled out by the -1, making the handicap result a draw. If you bet on Arsenal, you win if they win, if they draw or if they lose by only a one-goal margin. You lose if they lose by a three-goal margin or more. And you get your stake back if they lose by a two-goal margin, which is cancelled out by the +2, making the
European handicap bet: A European handicap is similar to an Asian handicap but with two main differences: one is that the draw remains an option and the other is that the handicaps are only ever whole numbers.
Half-time/full-time: You can bet on the result of the first half and/or the second half. You can bet on the home team, away team or draw for one or both halves. This bet is for the more advanced football fan who has prior knowledge to indicate the teams who start or finish matches strongly or weakly. Knowing the starting line-ups and whether key players are missing through injury or being rested can also be an advantage with this type of bet.
Double Chance: You can bet on two of the three outcomes of the match to increase your chance of winning. The combinations are:
Home team or draw
Away team or draw
Home team or away team
If either of your combinations wins you will be paid out. The odds are lower than betting on just a single match outcome as there is more chance of winning, but this bet is good for bettors who want to reduce the element of risk.
Goal scorer Betting: As it suggests, this is a bet on a particular player to score during a match. You can bet on various outcomes, such as your selection to be the first or last goalscorer in the match or to score at any time during it. The odds on them scoring at any time will be shorter because there is obviously a greater chance of that happening. These bets are often quite good to take a chance on when a player has been in a rich vein of form, or if a team is overall better than their opponents making a player more likely to find the back of the net. You can choose from any of the players on the pitch, with bookmakers often having good offers to go with some of the markets within goal scoring and boosts throughout the different matches, depending on how they’re going.
Correct Score/Scorecast/Wincast: A correct score bet is one in which you predict the final score of a match. Remember that this will be the outcome after 90 minutes in cup ties that could go to extra time and/or penalties. The prices for correct score bets are often attractive but, of course, predicting the exact score is far from easy. A Scorecast is a bet that combines selecting a goalscorer and the correct score. For example, you can bet on Mohamed Salah to score and Liverpool to win 2-0. Again, the odds on such bets have higher odds because you are betting on the likelihood of two outcomes. Some bookmakers will also let you choose the goalscorer in a Scorecast to be the first, last or at any time. A Wincast is similar to a Scorecast, but involves selecting a goalscorer and the outcome of the match rather than the correct score. The odds will not be as high as a Scorecast because it is easier to predict the outcome rather than the scoreline.
Over and Under Betting: This is a bet on the total number of times an event (for example, goals, corners, yellow cards) will happen during a match. Bookmakers allocate a baseline number to a match and you can bet on whether there will be more (over) or fewer (under) than that number. The baseline number will never be a whole number, which guarantees that the outcome will be one of two: over or under. (You can’t score half a goal.) So in a match where a bookmaker is offering Over or Under 2.5 goals, you win if you bet on Over and three or more goals are scored, but you lose if the total is none, one or two. Likewise, if you bet on Under, you win if none, one or two goals are scored and lose if the total is three or higher.
Draw No Bet: This is where you bet on the outcome of a match, but if it ends in a draw then you will get your stake back. However, this means the odds will usually be lower than other markets.
In-play betting: As the name suggests, in-play betting involves making a bet on an outcome during an event, such as backing the next team to score in a match you are watching on television. Bookmakers offer several markets, such as the next goalscorer, which team will win the next corner or throw-in, or who will be the next player to be shown a yellow card. There are also some great markets to follow on in-play sites such as ‘corner races’ and on bet365 certain specials within the prop markets available such as shots and player shots.
Research Methodology
Research Design
Correlation research design was adopted in this study. The correlation research design refers to a relationship between two variables that have nothing to do with any extraneous variable. It is a non-experimental research method where the researcher has to assess the statistical relationship between the two variables to reach the desired outcome (Wilson, 2020).
Area of Study
Obio-Akpor is a local government area in the metropolis of Port Harcourt, one of the major centres of economic activities in Nigeria, and one of the major cities of the Niger Delta, located in Rivers State. The local government area covers 260 km2 and at the 2006 Census held a population of 464,789. Its postal code or ZIP code is 500102. Obio-Akpor has its headquarters at Rumuodomaya. The original indigenous occupants of the area are the Ikwerre People
Population of the Study
The population of the study is not known. Thus, it comprised of all betting youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, both males and female who engage in any form of football betting formed the targeted population of this study.
Sample Size and Sampling Technique
Sample size of 400 was adopted. To determine the sample size for the study, the convenience sampling technique was used. The reason is because since the population of football betting youths is not known in Obio Akpor LGA, the researcher used the numbers of respondents that could be easily accessed and reached. The convenience sampling technique again was used to select five communities given the availability of time and resources to represent the entire communities where betting are done. These zones are Elimgbu, Rumuolumeni, Choba, Rumuodumaya and Rumuokoro. After this, purposive sampling technique was used to identify 4 betting centers in each zone, having 20 betting centres Furthermore, the researcher allocated 80 samples to each zone and each betting unit had 20 samples using purposive sampling.
