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ohthehypocrisy · 1 year ago

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Ogerpon for Pokemon Unite!

Season 1

Season 2

Prev: Cradily - Hatterene - Tropius - Cacturne - Ditto - Weavile

The cudgel wielding ogre from Oni Mountain descends onto Aeos Island, bringing with her a troubled past and a festive facade.

Gen 9 and Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have their flaws and criticisms, but one thing that has yet to be knocked is the designs of the new pokemon, and Ogerpon is one such design that knocks it out of the park. Why, this cutie was very quickly well loved when trainers played through the Teal Mask and learned the secrets of Kitakami.

And now, it's time to bring that love and joy into Pokemon Unite. Let's see how Ogerpon celebrates her invitation to Aeos Island.

With high Attack and high Speed, Ogerpon has the ability to hit fast and hard like a Speedster. However, her defenses and HP are a little too high for that, especially considering that her moves improve her ability to take hits, like Leech Seed and Horn Leech. Not to mention, her ability to wear masks not only changes her typing, but how her ability and moves work. In a Pokemon Battle, each choice is a commitment, but in Pokemon Unite, you can choose to adapt to the flow of battle by selecting moves over others. Ogerpon is no different in this aspect, but being able to drastically change her effects like this cements her position in the role of an...

All-Rounder

Basic Attack - Melee/Attack

Becomes a boosted attack after two hits, dealing increased damage. When a boosted basic attack deals damage, your basic attack counter goes up by one. If the basic attack button is held while you have at least one basic attack counter, the pokemon will automatically counter attacks aimed at it. Melee attacks will be countered with an invincible flying kick while ranged attacks will have the user disappear and reappear in the designated direction, nullifying the damage. A maximum of 5 basic attack counters can be kept at all times.

The basic attack button has to be held for more than 10 frames in order to 'prime' it for a counter. If the basic attack control scheme is set to use the basic attack repeatedly when the button is held down, the counter will only come out after the designated 10 frames of the attack.

When countering a melee attack, Ogerpon will deal a flying backflip kick and move in the direction of the attack. Ogerpon is completely invincible during this counterattack.

When countering a ranged attack, Ogerpon will disappear in a veil of leaves and then reappear in the direction held a short distance away. Ogerpon is completely invincible during this maneuver.

Being an All-Rounder means that Ogerpon can achieve multiple different playstyles in one moveset, but cannot excel in any of them. This is the price to pay for versatility, as being able to do many things well makes for a broken character (even if that pokemon IS a legendary like Zacian or Mewtwo...don't worry Ogerpon, I'll treat you right).

For her basic attack, Ogerpon has the ability to deal lightning fast kicks, just like a Speedster would. While it's not all that impressive by itself, it builds up a basic attack counter which you can then use to deal counterattacks to enemies. By just holding the basic attack button, Ogerpon will retaliate any more with one of two counterattacks, depending on the attack received.

If a Melee attack is countered, Ogerpon will deliver a flying kick at the enemy, and she will do so while being completely invincible. She only has 5 of these counters and can only counter 5 times, so countering an attack has to end with either the enemy being KO'd or you making a run for it. Yeah, you're an All-Rounder, but not exactly a bulky one, and using this flying counterattack is more than likely to send you careening into the opposing enemy team.

Countering a ranged attack has Ogerpon confound the enemy with an evasive scattering of leaves, disappearing and reappearing elsewhere. This can save your hide against enemies with long range burst attacks like Decidueye's Spirit Shackle or Inteleon's Snipe Shot. However, this does mean that Ogerpon suffers a bit dealing with ranged attacks, as she isn't as bulky as other All-Rounders, and can only avoid them.

Not to worry though, as Ogerpon can get really feisty when it comes to making an insane push on the opposing team's territory, thanks to her ability.

Ability: Defiant

The pokemon's stats gain a boost while within the opposing team's Goal Zone and Speed Flux Zones. This ability gains an additional effect depending on which Mask the user is wearing.

-Teal Mask: The pokemon's stats are boosted further while Defiant is active. Additionally, the user's Movement Speed increases momentarily after a debuff wears off.

-Wellspring Mask: In addition to the effects of its Defiant Ability, the user begins to gradually restore HP while Defiant is active.

-Hearthflame Mask: In addition to the effects of its Defiant Ability, the user's moves have a high chance of negating the hindrance clearing effect of Full Heal and other protections while Defiant is active.

-Cornerstone Mask: In addition to the effects of its Defiant Ability, the user gains a huge shield when its HP reaches below a certain amount while Defiant is active.

Ogerpon's Attack, Basic Attack Speed, Defense, Sp. Defense, and Movement Speed gain a 25% increase while Defiant is active. Defiant will remain active even if the speed reducing effects of Speed Flux Zones are nullified through debuff protection like Full Heal as the ability activates based on location, not from receiving debuffs inflicted by Speed Flux Zones.

The Teal Mask increases all of Defiant's boosts by an additional 25% while active. In addition, Ogerpon gains a 25% boost to her Movement Speed for 5 seconds when a debuff wears off. This boost resets if another debuff wears off before the boost ends. Using Full Heal to clear a debuff will also activate the Movement Speed Boost.

The Wellspring Mask restores Ogerpon's HP by 1% a second, increasing gradually until it caps at 7.5%. The cap is reached after 4 seconds.

The Hearthflame Mask adds a 75% chance of your moves ignoring the hindrance protection effects like Full Heal and Blissey's Safeguard to all of your moves. This also works on other effects like Hindrance Resistance and Unstoppable, forcing moves to end if your attacks interrupt the enemy in this way.

The Cornerstone Mask grants a 35% shield when your HP reaches 30% or less. This effect will not activate if Defiant activates while Ogerpon is at or below the HP threshold.

Wow, that's a lot of text, but as the ability changes depending on which mask Ogerpon is wearing, only one of the 4 effects kicks in per game.

In its base form, Defiant grants Ogerpon a powerful boost to her stats when contesting enemies on their Goal Zones, allowing you to get really aggressive or in securing KOs early on. This makes her really good at making early scores, but this comes with a caveat.

If your team is too good at the game and destroy too many Goal Zones, you'll find that Defiant is not as effective in battle, as there aren't any more Goal Zones to fight on. This can be a good or a bad thing, depending on how badly your allies flub things up and how hard the opposing teams counter offensive hits.

Aside from that, though, the mask you get at Level 7 changes what the ability does, which can drastically change your plan of attack. Of the 4 masks, only the Teal Mask has an effect that can kick in outside of opposing Goal Zones and Speed Flux Zones. If a debuff wears off, you'll get a short burst of speed, which is useful if you're packing Full Heal.

Aside from that, the other masks bonus abilities are self explanatory, with the Hearthflame Mask granting the strongest effect. See, while Full Heal and Blissey's Safeguard allow the opposing team to safely ignore your hindrances, Ogerpon can just choose to not care about it and hinder them anyway. Even Unstoppable and Hindrance Resistance can get stifled by Defiant when it is active, drastically increasing the offensive pressure you put onto your opponents. All of Hearthflame Mask's chosen moves have a chance to Stun, so it's a matter of luck of how well your lane pushing goes. It doesn't offer any extra defensive boons, so watch out for when the entire enemy team decides to roll up and defend their Goal Zone.

But until you get to Level 7, you'll be stuck in Ogerpon's base form, maskless and exposed.

At the start of the game, Ogerpon will be in her Maskless Form and will stay unmasked until she has learned both of her final moves. The specific mask she wears depends on the combination of moves learned. You can choose between Vine Whip and Quick Attack as your first move. By Level 3, you'll have learned both.

Move 1: Vine Whip - Area

The user whips a long vine three times in quick succession. Each hit may Stun an enemy on hit. 8.5s cooldown.

Vine Whip strikes in a conical area in front of Ogerpon, expanding slightly with each attack. Each hit has a 30% chance of Stunning an enemy for 1.25 seconds, resetting if Vine Whip Stuns again.

When used, Vine Whip will continue to attack in the designated direction. Ogerpon can move freely while the attack goes on, but the move will stay attacking in the direction chosen.

Ogerpon's Maskless form is what you start the game as, and is also how Pokemon Unite will display Ogerpon when out of battle, such as the Results Screen or on the Home Screen. It really shows how much trust she has in you, the trainer, to feel comfortable going around without a mask to wear.

But this is about how Ogerpon starts the battle. No masks yet until you've learned all the moves you need to win the game.

Starting off, we have Vine Whip, a decently ranged move with a high chance to Stun. As Ogerpon dances around, flinging a sturdy vine, each hit has a small chance to Stun the enemy. It's not a high chance, but for its range and damage, it's a very decent move.

Of course, there's also the chance that the move will fail to Stun an enemy entirely, even if all 3 hits land. Chance moves like this are extremely rare in Pokemon Unite, as only Goodra's Gooey ability is one of the few effects that aren't guaranteed to activate every time. As an All-Rounder, Ogerpon threatens Stun with its long ranged Vine Whip to discourage reckless approaches, as one Stun is all you and your allies will need to close the gap and seal the deal. This is how Ogerpon plays a Defender with just one move.

The other move lets you play as a sort of Speedster.

Move 2: Quick Attack - Dash

The user delivers a flying kick in the designated direction. When damage is dealt successfully, the user disappears and reappears in the designated direction to attack again with another flying kick. Each hit adds to the user's basic attack counter. 10s cooldown.

Quick Attack is a Dash attack that has Ogerpon fly with her legs stretched outward. On hit confirm, Ogerpon will disappear and reappear in the designated direction, attacking through the target and all other enemies before ending on the other side of the dash attack.

The struck enemy will become the center of the attack, with Ogerpon reappearing a short distance away. The location in which Ogerpon reappears depends on the designated direction held. It is functionally similar to Cinderace's Blaze Kick, as you can choose where the attack ends and where Ogerpon lands after dealing damage.

The second kick has Ogerpon fly through and damage the target and all enemies caught in the attack. For each enemy you damage with this second kick, Ogerpon gains a basic attack counter, up to a maximum of 5.

Early game Dash Attacks can be simplified to 'The Move that will let me jump over the wall to get into Central at the start of the game' and this move isn't that much different. By flying in and damaging an enemy, you'll mark them for the second hit of Quick Attack, delivering a flying strike through them and all enemies along the way.

For what it's worth, Quick Attack has a risk versus reward factor. It's the fastest way to generate basic attack counters for yourself, and you're guaranteed a minimum of 1 just for using the move. But if you position yourself to hit more than one enemy, you'll get more out of the attack. Of course, this also means exposing yourself to attacks from the opposing team, as you aren't invincible during the attack. But if you manage to get multiple basic attack counters out of it, you'll be able to then use those counters to counterattack the incoming retaliatory attacks the opposing team will unload on you.

The 10 second cooldown is this moves weakest factor, as the long wait time means that you won't be able to use it again right away to jump out of scuffles. Again, this is the risk versus reward factor I was talking about, as it can be used offensively to build up your speedy techniques, or defensively as an escape tool. It can even be used as both, if your only aim is to KO a weakened opponent and then use the basic attack counter to jump out of harm's way and make it back to your Goal Zone.

It's not as strong as a Speedster's Dash Attack, but the utility is what makes Ogerpon an All-Rounder. Speaking of which, if it's power you want, then you'd better level up to Level 5 to learn how to hit your enemies really, really hard.

At Level 5, Vine Whip becomes either Ivy Cudgel or Wood Hammer.

Move 1a: Ivy Cudgel - Melee

A three hit swing combo with the user's vine covered weapon. When used, the attack can be used again two times before the move goes on cooldown. If the user is wearing a mask, it reduces the damage received from attacks aimed directly in front of it. If the user is wearing a Teal Mask, it restores HP with each hit. If the user is wearing the Wellspring Mask, waves of water are launched with each swing, Shoving enemies. 9.5s cooldown.

At Level 11, Ivy Cudgel becomes Ivy Cudgel+.

The user's Defiant ability activates while Ivy Cudgel+ is in use.