Types of Data and Instrument for Data Collection
The researcher utilized the integration of both primary and secondary data. The primary data invoived the use of questionnaire. As for the secondary data, it adopted the use of published and unpublished material. As for the questionnaire instrument which is a form of primary data, a self-designed instrument titled Football Betting and Depression Questionnaire (FBDQ) were used as instruments for data collection. The instruments was segmented into two sections, such as A and B. The section A is known as Socio-demographic data, it was used for the collection of personal information from the respondents like location, gender, socio-economic background, age and class. Section B consisted of items that elicit responses from the respondents based on their feelings and opinions given the variables of the study. The section B of the instrument patterned alongside the Likert scale. All the items responded to a 4-points modified Likert scale of Strongly Agreed (SA) = 4, Agreed (A) = 3, Disagreed (D) = 2, and Strongly Disagreed (SD) = 1, respectively.
Validity of the Instruments for Data Collection
The content validity was used. To achieve this, the researcher submitted the designed instrument to the supervisor and two other experts in Department of Sociology for content validity. The experts will vet and make corrections were necessary. These corrections were incorporated in structuring the final draft of the instruments. The instrument therefore adjudged reliable to be used.
Reliability of the Instruments for Data Collection
To determine the reliability of the instrument, a test-retest technique was used. The researcher visited and administered the same instrument to a sample of 40 football betting youths in Ikwerre local government area, Rivers State which was outside the sample of the study at two weeks interval. The 40 respondents represent 10 percent of total sample size which is standard in research agendum (Wilson, 2020). A reliability coefficient above 0.80 was obtained as the data was subjected to Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient.
Method of Data Collection
The researcher visited the sampled betting centres in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area that were used for the study and administered the 400 copies of the questionnaire to the respondents (football betting youths). The researcher also sought the services of research assistance for distribution of questionnaire and its retrieval. The essence of this was to ensure high percentage return. The researcher at each occasion explained the purpose of the study, the content of the questionnaire and mode of completion to the respondents.
Methods of Data Analysis
Various statistical tools were adopted to analyze the data. The charts, mean () and and independent T-test were used for analysis. The researcher used these tools in different ways. First, the bio-data was used to analyze the socio-demographic characteristics. The mean () was used as statistical tools to answer the research questions. Finally, the independent t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance.
Data Presentation and Analysis
Research Question One: How do the trends of football betting affect the change in appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State?
Table 1: Showing statistical scores for how the trends of football betting among football betting youths affect the change in appetite of youths who engage in this game
S/N
Items
SA(4)
A(3)
D(2)
SD(1)
Mean
Dec
1
I often engage in football betting
150
160
50
40
3.50
A
2
Correct Score is one of the games introduced
174
160
36
30
3.72
SA
3
Football betting has become more popular among youths in recent years
142
170
48
40
3.32
A
4
Do you accept that some betting youths plays double chance
140
175
65
20
3.52
SA
5
Do you agree most youths bet on Virtual football and Motorcycle Racing
192
150
45
13
3.51
SA
Source: Fieldwork, 2023.
The above table shows statistical score for how the trends of football betting among football betting youths affect the change in appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. First, item 1 on often engagement in football betting had the mean score of 3.50. Secondly, item 2 on correct score is one of the games introduced had a mean score of 3.72. Also, item 3 on football betting has become more popular among youths in recent years had a mean score of 3.32. Item 4 that that some betting youths plays double chance had a mean score of 3.52. Finally, item 5 on mean score of 3.5. With the homogeneity in the result, it implies that all the items support they are the trends of football betting youths that affect the change in appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Test of Hypothesis
Ho1 The more the youths involves themselves in football betting and also becomes unsuccessful in the game, the more they become depress in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State
Table 1: T–Test analysis for youths football betting, becoming unsuccessful in the game, and becoming depress
Variable
Mean
SD
Standard error
DF
Calculated T-value
Critical T-value
Remark
1. I felt emotionally depressed whenever I lose a bet.
3.51
.88
.02526
398
7.453
1.064
Sig.
2. My family always see me as not responsible due to my habit of betting
3.50
.76
.05104
Source: Research Fieldwork (2023).
Two items were selected to test the hypothesis. First item specified emotionally depressed whenever I lose a bet and the second was my family always see me as not responsible due to my habit of betting. The table shows that the calculated t-value is 7.453, while the critical t-value is 1.064 at 0.05 level of significant and at 398 degree of freedom. Since the calculated T-value is greater than the critical t-value at 0.05 level of significance, the result shows that the alternate hypothesis is accepted. This means that the more the youths involves themselves in football betting and also becomes unsuccessful in the game, the more they become depress in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Discussion of Findings
Trends of Football Betting among Football Betting Youths
The study was able to find the trends of football betting among football betting youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. First of all, it was found that most youths often engage in football betting, and they usually play correct score which is one of the games introduced in football betting. Again, football betting has become more popular among youths in recent years and some betting youths play double chance as well as bet on Virtual football and Motorcycle Racing. All these trends and others are football betting that in one way or the other affected youths by making them depressed. Despite all this, study by Sen (2016) revealed that there are increasing Popularity of Football betting and this has experienced significant growth in popularity over the years. The ease of online betting platforms and the widespread availability of mobile apps have contributed to this trend. Also, he added that football is a globally popular sport, and as a result, football betting has a wide international reach as major football events like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Champions League attract a substantial amount of betting activity. Chuks (2019) who looked at trends in football betting presented that there has been a rise in in-play or live betting. This allows bettors to place wagers during a match, taking advantage of real-time events and changing odds. In-play betting offers an interactive and dynamic experience for football bettors. More importantly was the mobile betting; this technology has revolutionized the way people bet on football. With the availability of dedicated betting apps, users can easily place bets from their smartphones or tablets, making it convenient and accessible.
Summary of the Findings
The result showed the trends of football betting include correct score, more popular of betting, plays double chance, and virtual football and motorcycle racing, thus, that it has adverse effect that prompt change in appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State.
Summary and Conclusion
The study investigated how the trends of football betting affect change in the appetite of youths who engage in this game in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. The study carefully considered how the the fact that football betting is becoming a disturbing trend following the psychosocial issues arising from such activity in Obio-Akpor and other areas. Thus, the scope of the study was delimited into geographical scope which covers the study within Obio/Akpor Local Government Area Rivers State, while the unit of analysis will be selected football betting youths in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State; and the content scope, addressing the issue football betting and depression. In the same line, the study operationalized some concepts vital concepts that relate to the study such as football betting, betting, depression, etc. Methodologically, the study adopted a correlation research design as it helps to employ the use of quantitative research approach (questionnaire) to get the view of the sample respondents. The sample size of 400 was used determined through convenience sampling technique. The research instrument used was questionnaire. The validity of the instrument was content validity, the help of my supervisor and two other experts were given a draft to effect corrections. The method of data analysis included the following: chart, mean and T-test. The study has been able to explain the issue of football betting and depression among youths. Depression is not a positive concept and that necessitated the study findings with the intent to give some justifiable recommendations. While some people engage in sports betting without any notable at-risk behaviours, for others it can become a dangerous addiction and trigger depressive symptoms. Left untreated, sports betting addiction can have many negative social, psychological and physical repercussions. These include relationship conflict and breakdown; debt, financial problems and bankruptcy; work issues and job loss; stress, anxiety and depression; and insomnia, lack of appetite and stomach problems. In extreme cases it can lead to suicidal thoughts and attempts.
Recommendations
It may not be easy for youths to completely avoid various aspect of betting as new ones keeps unfolding without considering its implications, there should be need for total abstinence. Secondly in situation where it becomes difficult to abstain, the youths should conduct thorough research and analysis. This is because successful betting requires knowledge and understanding of the teams, players, and various factors that can influence match outcomes. Before placing a bet, invest time in researching team form, injury news, head-to-head records, home and away performances, and other relevant statistics. Relying on informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information can help you.
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition that affects individuals who have experienced traumatic events, often leading to long-term psychological, emotional, and physical challenges. This study investigates the impact of counseling on the treatment of PTSD, exploring how different therapeutic approaches contribute to symptom reduction and overall well-being. A mixed-methods approach, including quantitative symptom assessment and qualitative interviews, was used to evaluate the effectiveness of counseling interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and supportive counseling. The findings suggest that counseling significantly improves PTSD symptoms, including reductions in anxiety, flashbacks, and emotional distress. Moreover, counseling enhances coping mechanisms and emotional resilience, leading to improved quality
Posttraumatic stress disorder has been a known diagnosis in psychology for many years. It was during and after World War I that instances of “shellshock” or “combat fatigue” were first becoming prevalent. By World War II, it was noted many gains in therapy made during the past decades or so seemed to evaporate in a haze of PTSD. Since then, wars in many parts of the world have exposed many more soldiers to things no human should have to see. However, several factors have kept PTSD on the back burner until recent years. It was commonly referred to as many different things and considered one of the “lesser” disorders. PTSD is a modern disorder, in that it is a signature disorder of the modern era.