Ivy Cudgel is a Melee Attack that can be used three times before going on cooldown. After each use, the next attack must be used within 3 seconds before the move goes on cooldown. The third hit has a short delay where Ogerpon skips and hops before swinging the cudgel down. Ogerpon can move freely while attacking until the third attack is used, where she slams the ground, damaging all enemies in a wide area.

Though the move is learned at Level 5, it does not gain an additional effect until Level 7 when Ogerpon can start wearing masks.

Wearing either the Teal Mask or the Wellspring Mask reduces the damage received from moves aimed at the front by 50% while Ivy Cudgel is in use.

Teal Mask Ivy Cudgel restores your HP by 50% of the damage you deal to enemies with this move.

Wellspring Mask Ivy Cudgel launches a short wave of water with the first two swings, ending with a big splash of water that Shoves all enemies in range. The Shove effect is weak, except for the final hit which Shoves enemies a fair bit away.

Ivy Cudgel+ activates the Defiant ability for Ogerpon, even if the pokemon is not in an opposing Goal Zone or Speed Flux Zone. This only lasts until Ivy Cudgel+ goes on cooldown.

If Defiant is already active, the boosts gained increase by an extra 15%.

This is the move that sent 3 dastardly Poison Types to their early graves, so you can bet it hits pretty hard. Well, it could, but without a mask boosting its power, Ivy Cudgel is just a big heavy stick that goes bonk.

Learned at Level 5, Ivy Cudgel is a versatile move that allows Ogerpon to threaten big damage to nearby enemies. She can skip around while using the move, hitting 3 times before the move has to go on cooldown. It hits hard, but that's all it can do until you learn your second move, where Ogerpon will wear either the Teal Mask or the Wellspring Mask.

With the Teal Mask, it gains a sort of Draining effect where Ogerpon will restore HP equal to 50% of the damage she deals to opposing pokemon. Combined with an active Defiant, you'll be dealing crazy damage to the opposing team on their home turf while you're healing up all the damage you absorbed from their burst attacks. Perhaps this is the power that destroyed the Loyal Three.

With the Wellspring Mask, however, the attack turns into a relentless torrent of waves, shoving enemies away from you as you attack. It arguably functions the same as the Teal Mask version, as shoving enemies away from their Goal Zones limit their ability to tank your attacks, depriving them of the shield and healing they would've gotten from their Goal Zone. Any healing you would've gotten comes from Defiant restoring your HP slowly while wearing the Wellspring Mask, allowing you to fight for much longer when used with Ivy Cudgel.

Either way, just wearing the mask turns it into a sort of protective shield, as the mask reduces damage taken from the front while the move is in use. This is very useful in running into fights with Ivy Cudgel activated, as the masks themselves function as a great shield charging in. It's only while the move is active, but it does greatly reduce the damage of moves received from the front.

Regardless of which Mask is worn, Ivy Cudgel gains a huge boon to your Defiant ability when upgraded into Ivy Cudgel+. Both versions of the move grant a unique effect of manually activating Defiant while Ivy Cudgel+ is being used, even if you aren't within an opposing Goal Zone or Speed Flux Zones. This means that you can compensate for the lack of opposing Goal Zones or Speed Flux Zones and keep the offensive pressure up during important battles like the fight for Regieleki or Rayquaza. Of course, maximizing the effect of Defiant through Ivy Cudgel+ requires you to learn some discipline with the move, as Defiant is only active while Ivy Cudgel+ is in use. This means you'd have to stall out Ivy Cudgel+ in between hits to keep Defiant active, though the ability will keep boosting through until Ogerpon delivers the final blow with Ivy Cudgel+.

It's a hard hitting melee attack with a bonus effect depending on which Mask you're wearing, but what if I told you that Ogerpon can hit harder than this?

Move 1b: Wood Hammer - Area/Hindrance

The user brings down its weapon wildly in front of it, attacking two times before dealing big damage in the area in front of itself. If the user is wearing a mask, it uses the mask as a weapon instead, dealing damage in a wider area. If the user is wearing the Hearthflame Mask, each hit deals increasing damage in an expanding area of effect and may Stun enemies. If the user is wearing the Cornerstone Mask, the user becomes immune to hindrances during the attack and gains a small shield for each enemy damaged. 12s cooldown.

At Level 11, Wood Hammer becomes Wood Hammer+.

The user's Defiant Ability activates when Wood Hammer+ is used and stays active for a short while afterward.

Wood Hammer forces Ogerpon to stay in place while attacking, but the three hits happen in quick succession in a wide area.

Though the move is learned at Level 5, it does not gain an additional effect until Level 7 when Ogerpon can start wearing masks.

Hearthflame Wood Hammer has the attack expand in size as it deals damage, with each hit having a 50% chance to Stun for 0.5 seconds, except for the final hit which can Stun for 1 second.

Cornerstone Mask makes Ogerpon immune to hindrances while performing the attack and gains a 3% shield for each enemy hit.

Ogerpon's Defiant ability activates at the start of the move and continues to boost the pokemon for 6 seconds afterwards, even if Ogerpon is not within an opposing Goal Zone or Speed Flux Zone.

If Defiant is already active, it increases the boost gained by an extra 15%.

Compared to Ivy Cudgel, Wood Hammer sacrifices mobility for extra power and range. Each hit deals damage in a wide area around Ogerpon, but it doesn't do anything extra until you wear a mask at Level 7. The thing is though, the mask you wear depends on what combination of moves you learn, so when you get to Level 7, the version of Wood Hammer you will use will be either the Hearthflame Mask or the Cornerstone Mask.

Hearthflame Mask has Ogerpon use Wood Hammer with fiery flames, dealing damage that increases in power and size as the attack rages on. Not only that, each hit has a 50% chance to Stun enemies in place, potentially ruining an enemy's escape plan if it hits. The final hit of Hearthflame Wood Hammer can Stun for 1 second if it occurs, which allows you to start attacking the victim before they can shake off the hindrance. Since Hearthflame Defiant has a high chance of ignoring hindrance clearing effects when its active, this means that you can absolutely ruin the opposing team's defensive efforts when you and your allies are pushing hard on a lane. Just be careful, as the Hearthflame Mask doesn't protect you from hindrances yourself.

The Cornerstone Mask, however, does protect you thanks to its rocky constitution. In fact, it makes you completely immune to hindrances while using Wood Hammer. Not only that, each enemy you hit grants you a small shield, adding up to a lot of shield gained after damaging a lot of enemies. It's very effective when combined with Quick Attack to jump into the fray and deal loads of unstoppable damage with a stony Wood Hammer.

Just like Ivy Cudgel, though, Wood Hammer gets an upgrade which activates Defiant for you, allowing you to bring the offensive pressure anywhere in the battlefield. While Ivy Cudgel+ can only work while the move is in use, Wood Hammer+ activates the ability for a set time when activated, allowing you to run wild for a short time during and after the move. With the Hearthflame Mask, you can maximize your defensive play on your own Goal Zones by inflicting incurable Stuns and hindrance, while the Cornerstone Mask grants a massive backup shield if activated in time. All the while, your stats get a huge boost, allowing you to greatly contest objectives like Regieleki or Rayquaza or partake in massive team fights away from the opposing Goal Zones and Speed Flux Zones.

But Quick Attack starts to lose its effectiveness in such fights. It's time to not only upgrade to a stronger move, but also to mask up and face the danger head on.

At Level 7, Quick Attack becomes either Superpower or Spiky Shield. At the same time, Ogerpon will wear a mask depending on which combination of moves she's learned.

If Ivy Cudgel and Spiky Shield are learned, Ogerpon will wear the Teal Mask.

If Ivy Cudgel and Superpower are learned, Ogerpon will wear the Wellspring Mask.

If Wood Hammer and Superpower are learned, Ogerpon will wear the Hearthflame Mask.

If Wood Hammer and Spiky Shield are learned, Ogerpon will wear the Cornerstone Mask.

Move 2a: Superpower - Dash/Hindrance

The user brings up its mask and builds up power before charging straight ahead. While charging, the mask blocks some attacks and reduces damage received, as long as the attack is blocked from the front. If the user is wearing the Hearthflame Mask, it damages and Shoves all enemies, dragging them throughout the attack before causing a big explosion at the end of the move, Throwing all enemies. If the user is wearing the Wellspring Mask, all enemies caught in the attack are Thrown and a big blast of water erupts at the end of the move, Shoving enemies and reducing the cooldown of this move for each enemy damaged. The user's basic attack counter increases by one for each enemy damaged by the final hit. 12s cooldown.

At Level 13, Superpower becomes Superpower+.

Reduces the cooldown of the move.

Superpower charges for 2 seconds before attacking. While charging, the mask will block ranged basic attacks and nullify the damage they deal. All other attacks will have their damage reduced by 60% if they are received from the front.

Hearthflame Mask Superpower damages and Shoves enemies much like Talonflame's Unite Move, Flame Sweep, as it Shoves all enemies and drags them along the attack with Ogerpon. At the end of the move, Ogerpon creates an explosion that deals huge damage, Throwing enemies. Ogerpon can act before the enemies can retaliate 0.5 seconds later.

Wellspring Mask Superpower Throws enemies as the attack moves, causing a huge splash of water at the end of the attack that Shoves all enemies away from the center. Wellspring Mask Superpower is weaker than Hearthflame Mask Superpower, but it reduces the cooldown of the move by 1 second for each enemy on the opposing team you damage with the splash wave.

In both versions of the move, Ogerpon's basic attack counter increases by 1 for each enemy on the opposing team damaged by the final hit of Superpower.

Superpower+ reduces the cooldown of the move to 9.5 seconds.

Since Superpower or Spiky Shield are the last moves you can learn, they both can be used by Ogerpon at their full power, as Ogerpon will wear the appropriate mask for the moves. Similar to Urshifu and Scizor, Ogerpon's Form will not change until the move is chosen, at which point, she will take a moment to put the appropriate mask on.

Superpower combines the defensive fortitude of a Defender with the fast and heavy damage of a Speedster, building up power before charging and unleashing it all at once. While charging, Ogerpon uses the mask as a shield, blocking and nullifying the damage of ranged basic attacks while also drastically reducing the damage of all other attacks, provided they are received from the front. 2 seconds is a long time to charge an attack, as the enemy can simply move out of the way if they see the attack coming, but Ogerpon will more than likely use this attack to dive in on an opposing team's Goal Zone, which is where Ogerpon is at her strongest.

The function and effects of the move change depending on which mask is being worn. If the Hearthflame Mask is being worn, the move functions similarly to Talonflame's Unite Move, Flame Sweep, damaging and dragging enemies along the attack until a great big explosion of fire Throws them all upwards. The Wellspring Mask works in the opposite order, Throwing enemies caught in the attack before unleashing a big splash of water at the end of the move, Shoving enemies away.

While the Wellspring Mask version is considerably weaker than the Hearthflame Mask, it comes with an additional effect of reducing the cooldown of the move for each enemy caught in the big splash at the end of the move. It makes it a lot faster to use than the Hearthflame Mask version, as that move is stuck with 12 seconds of cooldown until the move is upgraded, reducing the cooldown to 9.5 seconds instead. The Wellspring Mask version will still be faster, as it can be used to dive into fights, having its cooldown reduced for each enemy hit, and then allowing Ogerpon to use Superpower again to hinder the enemy during the fight.

Both moves adopt Quick Attack's ability to generate basic attack counters by increasing the counter for each enemy hit by the big blast at the end of the move. For the Hearthflame Mask, it's easier to build up basic attack counters thanks to being able to Shove enemies into the final hit before exploding, but the Wellspring Mask is safer to use and more defensive. Granted, the Hearthflame Mask can then use those basic attack counters to weave and swerve away from the opposing team's attacks, so it's all a matter of adapting to the fight as it rages on.

Superpower is a high powered move that sends Ogerpon charging into a massive team fight with the intent to deal big damage. However, as an All-Rounder, Ogerpon can choose to play more defensively, opting for a different set of masks instead.