This paper examined the impact of counseling in treating post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The overall objective was to determine how effective counseling can be in helping those who are experiencing or looking to recover from the trauma of PTSD. A brief discussion of PTSD is presented to help in the understanding of the subject matter, and it will be discovered how PTSD can be treated by
counseling.
1.1. BACKGROUND OF PTSD
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM-IV), a manual used by psychiatrists and psychologists to diagnose and classify presenting mental disorders, defines post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a severe anxiety paradigm that develops after exposure to a traumatic event. Exposure can include events such as war experience, interpersonal violence, childhood abuse, natural disasters, and even exposure to terrorist incidents. The symptoms generally involve re-experience of the traumatic event, avoidance of reminders, emotional numbing, and hyperarousal. Almost anyone exposed to a life-threatening event could develop PTSD, but it is well recognized that some people are more prone to developing it. Some of these risk factors include being female, having a lower level of education, being a member of a minority group, and the loss of a significant other. However, some protective factors have also been identified. These include better functional adaptation, being optimistic, having better social support, having higher levels of education, and being employed. Drug, as well as psychosocial treatments such as counseling, are widely used to treat PTSD.
1.2 IMPORTANCE OF COUNSELING IN PTSD TREATMENT
Counseling plays a crucial role in addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by providing individuals with a safe and supportive environment to process their experiences, learn coping strategies, and work towards healing and recovery. Here are several key reasons why counseling is essential in the treatment of PTSD:
1.2.1 Trauma-Informed Care: Counselors trained in trauma-informed approaches understand the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to PTSD. They can provide specialized care that acknowledges the impact of trauma on an individual’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
1.2.2 Emotional Regulation: Counseling helps individuals learn healthy ways to regulate their emotions, reducing symptoms of hyperarousal and emotional dysregulation commonly associated with PTSD. Through techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and emotion- focused therapy, individuals can develop skills to manage distressing emotions more effectively.
1.2.3 Trauma Processing: Counseling provides a structured framework for individuals to explore and process traumatic memories in a controlled and supportive manner. Therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and exposure therapy help individuals confront and reframe distressing thoughts and memories, reducing their intensity and emotional impact over time.
1.2.4 Cognitive Restructuring: PTSD often involves distorted beliefs about oneself, others, and the world, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness. Counseling helps individuals identify and challenge these negative beliefs, replacing them with more adaptive and realistic perspectives. Cognitive restructuring techniques empower individuals to regain a sense of control over their thoughts and emotions.
1.2.5 Skill-Building: Counseling equips individuals with practical coping skills and strategies to manage PTSD symptoms in their daily lives. These may include problem-solving skills, communication techniques, assertiveness training, and stress management techniques. By enhancing coping resources, individuals can navigate triggers and stressors more effectively, reducing the impact of PTSD on their functioning.
1.2.6 Support and Validation: Counseling provides a nonjudgmental and empathetic space for individuals to express their feelings, fears, and experiences without fear of stigma or rejection. The therapeutic relationship between counselor and client serves as a source of validation, support, and encouragement, fostering a sense of safety and trust necessary for healing.
1.2.7 Prevention of Secondary Complications: Untreated PTSD can lead to a range of secondary complications, including depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and relationship problems. Counseling interventions aim to mitigate these risks by addressing underlying trauma-related issues and promoting resilience and adaptive coping.
counseling offers a holistic and integrative approach to addressing the complex and multifaceted nature of PTSD. By combining evidence- based interventions with empathy, understanding, and collaboration, counselors play a vital role in supporting individuals affected by trauma on their journey towards healing, recovery, and resilience.
UNDERSTANDING PTSD
DEFINITION AND SYMTOMS OF PTSD
2.1.1 Definition:
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5; American Psychological Association, 2013) defines post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a mental health disorder that occurs following a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event, flashbacks, nightmares, and intense psychological distress and physical reactivity upon exposure to reminders of the trauma. Following the traumatic event, an individual with PTSD will often make effortful attempts to avoid reminders of the trauma, resulting in unhealthy behavior patterns and negative coping mechanisms. Most concerning, PTSD is inherently characterized by severe arousal.
2.2 Symptoms of PTSD:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) manifests through a variety of signs and symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and overall well-being. These symptoms typically develop after exposure to a traumatic event and can persist for months or even years. Here are some common signs and symptoms of PTSD:
2.2.1 Intrusive Thoughts: Individuals may experience recurrent, distressing memories of the traumatic event. These memories may be accompanied by vivid flashbacks or nightmares, causing significant psychological distress.
2.2.2 Avoidance Behaviors: People with PTSD often go to great lengths to avoid reminders of the traumatic event. This may include avoiding certain places, activities, or people associated with the trauma, as well as avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the event.