Move 2b: Spiky Shield - Dash/Area

The user throws a decoy of its mask forward while quickly dashing backwards, Shoving enemies on hit and increasing the user's basic attack counter by one. The decoy mask intercepts projectiles and damages enemies that touch it for a short while. If the user throws a decoy of the Teal Mask, the mask explodes after a short while, flinging sharp leaves everywhere and inflicts damage over time for a short while. If the user throws a decoy of the Cornerstone Mask, opposing pokemon will be unable to move through the decoy and have their Movement Speed reduced for a short while after receiving damage. 8s cooldown.

At Level 13, Spiky Shield becomes Spiky Shield+.

The pokemon drops a bigger mask and gains 2 basic attack counters instead of 1.

Ogerpon drops a decoy copy of her mask, throwing it forward and Shoving enemies back with the attack. In the same motion, Ogerpon dashes backwards a fair bit away. You gain 1 basic attack counter when you use this move, 2 with Spiky Shield+.

The decoy mask blocks ranged attacks like basic attacks and move projectiles like Decidueye's Spirit Shackle, nullifying them. It will also damage enemies that touch it. Spiky Shield lingers for 2.5 seconds.

Teal Mask Spiky Shield explodes after 2.5 seconds, throwing sharp leaves everywhere and dealing great damage in a wide area. It will also inflict damage over time for 6 seconds to enemies caught in the blast. Spiky Shield+ drops a bigger mask, causing a bigger explosion.

Cornerstone Spiky Shield prevents enemies from moving through the decoy mask, acting as an obstacle. It will also reduce the enemy's Movement Speed by 25% for 5 seconds after dealing damage to enemies, resetting the duration if Spiky Shield damages enemies repeatedly.

Since the Teal Mask and the Cornerstone Mask are made of renewable resources, it makes sense that Ogerpon can easily deploy decoys of the masks she's wearing, creating an instant barrier to defend her and her allies.

When Spiky Shield is thrown out, Ogerpon chucks the decoys forward while dashing backwards. This creates a lot of space for Ogerpon to dash away, as the Spiky Shield decoys are likely to obscure the opposing team's efforts to give chase. Not only that, it guarantees that Ogerpon gets 1 basic attack counter out of the exchange. Not as much as Quick Attack or Superpower can make, but it's a matter of security over offense, if that isn't obvious enough.

For what its worth, Spiky Shield makes a hard-to-ignore barrier that enemies will be forced to walk around. The Teal Mask explodes after a short while though, flinging sharp leaves everywhere. These leaves inflict a damage-over-time hindrance, punishing enemies that do not respect the boundaries you've established. Meanwhile, the Cornerstone Mask simply puts up what is functionally a stone wall, damaging enemies that try to pass through and also slowing them down if they touch it.

Both versions of the move improve Ogerpon's ability to deal with ranged attackers as Spiky Shield destroy projectiles used by opposing ranged basic attack and ranged moves like Cinderace's Pyro Ball or Glaceon's Icicle Spear. Spiky Shield+ makes this easier as it drops a bigger decoy, making it easier to intercept projectiles. Spiky Shield+ also gives you 2 basic attack counters instead of 1, making defensive plays that much easier.

The amount of space you can make with Spiky Shield, combined with its low cooldown and basic attack counter generation, makes the move out to be a very annoying attack to contend with. Like, how are you supposed to approach Ogerpon? Well, for an All-Rounder, she's not that bulky, as she relies on her moves and abilities to boost herself through the enemy's fortifications. Plus, Spiky Shield is not as optimal when fighting on the opposing team's Goal Zones, as it makes too much space for Ogerpon to abuse Defiant reliably. She can use it to get away from fights easily, but you won't see her diving into fights with the move, contrary to what Superpower allows her to do.

There's also the opportunity cost when it comes to choosing masks. Choosing Spiky Shield over Superpower locks you out of the Wellspring Mask and the Hearthflame Mask, two very powerful forms for Ogerpon to bring into battle. It all depends on how the team is structured and it must be solved by you and your allies if you're going to take on this overpowered ogre.

Unite Move: Festival of Masks - Buff

The user gives all nearby allies a mask, empowering them and itself with the spirit of festivity and joy. The user and all nearby allies gain a shield that prevents debuffs from effecting them while the shield is active, as well as an additional effect depending on which mask the user is wearing. If the user is wearing the Teal Mask, all allies gain an increased Attack and Sp. Attack and basic attack speed boost. If the user is wearing the Wellspring Mask, all allies restore HP gradually and become resistant to hindrances. If the user is wearing the Hearthflame Mask, all allies moves deal more damage and have their cooldown hastened. If the user is wearing the Cornerstone Mask, all allies gain an increased Defense and Sp. Defense boost and drastically reduces the damage received from piercing damage. The user's Defiant ability becomes active for the duration of the Unite Move, gaining even more boosts the more masks that were handed out.

When Festival of Masks is used, Ogerpon gives all allies in a wide area a mask, the kind of which depends on what mask Ogerpon is wearing. These masks are slightly off-model and appear to be meant to be sold as souvenirs.

Regardless of which mask was given, Ogerpon and all allies that got a mask will gain a 20% shield that nullifies debuffs while the shield is active. This shield stacks with Buddy Barrier, but the Unite shield is used up first. The shields also grant a bonus effect while active, depending on which mask is being worn.

Teal Masks grant all allies a 30% boost to their Attack and Sp. Attack and basic attack speed.

Wellspring Masks grants hindrance resistance and restores the wearer's HP by 5% each second.

Hearthflame Masks make all the wearer's moves deal 50% more damage and doubles the speed at which their cooldowns clock down.

Cornerstone Masks boosts the wearer's Defense and Sp. Defense by 60% and reduces piercing damage by 50%.

In addition, Ogerpon's Defiant ability remains active and gains an additional 10% boost to all stats for each Mask given. When fully powered up, this can be as much as 70%, or 90% if the Teal Mask is being worn.

Festival of Masks empowers Ogerpon for 10 seconds.

In the land of Kitakami, a festival is held yearly, full of flavorful fair foods and cool costumes, and by costumes, I mean masks. This festival is all about masking up and celebrating pokemon (which makes it very similar to Halloween now that I think about it), but it can be a sort of a lonely experience if you're all by yourself. Ogerpon knows that festivals are meant to be enjoyed with friends, but she didn't have any for the longest time, until now.

With an entire posse backing her up, Ogerpon can help them get ready with her Unite Move, Festival of Masks, and gives each of her friends in range a mask of their own, depending on the one she's got on her at the moment. These masks grant a boost depending on which mask she's got on, and the power up is similar in flavor to what Ogerpon's own mask offers, so it's easy to figure out which mask does what.

But just in case it's not as obvious, here's a quick rundown. The Teal Mask gives all allies extra attack power and basic attack speed. The Wellspring Mask gives all allies hindrance resistance and a passive HP recovery effect while the mask is on. The Hearthflame Mask increases the attack power of pokemon moves and makes the cooldown of those moves run on double speed, making them faster to use. And lastly, the Cornerstone Mask increases their defenses and even weakens the power of piercing damage attacks. And all of these come with a sizable shield, allowing your friends to enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

It can be a bit hard to keep track of which mask gives which bonus, but for the most part, your Unite Move greatly benefits offensive pokemon like Dragonite or Venusaur, so try to prioritize inviting them to the festival when the time comes. Supporters like Comfey and Blissey won't exactly impress anyone with the extra attack power, but if they do their job diligently in backing you up, they'll almost always be all masked up and ready to go.

Ogerpon's own festive spirit also increases as the Unite Move activates Defiant and increases it even more for each mask she manages to give out. She gets a small plus to her stats for each mask given, resulting in a 40%+ increase if you've got the whole squad prepared for a party. This can total up to a maximum of 70% Defiant boost, or even 90% if you're wearing the Teal Mask! Granted, this requires total coordination on your team's part, but even having 1 or 2 friends joining you will give you a momentary power boost for a short while.

A mask may hide one's true intentions and feelings, but in the Festival of Masks, the facade is meant to equalize everyone's experience and enjoyment. Ogerpon knows she isn't like other pokemon, but by wearing her masks, she can fight on the same level as everyone, and they can treat her just as well.

Achievements

KO opposing Pokemon while under the effects of Defiant when it is activated by either Ivy Cudgel+ or Wood Hammer+.

While this achievement doesn't call for a strict number of KOs within a given match, it's still reasonably tough due to specifically requiring Ivy Cudgel+ or Wood Hammer+, 2 moves that you need to upgrade in order to get this achievement.

Now, while it would have been easy to just make the achievement about scoring KOs with regular Defiant, that would be counterproductive to Ogerpon's play style. Players wanting to score this achievement will become more focused on pointless fights on the opposing Goal Zone and may be tempted to miss out on objectives and defending your own turf in favor of accomplishing this achievement. This kind of behavior is a very good way to turn a pokemon's players into a stereotype (like, there's always gonna be backcappers in your games every now and then, and you KNOW which pokemon they main...).

Of course, I did want to feature Defiant as an achievement in some form, so I settled for the effect of manually setting the ability through your upgraded moves. Because it requires diligent grinding to upgrade your moves, not only does it make Ogerpon players better at leveling up as they need to, it also teaches them how and when to go for the KO with Defiant active. It teaches them how strong the ability is and how to capitalize on the opportunity presented to them, whether it be on the opposing Goal Zone or even during their Unite Move.

Gotta learn to stand strong in the face of adversity.

Holowear

Ogerpon is one of the few pokemon to come to battle saddled with clothing, and I'm not just talking about her mask. It seems that she's really attached to that green poncho covering her body, so any Holowear we can design has to conform around that article of clothing, not just her various masks.

Starting off, we can go with the Tourist Style Holowear that gives Ogerpon a sun hat, a scarf, and a camera hanging around her neck. Party Style Holowear decorates her poncho with ribbons and streamers and a birthday cone hat, and comes with flairs of confetti each time she moves and KOs an enemy. Skull Style Holowear covers Ogerpon in bones and some animal skulls that look suspiciously familiar, and adds an effect to KOs where a skull and crossbones pop up. Rainy Style Holowear gives her a yellow rain cap and puts a yellow raincoat over her poncho, and gives her an adorable pair of yellow rain boots to stomp around in. And lastly, Spooky Style Holowear places jack-o'-lantern and bat pins on Ogerpon's poncho while giving her a pair of fake demon horns on top of her head. Huh, you'd think she' resent that last one, given her history, but it seems that she's been oblivious to her public image for hundreds of years and doesn't understand the concept of fear.

That...explains a few things, actually.

Strategy

Long ago, in a village called Kitakami, Ogerpon lost her friend to three terrible thieves. On that day, she became known as the demon of the mountain, for the ruthlessness she displayed putting those three down.

The villagers called her terrifying, we just call it 'fully powered Defiant'. Ogerpon is at her strongest when she's contesting the enemy territory with her Defiant ability, as the enemy will do all they can to save their Goal Zone when they're behind in points. Once you've wiped the field clean of all opposition, it's prime time for you and your allies to start scoring.

While it may seem counterintuitive to break as many Goal Zones as you can, it depends on which lane you attack which can put your opponents in a checkmate position. If the Top Lane is all clear for Regieleki or Rotom to reach the central Goal Zone, then securing Rayquaza won't make much of a difference for the opposing team as you and your allies can just counter with instant scores once the zappy bois touch the Goal Zone. This is all assuming you've coordinated well enough with your team to secure Top Lane just seconds before the 2:00 minute mark.

Of course, you can't leave the Bottom Lane untouched all game either, as the Speed Flux Zone can help the opposing team reach the bottom objective much faster. As an All-Rounder, you do have a greater need for EXP than other archetypes, especially as Ivy Cudgel+ or Wood Hammer+ can grant you a Defiant boost outside of the activation range. Worst case scenario, you're starved for EXP and levels and the opposing team has a few broken Goal Zones, drastically limiting the impact you have on the battlefield.

Ogerpon works well in any of the three lanes at the start of the game, as she will be dealing the most damage once it's time to make a push into the opposing lanes. Ogerpon works best with an ally that needs to score to supplement their stacking items like Attack Weight and Aeos Cookie, which means that Ogerpon works best when she's mainly fighting in the Top Lane.

Now, you might be thinking, which of the 4 Masks is best suited to my gameplan? Since each one is tied to a possible move combination, surely one has to be better than the other. Well, no, they're all equally powerful in their own right, and you shouldn't be so inflexible that you have a preference for one mask over the other. Each mask provides a different boost that is useful in all kinds of situations, so thinking that one is the best is antithetical to Ogerpon's role as an All-Rounder. You're supposed to be good at diving into fights and breaking up the opposing team's fortifications, holding the line in defense while your allies score, empowering them with your Unite Move when you have it. Because of your utility as an All-Rounder, you'll be in all kinds of scenarios where one mask is the most helpful.

Think of it this way. While each mask has a unique effect, they all activate under one specific circumstance, and that's when your fighting the enemy team on their Goal Zones and Speed Flux Zones. Both the Wellspring Mask and the Cornerstone Mask improve your defenses, whereas the Teal Mask helps you chase your enemies. The Hearthflame Mask can punish enemies abusing their hindrance resisting effects, allowing you to either squash a Defender or finish off a Supporter. All of this will happen on the enemy's home turf, so there's no point in comparing the masks with each other.

Your adaptability as a player will be tested, however, as each mask can have different counters. The Wellspring Mask can be stifled by anti-heal effects like the Curse Bangle, and while you can fight for a long time, you can be distracted while the opposing team runs to farm EXP and secure objectives. The Teal Mask grants a boost to your stats and Speed, but she can still be overpowered by Defenders and bulky All-Rounders and her moves are a little lacking in range. The Hearthflame Mask has some really powerful moves, but Speedsters and agile attackers can dash out of the way easily enough. And lastly, the Cornerstone Mask is meant to hold the fort down in a specific area, giving your allies enough space to make big scores, not necessarily to score KOs. Your masks can still be played around, and it's up to you to improvise and overcome these gaps in your defense.

A mask is a face you want to wear for certain situations, but not every situation requires a facade. Sometimes, your true self will shine through the gaps, and that's when you're at your strongest, when you prove yourself as a dependable and reliable friend.

The mask isn't for you, it's for your friends, and enemies, to see the monster you can be, or the person you want to be.

And that's Ogerpon for Pokemon Unite! I really need to make more posts for Pokemon from the Paldea Region, as we now have Meowscarada in the game along with some friendly fodder in Panic Parade. Not only that, there are rumors that some friendly dragons from the game will be showing up as well, so it's time to make the most of things and prepare for the new generation of Pokemon Unite.

Hopefully you all enjoyed this post. Until next time!

#pokemon #Pokemon Unite #Ogerpon

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loan4wealth · 17 days ago

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Need a Business Boost? Explore MSME, Factory & Plot Loans in Ghaziabad

Introduction

Looking to expand your business or set up a factory in Ghaziabad? Whether you need funds for an industrial plot, factory, or growing MSME, the right loan can unlock your next big move. Ghaziabad’s thriving industrial landscape, backed by Delhi-NCR proximity and government incentives, makes it a prime spot for business growth.

1. MSME Loan in Ghaziabad – Tailored for Small Businesses

If you're a micro, small, or medium enterprise owner, MSME loans in Ghaziabad offer fast-track funding with low-interest rates. These loans are backed by government schemes like CGTMSE and are designed to help small businesses scale operations, hire workforce, or upgrade machinery.

Key Benefits:

No collateral (under govt-backed schemes)

Flexible repayment options

Suited for traders, manufacturers, and service providers

2. Loan for Factory in Ghaziabad – Build or Expand Production

Ghaziabad is a hub for manufacturing units. Whether you're planning to construct a factory or need a working capital loan for an existing plant, multiple NBFCs and banks offer factory loans at competitive terms.

Pro Tip (VEO): “Looking to set up a factory in Ghaziabad? Ask your loan advisor about interest subsidies under state industrial policies.”

3. Loan for Industry in Ghaziabad – Powering Large-Scale Operations

For mid to large industries, specialized industrial loans are available to fund infrastructure, technology upgrades, and operational costs. Lenders assess business models, turnover, and asset value to structure customized financial solutions.

Features:

Higher loan amounts (up to ₹50 Cr+)

Project-based or term loans

Suitable for manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing units

4. Loan for Plot in Ghaziabad – Secure Land for Future Projects

Need funds to purchase an industrial or commercial plot in Ghaziabad? Dedicated plot loans let you buy land for setting up offices, warehouses, or production centers. Lenders finance up to 70%-80% of the plot's market value.

Ideal Locations:

NH-24, Meerut Road, Site IV Sahibabad, and Industrial Area Loni

5. Loan for Business in Ghaziabad – Capital for Every Need

Whether you run a restaurant, startup, shop, or IT firm, a business loan in Ghaziabad can cover everything from inventory to marketing. These loans are unsecured and processed quickly with minimal documentation.

Eligibility Snapshot (AEO-style):

Age: 21–65

Business Vintage: 1–3 years minimum

Documents: PAN, GST, bank statements, ITRs

FAQs (Answer Engine Friendly)

Q1. What documents are required for an MSME loan in Ghaziabad? A: PAN card, Aadhaar, business registration proof, ITRs, and bank statements.

Q2. Can I get a loan for purchasing industrial land in Ghaziabad? A: Yes, many lenders offer plot loans specifically for industrial or commercial land.

Q3. Are there government schemes for MSME loans in Ghaziabad? A: Yes, schemes like PMEGP, CGTMSE, and Stand-Up India support MSME funding.

Final Thoughts

Ghaziabad is booming, and your business should too. Whether it's a loan for your MSME, factory setup, or industrial plot purchase, now’s the time to make strategic financial moves. Connect with local lenders or expert loan advisors to get started.

#business #business loan #car loan #cars #home loan #finance

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nikhil16068 · 1 month ago

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#AEO #Authorized Economic Operator #Customs Clearance #International Trade #skmc global #Trade Compliance #Global Business

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eximconsultants · 1 month ago

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Authorized Economic Operator (aeo) Certification India

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program in India is a voluntary compliance scheme under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). It aims to enhance international supply chain security and facilitate the movement of legitimate goods. Businesses involved in international trade can apply for AEO certification, which offers benefits like simplified customs procedures and reduced intervention. Get details Authorized Economic Operator (aeo) Certification India to call us at 9818224440.

Exim Consultants 705-707, Ansal Vikas Deep Building, Laxmi Nagar, Vikas Marg, Delhi-110092 Phone No- +91-9818224440 Email - [email protected] Visit - https://www.eximconsultancy.co.in/authorized-economic-operator-aeo-t1-t2-t3-certification

#aeo) Certification #aeo) Certification india

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voiceofbangus · 7 months ago

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One Week Training Programme on Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals at Watergam Sub-Division Rohama Organised by FoA, Wadura, SKUAST-Kashmir and sponsored by MSME

Shakir bhat

Sopore 02 Dec 2024: One Week Training Programme on Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals at Watergam Sub-Division Rohama Organised by FoA, Wadura, SKUAST-Kashmir and sponsored by MSME.

Faculty of Agriculture, (FoA) Wadura, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir inaugurates “One Week” training program on “Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals” and “One day” awareness programme on “Entrepreneurship Development of Women Through Organic Farming” in collaboration with Department of Agriculture Sub- Division Rohama, Zone Watergam, Baramulla, funded by MSME (Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises).

The primary objective of the programme was to equip and inspire participants to develop innovative ideas and understand the significance of Organic Farming, Optimising ecological Resources besides negative impact of chemicals.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Guest, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Dean Faculty of Agriculture, who highlighted the hazards of indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers and other pesticides possessing severe hazards to the environment, human health and ecosystem. She underscored that this programme serves as a significant step towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering the community, especially women, through organic farming and ecological resource optimization.

On the occasion Dr Yadvinder Singh Sason Chief Agricultural Officer Baramulla

played an important role during the inaugural Session of the training programme and also highlighted the potential of these organic farming practices and deliberated upon various Govt sponsored schemes and incentivization for promoting organic farming in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dr. Bilal Ah. Bhat Head Division of Agri-extension and communication, FoA, Wadura shed light on the importance of these training programmes in fostering new enterprises and assured participants of continued support in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Shah (Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist) Division of Agri. Extension talked about the importance of Organic Farming practices in crops w.r.t. Kashmir Scenario, ill effects of using herbicides, insecticides and pesticides and their residual effects on preceding crops.

Dr. Shayista emphasized the importance of promoting organic farming practices as a viable alternative to mitigate the adverse effects of chemical usage. This holistic approach aims to foster a healthier environment, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure the well-being of local communities.

Mr. Farooq Ahmad Dar, Tehsildar Watergam also highlighted the importance of women empowerment.

Key contributors to the programme included Sub District Agriculture Officer, other Extension Officers of the line department and Research Scholars from SKUAST Kashmir attended the event and played an important role during the inaugural session of the training programme.

About 75 Participants of MSME sponsored training /awareness programme participated including young entrepreneurs, women farmers, practicing farmers and unemployed youth. Significant Number of participants were Women farmers including (OBC) category in the event.

Prof. Parmeet Singh expressed heartfelt appreciation and submitted gratitude to Sub District Agricultural officer Mrs. Shahnaz Nabi Sofi (AEO),Mr. Yasir Ahmad Mir technical officer and his dedicated team for their exceptional efforts and collaboration to make this event happen in their respected zone. We acknowledge the financial support rendered by Directorate of Planning and Monitoring, SKUAST Kashmir for sponsoring these important entrepreneurship events.

#agriculture university #agriculture #horticulture #kashmir

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drewssam · 1 year ago

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CoinDeal Fraudsters Face U.S. SEC’s $45M Charge

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has lodged a $45 million complaint against the CoinDeal Crypto Scheme perpetrators, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The accused include Neil Chandran, Garry Davidson, Michael Glaspie, Amy Mossel, Linda Knott, AEO Publishing Inc., Banner Co-Op, Inc., and BannersGo, LLC.

Allegations state that the accused utilized investors' funds to purchase real estate, vehicles, and a bot, while selling unregistered securities worldwide to amass $45 million. Investors were misled into believing in CoinDeal's potential for extraordinary returns, falsely promised to be sold for trillions to affluent buyers.

Chandran, Davidson, Glaspie, Knott, and Mossel are accused of making false and misleading statements about CoinDeal's value and the supposed sale process. They concealed the actual use of investment funds from investors.

According to Daniel Gregus, Director of SEC’s Chicago Regional Office, the defendants fabricated claims about possessing valuable blockchain technology, promising returns exceeding 500,000 times for investors, enriching themselves while defrauding thousands.

The promised sale of CoinDeal never occurred, and investors received no distributions. Defendants allegedly misappropriated millions for personal use, with Chandran using investor funds for luxury purchases.

The SEC has charged the accused with violating anti-fraud and registration provisions, with additional charges of aiding and abetting specific violations for some defendants.

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abfdfjy · 1 year ago

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N Chandrababu Naidu's Agricultural Revolution: The Rythu Mitra Groups Initiative

The RMG initiative was strategically rolled out in phases by N Chandrababu Naidu to ensure effective implementation and broad coverage. Starting with 200 market committees in its initial phase, these non-profit market committees played a vital role in distributing agricultural inputs to farmers. The long-term vision was to extend this initiative to encompass all agricultural market committees in the state. To support this TDP contribution, a substantial budget of 54.10 crore rupees was allocated for the fiscal year 2002-03, emphasizing the TDP government's commitment to empowering the farming community. Recognizing the importance of knowledge dissemination and capacity-building, the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) conducted programs across various districts in Andhra Pradesh. These TDP policies aimed to educate key stakeholders, including senior officers, Multipurpose Extension Officers (MPEOs), Agricultural Extension Officers (AEOs), and RMG conveners and co-conveners. Over 6349 participants benefited from these programs, gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for the effective implementation of the RMG scheme. Participants in the RMG programs provided valuable suggestions by the TDP leaders for further enhancing the initiative. Proposals included involving RMG group members in video conferences to improve communication and facilitate the dissemination of technical information to farmers.