2.2.3 Negative Alterations in Mood and Cognition: PTSD can lead to persistent negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world. Individuals may experience feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame, as well as a diminished interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may also have difficulty remembering key aspects of the traumatic event or experience distorted beliefs about its meaning.
2.2.4 Hyperarousal Symptoms: Individuals with PTSD may exhibit heightened levels of arousal or reactivity. This can manifest as hypervigilance, exaggerated startle responses, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or problems with sleep, such as insomnia or restless sleep.
2.2.5 Emotional Numbing: Some individuals may experience a numbing of emotions, wherein they feel detached or estranged from others. They may have difficulty experiencing positive emotions or maintaining close relationships, leading to social withdrawal or isolation.
2.2.6 Physical Symptoms: PTSD can also manifest in physical symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain. These symptoms may not have an apparent medical cause but can be linked to the individual’s psychological distress.
2.2.7 Alterations in Arousal and Reactivity: Hypervigilance, exaggerated startle response, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and irritability or outbursts of anger.
though it is not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD, and the severity and duration of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Additionally, symptoms may fluctuate over time, worsening during times of stress or when triggered by reminders of the trauma.
2.3 CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop as a result of exposure to a traumatic event. While not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disorder. Here are some common causes and risk factors associated with PTSD:
2.3.1 Experiencing Trauma: The primary cause of PTSD is exposure to a traumatic event. This can include direct experience of trauma, witnessing a traumatic event, or learning about a traumatic event happening to a loved one. Examples of traumatic events include combat exposure, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, or life-threatening medical diagnoses.
2.3.2 Severity and Duration of Trauma: The severity and duration of the traumatic event can influence the likelihood of developing PTSD. Traumatic experiences that are particularly severe, prolonged, or life- threatening are more likely to result in PTSD.
2.3.3 Pre-existing Vulnerabilities: Certain individual factors may increase susceptibility to PTSD. This includes a history of previous trauma or adverse childhood experiences, genetic predisposition to anxiety or mood disorders, personality traits such as high neuroticism or low resilience, and a family history of mental health conditions.
2.3.4 Biological Factors: Biological factors, such as alterations in brain structure and function, neurotransmitter imbalances, and dysregulation of the stress response system (e.g., hypothalamic- pituitary-adrenal axis), may contribute to the development and maintenance of PTSD symptoms.
2.3.5 Psychological Factors: Psychological factors, including cognitive processes, coping styles, and beliefs about oneself and the world, can influence the risk of PTSD. Negative appraisals of the trauma, feelings of guilt or shame, and maladaptive coping strategies (e.g., avoidance, substance use) may exacerbate symptoms.
2.3.6 Social Support: Adequate social support following a traumatic event can serve as a protective factor against the development of PTSD. Conversely, perceived lack of social support, social isolation, or interpersonal conflicts may increase vulnerability to PTSD.
2.3.7 Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, such as ongoing stressors, socioeconomic disadvantage, limited access to mental health care, and exposure to secondary stressors (e.g., discrimination, financial strain), can exacerbate PTSD symptoms or impede recovery.
the presence of risk factors does not guarantee the development of PTSD, and resilience factors (e.g., coping skills, social support, access to mental health care) can mitigate the impact of trauma and promote resilience. Additionally, PTSD is a complex and multifaceted disorder influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
TYPES OF COUNSELING FOR PTSD
Counseling for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) encompasses various therapeutic approaches tailored to the unique needs and preferences of individuals affected by trauma.
3.1 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched and empirically supported treatments for PTSD (American Psychological Association, 2017). CBT focuses on identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts and behaviors related to the traumatic event, as well as developing coping skills to manage distressing emotions and symptoms. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and behavioral activation are commonly used in CBT for PTSD (Resick et al., 2008).
3.2 Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized form of therapy that integrates elements of cognitive therapy with bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tactile taps, to facilitate the processing and desensitization of traumatic memories (Shapiro, 2001). EMDR aims to help clients reprocess distressing memories and associated beliefs, reducing their emotional intensity and promoting adaptive resolution.
3.3 Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE):
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is a structured and evidence-based therapy for PTSD that involves gradual and systematic exposure to trauma-related memories, situations, and cues in a safe and controlled environment (Foa et al., 2007). Through repeated exposure, clients learn to confront and process traumatic memories without experiencing overwhelming distress, leading to habituation and symptom reduction over time.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence- based therapy that integrates elements of cognitive- behavioral, exposure- based, and trauma-focused interventions to address PTSD symptoms in children and adolescents (Cohen et al., 2006). TF-CBT emphasizes psychoeducation, skill-building, and gradual exposure to trauma-related material within a supportive and validating therapeutic relationship.