To streamline the formation of RMGs, it was suggested to provide targets on a month-wise basis, ensuring a steady and sustainable expansion of the program. Additionally, inviting lead bank managers to participate in these initiatives was proposed to strengthen the financial aspects of the RMG scheme. The Rythu Mitra Groups initiative, spearheaded by Shri N Chandrababu Naidu's TDP government, stands as a landmark effort to support Andhra Pradesh's farmers. By making quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides accessible and promoting agricultural knowledge, this TDP development aimed to significantly improve crop yields and the income of farmers. The commitment of a substantial budget for its implementation and the inclusive membership criteria underscored the government's dedication to uplifting the agricultural sector. As the program expanded and evolved, it continued to receive valuable input from participants, ensuring its status as a dynamic and effective force for change in the lives of Andhra Pradesh's farmers. This initiative is rightfully celebrated as a top TDP achievement. For a more comprehensive understanding of the TDP policies and for Political news in Andhra Pradesh please visit the official TDP website.

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ikargos · 4 years ago

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FAQ's (Frequently Asked questions) on AEO

Q 1. Who is an authorised economic operator (AEO)?

ANS. An AEO is a business entity involved in international movement of goods requiring compliance with provisions of the national Customs law and is approved by or on behalf of national administration in compliance with World Customs Organization (WCO) or equivalent supply chain security standards. The security standards are detailed in World Customs Organisation Safe framework of standards [WCO SAFE FoS], which is the basis of the Indian AEO programme.

Q 2. What is the AEO programme?

ANS. The AEO programme enables Customs administration to identify the safe and compliant business entity in order to provide them a higher degree of assured facilitation. This segmentation approach enables Customs resources to focus on less or non-compliant or risky businesses for control. Thus, the aim of AEO programme is to secure the international supply chain by granting recognition to reliable operators and encouraging best practices at all levels in the international supply chain. Through this programme, the Customs shares its responsibility with the businesses, while at the same time rewarding them with a number of additional benefits.

Q 3. What is the background of AEO Scheme of the WCO?

ANS. The genesis of AEO scheme dates back to September 11, 2001 event in US which made all the governments to realise that the supply chain itself could be used for terror activities and a need was felt to make the supply chain secure. Since the supply chain is controlled by the trade, the Customs administration is partnering the trade in order to secure the supply chain. The US started CT-PAT (Customs Trade – Partnership against terrorism) programme. Later WCO adopted SAFE Framework of Standards in 2005 in order to secure and facilitate the trade. The SAFE framework has three pillars comprising of Customs to Customs partnership, Customs to Business partnership and Customs to other Govt. stake holders. AEO programme is the core part of Pillar-II i.e. – Customs to Business partnership.

Q 4. How has SAFE framework of Standards (FoS) been implemented in India?

ANS. The SAFE FoS sets forth criteria by which businesses in supply chain can obtain authorised status as a secure partner. The criteria are incorporated in CBEC Circular No. 28/2012 dated 16.11.2012. Thereafter a Revised AEO Program was launched vide Circular No. 33/2016-Customs dated 22.07.2016 as amended by Circular No. 03/2018 dated 17.02.2018, 26/2018 dated10.08.2018 and Circular No. 51/2018 dated 07.12.2018.

Q 5. What is the history of AEO programme in India?

ANS. The AEO Programme was introduced as pilot project in 2011 vide Circular No. 37/2011- Customs dated 23rd August, 2011. The same was amended and the revised final AEO programme was introduced vide Circular No. 28/2012 dated 16.11.2012. With international developments such as Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) on securing and facilitating the International Trade and focus of Government of India on Ease of Doing Business, a comprehensive, unified trade facilitation initiative was launched by merging the existing Accredited Client Programme (ACP) and the ongoing AEO scheme of 2012 in the form of revised AEO Programme vide Circular No. 33/2016-Customs dated 22nd July, 2016. The ACP scheme was abolished by rescinding the Circular No. 42/2005-Customs dated 24.11.2005. Further simplification for financial solvency and decentralisation of AEO application processing was done vide Circular No. 03/2018 dated. 17.01.2018. The application process for AEO-T1 accreditation was further simplified to two Annexures form only by Circular No. 26/2018 dated 10.08.2018 from five Annexure form as was stipulated in Circular No. 33/2016 dated 22.07.2016. Web based On-line application filing and processing for AEO-T1 status started from December 2018 vide Circular 51/2018 dated 07.12.2018.

Q 6. What is the aim of the Indian Customs AEO Programme?

ANS. The AEO programme has the following objectives:

To provide business entities with an internationally recognized certification

To recognize business entities as “secure and reliable” trading partners

To incentivize business entities through defined benefits that translate into savings in time and cost

Secure supply chain from point of export to import

Ability to demonstrate compliance with security standards when contracting to supply overseas importers/exporters

Enhanced border clearance privileges in Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) partner countries

Minimal security related disruption to flow of cargo

Reduction in dwell time and related costs and

Customs advice / assistance if trade faces unexpected issues with Customs of countries with which India has MRAs.

Q 7. Is AEO mandatory for businesses involved in the supply chain?

ANS. No. The AEO scheme is purely an optional scheme. Applying for AEO status is a business decision depending on the role of the business entity in the supply chain and its willingness to acquire the benefit flowing by acquiring AEO status.

Q 8. What is the structure of Indian AEO programme?

ANS. There is a three-tier programme for importers and exporters i.e. AEO-T1, AEO-T2 and AEO-T3 in the increasing degree of benefits accorded and compliance requirements. Furthermore, there is single Tier AEO Programme for Logistics Providers, Custodians or Terminal Operators, Customs Brokers and Warehouse Operators who are granted AEO-LO certificate.

Q 9. What is the validity period of AEO status?

ANS. The validity of AEO certificate is three years for AEO-T1 and AEO-T2, and five years for AEO-T3 and AEOLO.

Q 10. Whether AEO certificate is valid at all Customs stations across India?

ANS. Yes, it is valid at all Customs stations in India. In other words, an AEO status holder shall get the AEO benefits at all Customs ports/ airports/ Land Customs stations.

Q 11. What are the benefits of AEO status?

ANS. There are a host of benefits for all three categories of AEOs- T1, T2, T3 and LOs. These are listed in paras 1.5.1 to 1.5.4 for AEO T1, T2, T3 and LO respectively of Circular No. 33/2016-Customs dated 22nd July, 2016. Some of the major benefits are listed below:

Recognition worldwide as safe, secure and compliant business partners in international trade and get trade facilitation by a foreign Customs administration with whom India enters into a Mutual Recognition Agreement/ Arrangement

Facility of Direct Port Delivery (DPD) of their import Containers and/ or Direct Port Entry (DPE) of their Export Containers

Waiver of full or part of the Bank Guarantee requirements, Waiver of Merchant overtime fees

Deferred payment of duties

Waiver from transactional PCA. Instead Onsite PCA has been provided, the selection of the same shall be based on risk assessment of AEOs

Waiver of solvency certification for Customs Brokers

A lower risk score in risk analysis systems when profiling

Faster disbursal of drawback amount through process eased out vide Circular 18/2017 Customs dated 29.05.2017

Fast tracking of refunds and adjudications

Self-certified copies of FTA / PTA origin related or any other certificates required for clearance would be accepted

Recognition by Partner Government Agencies and other Stakeholders as part of AEO programme

Q 12. Whether all AEO operators are entitled for DPD /DPE facility?

ANS. Yes, all AEO T1/T2/T3 status holders are entitled for DPD/ DPE facility. However, they have to apply for the Direct Port Delivery permission to the concerned Chief Commissioner and also register themselves with the port authority for DPD facility.

Q 13. Whether the amount of Bank Guarantee in case of T1, T2 and T3 is reduced to 50%, 25% and Nil respectively in all cases of dispute between Customs and AEO status holder?

ANS. No. The CBIC Circular No. 38/2016 dt. 22.08.2016 list out the situations where amount of BG is reduced to 50%, 25% and Nil. Further it is not applicable for cases where competent authority orders furnishing of bank guarantee for provisional release of seized goods.

Q 14. What is deferred payment of duty scheme?

ANS. It is a mechanism for delinking duty payment from Customs clearance. It is based on the principle ‘Clear First-Pay later’. Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016 vide notification no 134/2016-Customs (NT) and 135/2016-Customs (NT) both dated 02nd Nov 2016 have been notified and the same have come into effect from 16.11.2016.

The AEO-T2 and AEO-T3 certified importers can avail the benefit of these Rules.

Q 15. How can an AEO avail the facility of deferred payment of duty?

ANS. As per Rule 4 of the Deferred Payment of Import Duty Rules, 2016 an eligible importer who intends to avail the benefit of deferred payment has to intimate his intent to the jurisdictional Principal Commissioner of Customs or the Commissioner of Customs and get registered on the ICEGATE website www.icegate.gov.in.

Q 16. What are the due dates for payment in respect of deferred payment of duty?

ANS. As per Notification No. 134/2016 Cus (NT) dated 02.11.2016 as amended by Notification No. 28/2017 –Cus(NT) dated 31.03.2017,the Deferred Payment of Import Duty time lines are as below:

NOTE: The duty under deferred payment scheme has to be paid electronically.

Q 17. Whether facilitation benefits will be available to Indian AEOs in foreign countries?

ANS. Yes, the facilitation benefits will be available in countries with whom India has signed Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). Indian Customs has signed Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong Customs to enable trade to get benefits on reciprocal basis.

Q 18. What exactly is a mutual recognition agreement/ arrangement (MRA)?

Ans. Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements (MRA) are bilateral understandings between two Customs Administrations which allow one business partnership program to recognize the AEO validations of the other country’s program and extend reciprocal benefits to each other’s AEO. The benefits are generally in nature of enhanced system-based facilitation & reduced interdiction, lower risk score for Indian exporter’s consignments at foreign port.

Q 19. Whether benefit of AEO LO status granted to a Customs Broker will also be given to its clients i.e., importers or exporters?

ANS. No. The AEO LO status will only be valid and applicable for the applicant and not for his importers or exporters. They need to apply separately for AEO status.

Q 20. Where should applications for AEO be submitted?

ANS. The application should be sent to the office of the jurisdictional Chief Commissioner of Customs with copy to AEO Programme Manager, Directorate of International Customs or in case of any doubt, to the AEO Programme Manager, Directorate of International Customs, 10th Floor, Tower II, Jeevan Bharti Building, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001. The jurisdictional Chief Commissioner of Customs is the one from where the Importer/Exporter/Logistic operator is doing majority of business in international supply chain. An on-line website (Domain name: aeoindia.gov.in) has been created for filing and processing of AEO-T1 application. The applicant can login to the website and file the AEO- T1 application. A separate FAQ about online filing of application is attached as Annexure-A.

Q 21. Which jurisdictional Chief Commissioner offices are designated for processing of AEO applications?

ANS. As of now, the following Chief Commissioner of Customs offices have been designated for processing of AEO application:

Delhi

Mumbai Zone-I

Mumbai Zone-II

Mumbai Zone-III

Ahmedabad

Vishakhapatnam

Bhubaneswar

Bangalore

Chennai

Hyderabad

Kolkata

Tiruchirappalli

Patna

Pune

Nagpur

Bhopal

Q 22. Who is responsible for processing AEO application and taking decision on grant of AEO status?

ANS. The AEO Cell under the jurisdictional Chief Commissioner of Customs, headed by nodal officer of the rank of Additional /Joint Commissioner is responsible for processing AEO applications as per provisions contained in Circular No. 33/2016-Customs as amended by Circular Nos. 03/2018-Customs, 26/2018 and 51/2018 -Customs. The nodal officer of the jurisdictional Chief Commissioner forwards the processed application of AEO-T2/T3 and AEO-LO with recommendation to programme manager of Indian AEO Programme having office at Delhi for taking final decision on AEO accreditation. The process of AEO-T1 accreditation has been further simplified and decentralised by Circular No. 26/2018 dt.10.08.2018. Officers in the Rank of Principal Commissioner/Commissioner have been appointed as the Zonal AEO Programme Manager in each Zone headed by Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner of Customs and are responsible for final acceptance or rejection of the AEO application. Thus, the AEO-T1 application is processed by AEO Cell and eligibility thereto is decided at Zonal level only. The decision is conveyed to Directorate of International Customs for generation of AEO Certificate. Such approved applications are sent online by the zones to DIC Delhi for generation of digitally signed certificate.

Q 23. Who is AEO programme manager for Indian AEO Programme?

ANS. The Principal Commissioner, Directorate of International Customs, having office at 10th floor, Tower-2, Jeevan Bharati Building, Connaught Place, New Delhi-01 is the AEO Programme Manager for Indian AEO programme. For AEO-T1 accreditation, the Zonal AEO Programme Manager is treated as AEO Programme Manager for all purposes.

Q 24. Whether an economic operator whose application is once rejected under the current scheme, can apply again for AEO status?

ANS. Yes, the application can be filed again if grounds on which the application was rejected are no longer valid and the applicant is otherwise eligible for AEO status.

Q 25. What are the requirements for filing AEO T1/T2/T3/LO application?

ANS. An applicant for AEO-T1 status is to file application online (Domain name: aeoindia.gov.in) in prescribed proforma along with a Declaration as indicated in Annexure A- 1, Annexure A-2 to CBEC Circular No. 26/2018 dated 10.08.2018. After introduction of web- based module for filing online application vide Circular 51/2018 dt. 07.12.2018, it is mandatory to file online application only.

An applicant for grant of any of the remaining three AEO statuses, namely AEO-T2, AEO-T3 and AEO-LO, should submit the application in the proforma specified in Table below. The application form as specified in the Circular No. 33/2016-Customs contains Ten annexures. However, an applicant is required to fill-in and submit only those annexures which may be applicable to it, as mentioned below:

Q 26. Can an existing AEO status holder file application for higher AEO status? If yes, what is the time limit for filing such application?

ANS. An existing AEO certificate holder can apply for higher AEO status. There is no time limit for filing higher status application except in case of AEO-T3. In case of AEO-T3, either the entity should have had AEO-T2 status continuously for two years or when all its business partners in international supply chain have acquired either AEO-T2 or AEO-LO status.

Q 27. Can a consultant be appointed as the contact person or the authorised person for filing application?

ANS. No. The applicant has to nominate the contact person/ authorised representative from company’s own administration only (Para 2.3 of Circular No. 33/2016-Customs).

Q 28. Who can apply for AEO status?

ANS. Any business entity that is part of the international supply chain; involved in the cross- border movement of goods and required to fulfil obligations under the Customs law in India, only can apply for AEO status. These may include exporters, importers, logistic providers (e.g. carriers, airlines, freight forwarders, etc.), Custodians or Terminal Operators, Customs House Agents and Warehouse Owners, Port operators, authorized couriers, Stevedores etc. The list is not exhaustive.

Q 29. What is the eligibility criteria for a business entity to apply for Indian AEO status?

ANS. The eligibility conditions and criteria for granting AEO Status has been listed in the Section 3 of the AEO Circular No. 33/2016 –Customs dated 22nd July, 2016 as amended by Circular No. 3/2018-Customs dated 17th January, 2018. An entity should fulfil the following criteria:

a)Established in India b)Business should be involved in Customs related activity c)Should have dealt with minimum 25 Customs documents (either Bill of Entry or Shipping Bill) in the last fiscal year d)Should have been in business activity for last 3 Financial Years

Q 30. Whether a branch of a legal entity can apply for a separate AEO Status?

ANS. No. There is no provision to grant AEO status to specific site, division or branch of legal entity of the applicant

Q 31. Whether a newly established company can apply for AEO Status?

ANS. As per the Indian AEO requirements, the applicant should have business activities for at least three financial years preceding the financial year of date of application. However, in exceptional cases, on the basis of physical verification of internal controls of a newly established business entity, the AEO Programme Manager can consider it for certification.

Q 32. Whether a legal entity falling under three tier AEO programme as an importer/ exporter and single tier AEO programme as a logistics provider can apply for single accreditation of AEO T1/T2/T3 or AEO LO?

ANS. No, such economic operator should apply separately for any of the three tier AEO programme of importer/exporter (AEO T1/T2/T3) or single tier AEO LO status.

Q 33. Whether AEO programme is open to micro, small and medium enterprises?

ANS. Yes, the AEO programme includes MSMEs and the eligibility conditions and criteria for granting AEO status are same regardless of size. The only requirement is that the entity should have handled at least 25 Customs documents in preceding Financial Year.

Q 34. What are the legal requirements for applying for AEO status? What are the documents to be submitted?

ANS. The Legal requirement for applying for AEO status, as prescribed in para 3.2 and annexure E.2, to Circular No. 33/2016-Customs dated 22.7.2016.

Q 35. What are the documents to be submitted as proof of having business activity for the last three financial year preceding the date of application?

ANS. The documents /evidence include Certificate of Incorporation, Import- Export Code (IEC), balance sheets for three-years etc.

Q 36. In case where applicant does not have audited balance sheet, what documents are to be submitted in its place?

ANS. In cases where the statute exempts the applicant from statutory audit, the applicant can submit balance sheet certified by both the proprietor/partner/MD and any chartered accountant (CA) stating the profit /loss and net worth for the purpose of AEO application.

Q 37. What documents are needed to be submitted by a business as proof of having its own accounts?

ANS. The documents/ evidence required as a proof about the business of a company having its own accounts include cancelled cheque, account statement, audited balance sheets.

Q 38. What does procedure in place to identify and disclose irregularities means?

ANS. It means that the applicant must have tools in the form of Customised software or manual checks to identify risks and detect error in Customs documents (B/L, invoice and Packing list), for self-assessment of goods imported i.e., proper check of classification, valuation etc and after clearance of goods from Custom control, they must have the process to reconcile the goods with duty paid invoice and packing list. Further they may have documented processes/SOPs/escalation matrix for communicating the error noticed to Customs on real time basis and maintain record of such errors for viewing of their employees so that such mistakes do not recur.

Q 39. How is the ratio between duty demanded and duty paid listed at serial number d(ii) of annexure E-2 calculated?

ANS. The ratio is calculated by dividing duty amount involved in SCN issued under the Customs Act divided by total duty paid & drawback claimed during the last three financial years. For example, the amount involved in SCN/disputed demand (includes demand of duty and denial of drawback) is Rs.500/- and total duty paid is Rs.20,000/-, drawback claimed is Rs. 5,000/-, the ratio shall be 500/(20000+5000)*100 = 2%.

Q 40. Whether the applicant having ratio of duty demanded and total duty paid/drawback

claimed more than 10% are not eligible for AEO accreditation? ANS. Yes. In case the ratio is above 10%, the AEO programme envisages examination of the nature of cases of duty demand. The decision for issue or continuance of AEO status is at the discretion of AEO programme manager based on examination of the Show Cause Notices issued.

Q 41. What are the documents required to be maintained for ensuring compliance of

Annexure E.3 – Managing Commercial and Transport Records? ANS. The AEO applicant should:

Maintain records which permit Customs to conduct any required audit of cargo movement relating both to import and export;

Give Customs full access to necessary records;

Have internal records access and control systems;

Appropriately maintain and make available to Customs any authorizations, powers of attorney and licences relevant to the importation or exportation of merchandise;

Properly archive records for later production to Customs. For instance, for Customs purpose, the records should be maintained at least for five years.

Employ adequate information technology security measures which will protect against access by unauthorized persons.

Q 42. What accounting system is required to be followed by an AEO [Annexure E.3(a)]?

ANS. Any accounting system consistent with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) / International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which facilitates audit-based Customs control can be adopted. The audited balance sheet by Auditor contains remark about the Accounting system adopted by applicant.

Q 43. What are the documentary evidences in support of claim of compliance required as per annexure E.3(b) i.e .adequate administrative set up and internal controls for detecting illegal or irregular transactions?

ANS. Generally, the audited financial statement/balance sheet contains comments as to whether administrative set up corresponds to size of business. Other requirements for internal controls are satisfactory organisational setup to handle goods and documents related to same in the international supply chain.

Q 44. What are the documentary evidences in support of claim of compliance required for storage and archiving of documents as per annexure E.3(d)?

ANS. The applicant must have documented processes/ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for storage and archiving of records and information. The SOP may contain the process of storing with the responsibility of concerned person, period of storing / archiving, process of taking suitable measures like back up for protection against loss of information. If the applicant has outsourced the storage and archiving of records, then the above requirements should be covered in the agreement with the agency storing the records and such agreements should be presented along with the application.

Q 45. What are the requirements for Annexure E.3(v) i.e., need for employee to inform Customs about compliance difficulty?

ANS. The applicant may submit their practice /processes of educating/ training their employees on Customs compliances. The process must include procedure to convey compliance difficulties, if any, to the designated Customs officer. The applicant may designate a person in their organisation for above purpose.

Q 46. Is there any format for the undertaking regarding solvency and for the solvency certificate?

ANS. No, there is no format in AEO Circular No. 33/2016-Customs. The only requirement is that the certificate should be for last three financial years (Each year) based on books of accounts and financial statements, tax returns etc.

Q 47. Who are required to submit Security Plan (Annexure B) and fulfil requirement listed in Annexure E.5 of AEO Circular 33/2016?

ANS. The applicant for AEO T-2, T-3 and AEO-LO are required to submit Security plan and documents/evidence in support of fulfilment of requirements for safety and security listed in Annexure E.5.1 to E.5.7.

Q 48. What are the requirements of Safety and Security for AEO applicant?

ANS. The safety and security criteria is listed in Para 3.5 and Annexure E.5.1 to E.5.7 of Circular No.33/2016. It has seven components.

Procedural Security [refer para 3.5.2]

Premises Security [refer para 3.5.3]

Cargo Security [refer para 3.5.4]

Conveyance Security [refer para 3.5.5]

Personnel Security [refer para 3.5.6]

Business Partner Security [refer para 3.5.7]

Security Training & Threat Awareness [refer para 3.5.8]

Q 49. What is the additional requirement for AEO T-3 applicant?

ANS. In addition to submission of documents and fulfillment of requirements prescribed for AEO T-2 applicant, the applicant for AEO T-3 has to submit details prescribed in Annexure F of Circular No. 33/ 2016 dated 22.07.2016. In Annexure F, the applicant has to give details of all his business partner(s) in International Supply chain which includes their accreditation under Indian AEO Programme. The declaration is to be given in format of Annexure “F”. The AEO T3 applicant who are not AEO T-2 certificate holder for last two preceding financial years must have all business partners (CB, Freight forwarder, liner etc) AEO T-2 or AEO-LO certificate holder./p>

Q 50. What are the documents to be filed along with declaration made in Annexure A of the AEO?

ANS. The following documents are required to be submitted along with the application:

Certification of incorporation from registrar of companies (ROC)

Declaration about ACP/AEO status (Self)

Address/Sites/Locations of places where goods are handled in the international supply chain and administrative offices

Previous three years audited financial accounts;

Previous three years bank accounts

GSTIN, IEC, PAN, Company incorporation certificate

List of bills of entry and shipping bills handled during the last financial year

Places of business and its addresses and phone numbers

List of directors with DIN numbers.

Evidence/ Certificate issued under MSME Act, if the applicant claims to be MSME

Authorisation letter for contact person of applicant from proprietor/ partner/ board of directors/ managing director

Q 51. Whether Annexure B (security plan) is to be given for all premises belonging to applicant?

ANS. Yes. However, if the company’s written and verifiable policies, processes, procedures, access control and other security policies, training and skill upgradation and compliance with government is same for all locations, the applicant can submit security plan of any one premise which is valid for all its premises used in International Supply Chain.

Q 52. What is Annexure C (Process Map)? Whether it is related to premises belonging to applicant?