3.5 Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET):**
Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a narrative-based therapy that aims to help individuals construct coherent and integrated narratives of their traumatic experiences (Schauer et al., 2011). Through guided storytelling and emotional processing, clients gradually integrate fragmented memories into a cohesive narrative, fostering a sense of mastery and meaning-making in relation to their trauma.
3.6 Mindfulness-Based Interventions:
Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), have shown promise in augmenting traditional PTSD treatments by promoting present-moment awareness and acceptance of difficult thoughts and emotions (Kearney et al., 2013). These techniques help clients develop nonjudgmental awareness of their experiences, reducing reactivity to trauma-related triggers and enhancing emotional regulation.
counseling techniques play a critical role in the treatment of PTSD by providing individuals with effective tools to process trauma, manage symptoms, and promote recovery. By integrating evidence-based approaches such as CBT, EMDR, PE, mindfulness, TF-CBT, and NET, counselors can offer comprehensive and personalized care that addresses the unique needs of clients affected by trauma.
EFFECTIVENESS OF COUNSELLING IN TREATING PTSD
Counseling is widely recognized as an effective treatment for Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with numerous studies supporting its efficacy in reducing symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals affected by trauma. Here’s an overview of the effectiveness of counseling in treating PTSD, supported by citations and references:
4.1 Evidence-Based Therapies: Several counseling approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Trauma- Focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (TF-CBT), have been extensively researched and shown to be effective in treating PTSD (American Psychological Association, 2017).
4.2 Symptom Reduction: Counseling interventions for PTSD have been associated with significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in mood and cognition, and alterations in arousal and reactivity (Bradley et al., 2005).
4.3 Improvement in Functioning: Counseling has been shown to improve overall functioning and quality of life in individuals with PTSD, including improvements in social relationships, occupational functioning, and psychological well-being (Courtois & Ford, 2013).
4.4 Long-Term Benefits: Research suggests that the benefits of counseling for PTSD are often maintained over time, with many individuals experiencing sustained symptom relief and functional improvement months or even years after completing therapy (Resick et al., 2008).
4.5 Effectiveness Across Populations: Counseling interventions for PTSD have been found to be effective across diverse populations, including military veterans, survivors of interpersonal violence, refugees, and individuals from various cultural backgrounds (Sue & Sue, 2015).
THE ROLE OF A COUNSELOR IN TREATING PTSD
Counselors play a vital role in the comprehensive treatment of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), offering individuals affected by trauma a supportive and therapeutic environment to address their symptoms, process traumatic experiences, and promote healing and recovery. This section explores the multifaceted role of counselors in the treatment of PTSD, highlighting their responsibilities, therapeutic approaches, and the importance of the therapeutic relationship.
5.1 Assessment and Diagnosis:
Counselors are trained to conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the presence and severity of PTSD symptoms. Through structured interviews, self-report measures, and clinical observation, counselors can establish a diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of each client (American Counseling Association, 2014).
5.2 Psychoeducation:
Counselors provide clients with psychoeducation about PTSD, helping them understand the nature of the disorder, common symptoms, and available treatment options. Psychoeducation empowers clients to make informed decisions about their care, reduces feelings of shame or self- blame, and fosters a sense of hope and agency in the recovery process (Courtois & Ford, 2013).
5.3 Trauma-Focused Therapy:
Counselors employ evidence-based trauma-focused therapy modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and prolonged exposure therapy, to address PTSD symptoms (American Psychological Association, 2017). These therapies help clients process traumatic memories, challenge maladaptive beliefs, and develop coping skills to manage distressing emotions and triggers.
5.4 Creating a Safe Therapeutic Environment:
Counselors prioritize creating a safe and trusting therapeutic environment where clients feel validated, respected, and supported. This environment encourages open communication, exploration of difficult emotions, and collaboration in the therapeutic process. By fostering a sense of safety, counselors help clients feel empowered to confront their trauma and work towards healing (Herman, 1992).
5.5 Crisis Intervention and Safety Planning:
Counselors are trained to provide crisis intervention and develop safety plans for clients experiencing acute distress or suicidal ideation. They offer immediate support, assess risk factors, and collaborate with clients to identify coping strategies and resources to manage crises effectively (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2018).
5.6 Collaboration and Referral:
Counselors collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, primary care physicians, and social workers, to ensure comprehensive care for clients with PTSD. They may also facilitate referrals to specialized treatment programs, support groups, or community resources to address clients’ holistic needs (American Counseling Association, 2014).
5.7 Empowerment and Advocacy:
Counselors empower clients to advocate for themselves and access appropriate services and support systems. They validate clients’ experiences, validate their strengths and resilience, and help them navigate systemic barriers to care. By advocating for clients’ rights and needs, counselors promote empowerment and self-advocacy in the recovery process (Sue & Sue, 2015).