ANS. The process map should illustrate the flow of goods, documentation/ information from receipt of order to export/ delivery/ receipt of goods. The same has to be separate for each activity such as exports, imports, providing service for logistics operators etc. Hence, Annexure-C shall be for each individual activity of the applicant. The Process-Map must include role of applicant and its business partners in the supply chain.

Q 53. Whether Annexure D (Site Plan) is to be given for all premises belonging to applicant?

ANS. Yes, the site plan as prescribed in Annexure D of Circular should be for all locations/sites.

Q 54. What are the documents required for General compliance (Annexure E.1)?

ANS. The following documents are require for general compliance

Copy of AEO certificate, if any;

Copy of IEC, GSTIN;

Declaration on type of business entity with copy of registration. For instance, in case of public or private limited, certificate of incorporation issued by ROC; in case of partnership, registered partnership deed; in case of

Small proprietorship firm, a license issued by local shop and establishment Act etc. ;

List of places/location where goods are being handled (For example loading, unloading, storage etc);

Cancelled bank cheque or certificate from Bank evidencing account of applicant, account statement from bank etc as a proof of business having own account;

List of documents (Bill of entry, shipping bills) handled in the last Financial Year;

Declaration on conviction in criminal offence, if any, with details.

Q 55. In what cases is the application for AEO accreditation not processed or returned for rectification?

ANS. The application for AEO accreditation is not processed in following cases:

When application is incomplete. The application may be resubmitted with the complete information.

Where the application has not been made by a legal person. The same can be resubmitted by the concerned legal entity.

Where no responsible person is nominated as the Point of Contact. The application can only be resubmitted when the applicant nominates a responsible person from his/her organisation only, who will be the point of contact for the AEO Programme.

Where the applicant is subject to bankruptcy proceedings at the time the application is made. The application can be resubmitted when the applicant becomes solvent.

Where a previously granted AEO status has been revoked -The application can be submitted only after one

Year, in case of AEO T-1 & T-2 and after three years in case of AEO T-3 and LO, from the date of revocation.

Q 56. In what cases the AEO application be rejected?

ANS. The AEO application can be rejected in following two cases:

Where the applicant is not eligible for grant of AEO status, or

Where the deficiency noticed in the application is not remedied.

Q 57. What are the timelines and procedure for processing AEO applications?

ANS. In case of AEO T-1 application, if the eligibility conditions and criteria for grant of certificate, as mentioned in Section 3 of Circular No. 33/2016-Customs, are found to have been met to the satisfaction of AEO programme manager, the AEO T-1 certificate shall be granted within 30 days of submission of information/ documents. The mode of application for AEO T-1 and its processing has been made online since December 2018. In case of AEO T-2 and LO application, on submission of all required information/documents, the applicant is informed about the receipt of the same within 30 days. The application is assigned to AEO team within 15 days to carry out physical verification in consultation with applicant. The AEO programme team visits the premises of applicant within 90 days. The applicant can contact programme manager if visit is not planned within 45 days. The AEO programme team prepares the report and makes recommendation within 60 days of completion of visit. The AEO programme manager informs about AEO T-2/LO status to applicant within 30 days of the recommendation of AEO team. Thus, the total time taken from submission of application till the issuance of the certificate work out to maximum 180 days. In case of AEO T-3 application by an AEO T-2 status holder, the application is assigned to AEO programme team within 15 days. The timelines for further activities are same as in above para for AEO T-2 and LO certifications.

Q 58. Whether all premises of applicant involved in Customs related activity are to be visited for physical Verification by AEO team?

ANS. For AEO T-2 and AEO LO certification, examination of the criteria laid down under Section 3 of AEO Circular shall be carried out for all the premises which are relevant to the Customs related activities of the applicant for AEO-T2 or AEO-LO status. In case, more than one premises of applicant are run in similar way by standard systems of record keeping and security etc., the AEO programme team can choose to visit any one of such similarly run premises as per the provision contained in Para 4.4.5.5 of AEO Circular. In such situation, the applicant has to make declaration to this effect in the form of Undertaking. However, if the applicant has a range of activities or different premises are run using different methods of operation, the AEO Programme team has to visit those premises.

Q 59. What are the areas covered by AEO Programme team during physical verification of applicant premise?

ANS. The purpose of Physical verification by AEO team is to check whether the claims made in application regarding requirement and fulfilment of criteria as listed in Section 3 of AEO Circular exists or are in place.

The AEO programme team may cover following areas during visit:

Information on Customs matters including about the contravention of Customs Act.

Remedial action taken on previous Customs errors, if any.

Accounting and logistic systems.

Internal controls and procedures.

Flow of cargo.

Use of Customs House Agents and selection of other business partners.

Security of Computers/IT and documents.

Financial solvency.

Safety and security assessment – premises, cargo, personnel etc.

Logistic processes.

Storage of goods

The above list is not exhaustive. The team can decide to cover more areas during visit as per the requirements.

Q 60. Can physical verification be stopped if the applicant for AEO T-2 or AEO LO fails to provide certain documents to the team or there are problems with the system/ processes/ requirements?

ANS. Yes, in exceptional cases the verification process can be stopped with mutual consent. The applicant is given time to submit additional documents and rectify the minor issues. The applicant has to inform AEO team regarding rectification within 6 months so that the verification process recommences. The applicant in such cases will get decision on application by the revised date to be informed by the AEO team.

Q 61. To whom the AEO status holder should inform about Customs related errors and regarding its compliance?

ANS. The AEO status holder should report Customs related errors and its compliance to the CRM as well as AEO cell of the jurisdictional Chief Commissioner.

Q 62. How will the AEO status be renewed?

ANS. The AEO status is renewed against application for the same made before lapse of their validity as stated below:

AEO status Time limit for submission of application for renewal before lapse of validity AEO-T1 30 days AEO-T2 60 days AEO-T3 90 days AEO-LO 90 days

The applicant must highlight the changes made from the last application in their renewal application. The AEO Programme Manager will consider the renewal applications by following the procedure adopted while granting the fresh AEO status.

Q 63. In what circumstances, does the AEO status holder need to notify about changes in their business and processes?

ANS. The AEO status holder must notify AEO cell or the client relationship manager of the jurisdictional chief commissioner in following cases of changes:

Change in its legal entity.

Change of business name and/or address.

Change in the nature of business i.e., manufacturer / exporter etc.

Changes in accounting and computer systems.

Changes to the senior personnel responsible for Customs matters.

Addition or deletion of locations or branches involved in international supply chain.

Q 64. What is the time limit to notify significant change in business and processes by AEO status holders?

ANS. The AEO status holder must notify the changes as soon as it is known or at least within fourteen days of the change taking place.

Q 65. What happens to the AEO accreditation if the legal status of the entity changes?

ANS. The AEO status holder needs to re-apply for the AEO certification in the name of new legal entity. For instance, if a legal entity changes from proprietorship to LLP or Pvt Limited company, then it has to file a fresh application.

Q 66. Whether the AEO status is subject to Review?

ANS. Yes. The AEO team is mandated to review the AEO status periodically to ensure that the AEO client continues to adhere to the condition of AEO accreditation.

Q 67. What are the timelines for review of AEO status?

ANS. The frequency of review of AEO status are same for AEO T-1 and AEO T-2 i.e., once in three years. The same is five years for AEO T-3 /LO status. However, the Directorate of International Customs, entrusted to implement and monitor AEO Programme in India, can initiate review at any point of time, if there is reason to believe that the conditions of AEO Programme or standard of AEO status have been compromised.

Q 68. Under what circumstances, can the AEO status be suspended or downgraded?

ANS. The AEO Programme Manager may suspend the Certificate of AEO Status in the following cases:

a) Where any non-compliance with the conditions or criteria for the Certificate of AEO Status has been detected or b) In the case of a Custodian or Custom Broker or Warehouse Operator, where the basic license as a Custodian or Custom Broker or Warehouse Operator, as the case may be, has been suspended by the competent authority. There is also provision for downgrading of the status of an AEO-T3 to AEO-T2 or to AEO-T1,or downgrade the status of an AEO-T2 to AEO-T1, in the case of issue of any show cause notice (other than on issue listed in 3.2.1 of the AEO Circular) for contravention of Customs/Central Excise/GST law or suspend the status of the AEO, as deemed appropriate.

WITHDRAWAL/ SUSPENSION/ RESTORATION The above decision is taken after due examination of the SCN, in consultation with the jurisdictional Commissioner.

Q 69. Can appeal be filed against the decision of AEO Programme manager suspending or downgrading the AEO status?

ANS. No, there is no provision for appeal under the AEO scheme. However, there is provision of restoration of suspended/downgraded AEO status.

Q 70. What are the requirements for restoration of suspended/ downgraded AEO status?

ANS. The requirements in various situations are as under: a) In case of non-compliance with the condition of AEO status, if the AEO status holder takes the necessary remedial measures to the satisfaction of the AEO Programme Manager within 60 days of suspension, the AEO Programme Manager may restore the AEO status. b) In case of suspension on account of some action under Customs Act like issue of SCN, cancellation of Customs Broker’s license etc, an AEO Programme manager may consider restoration of AEO status if the action under the Customs Act is dropped/ suspension of license is revoked. c) In case AEO status has been suspended/downgraded on account of SCN and if the ratio of disputed duty demanded or drawback demanded or sought to be denied in SCN under Customs Act in the last three years to the total duty paid and drawback claimed is not more than ten percent, the AEO programme manager may consider for restoration of AEO status. d) In case an AEO status has been downgraded, the entity can apply again for higher status as and when the eligibility conditions and criterion are met by it. Such applications will be treated as a fresh application.

Q 71. Under what circumstances, can the AEO Status be revoked?

ANS. The Certificate of AEO Status will be revoked in following circumstances: a) Where the Certificate of AEO Status is already suspended and the AEO holder fails to take the remedial measure within 60 days of withdrawal for the suspension or b) Where there is a reasonable belief that an act has been perpetrated that is liable to lead to prosecution and /or is linked to an arrest of person under Customs Act, 1962 or c) A show cause notice has been issued to them involving fraud, forgery, outright smuggling, clandestine removal of excisable goods or cases where Service Tax has been collected from customers but not deposited to the Government or d) Where the AEO status holder requests the authorization be revoked.

Q 72. Can an AEO status holder re-apply for AEO status after the same is revoked?

ANS. The AEO-T1 and T2 status holders can re-apply only after a period of one year from the date of revocation. The AEO-T3 and LO status holders can re-apply only after a period of three years from the date of revocation.

Q 73. Benefits to AEO status holders

ANS. The Customs Administration is bound to extend all the benefits and facilitation measures to AEO status holders listed in the AEO Circular. There is provision for appointment of Client Relationship Manager (CRM) at the level of AC/DC as a single point of interaction with AEO Status holder at the office of each Chief Commissioner of Customs. The appointment of CRM is notified by way of public notice by all jurisdictional Customs station. The CRM is entrusted with the responsibility to attend to the legitimate concerns and issues of AEO clients. The details of CRMs are also provided online at CBIC website.

Q 74. What are the other responsibilities of Client Relationship Manager?

ANS. All Jurisdictional Client Relationship Manager (CRM) are responsible for:

a)Extending facilitation / benefits listed in the AEO Circular to the AEO status holders. b)Assisting in filing AEO applications. c)Assisting in getting procedural and operational issues resolved by co-ordinating with different sections within Customs as well as other stakeholders.

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corpzoventuresprivatelimited · 4 years ago

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AEO is a program to protect and promote global trade under the auspices of the World Customs Organization's (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards. The program's goal is to improve international supply chain protection and make it easier for legitimate goods to travel around the world. AEO has a number of players in the global supply chain. As part of this initiative, Customs awards AEO status that participates in foreign trade and is found to be consistent with supply chain protection requirements. India's AEO Program is in line with the WTO's TFA's Article 7.7 commitments.

#Certification is Categories under AEO scheme

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steadfastconsultant · 21 hours ago

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knnindia · 6 years ago

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#self ratification scheme #directorate general of foreign trade #DGFT #authorized economic operators #AEOs

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fresatechnologies · 4 years ago

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Authorized Economic Operator - AEO

A concept that fosters customs to business partnership. It is involved in the international movement of goods that have been approved by the national customs authorities, as complying with the standards set by the WCO on the supply chain security.