In conclusion, counselors play a pivotal role in the treatment of PTSD, providing compassionate, evidence-based care that addresses the complex needs of individuals affected by trauma. Through assessment, psychoeducation, trauma-focused therapy, and advocacy, counselors support clients on their journey towards healing, recovery, and resilience.
CHALLENGES AND LIMITATIONS IN COUNSELING FOR PTSD
While counseling is an essential component in the treatment of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it also faces various challenges and limitations that can impact the effectiveness of interventions and the therapeutic outcomes for individuals affected by trauma. This section explores some of the key challenges and limitations encountered in counseling for PTSD, drawing from empirical research and clinical literature.
6.1 Treatment Engagement and Retention:
Engaging individuals with PTSD in counseling can be challenging due to barriers such as stigma, shame, and avoidance behaviors (Hoge et al., 2004). Additionally, maintaining consistent attendance and adherence to treatment protocols may be difficult, particularly for individuals experiencing symptoms of emotional numbing or hypervigilance.
6.2 Comorbidity and Complexity:
PTSD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse, which can complicate treatment outcomes (Kessler et al., 2005). Addressing comorbid conditions requires a multidisciplinary approach and may necessitate longer- term or more intensive interventions.
6.3 Cultural and Linguistic Diversity:
Counseling approaches must be culturally sensitive and tailored to the diverse needs and backgrounds of clients with PTSD (Sue & Sue, 2015). Language barriers, cultural differences in help-seeking behaviors, and mistrust of mental health systems can hinder access to and engagement with counseling services among culturally diverse populations.
6.4 Limited Access to Specialized Care:
Access to specialized trauma-focused therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), may be limited in certain geographic areas or healthcare settings (American Psychological Association, 2017). Long wait times, insurance constraints, and resource shortages can delay access to evidence-based treatments for individuals with PTSD.
6.5 Therapist Competence and Training:
Ensuring that counselors have adequate training and supervision in trauma-informed care is essential for providing effective treatment for PTSD (Courtois & Ford, 2013). However, not all counselors may have specialized training in trauma-focused interventions, leading to variations in treatment quality and outcomes.
6.6 Resistance and Avoidance:
Individuals with PTSD may exhibit resistance or avoidance behaviors in therapy, particularly when confronted with traumatic memories or emotions (Resick et al., 2008). Overcoming resistance and fostering engagement requires patience, empathy, and a collaborative therapeutic approach.
6.7 Limited Generalizability of Research Findings:
While numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of trauma- focused therapies for PTSD, the generalizability of these findings to real-world clinical settings may be limited (Bradley et al., 2005). Factors such as sample heterogeneity, treatment fidelity, and external validity can influence the applicability of research findings to diverse populations and contexts.
In conclusion, while counseling is a vital component in the treatment of PTSD, it faces several challenges and limitations that can impact its effectiveness and accessibility. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that addresses systemic barriers, enhances therapist training and competence, promotes cultural humility and diversity, and fosters innovation in treatment delivery and implementation.
INNOVATION AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS IN COUNSELING FOR TREATING PTSD
Innovations and future directions in counseling for treating Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are essential for advancing the field and improving outcomes for individuals affected by trauma. Here are some emerging trends and potential innovations in PTSD counseling, supported by citations and references:
7.1 Technology-Assisted Interventions:** The use of technology, such as teletherapy, virtual reality (VR), and mobile applications, shows promise in expanding access to PTSD counseling and delivering evidence-based interventions in novel ways (Rizzo et al., 2019). Virtual reality exposure therapy, in particular, allows individuals to engage in immersive and realistic simulations of trauma-related scenarios, providing a safe and controlled environment for therapeutic exposure and desensitization.
7.2 Culturally Tailored Interventions: Culturally tailored counseling interventions acknowledge the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs of individuals with PTSD, incorporating cultural values, beliefs, and practices into treatment approaches (Hinton et al., 2013). Culturally competent counseling promotes trust, engagement, and relevance for clients from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, enhancing treatment effectiveness.
7.3 Integrated Care Models: Integrated care models, which involve collaboration between mental health providers, primary care physicians, and other healthcare professionals, aim to address the complex needs of individuals with PTSD by offering comprehensive and coordinated services (Zatzick et al., 2019). These models emphasize a holistic approach to treatment, addressing both mental and physical health concerns within the same care setting.
7.4 Community-Based Interventions: Community-based counseling interventions involve delivering PTSD treatment in community settings, such as schools, workplaces, faith-based organizations, or community centers, to increase accessibility and engagement (Price et al., 2013). By bringing services to where individuals live, work, and socialize, community-based interventions reduce barriers to care and promote early intervention and prevention efforts.