Companies that do business internationally need to apply for this certificate if they want to benefit from the advantages the certificate has to offer.

• Generally, the holders of this certificate, • Get easier admittance to customs simplifications. • Recognized as a secure and safe business partner. • Get improved relations with Customs and other government authorities. • Reduce the chances of loss of goods. • Get a lower inspection cost.

Mission:

• Facilitate legitimate trade • Reinforce Safety and Security • Harmonize and standardize the application of customs controls • Provide an electronic environment

This scheme is based on the principle of sharing roles and responsibilities of customs with trade and industry. The objective is to delink payment and clearance, to accept the paperless declaration, increases efficiency, self-certification, earliest refund and drawback, request-based examination/inspection, etc.

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ayo-cowbelly · 5 years ago

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The Things We Do For Love ~ Part Four

Previous part ~ next part ~ masterlist

IM BACK! haha sorry this took so long, life got in the way

But anyways: here is part four! Only one more part left to go, I hope everyone reading enjoyed this! I LOVE getting comments with thoughts, they honestly make my day :)

Thank you Wookieepedia, for supplying me with obscure planets to use in my writing.

P.S. i know ‘vode’ isn’t technically an official word in Mando’a. but it’s in a warrior chant and there’s no plural for ‘vod’ (at least on mando’a.org) so guess what i’m using vode as plural.

Taglist (if you want to be added, let me know):

@likeshootingstarsinthenightsky @cacodaemonia @halfblood-demigods @ct7567329

***

Finally, after about two weeks since Order 66, they all rendezvoused over Aeos Prime. Their ‘group’ had grown in size- the 212th had been contacted by the 327th, the 104th, along with the 501st. The Senators’ ship and the Negotiator were the first to arrive, however.

The first thing Padmé did when she saw Obi-Wan again was pull him close and hug him, tight. It was rushed, clumsy, and hard to do considering how pregnant she was, but they both needed it.

“How are you holding up, Padmé?” Her friend asked as they walked to the bridge of the Negotiator.

“As well as I can be, in the grand scheme of things. My old mentor is a Sith and now Emperor, the Republic has fallen, everyone thinks I’ve been kidnapped and maybe murdered, the Jedi have been- well, you know…”

Obi-Wan placed a gentle hand on her arm. “I meant, how are you holding up concerning Anakin.”

Oh. Apparently, Vader was a hero to the Empire, having recognized the threat the Jedi posed and “taking care of it”. They weren’t officially releasing his true identity, though some already knew, according to what she’d heard from her contacts. Anakin had been featured prominently on the holonet during the years he was at war, he was bound to be recognized.

Though he seemed almost like a different person now, even by just looking at the holonet. No, even before this, something changed. Something had been off the last few weeks, she’d noticed that much. Ever since he started having those horrible visions of her dying.

Padmé glanced over at Obi-Wan, who’d know if she lied, so she didn’t bother trying. “It’s been hard. But I’ll manage.”

“Padmé, I know you two were… involved, for lack of a better word.”

The Senator faced him, excuses coming to mind -a reflex, after three years of marriage- but she couldn’t keep the tell-tale redness off her cheeks.

“You knew?”

“Of course I knew,” Obi-Wan replied simply, as if it wasn’t a big deal at all. And the way he said it, so nonchalantly, relaxed Padmé ever so slightly. “Anakin is anything but subtle. He always did look at you like you hung the stars- it was hard not to notice it, honestly.”

Well. That was that, apparently. Padmé watched as Obi-Wan looked out the windows, and she studied his face; the slight downturn of his lips, the shadows of worry lines etched into his brow, the dark circles under his eyes.

He looked tired.

Maybe he always had, and Padmé had never noticed. Anakin would’ve noticed, she was certain. He always admonished her for working too much- surely he did the same for one of his oldest friends?

Or maybe he didn’t, Padmé wondered, as she stepped up beside her friend and faced the expanse outside. She thought of Anakin’s irritation in regards to Obi-Wan, getting more and more frequent in the last few weeks- months, even.

“Obi-Wan, what are we going to do?” Padmé asked quietly, keeping her eyes forward.

Obi-Wan, who was always so calm, never a hair out of place -Obi-Wan, a Jedi Master, High General, never without a plan or a comeback- reached one hand up to rub his chin as he sighed.

“To be perfectly honest, my friend, I’m not sure I know.”

***

Four Senators, four Commanders, two Jedi, and one former Jedi,.

They were a motley crew, but they’d take what they could get, Cody figured.

After all, they were going up against something entirely different from what they were used to. The eleven of them had been tossing around ideas for hours, crowded in the briefing room as they were. Nobody had come up with a solid plan yet.

Commander Tano (no, not Commander, she insisted on it- but what else was he to call her?) was the next to pipe up. “What if we just… lay siege?” She suggested, sounding exhausted. As she leaned on the console, Cody noticed Rex placing a hand on her shoulder. All that time away, and she’s still his vod’ika, Cody remarked to himself. In a way, it was a comforting thought; it was nice to know know that at least one thing hadn’t changed.

“We can’t lay siege to Coruscant,” Obi-Wan said, equally as worn out, and Cody wanted to take his jetii into his arms and shield him from the galaxy, the galaxy that asked so much of him. Cody pushed the wanting away, shoved it down until it was nothing more than a silent hum in his bones. He concentrated on his General’s words. “There are too many things that could go wrong. For one, we are terribly outnumbered here. Two, they’d see us coming immediately, and the civilians-”

Commander Tano cut him off. “I know we can’t do it, I just- well, we can’t sit here and do nothing. Something needs to be done about Palpatine.” “I know that, Ahsoka, believe me.”

The two of them had been slightly at odds with each other for most of the two days Tano and the 501st had been on board. Cody didn’t ask, and neither of them brought it up. But it was there.

Senator Organa, ever the voice of reason, chimed in. “Before we do anything concerning Palpatine, we should handle Lord Vader,” the atmosphere of the room darkened considerably at the name. Senator Amidala’s face fell, Commander Tano wrapped her arms around herself, Rex glared at the floor, and Obi-Wan looked ashen. Nobody needed to mention who Vader had once been, for they already knew. And the answer was nothing short of horrifying.

Senator Organa went on. “My contacts say Vader barely leaves the Emperor’s side. That will prove to be a problem for us. Sky- Vader is very powerful, and a great threat.”

“You think we should try to get him away from the Emperor, then?” Senator Mothma asked. “Only something of considerable importance would do that. And we can’t be sure the Emperor wouldn’t come along, to keep an eye on things.”

“It’d be illogical for him to go, Senator.” Bly said, speaking for only the third time. Cody was extremely worried about his batchmate. The first time they’d seen each other after the Order went out, Bly looked pale and haunted. Cody recognized the look, one he’d seen on many other soldiers- survivor’s guilt. But this was so much worse. Cody knew, to a certain degree, about Bly and General Secura; he also knew what must have happened on Felucia, but he didn’t say anything. Him, along with Rex and Wolffe, just took Bly to Cody’s quarters and got out the alcohol.

Bly’s voice was quiet but strong. “The Emperor wouldn’t accompany him- he needs to stay on Coruscant, keep the Senate in line. Plus, if Vader was going somewhere dangerous, Palpatine wouldn’t want to endanger himself.”

“Agree with the Commander, I do,” General Yoda said. “Unnecessary danger, he would not put himself in.”

“What if Vader brings along any troopers?” Cody bristled at Senator Chuchi’s words. Empire or no, Cody would not hurt brothers, and he knew the other Commanders would agree. And he was sure that if any of the vode were fighting for the Empire, they weren’t doing it willingly.

“With all due respect, Senator, I won’t order the men to fight brothers.” Cody met her eyes, which softened.

“And I’m not asking you to, Commander. But if we are to do something about Vader, we need to get him by himself.”

“I’ll message him to meet me.” Senator Amidala looked around at them all. “He’ll come alone if I tell him to.”

“Absolutely not-”

“Padmé, you can’t-”

“Senator, please don’t-”

She quieted the objections with a raised hand. “It’s the only way,” she declared. Many of the others opened their mouth to disagree, but she plowed on. “He’ll listen to me. And I can get through to him, I know it.” The last part was said with the smallest twinge of uncertainty, but Senator Amidala remained stoic. “And I’m not changing my mind.”

“Then I’m coming with you.” Cody whipped his head to where Obi-Wan was next to him. “You’ll need protection.”

“He won’t hurt me-” “Then consider me paranoid. I won’t interfere, but I won’t let you go alone,” Obi-Wan assured her.

“And neither will I.” Commander Tano looked up at her old Grandmaster’s widened eyes. “If it is... if it’s him, I need to make sure.” A flicker of pain in her eyes, though she remained steady.

Obi-Wan didn’t disagree with the now-forming plan. But Cody did.

“Sirs,” Cody started, ignoring Tano’s obvious objection to the phrase, “I have to ask you to reconsider. This could potentially go very, very wrong, and we need you here-”

“Nothing will happen to us, Cody, I assure you,” Obi-Wan said to him.

“Every time you say that, General, something happens that proves otherwise.”

Obi-Wan crossed his arms. “Not every time-”

“Almost every time, General, and this time if something were to go wrong- there is a chance you won’t come back.” Cody’s helmet was off, like the other three clones, so Obi-Wan could definitely read the myriad of emotions in the Commander’s eyes. His General reached out and placed a hand on Cody’s shoulder, and for a moment, Cody forgot the others were there.

Obi-Wan, softer now, held Cody’s gaze. “Cody,” he said softly. “I’ll be fine, I promise.” Obi-Wan seemed to read Cody’s mind. “But you can’t come with. I need you here, to watch over things while I’m gone.” The last time you told me that, you faked your death, Cody wanted to say. Instead, he nodded and turned away. They hadn’t spoken about that night a week ago, in Obi-Wan’s quarters. They both acted like it never happened- the opposite of what Cody wanted, but he knew it was what had to be done. But when Obi-Wan spoke like that, soft and gentle and caring, Cody couldn’t help but want something more-

Rex spoke up, interrupting Cody’s internal plight. “General, I have an idea.”

***

Padmé landed the shuttle on Abafar’s desert terrain, nerves getting the best of her. She didn’t know who would meet her there- Anakin, or Vader. She preferred to think of them as two different people. Ani would never do what they said Vader did.

Padmé tried to repress the memory that sprang to mind- one of Tatooine, and a body wrapped in gray, and Anakin with tears in his eyes, yelling about what he’d done to the Tusken Raiders for what they did to his mother.

Or more recently, when he had walked in Clovis almost kissing her. She remembered what he’d done, what he came close to doing.

He’d gone too far that night. “It’s just, something inside me snapped,” He had said.

She knew that happened often, more often than he told her. “I don’t know who’s in there sometimes,” She whispered back.

That was truer than she’d like to admit. A small, small part of Padmé wondered-

No. He couldn’t.

Right?

She stood up and looked to both Obi-Wan and Ahoska, both as much her family as anyone, and made to exit the ship.

Ahsoka grabbed her elbow, stopping her. “Padmé, please, be safe.” Padmé smiled kindly, and hugged the Togruta close.

“I’ll be okay, Ahoska, I promise.”

Obi-Wan didn’t say anything, just met her eyes and nodded, gesturing half-heartedly to the ship’s door. Padmé steeled herself and went outside. The air was very hot, and she silently thanked herself for the decision to wear light clothing.

She only had to wait a few minutes before another shuttle, one that looked to be Imperial, landed not too far away. A lone figure approached, and she knew without a doubt who it was.

But when they got closer, she wasn’t so sure. She could see their face, and she did not recognize it. They looked cold and detached, almost fearsome, and the uncertainty she tried to get rid of flared inside her. She would never be nervous around her husband. This person, whoever he was, was a stranger to her.

Padmé could now see his eyes, which were not the usual bright blue. They were golden. This was not her husband. It couldn’t be.

But she had to try.

“Ani?”

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