7.5 Transdiagnostic Approaches: Transdiagnostic approaches to counseling for PTSD recognize the overlap and comorbidity of PTSD with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders (Norrholm & Jovanovic, 2018). By targeting underlying transdiagnostic processes, such as emotion dysregulation or negative cognitive schemas, these interventions offer a more efficient and flexible approach to treatment.
innovations and future directions in counseling for treating PTSD hold the potential to enhance accessibility, effectiveness, and relevance of interventions for individuals affected by trauma.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, counseling is an effective and evidence-based treatment for PTSD, offering individuals affected by trauma a range of therapeutic approaches to address their symptoms, promote healing, and enhance resilience. By providing a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment, counselors play a vital role in supporting individuals on their journey towards recovery and well-being.
The conclusion of the paper on counseling for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) highlights the effectiveness of counseling interventions in addressing the complex needs of individuals affected by trauma. Counseling approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (TF-CBT), and Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) have demonstrated efficacy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning.
Moreover, the paper emphasizes the importance of ongoing innovation and future directions in PTSD counseling, including the integration of technology-assisted interventions, culturally tailored approaches, integrated care models, community-based interventions, and transdiagnostic frameworks. These innovations aim to enhance accessibility, effectiveness, and relevance of PTSD treatment, while also addressing the diverse needs and preferences of individuals from various cultural, social, and demographic backgrounds.
By embracing these advancements and adopting a holistic and client- centered approach to treatment, counselors can continue to play a pivotal role in supporting individuals on their journey towards healing, recovery, and resilience in the aftermath of trauma.
Overall, the paper underscores the significance of counseling as a cornerstone of PTSD treatment, while also highlighting the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and innovation to further advance the field and improve outcomes for individuals affected by trauma.
SUMMARY
summary of the key points discussed in the paper on counseling for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
10.1. Definition of PTSD: PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in individuals following exposure to a traumatic event. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in mood and cognition, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.
10.2. Effectiveness of Counseling: Counseling interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Processing Therapy (TF-CBT), and Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET), have demonstrated efficacy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning.
10.3. Challenges and Limitations: Despite its effectiveness, counseling for PTSD faces challenges such as treatment engagement and retention, comorbidity and complexity, cultural and linguistic diversity, limited access to specialized care, therapist competence and training, resistance and avoidance, and limited generalizability of research findings.
10.4. Innovations and Future Directions: Emerging trends and innovations in PTSD counseling include technology-assisted interventions, culturally tailored approaches, integrated care models, community-based interventions, and transdiagnostic frameworks. These innovations aim to enhance accessibility, effectiveness, and relevance of PTSD treatment.
Counseling plays a pivotal role in the treatment of PTSD, offering individuals affected by trauma a range of therapeutic approaches to address their symptoms, promote healing, and enhance resilience. Ongoing research, collaboration, and innovation are essential for advancing the field and improving outcomes for individuals affected by trauma.
Overall, the paper emphasizes the importance of counseling as a cornerstone of PTSD treatment while also highlighting the need for ongoing innovation and future directions to further enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of PTSD counseling interventions.
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The GATE exam 2025 is just around the corner, and if you’re planning to take it, here’s what you need to know.
Exam Dates The exam is scheduled to take place on February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 2025 ¹. Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar.
Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the exam, you must have cleared your 10+2 standard and hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline ¹. This includes students who have completed government-accredited programs in engineering, technology, architecture, science, commerce, arts, or humanities.
Registration Process The registration process is currently ongoing at the GOAPS portal, and the last date to fill out the application form without a late fee is September 26, 2024 ¹. Don’t miss this deadline!
Application Fees The application fees for GATE 2025 remain unchanged from last year. For all candidates, including foreign nationals, the fee is INR 1800 without a late fee and INR 2300 with a late fee ¹. For SC/ST/PwD and female applicants, the fee is INR 900 without a late fee and INR 1400 with a late fee.
Exam Pattern The exam pattern will remain the same as last year, with a 3-hour online CBT mode ¹. Each paper will have a General Aptitude section and a subject-specific section.
Syllabus The syllabus for all 30 subjects has been released on the official website, gate2025.iitr.ac.in ¹. Make sure to check it out and plan your preparation accordingly.
Preparation Tips According to previous year’s toppers, it’s essential to understand your capabilities, make a proper plan, and optimize your preparation with both hard work and smart work ¹. Start preparing early, and don’t hesitate to seek help from recommended books and online resources.
Important Dates
Release of application form: August 28, 2024
Last date to fill out application form without late fee: September 26, 2024
Admit card release date: First week of January 2025
GATE 2025 exam date: February 1-16, 2025
Answer key release: Fourth week of February 2025
Result declaration: Second week of March 2025 ¹
Stay focused, and good luck with your preparation!
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